Podcasts about Thyatira

Pastor Drew Zylstra preaches from Revelation 2:18-29, “Faithful in a Compromising World.” —————————— More from Oostburg CRC Sermons: https://www.firstcrcoostburg.org/sermons Bible Study Resources: https://www.firstcrcoostburg.org/resources Original Music: https://open.spotify.com/album/4P7JbJlHzabPNW8GpdxKcB YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJSouYxM1rwWZ4cYAvTIqVA

Send us Fan MailA church can be busy, generous, and growing and still be on the edge of disaster. We open Revelation 2:18–29 and step into Thyatira, a prosperous trade city where success often came with a price: join the guild feasts, honor the idols, keep your status, and stay comfortable. That pressure didn't just affect the marketplace. It seeped into the congregation, where a corrupting influence Scripture symbolically calls “Jezebel” pushed believers toward compromise, idolatry, and sexual immorality. We talk candidly about why Jesus praises Thyatira's love, faith, service, patience, and increasing works, and then delivers one of Revelation's strongest warnings anyway. The heart of the problem is tolerance of false teaching. We unpack what it means that Christ speaks as the Son of God, with eyes like a flame of fire and feet like fine brass: he sees motives, exposes hidden compromise, and has the authority to judge his church with perfect holiness. That makes “staying quiet” feel a lot less like humility and a lot more like consent. If you've felt pressure to soften convictions to keep a job, protect a relationship, or win cultural approval, this message is for you. Listen, share it with someone navigating compromise, and if it challenges you, subscribe and leave a review so more people can find this study of Revelation 2 and the church of Thyatira.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Send us Fan MailSilence feels polite, but what if it's actually permission? We open Revelation 2:20 and sit with Jesus' direct complaint against the church in Thyatira: they tolerated “that woman Jezebel,” a symbol of corrupt influence, false teaching, and spiritual seduction that creeps into the visible church when believers refuse to confront it. The problem isn't just what gets said, it's what faithful people let slide without a word. We talk plainly about biblical discernment, holiness, and why “I believe the truth” is not the same thing as defending the truth. When someone spreads error and we stay quiet to keep the peace, our silence can sound like approval. We also wrestle with the pushback many Christians face the moment they speak up: “You're judging me,” “That's not loving,” “You should just be quiet.” We argue that real love tells the truth, warns, and protects, even when it's uncomfortable. The conversation also hits modern spiritual authority claims head-on, especially self-proclaimed prophets and apostles who present themselves as uniquely anointed while asking others to ignore clear biblical boundaries. We keep bringing it back to the sufficiency of Scripture and the call to test every claim. Along the way, we connect Revelation's symbols, spiritual adultery, and idolatry to everyday life and cultural habits that steal devotion from Christ. If you care about church purity, false teachers, the Jezebel spirit, and what it means to speak truth in love, this one will challenge you. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Send us Fan MailA church doesn't usually collapse from one loud act of rebellion. More often, it erodes through quiet toleration, soft language, and the refusal to name what's false. We walk through Revelation 2:20–24 and sit with Christ's confrontation of Thyatira, where “Jezebel” represents seduction, spiritual compromise, and teaching that pulls professing Christians toward idolatry and sexual immorality. The thread running through it all is uncomfortable but necessary: when we stay silent, we don't stay clean.We talk about why Jesus says He gave Jezebel “space to repent,” what His patience reveals about His mercy, and why delayed repentance hardens the heart. We also explore the text's sharp wording about fornication and adultery, how it connects to the visible church versus the true church, and why Christ's warning isn't abstract theology but a call to real church discipline and public honesty. If you've ever wondered where the line is between unity and compromise, this passage forces clarity.Then we tackle the phrase “great tribulation” and challenge popular end-times storytelling that treats Revelation as a future-only timeline. We argue that Christ is speaking to churches, not a removed group of “tribulation saints,” and that tribulation can describe intense affliction and discipline that fits the gravity of sin. Along the way we stress God's sovereignty, accountability for both deceivers and the deceived, and Christ's promise to search hearts, expose motives, and give to each according to works as evidence of allegiance.If this helped you think more clearly about false teaching, repentance, and faithfulness under pressure, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find it.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Send us Fan Mail“Deeper wisdom” sounds impressive until it starts pulling people away from holiness, obedience, and the plain meaning of Scripture. We walk through Revelation 2 and the warning to Thyatira, naming Jezebel doctrine for what Christ calls it: not secret insight, but the depths of Satan dressed up as something profound. When a teacher claims special revelation yet cannot show a verse, that's not a quirky style difference. It's a red flag that the authority has shifted from the Word of God to a personality.We also talk candidly about online platforms, big followings, and why so many voices refuse to correct themselves publicly even when they know they were wrong. For us, that's an integrity issue with real spiritual consequences. We're called to be servants of Christ, not servants of approval, and that means we hold fast to the truth even when it costs us comfort, status, or listeners.From there, we unpack the promises to the overcomer: perseverance until the end, sharing in Christ's victory, and the certainty of his final return. We spend time on the “rod of iron” and righteous judgment, then tackle a common confusion about the “morning star.” Jesus Christ is the bright morning star, and the promise is not just authority, but communion with him forever after the darkness of trial and compromise.If you want stronger discernment, better Bible instincts, and practical courage to speak the truth in love, press play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs clarity, and leave a review that tells us what line challenged you most.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Armored Against Demon Invasion (audio) David Eells – 7/15/26 Bundle of Serpents Attacks  John David Feagin - 10/31/2011 (David's notes in red) In the brief dream I had, there was a bundle, like the old-fashioned bundle of wheat that was being passed down from two others in line to me, only this bundle was a bundle of serpents. I could tell that they were very venomous serpents, like sea snakes, cobras, mambas, or coral snakes. They tried to bite my arm and, naturally, I did not like this. I did remember that we are immune to the bites of serpents if we are covered in the Blood of Jesus, so this is where I put my trust. I was no longer so concerned and set them aside. At the time I awoke, this was puzzling to me, but now, after some thought, I believe I understand it more fully. The snakes involved have neurotoxins, which attack the brain, that is, our thoughts. We are strictly warned to take captive our every thought (that is, against the knowledge of God's Word) and this now means much more to me than it ever has before. I am certainly no expert with such things or spiritual warfare, but I do know that demons associated with pornography, bitterness, criticism, faction, etc., are very powerful and deadly. I also know that demons can be transferred by men, and inadvertently opening doors, even with the best of intentions, can invite personal attack. I personally believe this was a warning to be very careful, but it may also be a general warning to others as well, and may be applied to all sorts of demonic or thought influence. If the enemy can truly read our thoughts and insert them, as has been shown in a previous UBM study, then this is particularly devious. It is difficult to reject such thoughts if you think they are your own.  Then, this morning, as a sort of confirmation, I saw the UBM update about the bug detector and casting such thoughts to hell immediately in the name of Jesus. I also noticed that when I was praying, in the Word, and seeking wisdom in such matters, my thoughts were clear, but when my guard was down, my own thoughts and emotions in the matter, no matter how well-intended, were somewhat intoxicating. So, forewarned is forearmed. God bless always in His service.  Be careful of slander and criticism for the purpose of making disciples. It comes only from demons, and those they can use, and it comes for only one reason -- to impart demons and poison minds against someone the devil hates. Demons impersonating aliens to turn the world to the mark of the beast to destroy Christianity. The Word for “heresies” or “parties” in Galatians 5:20 means “a self-willed opinion leading to division”. The word for factions among these works of the flesh means separating followers through selfish ambition. Demons impersonate righteous indignation but are actually criticism or new revelation. {Jas.3:14} But if ye have bitter jealousy and faction in your heart, glory not and lie not against the truth. {15} This wisdom is not [a wisdom] that cometh down from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. {16} For where jealousy and faction are, there is confusion and every vile deed.   Bluffing Demons & Spiritual Authority  Sandy Shaw 11/09/2011 (David's notes in red) The way this dream starts is that I'm walking into this room, and I'm watching a group of men (some I know, some I don't know) who are turning around and leaving the room. I ask the ladies there, “Where are the men going?” (These men are the chosen.)  The women who are there tell me not to worry because they need to go -- they have to go. The Lord wants them to go. When this happens, I feel like all the women are in unity that the men needed to go. (The spiritual catching up to the throne anointing of those who will return as the Man-child reformer ministry.) I then grab Tina's hand and ask, “Don't you feel the winds of change?” She answers, “What?” Then I say, “The change. The winds of change. Don't you feel the winds of change?” (From this point on, everything will change both positively for those who love God and are called according to His purpose and negatively for the wicked; a separation of the wheat from the tares. Tina ended up going factious, the opposite of Sandy.)  Then I go from there to an ancient-looking town square or plaza. People are walking all around. There are archways all around the square leading into different hallways, buildings, or rooms. It looks and feels like it's an ancient city. (Archways were made famous by the ancient Romans, who were the first to apply the technique to a wide range of structures. We are seeing a revival of the iron and clay of Daniel's end-time vision of the 10 toes of the world beast kingdom. There is no dispute that the iron is the seed of the Roman Empire.) As I'm walking slowly through this square, I'm praying. I'm praying continuously because I can feel the presence of evil so strongly there. (Great darkness is about to descend as the principality of the old Roman Empire prepares to take charge and make the covenant with many, as spoken of in Daniel 9:26,27.) As I'm looking at some of the people, they look human, but for a brief moment, I can see certain demons that are controlling them. (As we watch this progressive revelation, the people who belong to the body of the beast become less and less human and more and more demon, just as those who belong to the body of Christ become less and less human and more and more sons of God. Those from among the people of God who do not forsake their evil will go with the wicked. {Rev.22:11} He that is unrighteous, let him do unrighteousness still: and he that is filthy, let him be made filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him do righteousness still: and he that is holy, let him be made holy still. In the days before the coming of the Lord, at the end of the tribulation, Jesus will come in and then with His saints. {2Th.1:7} and to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire, {8} rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus: {9} who shall suffer punishment, [even] eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of his might, {10} when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be marvelled at in all them that believed (because our testimony unto you was believed) in that day.) As I'm praying, some man grabs my arm and pulls me into one of the hallways. As he is pulling me into the hallway, I hear someone in the square saying, “We gotta find her. We gotta find her. We have to stop her. Her prayers are reaching the throne of Heaven!” (These voices are the demons speaking through men). (Our prayers do reach the throne when sent by faith, and the demons' plans are thwarted. {Psa.10:17} Jehovah, thou hast heard the desire of the meek: Thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear. {Rom.10:13} for, Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. {Jer.33:3} Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and will show thee great things, and difficult, which thou knowest not.) So the man pulls me into this room, and there are mostly men and a few women there. This room is full of uniforms of all different kinds. The people are trying to figure out which uniform to put on. Some of the uniforms are military. As they are excited about finding the right uniform to wear, they are trying them on. I know in the dream that these people are Christians. (The “Christians” will be worried about how to appear to the world in this dangerous time and what lifestyle to put on besides Christ's. A military uniform indicates a militant lifestyle in dealing with this beast system, which will be disastrous since “they who take the sword will die by the sword”. We must put on the uniform of the new man, who is in the image of Jesus and His actions, according to the knowledge of the Word. {Col.3:9} lie not one to another; seeing that ye have put off the old man with his doings, {10} and have put on the new man, that is being renewed unto knowledge after the image of him that created him.)  