SEP 27

Revelation 2:18-29
Memorise Revelation 2:25
“That which ye have already hold fast till I come”

Thyatira was a prosperous city, famous as a commercial and manufacturing hub. One unique aspect of this business oriented city was the guild system that they had established. In order to be part of the guild system, and thus succeed in the commercial world, one had to take part in their festivals in honour of the pagan gods that they worshipped. This required them to eat meals in their temples, indulge in immoral, licentious practices and pagan worship. Non-compliance with these rules meant expulsion from the guilds, unemployment and poverty. It was in such a city, that the church at Thyatira struggled for existence.

Understandably, it would be very hard to be a Christian in such an environment. Yet despite all that, the Lord commends them briefly for their charity, service, faith, patience and works. As a whole, the church has done a few good things, showing a semblance of faith and order. Perhaps they had a core group of faithful believers who were active in service, and that was what kept this Christian community growing.

However, from verse 20 onwards, a strong and damning indictment is given, as the Lord rebukes them for allowing this wicked woman Jezebel, who was a false prophet, to teach and lead their members astray. She was an immoral, sinful woman who taught in the church, and seduced the believers to commit fornication! Perhaps she was a member of one of the commercial guilds, and was trying to teach them that it was acceptable to be a part of the guilds as well, and engage in their promiscuous fornications and idolatrous worship. This was indeed a terrible influence in the church, yet they did nothing about it. The Lord therefore warns them that if she does not repent, then she and her followers will all be judged harshly. This shows us the stern and strong stand that God has against sin, and those who tolerate sin in their lives. There may have been aspects of their church life that were good, but because they did nothing against the wicked influences of Jezebel, the Lord warned that they would be strongly judged. Dear teen, are there sins in your life that you are harbouring and unwilling to let go? Read the strong words that the Lord has against such practices.

Thought: Why do you think the teachings of Jezebel were attractive?
Prayer: Lord, give me the strength to hold fast till You come!