Revelation 3:7-13
“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” (Revelation3:7-8)
Christ reveals himself to this church as the Messiah and King to this church. Like the message to Smyrna, there is no condemnation of this church. It has a little strength, and has faithfully served God, but is far less exciting than several of the other churches. They are not struggling to survive like Smyrna, and are thus able to reach out freely. Because of their faithfulness and focus on the word of God, unlike Pergamos,, they have something to offer. Even the other groups around them, which purport to be God’s people but are not will recognize that they are Christians, and serving God.
“Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.” (Revelation 3:9)
Because of their patient, faithful obedience, this church is promised that they will be shielded from most of the trials which come on most of the other churches, even during the run up to the Tribulation and revealing of the Anti-Christ. Those who have gone along with Jezebel’s rebellion and false teaching, on the other hand will experience it to the max, according to Revelation 2:22. Even Smyrna will experience some, although limited.
“Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” (Revelation 3:10-11)
The danger is real that this church could lose their rewards by allowing false doctrine in, or by losing their focus on God’s word. Colossians 2:18 warns, “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” Colossians 2: 8 warns, “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Accepting the doctrines of the Nicolaitanes, of Balaam, or of Jezebel, could easily deprive them of their rewards.
“Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.” (Revelation 3:12)
Those who allow God to have their lives and overcome in him will have an active part in God’s plan, and in heaven, with no separation from God. Their place is assured, and they are clearly identified as God’s, with every right as citizens.
For the sixth time, we are reminded to listen to what the Spirit is instructing the churches. It must be really important. How many other things has he emphasized to the same degree?
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 3:13)
Monday, August 10, 2009
The Message to the Church at Sardis
Revelation 3:1-6
“And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.” (Revelation 3:1-2)
Christ identifies himself here as the one empowering the pastors of the churches. As in each of the others, the message is to the pastor, and for the church. He has observed the Church, and this church’s works do not measure up to God’s standards. They are still very active, and have a reputation as a great church, but in fact the church is dead. Man focuses on the outward appearance and is deceived by the activity. I Samuel 16:7b tells us “for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”
Several years ago I had a small wind up bird that flapped it’s wings and hopped across the table when released. It produced an amazing appearance of life, but was totally an illusion. On the same table was an ear of corn, ready to be shelled and planted. Nothing about the bird had life, despite it’s appearance. The corn, which, at the moment was producing no activity, was full of life.
The church a Sardis was like the wind-up bird, with lots of activity but no life in it. The bird was inanimate, however and not dead, The church had once had life but was now dead. What could have happened? John 6:33 tells us that it is the spirit that makes alive. “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.”
God’s word is spirit and life , and would make the church alive. John 15:39 tells us “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” while John 3;36 tells us “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” In John 14:6, Jesus says he is the life. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Apparently the Word of God was no longer being taught, with the result people were no longer learning the truth of Christ and living in him. A former member of our church moved away and spoke of his experience looking for a church in another city. There were lots of activities every week, and on Sunday they all went around and shook hands, but when it came to the teaching and preaching, they just read one or two verses and gave a short talk, usually about how to be saved, or occasionally the golden rule.. Since he couldn’t be saved again, a salvation message was of minimal value to him, and the other messages were, in his opinion, little more than pep talks, offering little or no nourishment for the believers.
The flesh offers nothing, and a church which has forsaken the Word of God may seem quite active for a time. They still have a doctrinal stance, but it is based on tradition, rather than scripture. This enables them to continue to act, even though there is no life., Dead bodies will frequently move for several hours after death, as the muscles begin to relax, but the activity does not signify the presence of life. Churches can go for many years in the same state.
The church could be restored to life if action was taken. Though it had stopped breathing and pumping blood, the organs were not yet dead. Infusions of the word of God could restore life. Remembering what they had heard and acting on it could resusicitate the church. Inaction would result in total loss at some unspecified point.
“Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” (Revelation 3:2-3)
Again the individual responsibility is stressed in Revelation 3:4. “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.“ The death or loss of the church will not destroy those who are serving God. They shall receive the same reward as all others who have truly received Christ. Their salvation is assured.
“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” (Revelation 3:5
Christ then repeats his command for the fifth time. “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 3:6)
“And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.” (Revelation 3:1-2)
Christ identifies himself here as the one empowering the pastors of the churches. As in each of the others, the message is to the pastor, and for the church. He has observed the Church, and this church’s works do not measure up to God’s standards. They are still very active, and have a reputation as a great church, but in fact the church is dead. Man focuses on the outward appearance and is deceived by the activity. I Samuel 16:7b tells us “for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”
Several years ago I had a small wind up bird that flapped it’s wings and hopped across the table when released. It produced an amazing appearance of life, but was totally an illusion. On the same table was an ear of corn, ready to be shelled and planted. Nothing about the bird had life, despite it’s appearance. The corn, which, at the moment was producing no activity, was full of life.