I tell them that they have it wrong and that the full armor that they need to put on is the full armor of God, not one of these physical uniforms made by man. The people just look at me, not receiving anything I'm saying (as apostate patriotic Christians). A man asks me to sit down and take a look at this uniform. Then this man puts on some kind of uniform with a jacket. The jacket and uniform cover his legs, feet, and everything. There is a hood to the jacket that covers his whole head with a face-covering mask. The material of the jacket is a material I've never felt before. They then pour chemicals over it, resulting in no damage. Then they turn a blowtorch on it, and the torch doesn't burn or damage it. (As a volunteer fireman for Exxon, they gave us shirts that had metal woven into them to reflect heat.  Our government is allying with alien impersonating demons like the galactic federation or alliance in hopes of profiting from their “higher technology.” But these hate Christians and will help to bring about the mark of the beast to be rid of them.) They are really excited about the uniform/jacket and are picking it to be the one they will use. (There is no safety outside of God's will. He sent the curse, and no man can defend from it. {Jer.17:5} Thus saith Jehovah: Cursed is the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from Jehovah. ... {7} Blessed is the man that trusteth in Jehovah, and whose trust Jehovah is. {8} For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, that spreadeth out its roots by the river, and shall not fear when heat cometh, but its leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.) I tell them again, “No, you have it wrong; it's the full armor of God that you need to put on. There is nothing manmade that will help you. You only need the full armor of God”. I then get up and walk out of there into the long hallway. As I walk down the hallway, it is full of men lining up to put on the uniform they think is going to help them in the battle ahead. {Psa.33:16} There is no king saved by the multitude of a host: A mighty man is not delivered by great strength. {17} A horse is a vain thing for safety; Neither doth he deliver any by his great power. {18} Behold, the eye of Jehovah is upon them that fear him, Upon them that hope in his lovingkindness; {19} To deliver their soul from death, And to keep them alive in famine. {20} Our soul hath waited for Jehovah: He is our help and our shield. ... {Psa.34:7} The angel of Jehovah encampeth round about them that fear him, And delivereth them. {8} Oh taste and see that Jehovah is good: Blessed is the man that taketh refuge in him.) After leaving the “Christians” in their false confidence, I kept walking and went back to the square. The ground in the square has changed: it's all dirt now, and I could see through the dirt. I see under the dirt different piles of bones all over the place. No one knows that those bones are there, and no one sees them either. I'm not quite sure why I'm seeing them. (The hidden bones represent those who are martyred behind the scenes because they are not prepared for the battle by putting on the Lord Jesus Christ, as in Romans 13:12-14. Notice that putting on Jesus IS putting on God's armor or protection. Notice that it is always called the “armor of God” because it is God Himself. {Eph.6:11} Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. {12} For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual [hosts] of wickedness in the heavenly [places]. {13} Wherefore take up the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand.  {14} Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, {15} and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; {16} withal taking up the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil [one]. {17} And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: {18} with all prayer and supplication praying at all seasons in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. Notice that putting on all of these attributes: truth, righteousness, the Gospel, and salvation are manifestations of the Word, Who is Jesus. Putting on Jesus is putting on God. It is the armor of GOD Himself.) I'm walking through the square again, and I'm praying because I need to get to the other side of the square. (Contrary to popular opinion, we will all have to pass through this time of the revived Roman beast with America at the head.) As I'm walking and praying, the people that I saw with demons controlling them, I now see as full-blown demons, but to the natural eye, they still looked human. (The worldly people will be totally possessed, though they appear to each other as normal, and we are seeing more of this happening now. The D.S. can only be picked out by their leftist demon doctrines.) There was one demon that would walk really fast. So fast that it seemed as if he was flying. This demon went right in front of my face, standing right in front of me but he could not see me. He was really angry and talking with authority, telling the other demons, “We have to find these people who are praying! NOW! NOW, I say! Find them! (Prayer by those who believe in its power will be both destructive to Satan's kingdom and defensive to those who walk in the Lord's Kingdom. {Jas.5:16} Confess therefore your sins one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The supplication of a righteous man availeth much in its working. {17} Elijah was a man of like passions with us, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain; and it rained not on the earth for three years and six months. {18} And he prayed again; and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.)  I was standing right in front of him, praying, and the demon had no clue that I was there. (In other words, I was hidden in Christ.) So, I keep walking and when I get to the right-hand corner of the square, I look. I stop, turn around, and I'm looking! I'm watching these people. And the room is not really a room. The way that it feels is completely off, like when you walk into a room, and you can see the light, yet you can see shadows behind things. This was now completely reversed. There was light where shadows would normally be. There were bits and pieces of light. It was completely off, completely out of order. It just didn't feel or look right. (When the light is dark, and the dark is light, it is when good is called evil and evil is called good. This is where demon-possessed society is and has been going. {Isa.5:20} Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! We see this with demon-possessed people now.) After I walked through there, I saw what looked like some kind of old train depot-type thing. I know it's some kind of old transportation system. I'm in this room where there are two big fences with gates -- a cement-type fence. There is a gate, and people are going in and out of the gate. And then there is like a middle part where a lot of people are walking -- a lot of traffic. (To get where they want to go, Christians can't walk where the masses do in their bondage, spiritually speaking. {Mat.7:13} Enter ye in by the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many are they that enter in thereby. {14} For narrow is the gate, and straitened the way, that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it. We must be conformed by the Word within.) On the other end is the same kind of gate that people are entering this place from somewhere else. When I go there, I'm waiting for Tina, Sam, and my mom. I feel like Tina and Sam went to get my mom wherever she was to bring her here. I knew that it hadn't been very long since I had seen Tina and Sam, but that I hadn't seen my mom in a while. Tina and Sam were getting ready to go through the gate that's on the other side to go to the middle. My mom stopped them and said, “No, we can't go that way. We have to go the other way”. (Sandy said that she felt that if they had gone into the middle, they would have died. This warning was not taken seriously by them and they spiritually died. They did not listen. This is where the people of God need to go from the worldly to the spiritual; there cannot be ‘a halfway', ‘a lukewarm'. This would mean spiritual death to them in this time and a spewing out of the body of Christ. {Rev.3:15} I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. {16} So because thou art lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spew thee out of my mouth.) If you walked all the way around to the end, there was another part that was covered by the fence. They did not walk in the middle part. They had to walk all the way around to where I was. (The path of least resistance, or the shortcut, is the wrong way. The worldly church offers many of these. Just listen to them, and they will show you the quick and easy way to get saved and fly away, but the end is death.) They were almost down to that part, and there was another little gate to walk to the middle. My mom stopped and turned around and told Tina, “Grab Sam. He cannot walk in the middle. There is no middle; he can't walk in the middle”. (None of those who are lukewarm, middle-of-the-road walkers will spiritually survive.) As Sam goes toward the middle, Tina grabs him and they walk all the way around to where I was. I greet them and hug them. (This awakening was temporary.) Then I tell them, “Things are not what they seem to be”. My mom then says, “It's okay, it's okay, because everything that is happening is according to God's will. We just need to stay in constant prayer. {Pro.14:12} There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; But the end thereof are the ways of death. We just need to stay in constant prayer”. (In the days of strong delusion and deception, there's much advanced technology now using AI, CGI, and programming through drugs, mind control and manipulation, etc., we cannot walk according to our carnal mind or senses, or we will stumble. Prayer without ceasing is our command.) So, I'm walking ahead of them. Tina is walking on one side, my mom on the other side, both holding Sam's hand. Sam was not as old as he is now. He looked to be eight or nine years old. (We will have to help guide those Christians who are not yet mature in discernment. God will hear their prayers, too. Samuel is Hebrew for “God heard” or “God's name”. Shem is a variant of Sam, meaning “name”. Shem was the father of the people of the name, as Christians are now. Shem was the father of the Israelites.) Sam was trying not to act afraid when there was the presence of evil all around us. Even amongst all the evil, we knew we were under the protection of the Lord. There was no safe place other than the arms of God. I bent down to talk to Sam in his ear, saying, “It's okay to be afraid; you just fear the Lord. Don't fear anyone else or anything else. Nothing can harm you because they have to go through the Father first. Don't be afraid”. (Fear permits faith to be robbed and the enemies to take advantage of us. It is faith in reverse. {Psa.23:4} Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; Thy rod [of correction] and thy staff [of direction], they comfort me. {5} Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over. (With this anointing of the Holy Spirit, we should give the good confession.) {6} Surely goodness and lovingkindness shall follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of Jehovah for ever.) Then we started walking back to the square. The dirt has changed again. The dirt now seems like it's a mud-like consistency. But to the natural eye, it looks just like dirt. I still see the piles of bones now with the mud going between the fingers, toes, etc. But now I also see something like a circle; it's a tunnel and I can see it at weird angles and kind of far. The things that I'm seeing in these tunnels are body parts with the flesh. I'm seeing arms cut off, legs, face, head, all different kinds of body parts. They look to be freshly cut off from the body because I can still see the blood. The blood is still wet. I can see the nerves on some of these parts still shaking and moving. (The ‘powers that be' have made many underground tunnels connecting cities, where the military and special forces have found remains of countless people who were murdered by satanists. According to other dreams and prophecies I have seen, it is in these tunnels that the saints will be expected to renounce Jesus or die. It behooves us to walk carefully so we fill out both our days and our ministry.)  