Babylon
Babylon typifies the false or fallen church — the Harlot in direct opposition to the Bride (New Jerusalem).
Principle of Babylon
The principle of Babylon originates in Babel — building from earth to heaven through human ability. This contrasts with God’s Plan, in which everything originates from Christ.
Babylon represents:
- False Christianity — which does not allow the Holy Spirit to have authority
- Human ability — attempt to achieve God’s purpose through human effort
- Hypocrisy — no reality, only appearance for human glory
Scripture foundation
The principle of the tower of Babel involves the attempt to build up something from earth to reach unto heaven. Babylon represents man’s ability. It represents a false Christianity, a Christianity which does not allow the Holy Spirit to have authority.
The principle of Babylon, therefore, is hypocrisy. There is no reality, yet people act as if there is in order to obtain glory from man. Everything done in falsehood is done in the principle of the harlot, not in the principle of the bride. (Nee-Lee, The Glorious Church, Ch.5)
Antitype relation
| Babylon (Revelation 17-18, Harlot) | New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22, Bride) |
|---|---|
| Human attempt; earth to heaven | Divine work; heaven to earth |
| Hypocritical; false appearance | Authentic; without spot or wrinkle |
| Harlot; golden cup of abominations | Pure Bride; precious stones and pearl |
| Destruction and judgment | Permanent glory and God’s splendor |
| Self-glory and power | Christ’s authority alone |
Related types
- new-jerusalem — antitype-counterpart (authentic Bride)
- bride-of-christ — genuine church, no false Christianity