In our last post, we looked at Christ's encouragement and rebuke of the church at Thyatira. He mentioned a woman named Jezebel who had led Christians to sexual immorality and idolatry. In verse 21, we read,
I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. (Revelation 2:21, ESV)
How awesome is the patience of our Lord! Another thing we know from Scripture is that Christ already knows what's in someone's heart and what they will do (John 2:24-25; 6:64; 13:38). Still, He mercifully gave her time to repent.
Alas, the Lord reports, "she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality." In the following verses, we'll see Christ's intention to judge her, but let's just focus on the fact for right now that Christ was patient and longsuffering with her. He gave her time to repent.
He is the same way with all of us. He doesn't smite us every single time we sin, thanks be to God. Otherwise, I'd be covered in boils all the time and starving to death. No, Christ is merciful and patient toward us, giving us time to repent. And for the Christian, by His Spirit, He actually leads us to repentance and perseverance.
But if you're an unbeliever reading this, know this: Christ is being patient toward you. You deserve God's wrath because of your sin, but every day, He allows you to breathe and enjoy the many blessings He has given to you. But He calls you to repent of your sin and trust in Jesus Christ for your salvation. If you don't, He will one day judge you and give you the punishment that you deserve. But Christ is indeed merciful. That day is not yet. On this day, turn from your sins, trust in Him, and be forgiven and saved.
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