The church a Sardis was like the wind-up bird, with lots of activity but no life in it. The bird was inanimate, however and not dead, The church had once had life but was now dead. What could have happened? John 6:33 tells us that it is the spirit that makes alive. “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.”
God’s word is spirit and life , and would make the church alive. John 15:39 tells us “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” while John 3;36 tells us “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” In John 14:6, Jesus says he is the life. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Apparently the Word of God was no longer being taught, with the result people were no longer learning the truth of Christ and living in him. A former member of our church moved away and spoke of his experience looking for a church in another city. There were lots of activities every week, and on Sunday they all went around and shook hands, but when it came to the teaching and preaching, they just read one or two verses and gave a short talk, usually about how to be saved, or occasionally the golden rule.. Since he couldn’t be saved again, a salvation message was of minimal value to him, and the other messages were, in his opinion, little more than pep talks, offering little or no nourishment for the believers.
The flesh offers nothing, and a church which has forsaken the Word of God may seem quite active for a time. They still have a doctrinal stance, but it is based on tradition, rather than scripture. This enables them to continue to act, even though there is no life., Dead bodies will frequently move for several hours after death, as the muscles begin to relax, but the activity does not signify the presence of life. Churches can go for many years in the same state.
The church could be restored to life if action was taken. Though it had stopped breathing and pumping blood, the organs were not yet dead. Infusions of the word of God could restore life. Remembering what they had heard and acting on it could resusicitate the church. Inaction would result in total loss at some unspecified point.
“Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” (Revelation 3:2-3)
Again the individual responsibility is stressed in Revelation 3:4. “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.“ The death or loss of the church will not destroy those who are serving God. They shall receive the same reward as all others who have truly received Christ. Their salvation is assured.
“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” (Revelation 3:5
Christ then repeats his command for the fifth time. “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 3:6)
Friday, August 7, 2009
The Message to the Church at Tyatira
Revelation 2:18-29
“And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. “ (Revelation 2:18-19)
Christ introduces himself to the church at Thyatira as the Holy one, who cannot bear to look upon sin. Again this church sounds fabulous. They are doing great things. Love is a strong factor in the church. They serve. There is a lot of faith, and they have patience to keep going. This results in a strong outreach. Most pastors would love to have such a church. God is not so happy.
“Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.” (Revelation 2:20)
Thyatira is allowing Jezebel to deliberately teach false doctrine. While Balaam was a prophet of God who got caught up in getting his own way, Jezebel was not of God. She was deliberately trying to turn people from the truth, to something else. Her story can be found in the interval between I Kings 16 and II Kings 9. In I Kings 18 we learn that she killed God’s prophets, while financing the prophets of Baal. She tried to kill Eiljah for destroying her prophets, and was destroyed by God in II Kings 9.
Jezebel is accused of deliberately truing to convince God’s people to accept sexual sin, and to participate in idolatry. These are not the only such doctrines, but examining them will help understand what these teachers do, deliberately trying to pass themselves off as messengers from God.
While most churches still oppose Homosexuality, there are two areas of sexual sin many accept today. The first is divorce and remarriage, and the second is so called “pre-marital” sex. I Corinthians 7:10-11 states, “And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.” While divorce is occasionally necessary, for example in cases of physical abuse, it is not to be taken lightly, and even in such cases remarriage is forbidden. Matthew 19::9 says that the remarriage is adultery, and the divorce exposes the mate to temptation to adultery. “And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.” Despite these scriptures, and many more, divorce and remarriage is widely accepted, or encouraged.
Sexual sin is often ignored in so called “premarital” situations for various excuses. Exodus 22:16-17 commands, “And if a man entice a maid that is not betrothed, and lie with her, he shall surely endow her to be his wife. If her father utterly refuse to give her unto him, he shall pay money according to the dowry of virgins.” The sex act obligates them to marry, although the parents may prevent the girl from living with the guy in some cases. This is clearly in line with I Corinthians 6:16. "What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.” The sex act joins them. Failure to go ahead and marry is deliberate disobedience, yet many churches forbid such marriages or condone such sexual activity.
The second area Jezebel type teachers are described as encouraging sin is that of eating food offered to idols. Paul deals with the specifics in I Corinthians 8-10. As believers we recognize there is only one God, and any food comes from him. It is thus acceptable for us to eat the food. However it is sin to eat it in the attitude of worship to the God it was offered to. Some will not distinguish the eating from the worship and sin by their eating.
