But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.
But {G1161} unto you {G5213} I say {G3004}, and {G2532} unto the rest {G3062} in {G1722} Thyatira {G2363}, as many as {G3745} have {G2192} not {G3756} this {G5026} doctrine {G1322}, and {G2532} which {G3748} have {G1097} not {G3756} known {G1097} the depths {G899} of Satan {G4567}, as {G5613} they speak {G3004}; I will put {G906} upon {G1909} you {G5209} none {G3756} other {G243} burden {G922}.
But to the rest of you in Thyatira, to those who do not hold this teaching, who have not learned what some people call the ‘deep things’ of the Adversary, I say this: I am not loading you up with another burden;
But I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned the so-called deep things of Satan: I will place no further burden upon you.
But to you I say, to the rest that are in Thyatira, as many as have not this teaching, who know not the deep things of Satan, as they are wont to say; I cast upon you none other burden.
-
2 Corinthians 11:3
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. -
Revelation 12:9
And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. -
2 Corinthians 11:13
For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. -
2 Corinthians 11:15
Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. -
2 Corinthians 2:11
Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. -
Acts 15:28
For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; -
Ephesians 6:11
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Revelation 2:24 is part of Jesus Christ's message to the church in Thyatira, one of the seven churches of Asia Minor. After commending the church for its love, faith, service, and patience, the Lord addresses a serious issue: their toleration of a false prophetess, symbolically named Jezebel, who led some members into idolatry and immorality. This verse specifically offers comfort and reassurance to the faithful remnant who had not succumbed to these corrupting influences.
Context
The city of Thyatira was a bustling commercial center, known for its trade guilds, which often had strong ties to pagan worship. Participation in these guilds could involve eating food sacrificed to idols and engaging in immoral practices, creating a difficult environment for Christians. Within this setting, a group led by a woman (referred to as "Jezebel" in Revelation 2:20) was promoting a doctrine that seemingly allowed believers to participate in these activities, perhaps claiming it was a way to gain "deeper knowledge" or freedom.
Jesus, however, sharply condemns these teachings. In verse 24, He distinguishes between those who followed "this doctrine" and those who did not, offering a clear word of affirmation and relief to the latter. This remnant had stood firm against the prevailing spiritual compromise and false teachings within their community.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The pivotal phrase "the depths of Satan" is translated from the Greek ta bathe tou Satana. This is likely a sarcastic or condemnatory play on words. Some Gnostic-like groups of the time claimed to possess "deep things" or "deep knowledge" (bathe) of God or spiritual mysteries. Jesus turns their boast on its head, revealing that their so-called "depths" were not divine wisdom but rather originated from Satan himself, leading to moral and spiritual corruption. It highlights the deceptive nature of false teachings that often promise enlightenment but deliver bondage.
The word "burden" (Greek: baros) refers to a heavy load or obligation. In this context, it contrasts with the heavy demands of the false teachers or the legalistic requirements that might be imposed. Jesus assures the faithful that He will not add any new, difficult commands beyond remaining loyal to Him and His truth.
Related Scriptures
This verse highlights the ongoing spiritual battle that believers face. The "depths of Satan" can be understood in light of Paul's warnings about the schemes of the devil and the need for spiritual discernment (2 Corinthians 11:14). The promise of "none other burden" echoes the decision of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15:28, which sought not to lay unnecessary burdens on Gentile converts, affirming Christian freedom within biblical boundaries. Ultimately, for those who overcome these challenges, Jesus promises power over the nations and the morning star (Revelation 2:26-28).
Practical Application
Revelation 2:24 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:
This verse serves as a powerful reminder that genuine spiritual depth is found in obedience and purity, not in exploring or tolerating evil under the guise of enlightenment.