The Outlet Community
We want to look at two churches today whose characteristics serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining excellent character in our pursuit for Life Beyond the Middle. “In pursuit of power, prestige, and position, there are casualties — sometimes, the most significant is our character.
Pastor Vince Thomas, Jr.
#Honor and #Integrity
The Churches of Pergamum and Thyatira
Life Beyond the Middle Series
Revelation 2:17 (NLT)
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We want to look at two churches today who’s characteristics serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining excellent character in our pursuit for Life Beyond the Middle.
“In pursuit of power, prestige, and position, there are casualties — sometimes, the most significant is our character." - from the Beyond the Middle Devotional
Revelation 2:17 NLT
Today's Key Words are: ________________________
Revelation 2:13, 19 NLT
The importance of Thyatira was that it was the gateway to Pergamum, the capital of the province. Thyiatra defended Pergamum. Integrity is what defends honor. A common description of Thyatira was that it was a church of Corruption. At the same time, Pergamum was known as a church of Compromise.
Corruption of values leads to compromise every time.
Honor and Integrity Defined
Honor
- A showing of usually merited respect
Integrity
- Firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values
- The quality or state of being complete or undivided
Positive Effects of Honor + Integrity
- Loyalty to Your Relationship with God reflected in our interactions with others.
- Governance our Appetites
#YOLO (You Only Live Once), Right?
Revelation 2:14-15 NLT
Balaam instead of cursing the people of God, He wanted to corrupt them over a period time for the purpose of destroying them. The primary temptation is through idolatry. Idolatry slowly corrodes away at the foundation of your values.
Revelation 2:20-22 NLT
The issue in Thyatira is the character flaw of believing God is not enough. The thinking that there has to be more to this life that what God said.
v. 22 (NLT) - I will throw her / KJV “I Will Cast her” in Greek is ballo meaning “I will let fall; allow the law of gravity to work"
Characteristics of a Life of Honor and Integrity
1. Unwilling to Compromise
2. Unwilling to Negotiate a Standard of Excellence Because of the Circumstances
3. Combats Cynicism
Reflection + Discussion
1. When you think of the days when your walk with the Lord was "fresh and new" what were some of the activities you would take part in?
2. How can we cultivate a fresh relationship with the Lord and guard against becoming extremely busy doing "good deeds?"
3. What one change could you make this week that would help you rekindle your passion for God?