“And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent“

And I gave her time

The deviation from biblical ethics had gone on for a considerable time. Jesus was patient with her and gave her plenty of time to repent.

to repent of her sexual immorality

The word “repent” means to change ones mind or purpose. A person who repents changes their thought and attitude toward God’s will. Sorrow is the focal point in the English word “repent,” but it is not the essential idea of the Greek word. The primary idea behind the Greek word is change of thinking.

and she did not repent

Jezebel remained intransigent in her doctrine and practice. It is interesting that her message was a message of tolerance, but she was intolerant when it came to repentance. This is a grave indictment of the church at Thyatira.

Principle:

Immorality intransigently rejects the will of God.

Application:

Immorality is often obstinate and defiant of God’s will in the face of warnings. Eventually, Jesus’ patience runs out. He will discipline the church at some point.

God will give churches of our day time to repent. If the church hardens her heart, she will go from bad to worse. It is like a runaway truck going down a mountain; it is hard to stop.