I'm getting ready to step, and I stop. I put my hand out to stop my mom, Tina, and Sam as I watch the details of the body parts freshly cut off. It was gross. I then asked them if they saw those parts. Tina and my mom saw it; Sam closed his eyes. He didn't want to see it. I then asked, “But it's not there?” My mom said, “Oh, but it is there under the dirt”. We stopped then and there, and we started praying. We were praying in tongues. While we were praying, I told Tina to take my mom and Sam to the outer part of the square, find a place, and begin praying and interceding. And that's what they did. (As with the Nazi persecutions in the death camps of World War 2, many will deny for the sake of soothing their own conscience that these persecutions are happening, but they will be out of sight and out of mind, “under the dirt”.) I was taking very small steps as the Lord was guiding me and telling me to. (Every step in these days will need to be according to the Father's will because of the dangers. {Eph.5:15} Look therefore carefully how ye walk, not as unwise, but as wise; {16} redeeming the time, because the days are evil.) And I was just praying and praying and praying. As I was starting to pray, I saw the people in the square now completely as demons. I no longer saw them as humans. (The righteous will be able to see in the spirit realm those who have been displaced by demons.) As I was walking, I felt as if they were trying to find me, and they were bumping into me, but didn't know they were hitting me. I kept praying more and more. I prayed out loud, and they could hear me but couldn't see me. (Invisibility in the spirit realm makes for peace from the flesh realm.)  That big demon I saw earlier that walked really fast was now there, and there were more demons of his stature and size. They were frantic, upset and mad. One of them said, “Now there are more praying. Do you hear them praying? We have to find them NOW! I'm telling you, their prayers are reaching the throne room of Heaven. Things are going to change. Find them NOW!” There was such an urgency to find us. I walked all the way to the end of the square and I turned around and asked, “Okay, Lord. What is it that You want me to do?” (Truly, “things are going to change.” Walking to the end of the square represents that the saints will go through this beast tribulation and bring the Gospel to the whole world. Watch volume one of Hidden Manna for the End Times.) I don't know where the Lord took the men whom I saw at the beginning of the dream or what had happened, but I just knew that they were coming back. The demons were still looking really hard for the people who were praying. Not just us, but they were looking to stop everyone everywhere from praying. The Lord told me to step a foot back in the square, and I did. When I stepped back in the square, I was speaking the Word out loud. Everything that the Lord was saying to me, I was speaking out loud. The demons could now see me and were in my face, trying to intimidate or scare me. I knew that they could not touch me. They were telling me to shut up, be quiet, that my prayers were dead, and I was doing no good. “Don't you know we can kill you? We can take you out! You are nothing!” Many of them kept saying those things to me over and over. (Demons are full of threats to discourage the prayers and works of God, but most Christians don't recognize them as coming from demons, but feel they are their own thoughts and are defeated. The knowledge of God's Word will enable them to defeat the deceivers. {2Co.10:3} For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh {4} (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds), {5} casting down imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.) I said to them, “I am nothing, but through Christ Jesus He is everything. He is my all and all. Everything that I need, God is. God is the source. God is the strength. God is the great I AM! One of the demons was so close to my face that I could smell his stench. So close that he was almost touching me. I told him, “You are nothing! You can't do anything other than what my God allows. You are nothing! (God is sovereign over all, but He will allow many things that we allow because He has delegated authority over all the power of the enemies. {Mat.18:18} Verily I say unto you, what things soever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and what things soever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. {19} Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father who is in heaven. ... {Luk.10:19} Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall in any wise hurt you. {20} Nevertheless in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. I heard a noise behind me, and I turned around and saw all the men who had gone out, and there were more with them coming, and with what looked like Christ in the middle. Everyone was dressed in white. When Christ and all those men came on the scene, some of those demons became smaller and smaller. The ones that were already small were trying to run, but they couldn't go anywhere, as you have seen in cartoons, only this was not a cartoon; they were liquefying before me into a puddle on the floor, and then they were gone. I was backing up as the men were going forward. I went with Tina, Sam, and my mom to this place where I saw a lot more people who were praying and interceding. Then I woke up. (Who are these men whom the demons fear? The Lord is in the Man-child ministry to raise up many in the image of the Lord. These are coming to wreak havoc on the spiritual hosts of wickedness. Hallelujah!)  After I woke up from the dream, I heard the Lord say, “Write this down: “You have all power and authority in the name of Jesus Christ. Understand and know the power of His blood. For you are adopted, therefore you are entitled to everything. Hear Me! Understand Me! Know Me! For then the enemy cannot deceive you for what's ahead.”   The Men Whom the Demons Fear Seven spiritual shepherds who are sent by the Man-child to minister to the seven Churches, which is mentioned in Hidden Manna for the End Times. First, Jesus is coming to be manifested in the Man-child ministry. (Mic.5:2) But thou, Beth-lehem Ephrathah, which art little to be among the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall one come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting. Obviously, this is Jesus. (3) Therefore will he give them up, until the time that she who travaileth hath brought forth (the man-child body): then the residue of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel. Jesus left because of rebellion and will return in the Man-child who is born of the travailing woman in Revelation 12. As Jesus fed the former rain woman in a body of flesh, so He will feed the latter rain woman in a corporate body of flesh. (Mic.5:4) And He shall stand, and shall feed [His flock] in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord His God: and they shall abide; for now shall He be great unto the ends of the earth. The Jesus of the former rain was revered by the disciples and feared by His enemies, but because of apostasy, this has not been true for many centuries since because they have had “another Jesus.” The Man-child body and those disciples who follow in His/their steps will restore this, and He shall be “great unto the ends of the earth”. The Man-child's teaching will bring peace to the seven churches that are at war with the beast and harlot. (5) And this [man] shall be [our] peace, When the Assyrian shall come into our land, and shall tread in our palaces, then shall we raise against him seven shepherds and eight principal (Hebrew: “princes among”) men. The corporate body of the Man-child is “this man” who brings peace to the corporate woman with his teachings, which enable her to resist the beast invasion. He brings peace because the “Prince of peace” is in his heart. Spiritually speaking, we are the “land” with the “palaces” that the corporate beast is trying to invade. (1Co.3:9) For we are God's fellow-workers: ye are God's husbandry (Greek: “tilled land”), God's building (“palaces”). As we shall see, the beast is a corporate spirit from the abyss (Rev.17:8) that inhabits the body of the wicked (3) and seeks to inhabit the righteous and mark them. Notice that the “Assyrians” are called “him” which shows that they are seen as the corporate body of the beast. Since the Assyrian beast kingdom passed away over 600 years before Christ, they could not have been connected with Jesus or the Man-child. Therefore, God, as usual, was using the beast of that day to represent a particular aspect of the end time beast. As the Assyrian beast did not conquer Jerusalem, so the end time beast will not conquer those spiritually abiding in the New Jerusalem. (Mic.5:5) ...Then shall we raise against him seven shepherds and eight principal (Hebrew: “princes among”) men. The Man-child Jesus raised up twelve apostolic shepherds primarily to restore those of the “twelve-tribes of Israel” who would listen (Mat.10:5; Act.26:7; Jas.1:1; 1Pet.1:1). In exact parallel, the corporate Man-child will raise up “seven” corporate apostolic “shepherds” primarily to restore the “seven churches”. The Man-child's primary job is to feed the unleavened bread of the Word to disciples in order to manifest Christ in them. These will be the new leadership for the seven churches in the last 3 1/2 years. These “seven shepherds” are not sectarian religious leaders but one man in Christ and are inhabited by one “prince of peace”, Jesus, hence “eight princes among men”. In the next chapter of Micah, we will see that even after the Man-child Jesus' 3 ½-year ministry, He promised to be with the shepherds in spirit “unto the consummation of the age,” (Greek: Mat.28:20) hence “eight princes among men”. These princes are sons of the King and have authority over His realm of the seven churches. The seven churches of Revelation are a type of seven different types of Christians in the Church. (Isa.4:1) And seven women (the Church) shall take hold of one man in that day. The “one man” here is Jesus manifested in the Man-child. Then He will be manifested in the seven shepherds and then in the true Church. One of God's solutions to the apostasy in the Church is new leadership. (Isa.1:26) And I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counselors as at the beginning. The same type of counselors in the former rain will be given in the latter rain. Here is another confirmation of the Man-child giving His revelation to seven shepherds, who passed it on to the seven churches. When the Man-child Jesus sent His shepherds out, He called them “apostles”, meaning “one sent forth”. In other words, the shepherds were the Man-child's messengers to the churches. As a type of the Man-child, John on the Isle of Patmos was “a partaker with you in the tribulation” (Rev.1:9) when he was caught up to the throne of God and given a revelation of the coming tribulation to give to the seven churches. (4:1) After these things I saw, and behold, a door opened in heaven, and the first voice that I heard, [a voice] as of a trumpet speaking with me, one saying, Come up hither, and I will show thee the things which must come to pass hereafter. (2) Straightway I was in the Spirit: and behold, there was a throne set in heaven, and one sitting upon the throne. Like Jesus, he was given a revelation of the apostasy in the Church and told to send it to the seven churches by the hand of seven angels. (1:11) ...What thou seest, write in a book and send [it] to the seven churches.... (Rev.2:1,8,12,18; 3:1,7,14) To the angel of the church in Ephesus (and so with Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea) write.... “Angel” in these cases is the Greek word angelos meaning “messengers” and is also used of ministers in the New Testament (Example: Luk.4:24,27; 9:52). The equivalent Hebrew word in the Old Testament is translated “messenger” when speaking of priests (Mal.2:7), John the Baptist, and Jesus (Luk.3:1). Since it doesn't make sense that John sent the revelation by angels, he must have sent it by seven minister messengers to the seven churches. This is exactly what Jesus did as Man-child. He shared His revelation with minister messengers, who shared it with the seven churches.

