Okay, before we get started today, please read Revelation chapter 2!
Revelation Chapter 2 (I'm using the NLT)
The Message to the Church in Ephesus Verses 1-7
1. Verse 1: Explains who the letter is to: the angel/star/messenger of the church in Ephesus.
2. Verses 2-3, and 6: Praise
3. Verses 4-5: Criticism, "I will remove you as one of the seven churches (lamp-stands) if you don't repent."
4. Verse 7: A command with a blessing.
This church reminds us to stay focused and excited in the Lord! Don't let the original excitement fade away! Let your boldness/passion for Christ grow stronger with each passing day.
The Message to the Church in Smyrna Verses 8-11
1. Verse 8: Explains who the letter is to: the angel/star/messenger of the church in Smyrna.
2. Verses 9-11: God explains that He sees their suffering, but promises a true reward/blessing in the end.
This church reminds us all to stay faithful to the very end! We will be blessed because of the persecution we have endured.
The Message to the Church in Pergamum Verses 12-17
1. Verse 12: Explains who the letter is to: the angel/star/messenger of the church in Pergamum.
2. Verse 13: Praise! And it also shows how difricult it is to stay loyal in "Satan's City".
3. Verses 14-16: Complaint, warning, instruction and consequences.
4. Verse 17: Huge blessing.
This church reminds us that even God's chosen people were led astray. It shows that even-though we live in a difficult time (or "Satan's City"), we are expected to stay strong in tour faith and not give into temptation. (Ephesians 6:13) The reward for this is pretty Awesome!
The Message to the Church in Thyatira Verses 18-29
1. Verse 18: Explains who the letter is to: the angel/star/messenger of the church in Thyatira.
2. Verse 19: Praise
3. Verses 20-23: Criticism and punishment... Jezebel (2 Kings 9.22; 1 Kings 16:31)
4. Verses 24-29: For those who didn't stray, and their reward because of it.
This church reminds us to watch out for false prophets. We need to learn to test everything with God's Word. A true prophet will not have a problem with you if you challenge what he says with God's Word. If God's Word backs it up, then you will know the prophet is true.
What does this chapter say to you? How would you interpret these messages to the churches? I encourage you to write down in your own words a summary of each church, and what it is teaching you! I would love to hear your thoughts!!
Blessings!
~ S*
