Tag: Revelation 2

Dear Church in Sardis – and You

OLD TESTAMENT: Jeremiah 37-39

POETRY: Psalm 119:57-64

NEW TESTAMENT: Revelation 3:1-6

Rev. 3:1-6 – Letter to Sardis

We’ve made it to the fifth letter in our series!  Thanks for joining again!

Sardis is another church not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible with limited information.  Historically, we are told Sardis was once a wealthy city citizens thought was well-defended because of their geographical location up above most other cities. Because of this, Sardis experienced multiple significant attacks they were ill-prepared for, and as a result, the city had deteriorated significantly from what it once was or what it could have been.  Keep this in mind as we take a look at the letter itself today.

Jesus does not take much time before diving right into some pretty critical correction for this church.  He immediately jumps to calling out their fake reputation – calling them dead instead of alive as it may seem (v.1).  This would have been a pretty close comparison to how their city also had the appearance of being well-off, when in reality, they could not withstand the attacks of those around them!  So what are they to do?  WAKE UP. Jesus tells Sardis to take action in strengthening what little remains (possibly referencing the few in the church that have remained worthy (v.4)), because he still sees a chance for them to finish or perfect their deeds or purpose (v.2).  Some Bible translations use the language, “…I find your actions do not meet the requirements of my God.” This means there are some actions happening, but they are unfinished and not up to standard.

Sardis was a church full of barely believers who were just scratching the surface of what it means to be a Christian.  Full of people coming together and going through the motions, maintaining the look of a “good” church, and yet missing out on true spirituality and fellowship with Christ.  People who weren’t motivated by their love of Christ, or love of others, but rather by their desire to be viewed with the “Christian” label.  That is why Jesus calls this church to remember what they learned at first, Biblical truths of who he is and what the Kingdom will be, hold it fast, clinging to these truths with passion and deep love, and repent, because where they are is dangerous for their salvation (v.3).  Jesus uses the analogy of a thief coming at an unknown time because he knows this would be an image that resonates with this group of people, and he desperately wants to convey the urgency behind his words. 

It is incredibly simple to slip in a pattern of apathetic worship and works.  All it takes is falling out of good spiritual habits like daily fellowship with God through prayer, reading our Bible, and genuine worship to fall into a rut of maintaining a reputation.  I personally feel this is one of the biggest ways Satan draws Christians away from Christ in the United States today.  BUT, when we listen and act on what Jesus tells the church in Sardis (remember, hold fast, and repent), we have the best chance of our name being written in the Book of LIfe, acknowledged by Jesus to his Father, and angels (v.5). 

It is overwhelming to feel like or recognize that you or your church may be spiritually dead.  But be encouraged that we worship a God who raises the dead.  His Kingdom is coming, and you have a chance to be part of it.  Praise God!

Reflection Questions:

  • What is one thing you have done recently (or can do), to re-energize your love of Christ?  How can this help you avoid a pattern of apathy?
  • What are the things you learned at first that God may be calling you to remember?  What does it look like for you to hold fast to these things in your daily life?  
  • Our other passages today offer multiple examples of people who held on to God’s words regardless of their reputations. In Psalm 119:58 David writes how he has sought the Lord’s face with his whole heart.  Despite his own shortcomings, David clearly had a deep relationship with God and was blessed because of his dedication.  Living in a post-Jesus world with access to Old Testament scriptures, we are at even more of an advantage to developing a relationship with God. How are you utilizing the time you live in now to further your relationship with God and His Son?

-Sarah Johnson

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Dear Church in Thyatira – and You

OLD TESTAMENT: Jeremiah 34-36

POETRY: Psalm 119:49-56

NEW TESTAMENT: Revelation 2:18-29

Rev. 2:18-29 – Letter to Thyatira

Welcome to the fourth letter!

While we don’t hear much about Thyatira outside of these passages, we do get a little sneak peak at it in Acts during one of Paul’s trips where he meets Lydia, and she and her whole family are baptized in the truth of Jesus Christ.  From there, we are told Lydia offered a place for Paul to stay (Acts 16:13-15).  While we don’t know the number of days Paul stayed with Lydia, it is likely that the believers reached during this time were the ones to eventually establish the church in Thyatira.  While this isn’t incredibly relevant to our main point, I do think it’s pretty amazing that just one family made such an impact in their community!

Now getting into the praise Thyatira received:  The church here was doing good work, and it seems that they were improving in this throughout their existence too!  They are commended for their love, faith, service, and perseverance (v.19).  This was a group of active Christians who clearly cared deeply for their community.  They had a big focus on outreach and growth.  Both great things to aspire for!