Matt Smethurst preaches Revelation 2:18–28 at River City Baptist Church, a new congregation in Richmond, Virginia. For more information or to get in touch, visit https://rivercityrichmond.org.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Reformed Baptist of Pine Bush is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Message to the Church in Thyatira Subtitle: Messages to the Seven Churches Speaker: Paul Gordon Broadcaster: Grace Reformed Baptist of Pine Bush Event: Sunday Service Date: 7/12/2026 Bible: Revelation 2:18-29 Length: 43 min.

The church in Thyatira was loving, faithful, and growing. Jesus still had a problem with them.This is Week 4 of our Seven Letters series through Revelation. Jesus turns His gaze on Thyatira—a church doing a lot right. But their tolerance of a false teacher named Jezebel was quietly unraveling everything. The core question Jesus asks them is the same one He's asking the modern church: have we confused love with tolerance?Whether you've quietly let something destructive linger in your own life, or you've been told that tolerance is the highest virtue, this message will reshape how you see both love and sin.In this message you'll discover:— Why what you tolerate eventually becomes what shapes you— The difference between loving people and celebrating what's destroying them— How false teaching subtly twists God's Word and how to recognize it— Why the sin you're tolerating today will cost you more than you ever wanted to payKey Scriptures: Revelation 2:18-29, 1 Kings 16, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Genesis 4, Lamentations 3:22-23

