What does the Spirit say to the churches?

To the church in Thyatira - the compromising Church - Revelation 2:19 I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first. & . 28 I will also give that one the morning star. 29 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

The problem with the church at Thyatira was that they were prone to compromise their faith, although it appears from the report in Revelations that their faith had become strengthened and purposeful. But what is a compromise? A compromise is the art of dividing a cake in such a way that everyone believes he has the biggest piece. Of course this is an impossibility.

Aesop, the great teller of fables explains compromise this way. The Birds and the Beasts declared war against each other. No compromise was possible, and so they went at it tooth and claw. It is said the quarrel grew out of the persecution the race of Geese suffered at the teeth of the Fox family. The Beasts, too, had cause for fight. The Eagle was constantly pouncing on the Hare, and the Owl dined daily on Mice.

It was a terrible battle. Many a Hare and many a Mouse died. Chickens and Geese fell by the score—and the victor always stopped for a feast.

Now the Bat family had not openly joined either side. They were a very politic race. So when they saw the Birds getting the better of it, they were Birds for all there was in it. But when the tide of battle turned, they immediately sided with the Beasts.

When the battle was over, the conduct of the Bats was discussed at the peace conference. Such deceit was unpardonable, and Birds and Beasts made common cause to drive out the Bats. And since then the Bat family hides in dark towers and deserted ruins, flying out only in the night.

A compromising church often lacks boldness; it’s easier to be be passive and is in danger o of allowing false teaching because it doesn’t want to rock-the-boat.

Father, thank You for inviting me to come boldly and confidently to You in prayer. I’m so thankful I don’t need to feel embarrassed or sheepish when I come to You with vital needs in my life. As I stand on the promises of Your Word, I will lift my voice in humility and confidence, believing that You hear me and knowing that if I ask anything according to Your will, I will receive it. Amen