Reverend Eddy was disturbed after receiving a call from a frustrated member of his church. She complained that the spirit of wickedness had wormed its way into the church. A prayer group she set up had begun to intercede for God’s intervention. Eddy was exceedingly grateful to them for being faithful members. Even though much persecution had come upon them, they boldly soldiered on for God! He remembered how Antipas, a previous great leader of the church was martyred for Christ, they stood alongside him and were willing to die even for their faith.
As Eddy pondered over what had been said through the conversation on the mobile, he was unsure how to deal with few leaders of the church who had different viewpoint regarding certain theology. He felt so helpless. They were quite convincing with their words as most of them were highly educated in many areas. Teaching the members that only their spirits were saved and in Christ, the body was therefore immaterial. Many church goers who went along with their doctrine had committed adultery and some even went to prostitutes. They just ate anything that was placed before them; even foods they knew were offered to idols. Arguments between members had caused dissension and disunity, bringing shame to the name of Jesus.
He knelt down and prayed, asking God to give him the right theology and the boldness to do the right thing. Deep down he knew that God was displeased at how he handled His church. And even before he finished praying, a bright light shone in front of him. He prostrated in deep reverence to God, waiting for the instructions from Him.
A strong voice spoke…
"These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live--where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city--where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.”*
Eddy got up and lifted up his hands in surrendering to God. Tears of repentance flowed freely. He vowed not to be cowed with the crowd who was against the teachings of God. No ungodly doctrines would be able to stand with the raised S(Word) of God, he reasoned! He asked God to give him wisdom and strength to make things right! No matter what!
*The above verses are taken from Revelation 2:12-17
Next: THE CHURCH AT THYATIRA: THE COMPROMISING CHURCH II
http://psbible.blogspot.com/2011/07/church-at-thyatira-compromising-church.html
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