This sermon explores the message to the church in Thyatira, presenting it as a model of Christian virtue amidst the common structural patterns of Revelation's seven letters. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus commends this church for its love, faith, service, and patient endurance, countering historical misconceptions that view it negatively. The text highlights the intersection of earthly congregations with heavenly spiritual realities, noting that messages are mediated through angels to connect believers with divine presence. Central to the exposition is the call for the church to prioritize these theological graces over mere activity or pride in works. Ultimately, the sermon encourages listeners to emulate these virtues and remain attentive to Christ's voice as they prepare for communion.

The danger for Christians is not always outright rejection of Jesus. Sometimes we will slowly redefine Him until only the symbol remains. The cross can still be on the wall while truth has already left the building...So where in your life, in your heart, has the Gospel been tainted?▶SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/SouthernHillsLV▶Do you know Jesus as your Savior? https://www.southernhillslv.com/the-gospel▶ DONATE: https://pushpay.com/g/southernhills?src=hpp&r=monthly▶ Visit Southern Hills: https://www.southernhillslv.com/▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southernhillslv▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southernhillslv/

In this episode, Luke Mansfield continues the series looking at the letters to the seven churches in the book of Revelation. This week looking at the church in Thyatira. In it we discover Jesus sees more than we realise, his grace is bigger than we realise and his rewards are better than we realise.

Part 4 of our series, Jesus Revealed: Letters to the Church. Thanks for listening to this message from New Life Church. In this message, Pastor Joel Solomon continues our journey through the seven letters to the churches in Revelation. As Jesus addresses the church in Thyatira, we discover His call to embrace correction, reject compromise, and continue growing in faithful obedience to Him. This message was recorded at New Life Church | Deep Creek in Chesapeake, Virginia.

Sunday, July 5, 2026Ears to Hear: Listening for the Voice of Christ, "Thyatira: A Weak Church" - Tyler TankersleySermon based on Revelation 2:18-29(reading by Celine Raybon)

“What's the Story?”Acts 16:11-1511 From Troas, we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day we went on to Neapolis. 12 From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.13 On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. 14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. 15 When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.CONNECT WITH USIf you have any questions or would like to get to know us further, head over to https://www.triumphlbc.org/connect and fill out our online connection card.ABOUT TRIUMPHTriumph wants to see the life and message of Jesus transform your heart, home, and city. To learn more visit https://www.triumphlbc.org/

This sermon introduces a summer study series on the seven churches of Asia Minor found in Revelation chapter two and three The speaker warns against both obsessive speculation about end-times events and the neglect of this biblical book, emphasizing that it is primarily a revelation of Jesus Christ rather than a puzzle for predicting current news. He explains that the text functions as an apocalypse, a prophecy, and a letter, using Old Testament imagery to address the present spiritual condition of believers across all generations. A key theological insight presented is the chiastic structure of the messages, which positions the church of Thyatira as a model of faithful love, faith, service and endurance amidst surrounding struggles. The ultimate goal of this study is to encourage self-examination and repentance within the local congregation, fostering a deeper awareness of Christ's presence and authority among His people.

Thyatira: Tolerating False Teachers Revelation 2:18-29 Taylor Doiron covenantshreveport.org

The message to the church at Thyatira, the smallest church of the ones of Revelation 2 and 3, is the longest letter from the Lord Jesus Christ to any of the seven letters of Revelation 2 and 3. It appears that the Lord viewed this church and its compromise with world paganism in Thyatira, as among, if not, one of the gravest dangers being experienced by the churches of John's day and OUR DAY. In this letter the Lord teaches them how to resist compromise with the world around them and how to counter its influences in their church, as well as in our churches. The solution is to "hold fast" using the discernment between good and evil, that they had learned. This video suggests how to learn discernment, for it is not inherent in Christians, and the need to exercise discernment in their lives according to Hebrews 5:14. The Lord's message is extremely important to we who are living near the end of the Church Age. 0:00 The City of Thyatira 7:38 The Church at Thyatira 10:42 What They did Right! 12:06 The Lord's Rebuke for What They did Wrong! 22:06 The Lord's servants at Thyatira 24:49 The Bride of Christ's Future 35:34 What Must We Do!