Now comes to their correction… Thyatira had allowed a false prophet, a “Jezebel” (think the Biblical “Karen”… not really their name, but the stereotype that goes with it), into their church and followed her teachings, even into sinful acts such as sexual immorality and eating food sacrificed to idols (v.20).  It is possible that this church was so focused on the external look of creating a community where no one was pushed away, that they instead let in someone(s) that became like a cancerous growth in their congregation.  Rather than confronting someone with wrong teaching, the church allowed false prophets a space to teach that incorrect doctrine, ultimately dragging down the church as a whole.

In this letter, Christ reminds the church, and the false prophets, that those who go off the path of Christ’s teaching will perish, but there is still an opportunity for repentance (v.21-22).  In verse 23, it’s written that Jesus will repay each one in the church according to their deeds.  Now, for a church that was commended for their deeds, this may not seem too concerning.  However, within the context of the same verse, it appears this is more of a warning for these Christians.  Even in their good deeds, if they have been actively following a false prophet and engaging in actions they know to be sinful according to Scripture and Christ’s teachings, those deeds will also be repaid.  I think this is Jesus taking a moment to remind Christians that without obedience to God’s expectations Jesus taught, the result will still be death, no matter how good their deeds were.  Interestingly, there seems to be a group within the church here that has been defying the false teachings, and Jesus urges them to continue to hold on until he returns (v.24-25).  Just a little light within that grim reminder!

That harsh correction also comes with a very exciting promise for everyone just a few verses later.  Jesus reminds these believers that those who do his will to the end will be given authority over nations and a morning star (v.28).  These promises are hopeful, exciting, and rewarding!  

In our modern day, it can be just as easy to allow false teachings to slip into our churches and our lifestyles as in the time of Thyatira.  This makes it that much more imperative for each individual believer to have a strong foundation of Biblical knowledge to test teachings with!  Church leaders also have an important task of addressing false teachings inside the church appropriately and timely.  We all must use discernment to evaluate the messages we hear inside (and outside) our churches to ensure they truly align with the teachings of Jesus.  And if or when they don’t, we must have the courage to call it out!  Always remembering that everyone is created by God, and given the same chance for repentance as you and I.  It’s no easy task, but the reward makes it all worth it.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you experienced a time where you had to use discernment in confronting sin in your life, or in the life of another believer?  What went well in that situation, and what could have improved?
  • In our Psalms passage today, we read that David finds comfort during suffering because God’s promise preserves his life, and he finds comforts in God’s laws.  When you consider the laws and Jesus’ teachings, do you find comfort in obeying them?  Are there any that are challenging for you?  
  • In our Jeremiah verses for today, we see an example of God’s response to disobedience to His laws for the sake of “freedom” from them.  How has this concept remained the same throughout history?  How has this concept changed since Jesus?

-Sarah Johnson

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Dear Church in Smyrna – and You

OLD TESTAMENT: Jeremiah 30-31

POETRY: Psalm 119:33-40

NEW TESTAMENT: Revelation 2:8-11

Rev. 2:8-11 – Letter to Smyrna

Welcome back to our second letter!

Looking at some historical context of Smyrna is a bit harder than other churches, because it is only mentioned here in these verses.  However, we do know that the church of Smyrna is the only church still thriving in the modern day.  Reportedly, more Christians have lived in this area than any other Turkish city in the world.  This is quite impressive, considering this region has experienced repeated wars, massacres, earthquakes, and plague since they first received this letter.

Smyrna was a very rich area, populated by Roman and Jewish-born people.  Unfortunately, Christians were viewed as “cult followers” and often banned from being able to work, purchase needed items, and often faced social or physical persecution.  This really highlights what Jesus was speaking of in verse 9 when he described their poverty and afflictions.  So how could they possibly be rich?  Well, because just like all of us who are baptized, they had the promise of life, and avoiding hurt in the second death (v. 10-11).

From historical records, it has been concluded that a pastor at the church in Smyrna by the name of Polycarp, refused to worship Caesar and renounce the name of Christ.  Because of his choice, he was burned at the stake.  From these records, it is reported that when commanded to reject Christ, he stated “Eighty-six years have I served Him, and in nothing hath He wronged me; and how, then, can I blaspheme my King, who saved me?”.  From there, records indicate he was heard singing praises to the Son of God while being burned alive.  It seems Polycarp truly took the words of Jesus to heart, not fearing what he was suffering, and being faithful to the point of death.

