A Light Shines in the Darkness

In the Dark Ages, before the dawn of the Protestant Reformation, there emerged a small band of fearless Christians known as the Waldensians. They were protectors of the Word of God. They taught their children to memorize large portions of the Bible and risked their lives to distribute truth to millions living in obscurity.

The Waldensians were ruthlessly persecuted by the Roman Catholic Church, escaping by hiding and dwelling in wilderness caves situated throughout the Alps. Their creed, Lux lucet in tenebris, has been translated: “A light shines in the darkness.”

In the prophetic fulfillment, the Waldensians were among this “rest in Thyatira,” one of the few groups that kept the Word of God alive against the pagan onslaught of the papacy. “The depths of Satan” refers to the darkness of apostasy. While God’s depth is full “of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God” (Romans 11:33), the further one traverses the depths of Satan, the more confusing, despairing, and horrific life becomes. But the light of these faithful few ventured not down that path. Though it was nearly extinguished, their light did not go out.

Thus, to them was given Christ’s promise, “I will put on you no other burden.” Biblical light dawned slowly upon the Reformers throughout the Dark Ages. They fought to uncover these rays of truth but often did not see other truths. But our God is fair and just. He holds each accountable only to the light that was available to them (Acts 17:30).

In Jezebel’s day, a remnant was similarly loyal to God. “Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him” (1 Kings 19:18). While we, like the prophet Elijah, may think ourselves the only light in a stormy sea, let us remember that the Spirit of God is working upon many hearts.

Father God, thank You for Your truths that will never change, for Your light that will never go out. Thank You for providing hope to millions across the ages.

For Further Study: Daniel 2:22; John 1:5; Acts 13:47

Key Bible Texts

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. (Revelation 2:24 KJV)