Who’s In Charge
Keep The Faith
November 1, 2020
Rev. Gabe Sylvia
Preaching on Revelation 2:18–29, the sermon diagnoses the corrupting influence of 'Jezebel' in the Thyatira church, offers three tests for discerning spiritual influence (how it shapes our lives, how it provokes the Lord to act, and what rewards it promises), calls people to repentance, and holds out the promise of authority and reward for those who faithfully conquer.
Summary
Using the church at Thyatira as its backdrop, the sermon contrasts godly influence (evidenced by faith, love, works, and the Holy Spirit's work) with the corrupting teaching of 'Jezebel' that promotes sexual immorality and leads others astray. The preacher emphasizes Christ's sovereign authority to judge and correct, presents three practical propositions for discerning influences — how they teach us to live, what they provoke the Lord to do, and what they promise as a reward — and warns of serious consequences for those who knowingly sin and lead others into sin. The message closes with a call to repentance, encouragement to persevere in daily faithfulness, and the assurance that those who conquer will receive authority and reward, while urging dependence on the Holy Spirit and the church to recognize and resist harmful influences.
Key Points
- Context: Revelation 2:18–29, addressing the ordinary church in the mill town of Thyatira.
- Christ's self-description (eyes like flames, feet like bronze) underscores his sovereign authority and right to judge.
- Two influences identified: the good influence of the Spirit (faith, love, works) and the corrupt influence of 'Jezebel' (deceptive teaching and sexual immorality).
- Three tests for discerning spiritual influence: how it teaches us to live, what it provokes the Lord to do, and what it promises as a reward.
- The Lord takes seriously those who knowingly sin and lead others into sin and will act unless there is repentance.
- Repentance and daily godly living are required; rewards are promised to those who conquer and keep Christ's works.
- The promised rewards (e.g., authority over the nations) are for faithful, ordinary believers, not only 'super-spiritual' people.
- Prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit and the church is necessary to recognize influences and turn lifestyle changes into faithful obedience.
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