Many prophecies about the captivity of the Jewish people in ancient Babylon saw a second, greater fulfillment in the much later captivity of the Christian congregation in Babylon the Great. Note some examples.
1. WARNINGS
2. CAPTIVITY
3. RESTORATION
FIRST FULFILLMENT
Before 607 B.C.E.—Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel warn Jehovah’s people; yet, apostasy still flourishes
607 B.C.E.—Jerusalem destroyed; God’s people taken captive to Babylon
537 B.C.E. and on—A faithful remnant returns to Jerusalem, rebuilds the temple, and resumes pure worship
GREATER FULFILLMENT
First Century C.E.—Jesus, Paul, and John warn the congregation, but apostasy still flourishes
Starting in Second Century C.E.—True Christians are taken captive within Babylon the Great
1919 C.E. and on—Under Jesus’ kingship, the faithful anointed saw the end of their spiritual exile and the restoration of pure worship