
Revelation 2:18-29
Introduction
The Son of God sees his church and knows everything about her, both on a corporate and individual level. Thyatira is praised for its love, faith, endurance, and continual growth. However, a significant concern is raised. The church is criticized for tolerating a female prophet advocating sinful practices, including consuming food offered to idols and engaging in sexual immorality. Since the prophet and her adherents have not repented, they are facing imminent judgment, with each individual being judged based on their works.
Jesus encourages his people to hold fast to the promise of being together. Those who overcome will be granted authority to reign alongside Jesus over the nations and will receive Jesus himself as their reward. Christians must pay attention to what they are taught because we should only TOLERATE THE TRUTH.
Outline
is the expectation for every Christian—you are supposed to grow and mature in your faith.
Not everything that calls itself Christian is Christian, so what we tolerate must be
by the words of the Son of God.
The refusal to repent is agreeing to the penalty of
.
is hidden from God.
don’t save you, but they matter because while you are saved by grace through faith alone, that faith does not stay alone.
is part of the deep things of Satan.
Hold fast to Jesus and his words, for there, you will find a prize that is greater than you ever imagined.
Application
Is there enough evidence to convict you of saving faith?
Are you making progress in the faith?
How’s your grip?
Questions
- What good works has the Lord called you to do in your life? How can you continue to grow in good works such that your “last works are greater than the first” (2:19)?
- If false teachers teach some true things, how can a church be on guard against being led astray by them?
- In what situations might the decision to follow Christ in holiness and obedience lead to economic and social repercussions? How have you experienced this?
- How are Christ’s mercy and patience seen in this passage, even in judgment? How does that encourage progress and obedience?
- What are some things we should be doing to help us hold fast?