Pastor Lucas Miles continued the Behold: The Revelation of Jesus Christ series by examining the first four of Jesus' seven letters to the churches in Revelation 2. He explained that these letters are not simply an introduction to Revelation, but a central part of the book, each following a similar pattern: a description of Jesus, a commendation, a rebuke when necessary, and a promise to those who remain faithful.The message explored the churches of Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. While each church faced unique circumstances, a common theme emerged: the danger of compromising with the surrounding culture. Ephesus was praised for its commitment to sound doctrine but rebuked for abandoning its first love. Smyrna remained faithful despite persecution and received only encouragement from Christ. Pergamum was warned for tolerating false teaching and immorality, while Thyatira was confronted for allowing a false prophetess to lead believers astray.Throughout the sermon, Pastor Lucas challenged the congregation to consider where cultural assimilation can subtly replace biblical faithfulness. Drawing connections between the struggles of the early church and modern-day challenges, he encouraged believers to remain rooted in God's truth rather than conforming to the values of the world.The message concluded with a personal challenge: If the Holy Spirit wrote a letter to Nfluence Church today, what would it say? More importantly, what would Jesus say about each of our own lives?Key Themes:The Seven Churches of RevelationFaithfulness vs. Cultural CompromiseJesus' Evaluation of the ChurchThe Danger of Losing Your First LoveStanding Firm Through PersecutionFalse Teaching & Spiritual DiscernmentRepentance & OvercomingTimestamps:3:42 — Revelation overview & the seven churches15:24 — Ephesus: Sound doctrine, lost first love25:23 — Smyrna: Faithful through persecution32:14 — Pergamum: The danger of compromise44:28 — Thyatira: Tolerating false teaching49:53 — What would Jesus write to our church?

Pastor Lucas Miles continued the Behold: The Revelation of Jesus Christ series by examining the first four of Jesus' seven letters to the churches in Revelation 2. He explained that these letters are not simply an introduction to Revelation, but a central part of the book, each following a similar pattern: a description of Jesus, a commendation, a rebuke when necessary, and a promise to those who remain faithful.The message explored the churches of Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. While each church faced unique circumstances, a common theme emerged: the danger of compromising with the surrounding culture. Ephesus was praised for its commitment to sound doctrine but rebuked for abandoning its first love. Smyrna remained faithful despite persecution and received only encouragement from Christ. Pergamum was warned for tolerating false teaching and immorality, while Thyatira was confronted for allowing a false prophetess to lead believers astray.Throughout the sermon, Pastor Lucas challenged the congregation to consider where cultural assimilation can subtly replace biblical faithfulness. Drawing connections between the struggles of the early church and modern-day challenges, he encouraged believers to remain rooted in God's truth rather than conforming to the values of the world.The message concluded with a personal challenge: If the Holy Spirit wrote a letter to Nfluence Church today, what would it say? More importantly, what would Jesus say about each of our own lives?Key Themes:The Seven Churches of RevelationFaithfulness vs. Cultural CompromiseJesus' Evaluation of the ChurchThe Danger of Losing Your First LoveStanding Firm Through PersecutionFalse Teaching & Spiritual DiscernmentRepentance & OvercomingTimestamps:3:42 — Revelation overview & the seven churches15:24 — Ephesus: Sound doctrine, lost first love25:23 — Smyrna: Faithful through persecution32:14 — Pergamum: The danger of compromise44:28 — Thyatira: Tolerating false teaching49:53 — What would Jesus write to our church?

Pastor Adam BowersIn this message, Pastor Adam continues our Revelation series, exploring Jesus' letter to the church in Thyatira and the danger of tolerating sin. Small compromises can grow into destructive patterns if left unchecked. Jesus calls His church to remain faithful, reject false teaching, repent of sin, and hold firmly to the truth until He returns.Scripture: Revelation 2:18–29

“At the River's Edge—What's the Story?”Acts 16:11-1511 From Troas we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day we went on to Neapolis. 12 From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.13 On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. 14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. 15 When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.CONNECT WITH USIf you have any questions or would like to get to know us further, head over to https://www.triumphlbc.org/connect and fill out our online connection card.ABOUT TRIUMPHTriumph wants to see the life and message of Jesus transform your heart, home, and city. To learn more visit https://www.triumphlbc.org/

Pastor John Randall's series on the letters to the seven churches in Revelation continues today with letter number four - the letter to Thyatira. Like several other churches, The Lord has something good to say. They were loving, faithful, growing and serving, among other things. But there was something terrible going on in this church too. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29?v=20251111

Join Fr. Antony Charles, C.Ss.R., in this compelling episode of the Who's Who in the Bible series as he explores the life of Lydia, the first European convert to Christianity. This reflection delves into the story of the businesswoman from Thyatira, offering profound spiritual insights for today's believers.Core Themes:The Power of Faith: Explore how Lydia's encounter with St. Paul led to a transformative opening of her heart to the Gospel.Service and Hospitality: Examine how her selfless commitment to supporting the missionaries serves as a timeless model of Christian witness.Early Church Devotion: Discover her significance and legacy in both history and the liturgical life of the Church.Deepen your biblical knowledge and be inspired by Lydia's legacy—watch the full episode to grow in grace and service!

Text: Revelation 2:18-29  A sermon from our Wednesday night series through the Revelation 

From our series titled Revelation: Loyalty to the Lamb in the Land of Idols. In this series, we will look at the first five chapters of Revelation and learn what whole-hearted allegiance to the way of the Lamb looks like. Scripture reading: Revelation 2:18-29Additional readings: Daniel 3Daniel 71 Kings 16:29-34Jeremiah 17:1-12Recommended book: Reading Revelation Responsibly by Michael GormanLearn more about Redeemer Church at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠redeemerclt.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Join us for this week's sermon!Whether you're seeking hope, direction, or a deeper connection with God, this message is for you. Each week, we open God's Word together to find truth, encouragement, and strength for the journey.

Wednesday Evening

Laodicea, an important city of the Roman Empire, had a serious issue with drinkable water. Hot Springs filled with impurities were a main source of water for the city. Archaeological excavations have revealed an attempt to bring water from an outside source in through stone pipes containing limestone deposits which would have contaminated the water for drinking. Just as lukewarm water is useless, the church in Laodicea is useless to Jesus. Dependency is a sign of maturity for a Christian. The danger of wealth is that it has the potential to create independent people. They may feel competent and successful but they are in actuality poor, and pitiful. Jesus strong words are a love gift to wake them up and reset their lives onto a new trajectory. They need only to repent, turn away from self-sufficiency and turn back to Jesus!------------------------By now we can see each church named is located in a real place with real temptations, hardships, and opposition. This is how it is for all Christians in all centuries – for we do have a very real enemy and this world is not our home. Additionally we have also seen how Jesus uses illustrations from the reader's own environment to communicate deep spiritual truths for greater understanding among its hearers. He did this all throughout the gospels as well!  In Summary:• **Ephesus – drifting church:** right doctrine but did not have love• **Smyrna – suffering church:** going through persecution—encouraged to stay faithful• **Pergamum – compromising church:** held to the truth—exhorted to not compromise• **Thyatira – tolerant church:** tolerance led to unfaithfulness• **Sardis – defeated church:** apathy and material wealth lead to defeat• **Philadelphia—suffering church:** going through persecution—Jesus reminds them of His love.• **Laodicea—lukewarm church:** apathy and material wealth lead to uselessnessThe pattern laid out in these letters is: *who Jesus is, who the church is, exhortations and promises.*Let us take to heart the condition of each church, examining our own walk and the culture of our own church against each possible state. Let us receive both Jesus' words of encouragement in suffering and His warnings in apathy. Above all else let us wake up to and rejoice in our “great need for a Saviour and a great Saviour for our need!” (Spurgeon)Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Revelation 3:14-22

