But that which ye have
already hold fast till I come. Revelation 2:25
Dear Congregation,
The visible church on earth has for many
centuries been titled the Church Militant. The term carries with it a sense of
action, a movement for a cause, a passion for something that must be done. This
is a helpful thought for us as the Scripture often puts the Christian life in
militaristic terms. We are told to be good soldiers of Jesus Christ, to fight
the good fight of faith, and to make sure we have our spiritual armor on. Our
faith is one that requires us to go on the offensive. We all value evangelism
and mission. We all should want to be part of that work and should daily seek
out how we as members of the Body of Christ can participate in that calling.
And yet, it is worthy to remember that unless what we are fighting for is kept
true and pure, there is no point to offensive mission at all.
The above verse is spoken by our Lord to His church in
Thyatira. It is a congregation that has love, service, faith, and patience, but
has been led astray by false teaching. God’s message has been twisted. Because
of this the faithful among them are burdened and have a fight on their hands
that seems too much to handle. To them the Lord says hold fast what you have.
How encouraging these words still are to a church in our own century. It is
easy for a faithful Christian to despair at the work that must be done. The
unbelief, apathy, cruelty, ignorance, and falsehood often seem more than any
congregation can handle. Yet, when truth and righteousness are held up,
kindled, and cherished, this may have an effect on the strength of a church greater
than all the offensive campaigns that can be devised. In holding fast we are
exercising faith and reliance on our great commander. In holding fast we are
displaying an obedience to the One who uses us in His plans of action. In
holding fast we are recognizing the peace that passes all understanding keeping
our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Holding fast does not negate evangelism or
mission, in fact it deepens its quality.
If you feel overwhelmed by the problems in the news,
distresses in your family, uncertainty with your health, or lack of faith
amongst your loved ones, hold fast. The verse above also reminds us that He is
coming and the mission He has given us will be completed. The verse twenty six tells
the church that the faithful will have power over the nations. Your allegiance
to Christ is right. Your actions for His kingdom are not in vain. Your zeal for
orthodoxy brings great reward. Occupy till He comes. Redeem the time, for the
days are evil. Hold fast in your love for Christ, His Gospel, His church, His
coming. He eternally holds fast for us. He has won and will see you through in
that victory.
Hold Fast In Christ,
Pastor Basile
