The Seven Churches of Asia: Thyatira

As we continue looking at the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation, let us look to their example and see what we might learn from it! Let us avoid their shortcomings and emulate their successes in working together, as a congregation, for the cause of Christ.

And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Revelation 2:18-29

The Positive:
The church in Thyatira was an active church full of works, love, service, faith, and patience. Moreover, their works had become more plentiful than they had been at first. In this way, they were growing stronger. The longer they served Christ, the more effort they put into it. Can the same be said for us? Both as individuals and as a congregation? We see in these verses a picture of a church that is working diligently in the service to God.

The Negative:
They had been allowing a woman, designated here as Jezebel, to teach falsehood and lead others into sinful practices. For this, they are condemned and warned. We too must be careful not to accept such a person. What good does it do anyone (you, me, others, or Christ) if we accept someone who will lead the faithful away from the Lord?

We also see that the Lord has given this Jezebel opportunity and time to repent, and she has not done so. The consequence of her refusal to turn back to God? Divine punishment, both for her and her followers. We are warned again that we must follow only the Lord, or punishment awaits us. We will be judged by our actions.
Let us each strive to have actions that are good and godly! Let us each strive to not be the Jezebel that leads others astray! Let us strive to not follow such a one! In this way, we can help keep the local church strong.

We see also a promise from the Lord at the end of this passage. The promise is for those who have not submitted to error. The Lord promises to put no other burden on them. Instead, they are simply to hold fast to what they have known, believed, and obeyed to that point. Let us also hold fast to the Word of God, until the Lord comes!

Next week, Lord willing, we will look at the first six verses of chapter three, and the church in Sardis.