It’s hard to imagine even a fraction of the persecution that was experienced in Biblical times, living in modern day America. Even harder, we know that both social and physical persecution still exists around the world today. In a recent report from Open Doors (link below), it is estimated that 1 in 7, or 365 million, Christians worldwide faced persecution in 2023.  Of those numbers, roughly 5,000 murders are recorded to be directly related to a person’s faith. Nearly 15,000 churches or Christian properties were attacked. From these reports, it has been determined that North Korea is the most dangerous place in the world to be a Christian.  Despite this, Christianity continues to be the highest category across the global population, AND is projected to continue to grow even higher based on current trends.  Even with the affliction and suffering, Jesus continues to touch the lives of billions around the world. 

Smyrna was one of many churches to experience persecution, but because of their faith, they are considered rich and worthy of the victor’s crown.  This message of reward was not meant just for them, but is for everyone who has ears to hear what the Spirit says (v.11).  You will face trials in this life as a Christian, whether or not they may be as severe as others around the world.  Will you remain faithful?

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you ever imagined yourself in the place of a Christian around the world?  Contemplate how you would respond when faced with persecution.  Pray today for those that experience this on a daily basis. For more information, check out the “World Watch List” found here: https://www.opendoors.org/en-US/persecution/countries/ 
  • In the passages in Jeremiah today, we see an example of God describing His restoration on earth, sharing the same promise that we also cling to in times of trials.  Reading those chapters, what verse sticks out to you as most encouraging when you consider the perfect restoration we will get to experience?
  • What ways can you hold fast to your faith when you experience suffering in this life? What has worked for you in the past?  How can you encourage and support a fellow believer who may be struggling right now?

-Sarah Johnson

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Dear Church in Ephesus – and You

OLD TESTAMENT: Jeremiah 27 – 29

POETRY: Psalm 119:25-32

NEW TESTAMENT: Revelation 2:1-7

Rev. 2:1-7 – Letter to Ephesus

Hello all!  Although the other material is just as wonderful, we will be taking a focused look on the Revelation passages, exploring the Letters to the Churches.  Let’s dive in!

Each letter has a general pattern of a greeting and introduction, praise for their behavior, a warning or correction, plus a reminder of what is to come (hint, it’s the Kingdom!)

For some context, the church in Ephesus was visited and established by Paul back in Acts 18 & 19. We know from these passages that the silversmith Demetrius, and his shrines or idols to the goddess Artemis, were popular opposers of the message of Jesus the Messiah.  From the book of Ephesians, we know that Paul believed the Ephesians loved all of God’s people, but still needed guidance on how to daily live out the Christian walk.  Knowing this can impact how we read the letter John transcribed to them in Revelation 2, and how we can take that message and apply it to our own churches and lives.

After greeting the church in Ephesus, through John, Jesus writes to the church of Ephesus and commends them on their hard work, perseverance, and holding fast to doctrinal truths diligently (v.2-3).  But their correction is that they have forsaken the love they had at first (v.4).  Some people debate the exact meaning this has, but personally, when paired with the information we have from Paul’s writing, I believe this means they have lost the love they had for God’s people. 

Back in Paul’s time, they were a church in the middle of a dark, secular, perverse community.  Yet, they were growing and evangelizing in a way that was drawing people away from worshiping other gods, and bringing them to repentance.  Clearly they were doing something right at this time to be so appealing to people in such a community, so much so that those trying to make a profit off of sinful practices started a riot!  And THAT is what I believe they lost.  

This church seems to have swung the pendulum to the side of practicing truth without love.  While we can only speculate, I do think this likely looked like church leaders who were so focused on ensuring their church stood out from the worldly crowds, they lost the compassion for those outside of their own doors.  They lost the zeal and vigor for spreading the gospel, and became too heavily focused on trying to maintain the doctrinal ‘purity’ they had built.  

Notice how Jesus doesn’t say in these verses they should stop holding fast to those important practices, but rather they should do them in combination with what they did at first, loving others in their community so well that they were attracted to the church.  In fact, right after this reminder, he even says that he appreciates that they hate the same detestable practices he does!  Jesus was never saying to disregard the importance of true and accurate teaching of the Gospel message.  But he was challenging a church who had been a beacon of light to their community, to remember how they felt in those early days when they received the Holy Spirit, and go back to the same energy and passion for the people they were surrounded by.

Well-established churches or believers, especially those who hold tightly to doctrinal truths, must be on guard for this same loss of love in their own communities and hearts.  Not compromising on the biblical truths they hold, but never losing sight of the greatest commandment, to LOVE one another.  We all may have a bit more Ephesus in us than we think… which isn’t always a bad thing, but is something we must be cognizant of to make sure we are still remembering the love we must show, in order to have the opportunity to experience the “paradise of God” (v.7).

