Masterpiece of Deception

But this outward adoption of Christianity by the imperial power of the world only brought the latter into intimate combination with that “mystery of iniquity" which had even then been working for a long time in the bosom of Christianity itself. From this combination resulted that masterpiece of Satanic deception which is presented to us in the Apocalyptic vision—Babylon the Great, the corruptress of the nations. From this vast system of worldly Christianity, of a Christian profession adorned with the world's magnificence, enriched with its wealth, and supported by its power, the saints of God are called to withdraw. "Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." The Lord grant to us both to understand and to heed the warning!
When the true Church has reached the end of its exile and pilgrimage on earth by being translated to its home and dwelling-place in heaven, the false professing body will still be found in unhallowed alliance with the wealth and greatness of this world. But even more, it claimed the place of undoubted supremacy over the world. "I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow" will even then be her haughty and scornful boast. But "therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.”
The earthly instruments of her downfall will be the imperial power itself, and the ten subordinate, confederate kingdoms, which will own fealty to the resuscitated Roman empire. "For God hath put in their hearts to fulfill His will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.”