Laodicea, an important city of the Roman Empire, had a serious issue with drinkable water. Hot Springs filled with impurities were a main source of water for the city. Archaeological excavations have revealed an attempt to bring water from an outside source in through stone pipes containing limestone deposits which would have contaminated the water for drinking. Just as lukewarm water is useless, the church in Laodicea is useless to Jesus. Dependency is a sign of maturity for a Christian. The danger of wealth is that it has the potential to create independent people. They may feel competent and successful but they are in actuality poor, and pitiful. Jesus strong words are a love gift to wake them up and reset their lives onto a new trajectory. They need only to repent, turn away from self-sufficiency and turn back to Jesus!------------------------By now we can see each church named is located in a real place with real temptations, hardships, and opposition. This is how it is for all Christians in all centuries – for we do have a very real enemy and this world is not our home. Additionally we have also seen how Jesus uses illustrations from the reader's own environment to communicate deep spiritual truths for greater understanding among its hearers. He did this all throughout the gospels as well!  In Summary:• **Ephesus – drifting church:** right doctrine but did not have love• **Smyrna – suffering church:** going through persecution—encouraged to stay faithful• **Pergamum – compromising church:** held to the truth—exhorted to not compromise• **Thyatira – tolerant church:** tolerance led to unfaithfulness• **Sardis – defeated church:** apathy and material wealth lead to defeat• **Philadelphia—suffering church:** going through persecution—Jesus reminds them of His love.• **Laodicea—lukewarm church:** apathy and material wealth lead to uselessnessThe pattern laid out in these letters is: *who Jesus is, who the church is, exhortations and promises.*Let us take to heart the condition of each church, examining our own walk and the culture of our own church against each possible state. Let us receive both Jesus' words of encouragement in suffering and His warnings in apathy. Above all else let us wake up to and rejoice in our “great need for a Saviour and a great Saviour for our need!” (Spurgeon)Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Revelation 3:14-22

The church at Thyatira had so much going for it—love, faith, service, and a faith community that kept growing. But one fatal flaw threatened to unravel it all: the tolerance of sin within the body of Christ. Drawing from Revelation 2:18–29 and 1 Corinthians 5, Pastor Jon explores why tolerating sin is not an act of love but a form of cruelty—and what it looks like for a church to lovingly hold one another accountable.

Dr. David Swanson | Revelation 3:7-12Building on the message from May 3, the church at Thyatira faced false teaching as well, and they did something about it - those who would not accept discipline were thrown out of the church. We have to realize why we have theological and doctrinal standards. These protect the Church while equipping the next generations. Strategic Priority 2!

What if Jesus wrote our church a letter? Revelation 2 records the first four messages from Jesus to seven churches in the Roman province of Asia. Jesus provided encouragement, especially regarding persecution, but also warned against the dangers of complacency and compromise. Read more...

Jesus is the First and the Last—the One who was there at the beginning, and the One who holds the final word. What feels unfinished, broken, or uncertain in our lives is not beyond His reach. In Him, every chapter finds its meaning, and every ending is held in hope. This Sunday, we're leaning into the truth that Jesus completes the story. Not with fear, but with victory. Not with despair, but with redemption. Come and be reminded: what stands against us will not outlast the One who stands for us. If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect You can find all timely and relevant links from this service on https://bit.ly/cc-links You can also find out more about us at https://communitychurch.hk/ ================ This Week's Scripture: // Revelation 1:9-20 (NIV) // John's vision of Christ I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. On the Lord's Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, which said: ‘Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.' I turned round to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash round his chest. The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: ‘Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. ‘Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

By Bart Bornhorst - A look into the churches of Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, and Thyatira and the spiritual application to our lives today.

Rev. Patrick Donohue

The “Son of God” addresses the church in Thyatira with an urgent rebuke and warning (Revelation 2:18-29). Their tolerance of an insidious false prophetess and her error had taken its toll on them, and it was time to repent.

Lydia was from Thyatira and was a dealer in purple cloths. She was converted in Philippi when she heard Paul speak (Acts 16:1-15) Paul accepted her invitation stay with her in her home and he and Silas returned to her home when they were released from prison. (Acts 19:16-40)   Thyatira was a small and insignificant area famous for the dying of cloth.  The trade guilds were places of idolatry and sexual immorality yet essential for all who conducted business in the arts and trades.  This posed a significant problem for the Christians there as they would need great fortitude to continue in their trade and earn an income while abstaining from the idolatrous practices that were so prevalent among the guilds.  Jesus knows that they have been growing in their love, faith, service, and endurance. He knows the level of idolatry they are facing and it is reassuring to know He addresses it with authority and with mercy. He quotes from Psalm 2 when He encourages the overcomers and this Psalm is a reminder that He is more powerful than any nation on this earth. This knowledge would help the church of Thyatira to endure and stand strong in the midst of their trials and is a comfort for us in the midst of all that is wrong in our world today. Repentance is available to us for the areas we have compromised along with strength for maintaining loyalty and commitment to Christ above all else.  When our livlehood is threatened, we can remain faithful by the power of the Holy Spirit and by remembering that our time on earth is short. Our trials are temporary and our God is mighty. He will forgive us when we repent, He knows how hard it is and what we are up against. His mercies are new every morning and His love does not fail. ------To keep the gospel in the forefront as we read these letters, we invite you to memorize Revelation 12:11: “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”-----Prepare for this week's teaching by reading **Psalm 2, Acts 16, and Revelation 2:18-29**

Dr. David Swanson | Revelation 2:18-29It is becoming increasingly hard to identify as a Christian and not take some heat for it or be faced with hostility. This was the situation for Thyatira as well. God writes to that church to encourage them to stand firm and to watch out for false teachers. This is why elders and deacons matter in the life of the church. Truth and doctrine must be guarded carefully.

Revelation 1:9–20 9 I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet 11 saying, “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.”12 Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. 14 The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, 15 his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength.17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, 18 and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. 19 Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. 20 As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

"And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily. Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days. And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul." Acts 16:5-14

The letter to the church in Thyatira reminds us that Jesus in indeed Lord of His church, and He does not tolerate evil within it. If He needs to bring discipline (even harsh discipline), He will. The same Jesus who wouldn't break a bruised reed will also one day rule with a rod of iron. […]

In Revelation 2:18–29, Jesus comes to the church at Thyatira and we see the concern that he has for her and for her leaders. Jesus confronts the church, not because he's impatient, not because he doesn't care, but because he does care and he loves her and he doesn't want her to hide. Listen as Pastor Josué Pernillo preaches on this passage, showing that Jesus can see all, even the things we try to hide, so he calls us to repent that we may live holy lives in him. Part of a series on the book of Revelation. From Sunday Worship, April 26, 2026. ------------------------------- allsoulspca.org All Souls (Urbana, IL) is a part of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), a Christian, Reformed denomination with historic and theological roots in the Protestant Reformation.

