2 Nephi 23
Chapter 23
The destruction of Babylon is a type of the destruction at the Second Coming—It will be a day of wrath and vengeance—Babylon (the world) will fall forever—Compare Isaiah 13. About 559–545 B.C.
--------------------
Wow. Graphic chapter. From what I gather, this is a dual prophecy: Isaiah is foretelling the destruction of Babylon, that great city, and he is also speaking of the Babylon of the world today- those who fight against Him.
Just as Babylon was utterly destroyed (in its totality approximately 100AD), there is a call to us in verse three to join him in fighting against the wickedness of today.
I tell ya- hearing what will happen to the proud and the wicked makes me sad. It doesn't look good for them.
It's amazing that Isaiah saw all of this. That must have been surreal for him.
But, I guess we, too, have a glimpse (thanks to modern day and past revelation) at the world how the Lord sees it. We have an eternal perspective that is unique in the world. We see things for how they really are, were and will be. That brings purpose to our pain and struggles, magnifies our joy and relationships and solidifies our faith in Jesus Christ.
How grateful I am for prophets and scriptures!
I had to re-read the chapter several times and all I could think of was.... am I good enough? I want to be caught up and protected with my family, not suffer through the ravages and destruction described in this chapter.
ReplyDeleteOn the one hand, I picture things like Hollywood would depict them in one of those epic end-of-the-world disaster films as I read. That way of thinking creates stress, a racing heart, and fear.
On the other hand, after I decide to stop getting caught up in the terrifying Hollwood mental picture.... so many of the things described are and have been happening. It's easier for me to keep moving along when I look at it from that perspective. Just keep moving...... in the right direction.