“And to the angel of the church in Thyatira . . .” (2:18). John (and we) is reminded, once again, that the words he is to write are the very words of Jesus himself, the One who “has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet are like burnished bronze” (2:18). The significance of this? Pay attention! The church in Thyatira is commended for maturing in its love and faith and service and patient endurance, being greater in these matters than at the first. That’s a really good thing!
However, they have tolerated a wicked woman, Jezebel, who is leading some to engage in immoral acts and to follow idols. The Lord, being patient, had given her time to repent, but she refused. And so, she will be judged harshly along with those who continue to follow her. Yet, the Lord’s patience still shines through when he offers, “unless they repent of her works” (2:22). That “unless” seems to hold out the hope, yet, of repentance and forgiveness if only they will hear and act. The significance for us? Do not take lightly the Lord’s patience!
With the church in Thyatira, let us “hold fast” (2:25) what we have until the Lord returns and we will receive “the morning star” (2:28), which is Christ himself (Revelation 22:16)!
My God, the spring of all my joys,
The life of my delights,
The glory of my brightest days,
And comfort of my nights!
My soul would leave this heavy clay,
At that transporting word;
Run up with joy the shining way,
To meet my dearest Lord. –Isaac Watts (1766)
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