[22-23] Ek gaan haar met ’n siekbed straf. En almal wat saam met haar so onsedelik geleef het, sal bitter swaarkry. Daarvoor sal Ek sorg. Dit is hulle voorland, behalwe as hulle heeltemal ’n omkeer in hulle lewe maak en My weer voluit begin dien. Ek sal elkeen uitwis wat haar slegte voorbeeld volg. Elke kerklidmaat sal dan besef dat mense My nie om die bos kan lei nie. Nee, niemand kan iets vir My wegsteek nie. Ek weet wat elkeen dink en wat hier diep binne hom aangaan. Onthou dit maar: elke gelowige sal van My kry wat hy volgens sy optrede verdien.
What Does This Mean?
This verse is a warning from Jesus to someone who has been unfaithful. He says that unless she and those with her change their ways, they will face serious consequences.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a friend who keeps breaking the rules at school. The teacher tells your friend, 'If you don't stop breaking the rules, you'll get in big trouble.' This verse is like that, but from Jesus to someone doing something very wrong.
Historical Background
Revelation was written by John around 96 AD. It's a letter to seven churches in Asia Minor, addressing issues within those communities and providing guidance and warnings about their behaviors.
Living It Out Today
Consider a person who consistently cheats at work. Unless they change their behavior and stop cheating, there will be significant negative consequences like losing their job or damaging their reputation.
Topics
repentanceconsequences of sinadulterydivine judgmentsalvation through repentancecommunity and behavior standards
To 'repent' means to change one's mind about wrongdoing, confessing sins and turning away from them. It involves sincere remorse and a commitment to live differently.
Who is Jesus referring to as 'her' in Revelation 2:22?
'Her' refers to Jezebel, an influential woman within the church at Thyatira who was leading people into sin. This person symbolizes false teaching and moral corruption.
What are the consequences mentioned for those who don't repent?
The verse mentions 'great tribulation,' which can refer to severe suffering or judgment, both physically and spiritually, as a result of continuing in sinful behavior without turning back to God.
How does this warning apply to modern church communities?
Churches today must be vigilant against false teachings and moral lapses. Leaders and members should encourage repentance when someone strays from the faith, ensuring the community remains true to Christ's teachings.