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Book of Revelation - Chapter 2 - Verse 20

2:20
Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.

Meaning

Within this verse, God is addressing the church in Thyatira and expressing his displeasure with them for allowing a woman named Jezebel to lead others astray. Jezebel is described as someone who calls herself a prophetess, but instead of teaching truths from God, she is leading God's servants to engage in immoral activities such as fornication and consuming food sacrificed to idols. By permitting Jezebel to continue in her false teachings and deceitful practices, the church is failing in its responsibility to uphold God's commandments and protect the spiritual well-being of its members. This verse serves as a warning to the church in Thyatira to address the issue of false teachings and immoral behavior within their congregation, and to remain steadfast in their faithfulness to God's truth.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the author of the Book of Revelation is addressing a church and warning them about the presence of a woman named Jezebel who is misleading the congregation. The mention of Jezebel is significant in the Bible, as Jezebel was a queen in the Old Testament known for promoting idol worship and leading people astray from true faith. The use of the name Jezebel in this context is symbolic of false prophets and teachers who entice believers to engage in immoral behavior. The reference to fornication and eating things sacrificed to idols highlights the dangers of compromising one's faith and engaging in practices that go against the teachings of Christianity. By allowing Jezebel to continue her teachings within the church, the congregation is being reprimanded for tolerating false teachings and not adhering to the true doctrines of their faith.

American Standard Version

But I have [this] against thee, that thou sufferest the woman Jezebel, who calleth herself a prophetess; and she teacheth and seduceth my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed to idols.
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