Send us a message! (or visit outloudbible.com/contact to start a conversation)We slow down in Revelation 2 and 3 and let the letters from Jesus read us instead of us just reading them. We ask what repentance looks like when the problem isn't loud rebellion but quiet comfort, subtle compromise, and spiritual autopilot. • why the seven letters are for us today, not just ancient churches • the common structure of each letter: who Jesus is, what he praises, what he confronts, what he promises • Ephesus and leaving your first love, the “sweatpants Christian” warning, doing the deeds you did at first • Smyrna and the uncomfortable question of whether we fear suffering • Pergamum and the danger of “almost true” teaching, testing every message against Scripture • Thyatira and why tolerance is not the same as love, refusing to normalize sin • Laodicea, lukewarm usefulness, and the threat of self-sufficiency • Jesus knocking at the door, responding with openness, conviction, and repentance  At outloudbible.com, you can find free resources to help you study the Bible. And while you're there, send us a message to say hi, or start a conversation about having us at your church or event. If Outloud Bible has been a valuable part of your understanding of the Bible, please consider supporting the ministry by visiting outloudbible.com.Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

Send us a message! (or visit outloudbible.com/contact to start a conversation)Contact me and let me know: (1) how has OBP helped you in your relationship with God?(2) what you'd like to see in the next season of the podcast(3) questions about the Bible We start the Book of Revelation and set our hearts on its main purpose: revealing Jesus Christ as the risen King who will win the final victory over sin and death. We read Revelation 1 to 3 aloud and let Jesus' letters to the seven churches search our lives with both warning and hope. • inviting listener feedback as we near the end of the first Bible read through • how the podcast has helped your relationship with God and sharing testimonies • what to expect in Revelation as prophecy and as a revelation of Jesus • John's exile on Patmos and why Revelation is written • the blessing of reading prophecy aloud and hearing and obeying it • Jesus walking among the lampstands and knowing His churches • the repeating pattern in the seven letters: praise, correction, call to repent, promise to conquer • personal reflection prompts from Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea  At outloudbible.com, you can find free resources to help you study the Bible. And while you're there, send us a message to say hi, or start a conversation about having us at your church or event. If Outloud Bible has been a valuable part of your understanding of the Bible, please consider supporting the ministry by visiting outloudbible.com.Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

Is the holiest, best Christian mom a stay at home mom? Depending on your context, this may be the messaging you have heard and maybe struggled with. It might be that you love your job, you need to help your family financially, or you are a better mom when you work outside of the home. In this episode of the Bible Moms series, Kate and Rebecca travel to Greece, literally and biblically, to meet Lydia of Thyatira: a wealthy, immigrant entrepreneur, a dealer of purple cloth, and the woman whose home became the first church in all of Europe. If you’ve ever wondered whether God can use your ordinary life, your career, your open door, your willingness to just show up, Lydia’s story is your answer. And if you’ve ever felt the sting of the working mom vs. stay-at-home mom debate, this episode will settle something in you. Because God didn’t wait for Lydia to close her business before He opened her heart. Her influence and resources were the very things that God used to reach a people group and provide the space for them to meet as a church. TAKEAWAYS FOR MOMS God opens hearts that are faithfully showing up. Lydia was already meeting, already praying, already seeking — and God met her there. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Keep showing up. The working mom vs. stay-at-home mom debate is not a Bible debate. Lydia was a businesswoman, an entrepreneur, and an immigrant — and God never asked her to be otherwise. The question scripture asks is: whose kingdom are you building with what you have? Your house needs you — and people need your house. Lydia didn’t just get saved; she opened her home. The first church in Europe started because someone was willing to say come in. You don’t need a perfect house. You need an open door. God goes ahead of you to prepare hearts. Before Paul ever arrived at that riverside, God had already been preparing Lydia. You are not the only one working in your children’s and your community’s lives. God goes before you. Faithfulness in your specific arena is holy work. Different arena, same consecration. Whether you’re running a business or running carpool, the question is the same — are you placing it at the feet of Jesus? SCRIPTURES REFERENCED Acts 16:11–15 — Paul’s vision to go to Macedonia; meeting Lydia at the riverside in Philippi Acts 16:40 — Paul and Silas leave prison and return to Lydia’s house, where the church had gathered Philippians — Paul’s “love letter” to the church at Philippi, the very church that started in Lydia’s home EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 — Opening: Lydia, consecration, and the working mom debate 06:00 — Welcome to Episode 213 + where we are in the New Testament story 08:30 — Moving from the Middle East to Europe: Paul’s second missionary journey 14:00 — Greece! Kate and Rebecca share their very different Greek vacation stories 21:00 — The city of Philippi + why there was no synagogue (and what that tells us) 26:00 — Meet Lydia: immigrant, entrepreneur, seller of purple — and what that means 33:00 — The snail dye, purple cloth, and why royalty wore it (yes, really) 38:00 — God opens her heart + her whole household gets baptized 43:00 — Lydia prevails upon Paul to stay at her house (the Greek hospitality energy is real) 48:00 — The slave girl, Paul in prison, and the earthquake — what happens while Paul is at Lydia’s 53:00 — The first church in Europe starts in Lydia’s living room 58:00 — Working mom vs. stay-at-home mom: what does the Bible actually say? 1:04:00 — Your house needs you — and people need your house 1:10:00 — Application: sharing the overflow of your faith with your family RESOURCES MENTIONED Family Values — Gather Moms curriculum for teaching core values in the home Moms Let’s Talk — Gather Moms curriculum for intentional faith conversations with your kids Footsteps of Paul Tour — Rebecca’s Greece trip (highly recommend for the tzatziki alone) Gather Moms: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Kate Henderson: Instagram | Facebook Rebecca Bradford: Instagram | Facebook

**Through the Resurrection all who trust in Jesus can live Victoriously.** Seven churches in Asia minor were each given a letter with encouragements, corrections and promises to those who overcome. How do we overcome and live victoriously? It is by faith alone, through grace alone. Jesus' victory is ours through faith in His work on our behalf. All Praise, Honor, and Glory to Jesus, the Living One who was dead and is alive for ever and ever!!**A Note on the book of Revelation:**Revelation is a letter of prophecy written to seven churches in Asia minor. There are differing perspectives among Biblical scholars as to how Revelation is to be read and understood. This is true of not yet fulfilled prophecy in all of scripture, both Old and New Testament alike. We need not be afraid of reading this portion of scripture because of all the controversy. As with every text of God's word – Jesus is both the One revealed and the One who is doing the revealing. Jesus makes Himself known to us and as long as we keep our eyes focused on magnifying Jesus and resting in His consistent character we can allow room for mystery and our own limitations without losing heart or getting off track.Our sermon series will focus on each individual church's letter found in chapters 1-3. These first-century churches in the Roman province of Asia (currently western Turkey) are mentioned; Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. We'll begin with the Apostle John exiled on the island of Patmos where he sees Jesus in all His glory. John does his best to record what he has seen and heard within the limitations of human language. (Chapter 1)To help us maintain our focus over the next eight weeks, we invite you to memorize Revelation 12:11: “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony, they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”To help you begin, take time to write the memory verse on notecards and place in an ideal location for your daily review.Additionally, as you prepare for this week's teaching, read Revelation 1:1-20 and your study Bible's introduction (if applicable, or Click here for the ESV Global Study Bible's Introduction to Revelation)

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue their series on Jesus' words to the 7 Churches in the Book of Revelation. Today, they look at Jesus' words to the Church in Thyatira and how relevant what He said to them so long ago is for us here and now. Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)