What consequences are described for those who commit adultery with her? Contextual Snapshot Revelation 2:22 speaks to the church in Thyatira, where a false prophetess—symbolically called “Jezebel”—is leading believers into sexual immorality and idolatry. Jesus’ words clarify that judgment is imminent for her and for anyone who joins her in sin. Direct Consequences in Revelation 2:22 “Behold, I will cast her on a bed of sickness, and those who commit adultery with her will suffer great tribulation, unless they repent of her deeds.” • A “bed of sickness” for Jezebel herself—an image of painful, incapacitating judgment. • “Great tribulation” for her partners in adultery—severe, unmistakable distress. • A merciful escape clause—“unless they repent of her deeds.” Judgment is real, but repentance can still avert it. Reinforcing Passages • Revelation 2:23, immediate next verse—“I will strike her children dead,” underscoring that God’s wrath extends to all spiritual offspring of her teaching. • Proverbs 6:32–33—“He who commits adultery lacks judgment… shame will not be wiped away,” stressing earthly disgrace and divine displeasure. • Hebrews 13:4—“God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers,” echoing the certainty of punishment. • 1 Corinthians 6:9–10—unrepentant sexual sinners “will not inherit the kingdom of God,” showing eternal consequences. Why the Judgment Is So Severe • Sexual immorality corrupts both body and spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18). • Idolatry divides loyalty that belongs to Christ alone (Exodus 20:3). • Tolerance of false teaching endangers the entire church (Galatians 5:9—“A little leaven leavens the whole lump”). • Christ’s holiness demands decisive action to protect His bride (Ephesians 5:25–27). Hope Still Offered • “Unless they repent” (Revelation 2:22) invites immediate turning back to Christ. • 1 John 1:9—“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” • Isaiah 55:7—“Let the wicked forsake his way… He will abundantly pardon.” No sinner is beyond reach while repentance remains an option, but delay guarantees the very tribulation Jesus promises. |
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