Heart of a Psalmist - Worshipping Christ Through The Psalms

“O Babylon, you will be destroyed. Happy is the one who pays you back for what you have done to us. Happy is the one who takes your babies and smashes them against the rocks.” (8, 9)

The author of this psalm is looking forward to the future destruction of the empire that had crushed Jerusalem and removed the population to Babylon. They were probably familiar with the prophecy of Isa- iah given centuries before concerning Cyrus, the leader of the Persians who was about to fulfill his des- tiny in overthrowing Babylon: “This is what the Lord says: ’I will go before you, Cyrus, and level the mountains. I will smash down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron.” (Isa. 45:2) Cyrus was also the king who allowed the Jews to return to their land: “I will raise up Cyrus to fulfill my righteous purpose, and I will guide all his actions. He will restore my city and free my captive people…” (Isa. 45:13) The dashing of babies against the rocks represented the most horrific act of war that was done to Judah. The author remembered these terrible moments and asked God to judge the conquerors with the same judg- ment that they had placed upon them. Babylon was not only a historical power in the Old Testament, but it represents the worldwide em- pire of darkness that will oppress the people of God at the end of the ages. God has destined its power to be forever crushed by Jesus, the King of kings. The book of Revelation explains its impact upon the world: • Corrupt Political Power- “The rulers of this world have had immoral relations with her…” (Rev. 17:2) • Immoral Influence- “A mysterious name was written on her forehead: ‘Babylon the Great, Mother of All Prostitutes and Obscenities in the World.” (Rev. 17:5) • At War With the Lamb- “Together they will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will defeat them because he is Lord over all lords…” (Rev. 17:15) • Demonically Controlled- “Babylon is fallen-that great city is fallen! She has become the hideout of demons and evil spirits…” (Rev. 18:2) • Sensual Pleasure- “She has lived in luxury and pleasure, so match it now with torments and sor- rows.” (Rev. 18:7) • Slavery- “…slaves–yes, she even traded in human lives.” (Rev. 18:13) • Commercial Greed- “The merchants who became wealthy by selling her these things will stand at a distance, terrified by her great torment.” (Rev. 18:15) • Music that Celebrates Ungodliness- “Never again will the sound of music be heard there–no more harps, songs, flutes, or trumpets.” (Rev. 18:22) • Murderous Spirit Towards God’s People- “In her streets the blood of the prophets was spilled. She was the one who slaughtered God’s people all over the world.” (Rev. 18:24) All of the kingdoms of the world are in existence but for a moment to fulfill God’s purpose. They, like Babylon, will fade away but God’s kingdom and his city will continue forever filled with ‘Levites’ who have taken their harps off the willows!

1 Keil & Delitzsch 2 Kraus 3 Keil & Delitzsch 4 Keil & Delitzsch

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