Unveiling the Babylonian System: A Three-Part Series on Its Infiltration into Christian Enterprises

“For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some longing for it have wandered away from the faith . . . “ 1 Timothy 6:10 NASB

In the heart of Scripture, Revelation 18:1-8 and Ezekiel 28:1-24 paint a vivid picture of the Babylonian system—a seductive, prideful, and materialistic force that stands in opposition to God’s will. Marked by opulence, self-glorification, spiritual compromise, and exploitation, this system, embodied by ancient Babylon and Tyre, is not confined to history. It has woven itself into the fabric of modern Christian enterprises, transforming ministries into commercial empires and diluting the gospel’s purity. From mega-churches to televangelism scandals, and from bestselling Christian books to blockbuster faith-based films, the Babylonian system’s influence is both subtle and pervasive.

This article serves as a teaser for an upcoming three-part series, “The Evolution of the Babylonian System in Christian Enterprises: A Historical and Theological Analysis.” This series will unravel how this ancient system has infiltrated the church over centuries, spotlighting figures like Joni Lamb and William Todd Coontz, whose excesses echo Babylon’s sins, while commending faithful ministries like Keith Moore’s Faith Life Church for resisting its pull. Join us as we explore this critical issue, urging believers to discern and reject worldly values in favor of Christ’s truth. Here’s a glimpse of what each part offers to entice you to dive into this compelling journey.

Part 1: The Roots of Rebellion – Defining the Babylonian System

The first part sets the stage by defining the Babylonian system through the lens of Revelation 18 and Ezekiel 28. What makes this system so dangerous? It’s not just about wealth or power—it’s about a heart that exalts itself above God, seducing nations with luxury and deceit. You’ll discover how ancient Babylon’s idolatry and Tyre’s prideful trade networks serve as archetypes for modern corruption.

Travel back to the early church, where the seeds of compromise were sown as Christianity gained wealth and status under Constantine. Then, witness the medieval church’s descent into Babylonian excess, with indulgences and lavish cathedrals commodifying salvation. This part asks: How did the church, meant to be a beacon of humility, begin mirroring the very system that Scripture condemns? Expect a gripping historical narrative that lays the foundation for understanding today’s challenges.

Part 2: The Rise of Commercial Christianity – From Reformation to Media Empires

Part 2 picks up the thread during the Protestant Reformation, where efforts to purify the church couldn’t fully escape Babylonian tendencies. State churches amassed wealth, and colonial missions profited from exploitation. Fast-forward to the 19th-century revivals, where charismatic preachers like D.L. Moody introduced a business-like approach to evangelism, setting the stage for modern mega-ministries.

Enter the 20th century, where radio and television birthed televangelism’s golden age—and its darkest scandals. Meet figures like Joni Lamb of Daystar, whose $1 million salary and alleged cover-ups reflect Babylon’s luxury and deception, and William Todd Coontz, whose tax evasion conviction exposes the prosperity gospel’s exploitative core. This part will captivate you with tales of ambition and betrayal, asking: When did preaching the gospel become a pathway to personal empires?

Part 3: The Modern Mirage – Commercial Industries and Faithful Alternatives

The final part brings the Babylonian system into sharp focus in today’s Christian landscape. Mega-churches like Lakewood, with multimillion-dollar budgets, and ministers like Joel Osteen, with staggering net worths, mirror Babylon’s opulence. The Christian book and music industries, generating billions, often prioritize profit over truth, while the movie industry churns out formulaic films that exploit spiritual hunger.

Yet, hope shines through. Ministries like Keith Moore’s Faith Life Church, which freely shares resources despite owning jets, model generosity and fidelity. This part offers a theological critique, practical steps for believers, and a call to “come out of her” (Rev. 18:4). It will inspire you to discern Babylonian influences and live counter-culturally, with stories of both failure and faithfulness that resonate deeply.

Why You Should Read This Series

This three-part series is more than a historical or theological exercise—it’s a wake-up call. If you’ve ever wondered how the church drifted from Christ’s simplicity to corporate excess, this is your guide. You’ll uncover shocking examples of greed and deception, from televangelists’ mansions to films that dilute the gospel. However, you’ll also find inspiration in ministries that resist the tide. Each part blends rigorous analysis with compelling storytelling, making complex issues accessible and urgent.

Whether you’re a pastor, a layperson, or simply curious about the state of modern Christianity, this series will challenge you to examine the influences shaping your faith. How can we reject the allure of the Babylonian system and embrace Christ’s humility? Start this journey with us to find out. Look for Part 1 in our next issue, and prepare to be captivated by a narrative that’s as relevant as it is revelatory.

Building for the Glory of God

A minister once shared a profound truth: if people leave a gathering knowing more about a church or ministry than about Jesus, the mission has failed. The heart of Christian work is simple yet profound—to know Him and make Him known. This principle must guide every endeavor, whether building churches, ministries, or Christian media in print, audio, or visual formats.

The Bible warns against building for human glory. In Genesis 11:4 (NKJV), the people at Babel declared, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves.” Their self-centered ambition led to failure. Similarly, Psalm 127:1 (NKJV) reminds us, “Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the LORD guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.” Without God’s guidance, our efforts are futile.

Scripture emphasizes building according to God’s design. In Exodus 25:9, 25:40, and 26:30 (NKJV), God instructed Moses to construct the tabernacle “according to the pattern” shown on the mountain. This divine blueprint ensures that what we build aligns with God’s purpose, timing, and method.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with large-scale Christian enterprises, even those worth millions, provided they follow God’s pattern rather than man’s systems, like the Babylonian pursuit of fame and power. When we build with humility and obedience, our work glorifies Christ and fulfills its true purpose. Selah.

References:

• Holy Bible, New King James Version. (1982). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson.

• The Roys Report. (2024). “Daystar Denies Allegations of Abuse Cover-Up.” https://julieroys.com.

• The Roys Report. (2025). “Daystar’s Joni Lamb Faces Allegations of Lavish Spending.” https://julieroys.com.

• Trinity Foundation. (2021). “Televangelist Todd Coontz Begins Prison Term for Tax Evasion.” https://trinityfi.org/investigations/televangelist-todd-coontz-begins-prison-term-for-tax-evasion/.