Reflection Questions:

  • Consider yourself and your church, have you lost your first love?  If you have, what steps can you take to revitalize that passion?  
  • Think of someone you care about deeply.  Have you shared the truth of Jesus Christ with them in a loving way?  If not, how can you start that conversation?
  • Reread Psalms 119:29-32 from today’s reading.  Clearly we see throughout all Scripture the importance of holding fast to God’s commands, just like the church in Ephesus.  Are you truly “setting your heart” on God’s laws as in these Psalms verses?

-Sarah (Blanchard) Johnson

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Repent, Persevere, LIVE!

Revelation 2

Thursday, November 17, 2022

In Revelation 2, John is tasked by the Son of Man to begin writing to the seven churches. This chapter specifically details what should be written to the churches of Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. All of these churches share a commonality of starting strong and then waning in righteousness over time. To Ephesus, the Son of Man comments on how they started strong, with perseverance and a low tolerance for evil. However, they have strayed from their faith, and so Jesus warns them to repent, or they will have their lampstand removed. In Revelation 1 it was discussed that the lampstands represented the churches, therefore the church would cease to exist. Furthermore, in repenting they are promised to be able to eat from the tree of life in the Kingdom.

The second church, Smyrna, has a fate that is full of tribulation. They have persevered through poverty and blasphemy against them, and Jesus remarks that the Devil would test them by having them thrown into prison. However, if they remain faithful, then they would receive the “crown of life.” He further remarks that “he who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death.” This situation seems fairly awful, but when you put thought into it, this situation is represented by the world that we currently live in anyways. Sin and suffering are rampant, yet, we are promised the crown of life by persevering and overcoming. This message is purely to enforce steadiness in faith.

The third church, Pergamum, shares commonality with the situation described in the first church. They remained steadfast at first, but now there is heavy straying from their original path. Teachings of false gods, eating idol sacrifices, and general acts of immorality have become practices among some members of the church. Jesus warns that those who walk this path will have “war waged against them” personally. From the being who has a double-edged sword protruding from his mouth, that’s definitely not a message that I would take lightly. However, this can be avoided if they repent, and they in return will receive mana, a white stone, and a new name that only they will know.

The fourth church, Thyatira, has had a congregation that has been led astray by a woman named Jezebel. Now, this woman is not the same Jezebel from the Old Testament, but she is enabling people to practice extremely immoral practices as a false prophetess. The Lord commented that He gave her a chance to repent, but she steadfastly refused to do so. However, those who follow her have been given a chance now to repent, or else they will suffer pestilence alongside the false prophetess. And like the other churches, if they hold fast and overcome, then they will receive the morning star and will be given authority to rule over nations.

All of these messages have two similar messages that can be generalized and applied. The first message is that all of these churches are going through tribulation and external influence, and have been led astray. However, they all have time to repent. This is familiar, though, as every day we will struggle with the external pressures of sin and can very easily be led astray. However, Jesus has made it clear that everyone has a chance at forgiveness upon repentance, even someone as corrupt as the false prophetess influencing the people of the church in Thyatira. The second similar case in these messages is the reward for persevering. This is the same message that Jesus and his apostles have spread since the gospel and throughout the New Testament: the good news for those who hold fast and persevere. Sin is very easy to fall into, but staying on the righteous path is much more favorable considering the reward that awaits.

And so, let us take these messages to the four churches discussed so far and apply them to our lives, let this be like a message to us. Whatever sins we have committed; they are already known as the Lord knows our hearts and minds. This is referenced in Revelation 2:23. Therefore, our time left gives us a window of opportunity to repent of them, and live as righteously as we possibly can. In the end, true victory is on the side of the righteous.

-Colby Leggitt

Reflection Questions:

1. Smyrna specifically is tasked with remaining faithful until death. How can we ensure for ourselves that we are likewise holding steadfast throughout our lives?

2. The Son of Man has offered repentance to everybody mentioned who is living in sin in this chapter. How can we hold these messages in our minds when interacting with those who are deeply entrenched in sin?

3. Does it make sense that these churches have such devastating issues yet Jesus still holds the star of their angel in his right hand? Why?

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Overcome

Revelation 2

To him who OVERCOMES
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God.”  Revelation 2:7
One of the phrases I would like you all to notice and underline when it repeats is this, “To him who overcomes”. This phrase refers to specific obstacles in Revelation 2 however this phrase could mean any obstacle in the way of your relationship with God. If you overcome your greatest fears and struggles and rely on Jesus, your relationship with God will thrive.
Jesse Allen