Wherever there is an Elijah, there will always be a Jezebel.

A Jezebel is a person (male or female) that manipulates those in power in order to silence the prophetic voice.

It happened to John the Baptist who came "in the spirit and power of Elijah" (Lk 1.17) but was opposed by Herodias when she manipulated Herod into executing him.

Jesus warned the church in Thyatira about a Jezebel-figure that was "misleading" (Greek: seducing, causing to wander) the church and assuming the role of the prophet herself.

Why are Jezebel-figures able to have influence in churches? Because it's tolerated. That's exactly how Jesus confronted the issue when it was present in Thyatira. He told them that they "tolerated" Jezebel.

That's also how the original Jezebel gained influence. Because her husband, Ahab, demonstrated weak leadership and tolerance of her manipulation Jezebel was able to exercise influence that wasn't hers to have. She used that influence to try to eliminate Elijah (a prophet and a trainer of prophets) so that she could set up her own false prophetic company.

Jezebel hates authentic prophetic ministry and will do whatever is necessary to silence it. Jezebel cannot be tolerated. Strong leaders must resist Jezebel in order to preserve the genuine prophetic voice.

For more information on the Jezebel spirit download this free summary guide.