142 Seven Churches of Revelation: Thyatira - The Wayward Church
Thyatira was the smallest of the 7 cities named in Revelation 2-3, but its church received the longest letter. Perhaps because they faced far more serious challenges.
Jesus begins by commending them for 4 qualities:
Love
Faith
Service
Perseverance
Then the Lord moves to some grim accusations. He condemns them for tolerating a false teacher in their midst.
The text calls her “Jezebel” because, like the wicked Old Testament queen, she used her charismatic personality and great influence to lead people away from the Lord.
The seriousness with which Jesus took this is seen in how He identified Himself. He calls Himself “the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet are like burnished bronze.” (v. 18)
His approach to the Church at Thyatira is not as sympathetic High Priest but as Divine Judge. He’s not offering soothing comfort here but, rather, coming judgment.
His piercing eyes, which are like blazing fire, see through all the lies and deception. Nothing can be disguised, covered up, or hidden from Him.
His feet are like burnished bronze. What’s symbolized by that is His utter purity and total commitment to trample out all that is impure. This terrifying description must have sent shockwaves through the Church at Thyatira.
Elsewhere in Scripture Jesus warns that “…many false teachers will appear and deceive many people…” (Mt. 24:11)
So, how do we stay alert to false teachers? Here are a few things to watch for.
False teachers are self-proclaimed, not widely recognized.
False teachers offer new teaching that is often feeling-oriented.
False teachers typically have no accountability outside of their inner circle.
To those who remain faithful to the end Jesus promises we will one day rule with Him.
Text: Revelation 2:18-29
Originally recorded on May 12, 2013, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN.
We are grateful to Ada Bible Church and Pastor Jeff Manion for generously sharing their teaching resources for this series.