“Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. But hold fast what you have till I come” (Revelation 2:24-25 NKJV).
The Apostle John was exiled to the island of Patmos during the brutal reign of Domitian. The Roman Emperor reigned from 81-96 AD. John’s crime was that he proclaimed and shared the saving message of the Lord Jesus (Revelation 1:9). On Patmos, John received a prophetic revelation that included seven letters to seven churches that existed at that time in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). These letters contain both correction and encouragement, which are relevant not only to the believers of that time but also to us today. In this series of articles, we will examine each church to explore their significance.
Attempting to Corrupt the Lord’s People
The fourth church addressed was the church in Thyatira, which was about 35 miles from Pergamum. It was a “city noted for its numerous trade guilds and for its wool and dyeing industry.”[1] Many in the church had compromised in areas, such as the false prophetess Jezebel (Revelation 2:20). This woman was causing some of them to eat things sacrificed to idols as well as take part in other areas of immorality. Whether or not her name was actually Jezebel is debated, but she clearly fulfilled the role of the Old Testament Jezebel (1 Kings 16:33).
“…in her sinful practices, he was fulfilling the role of the historic Jezebel in the Old Testament, who corrupted her husband, Had, and all of Israel by attempting to combine the worship of God with the worship of the idol Baal. She did what she could to stamp out all true worship of the Lord.” [2]
The Faithful Few
Although many had compromised, the Lord indicates that there were a few faithful members who had not indulged in “the deep things of Satan.” In 1 Corinthians 2:10, the Lord’s people are exhorted to be studying “the deep things of the Lord” instead. As a result of the remnant’s faithfulness, the Lord graciously laid on them no additional burden. He encourages them to simply hold fast until the Lord’s return. A believer can hold firm simply by waiting faithfully each day in the light of the Lord’s return.
“Till I come refers to Christ’s return for His people, at which time He will reward them for their faithfulness (see Rev. 3:3; 16;15; 22:7, 17, 20).” [3]
One lesson that we learn from the church at Thyatira is that we should remain faithful to the Lord and His Word even when those around us do not. While many today, even in the church, have abandoned God’s Word, the Lord commends those who hold firm to it. By doing this, we will be able to continue in the things of the Lord until He comes.
“But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ…. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you” (1 Thessalonians 5:21-23, 28 NASB 95).
Blessings,
Dr. Steven F. Pace
Senior Pastor
Decatur Bible Church
https://www.decaturbible.org/
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[1] The Ryrie Study Bible. NASB 95 Edition.
[2] John Walvoord. Revelation Commentary, pg. 71.
[3] Warren Wiersbe. Bible Exposition Commentary – Revelation.