THE DANGER OF SPIRITUAL COMPROMISE
DECEMBER 2, 2024
TEXT: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:7).
Spiritual compromise simply refers to living a life of double standards. It means that when a person finds themselves torn between two opinions, they try to cling to one whilst still trying to settle and please the other. Spiritual compromise can therefore be defined as a state of giving in to worldly pleasures, values, or beliefs, and compromising one’s faith, principles, or values.
Spiritual compromise can occur in different ways, such as:
✅ Trying to add “sweeteners” to the gospel of Christ to make it more palatable to people of the world.
✅ Tolerating iniquity in the house of God just to preserve or keep the presence of certain perceived “untouchable” members of the church, e.g., members who tend to always donate to the church financially and in all areas.
It is very common to see churches that are so quick to castigate perceived “commoners” in the church but keep condoning and indulging the wealthy and affluent in the house of God.
✅ Paying more attention to numerical growth or financial success in the church rather than spiritual depth and integrity in the house of God.
✅ Being reluctant to speak out against injustice in some quarters simply because you do not want to be rejected or tongue-lashed, or simply to continue to enjoy the support of people who really need to be told some gospel truth.
Revelation Chapters 2 and 3 contain examples of spiritual compromises, as illustrated in most of the various letters addressed to the seven churches.
✅ The church in Pergamos was sternly criticised for tolerating evil doctrines and teachings of the Nicolaitans, which prompted the church to delve into various forms of misdeeds, such as idolatry and immorality. (Revelation 2:12-17)
✅ The Laodicean church came under criticism for demonstrating spiritual lukewarmness, which made them powerless. (Revelation 3:14-22)
✅ The Thyatiran church also came under criticism for imitating and teaching the doctrines of Jezebel, which drove the church towards the pathway of immorality and idolatry. (Revelation 2:18-29)
SEARCHLIGHT: As believers, it is essential for us to maintain our stand, come what may. We should never try to change our stand just because we want a particular situation to please or favour us.
PRAYER: O Lord, help me remain faithful to you in every circumstance, in Jesus’ name.
BIBLE READING: Genesis 7-9, Luke 17
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
