"And on her forehead was written a name of mystery: 'Babylon the great, mother of prostitutes and of earth’s abominations.'" Revelation 17:5
Why is the Roman Catholic Church the "Mother of Harlots"? Because every single denomination that shares her DNA and retains any of her errors (including hierarchical clerical authority, which Jesus condemned [Matt. 20:20-28; 23:1-39]) is her daughter. Some of these denominations have likewise persecuted the saints just like her (Lutherans, Calvinists, etc.).
Who are her "daughter" harlots?
- Apostate Protestant Churches
Many Protestant denominations retain "Romish" traditions, such as state-church structures, religious temples, clergy-laity distinction, certain liturgical forms, clerical dress in the tradition of Rome, infant baptism (possibly), etc. If these denominations prioritize tradition and political power over biblical literaryism and literalism, they are her "daughters." - The Ecumenical Movement
Any world religions or denominations that seek "unity" with Rome, they are her "daughters." - Any System of "Spiritual Adultery"
In the Bible, "harlotry" is often a metaphor for idolatry—claiming to love God while serving other interests. Therefore, the "daughters" would be any organized religious institutions that: - Preach a "different gospel."
- Seek political power to enforce religious mandates.
- Elevate human tradition to the same level as Scripture.
"Then I heard another voice from heaven saying, 'Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins, lest you share in her plagues; for her sins are heaped high as heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities.'" Revelation 18:4-5
Yes, if you belong to an organized religious institution, a traditional "church," especially one that retains her traditions, then you are part of her daughters. Jesus' Ekklesia did not look or function like the modern "church" does today. It was organic, spontaneous, and every-member-functioning. No one led from the front. Jesus lives in each believer. All believers—men, women, and children—are a priesthood of believers. Jesus leads and directs each believer through the Holy Spirit. Each of us has something to share in order to build up others.
Unfortunately, we have lost the function of the Body, reducing it to a single mouth and many ears. So, "Come out of her" and unite with other believers in true koinonia fellowship, genuinely loving each other, your neighbours, and your enemies. The believers of the first three centuries gathered around a full meal, engaging in back-and-forth conversation, reasoning, and discussion. For example, Paul was not giving a "sermon" in Acts 20:7-12. The Greek word used is dialegomai (vv.7, 9), which means to 'dialogue.' We have imposed modern practices upon the text rather than paying attention to the text in context. "Preaching" is reserved for the lost—not for the believer.
When you understand the New Covenant, the Gospel, and grace correctly, it changes everything!