Revelation 17:10 — “They are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come; but when he does come, he must remain for only a little while.”
Explanation of the Verse
This verse continues the angel’s explanation of the vision John received. Now, the “seven heads” mentioned earlier are revealed to be more than just seven hills—they also represent seven kings or kingdoms. The angel gives a timeline: five have already fallen, one is currently in power, and one is still to come, but it will only last a short time.
This is a way of helping John (and the readers) understand where they are in the unfolding of world history from God’s point of view. These “kings” likely refer to a series of world empires or rulers that have risen and fallen in opposition to God. The one “that is” represents the current power in John’s day, and the one “to come” points to a future ruler or kingdom that will also oppose God but only briefly.
The message is clear: no matter how many kings rise, and no matter how powerful they seem, none of them last forever. Their time is limited by God.
Historical Context
In the first century, when Revelation was written, Rome was the dominant world power. Most scholars and Bible readers agree that the “one that is” refers to the Roman Empire. The five that had fallen could refer to earlier major kingdoms that had ruled over God’s people and the surrounding world—such as Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and Greece.
These empires came and went, often standing against God and mistreating His people. Rome continued in this pattern, demanding emperor worship and persecuting Christians. The future kingdom “not yet come” points toward a final world power still to come—one that will rise up before God brings all things to completion.
Theological Implications
This verse shows that God is in control of history, even when ungodly powers seem to rise and dominate. Every empire, every king, every ruler is on a leash—none of them lasts a moment longer than God allows.
It also reminds us that evil has a limit. The kingdom that “must remain for only a little while” is not outside of God’s knowledge or power. Even when the world feels dark and unjust, God is not surprised. He sees the full story from beginning to end.
This truth is meant to give God’s people confidence. Human governments may rise and fall, but God remains the same. His kingdom is eternal.
Literary Analysis
The language in this verse blends symbol and chronology. Numbers are used not just to count but to signify meaning. The phrase “five have fallen” is a poetic way of summarizing the past. The phrase “one is” anchors the vision in the present, and “one has not yet come” looks ahead to the future.
The phrase “must remain for only a little while” is especially important. It’s a clear marker of God’s restraint. The final kingdom, no matter how strong, will be short-lived. This prepares the reader for the beast’s eventual downfall.
Revelation uses time statements like this to show that the world’s timeline is under God’s authority, not ours.
Cross-References
- Daniel 2:21 — “He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others.”
- Daniel 7:17 — “The four great beasts are four kings that will rise from the earth.”
- Isaiah 40:23 — “He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing.”
- Revelation 1:8 — “I am the Alpha and the Omega… who is, and who was, and who is to come.”
- Revelation 19:16 — Jesus is “King of kings and Lord of lords,” showing He outlasts and outranks all earthly kings.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that no human kingdom is forever. That’s good news in a world where governments, leaders, and systems often seem unstable or even hostile to God’s truth. Whether it’s global politics or local leadership, we should not put our ultimate hope in earthly rulers.
Christians today are called to live as citizens of heaven while navigating life on earth. That means not being shaken when the world changes. Political systems may shift, leaders may fall, new powers may rise—but God’s people belong to a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28).
This verse also challenges us to think wisely about the times we live in and to trust God’s timing rather than fear the future.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His careful rule over history. He doesn’t let evil reign unchecked. He knows the exact number of kings that will rise, and He limits their time. That shows both power and mercy.
God could leave the world to destroy itself, but He doesn’t. He’s involved. He sets boundaries. He reveals what’s coming so that His people won’t be caught off guard. This is a loving Father at work—guiding history for His purposes and for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
While the kings in this verse rise and fall, Jesus is the King who never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Unlike the rulers of the earth, He reigns in righteousness and truth, and His kingdom will never pass away (Daniel 7:14).
Jesus also told His followers not to be alarmed by wars, kingdoms, and rumors of disaster—because He holds the future (Matthew 24:6). Revelation is a book that both reveals what’s coming and reminds us that Jesus is already victorious.
In the end, Jesus will return, defeat all earthly rebellion, and bring His people into a kingdom where peace and justice will never end (Revelation 21:1-5).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What do the “seven kings” teach us about how God sees the course of world history?
- How can knowing that God controls the rise and fall of kingdoms give us peace?
- Are there worldly powers today that seem to “sit” in a strong position like the one in this verse?
- What does it mean to have a “mind with wisdom” in the times we’re living in?
- How can Christians stay faithful in a world full of shifting governments and cultural change?
- In what ways does this verse show that evil is limited and temporary?
- How does Jesus’ everlasting rule give you hope in uncertain times?