wildernessVoice

Well, I’m not sure how much interest this post will actually generate; but after completing my latest update to my study in Revelation, I am persuaded there are some things to learn from the message to those in Thyatira.

This church in Turkey, which was at some point snuffed out, had some glowing things said about them by the Savior. Christ particularly noted their faith, patience and works. Not only were they all strong, but they increased from the time they began to the time Christ gave them a report.

Out of the messages to the churches, this stands out as a very positive report. Unlike the Ephesians, they made progress. They didn’t get caught in any rat holes. And this sets a great example for us in our day as we constantly see compromises in the name of church growth.

Despite the glowing observation, Christ did note that there were some among them being corrupted by a certain Jezebel. Whether these were actual believers is not clear. But there were some in contact with the believers who were also convinced to participate in various pornographic behavior. This is what I’d like to discuss in this blog post.

Now, I wouldn’t want to equate or even suggest that Oprah Winfrey is Jezebel reincarnated. Honestly, I do think she is a remarkable person by human standards. However, I have noticed that there is such an influence she has, even amonst those women who profess to be devout Christians. Is this bad? Not in and of itself. But it becomes bad if it causes people to operate and to think contrary to scriptures.

I do believe Oprah has been elevated to such a level of authority that Christians ought to be particularly careful what they allow themselves to be persuaded of. There are some, who perhaps jokingly, have even gone as far as to equate her with deity. Whether in seriousness or in jest, this is blasphemous behavior and God will hold some accountable.

My concern for our Christian women isn’t that they are going to deify Oprah. I’m not worried about that at all. But I do care about the influence she has on daily life in the home. For the most part, what she says probably constitutes every day common sense. But it doesn’t matter for the Christian. We’re to derive our faith and our interpretation of what’s good and acceptable from one source and that’s the bible. And we’re to test every philosophy that comes our way against the scriptures.

So, is my concern one of idolotry? In a way it is. I’m concerned wherever I might see us exchange biblical faith for humanistic wisdom, no matter how sincere. And for those who are absolutely convinced Oprah is a Christian, I’d be especially careful. Despite all of her philanthropy, I haven’t actually seen anything that constitutes biblical faith. Her occasional mentioning of Jesus and God warrants her a Christian-ish classification at best. If you think this position is too strong, please read this other article.

Anyway, there are plenty of others who will try to establish themselves as authorities over Christ. We must fight every occurrance, no matter how insignificant it may seem. We have a godly heritage that we should safe guard and cherish.

-Mike

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