“As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.” (I Corinthians 8:4-7)
False religions are Satanic in origin, and to participate in their worship is to worship Satan. As Christians, we are not to mock God by participating in Satanic activity. To participate in false religions implies that God is neither the almighty, nor the only God. I Corinthians 10:20-22 warns not to get involved. “But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?”
Jezebel type teachers have no care for God, and thus can teach anything they choose. Balaam types, believing in God, must find some pretext to believe their actions are of God. Both are dangerous, but Jezebel is in open rebellion. Those who go along with and permit her teachings will suffer God’s judgment, and those who believe like her will suffer damnation.
“And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.” (Revelation 2:21-23)
The judgment on Jezebel will make the other churches know that Christ cannot be deceived, and that every person will be rewarded or punished for his own actions. Those who have not accepted the false doctrine in the Church, but continue in their faith will not be punished for the actions of the leaders, but those who have gone along will.
“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 that which ye have already hold fast till I come.” (Revelation 2:24-25)
Those who have been faithful, serving Christ to the end will live and reign with Christ. We may never have much power on earth, but it will be ours for eternity. Those who turn their backs on Christ along the way were never part, according to I John 2:19. “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”
“And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star.” (Revelation 2:26-28)
“To emphasize the importance of these messages to the churches, for the fourth time Christ closes the message with the following words. “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 2:29)
“And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. “ (Revelation 2:18-19)
Christ introduces himself to the church at Thyatira as the Holy one, who cannot bear to look upon sin. Again this church sounds fabulous. They are doing great things. Love is a strong factor in the church. They serve. There is a lot of faith, and they have patience to keep going. This results in a strong outreach. Most pastors would love to have such a church. God is not so happy.
“Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.” (Revelation 2:20)
Thyatira is allowing Jezebel to deliberately teach false doctrine. While Balaam was a prophet of God who got caught up in getting his own way, Jezebel was not of God. She was deliberately trying to turn people from the truth, to something else. Her story can be found in the interval between I Kings 16 and II Kings 9. In I Kings 18 we learn that she killed God’s prophets, while financing the prophets of Baal. She tried to kill Eiljah for destroying her prophets, and was destroyed by God in II Kings 9.
Jezebel is accused of deliberately truing to convince God’s people to accept sexual sin, and to participate in idolatry. These are not the only such doctrines, but examining them will help understand what these teachers do, deliberately trying to pass themselves off as messengers from God.
While most churches still oppose Homosexuality, there are two areas of sexual sin many accept today. The first is divorce and remarriage, and the second is so called “pre-marital” sex. I Corinthians 7:10-11 states, “And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.” While divorce is occasionally necessary, for example in cases of physical abuse, it is not to be taken lightly, and even in such cases remarriage is forbidden. Matthew 19::9 says that the remarriage is adultery, and the divorce exposes the mate to temptation to adultery. “And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.” Despite these scriptures, and many more, divorce and remarriage is widely accepted, or encouraged.
Sexual sin is often ignored in so called “premarital” situations for various excuses. Exodus 22:16-17 commands, “And if a man entice a maid that is not betrothed, and lie with her, he shall surely endow her to be his wife. If her father utterly refuse to give her unto him, he shall pay money according to the dowry of virgins.” The sex act obligates them to marry, although the parents may prevent the girl from living with the guy in some cases. This is clearly in line with I Corinthians 6:16. "What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.” The sex act joins them. Failure to go ahead and marry is deliberate disobedience, yet many churches forbid such marriages or condone such sexual activity.
The second area Jezebel type teachers are described as encouraging sin is that of eating food offered to idols. Paul deals with the specifics in I Corinthians 8-10. As believers we recognize there is only one God, and any food comes from him. It is thus acceptable for us to eat the food. However it is sin to eat it in the attitude of worship to the God it was offered to. Some will not distinguish the eating from the worship and sin by their eating.
“As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.” (I Corinthians 8:4-7)
False religions are Satanic in origin, and to participate in their worship is to worship Satan. As Christians, we are not to mock God by participating in Satanic activity. To participate in false religions implies that God is neither the almighty, nor the only God. I Corinthians 10:20-22 warns not to get involved. “But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?”
Jezebel type teachers have no care for God, and thus can teach anything they choose. Balaam types, believing in God, must find some pretext to believe their actions are of God. Both are dangerous, but Jezebel is in open rebellion. Those who go along with and permit her teachings will suffer God’s judgment, and those who believe like her will suffer damnation.
“And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.” (Revelation 2:21-23)
The judgment on Jezebel will make the other churches know that Christ cannot be deceived, and that every person will be rewarded or punished for his own actions. Those who have not accepted the false doctrine in the Church, but continue in their faith will not be punished for the actions of the leaders, but those who have gone along will.
“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 that which ye have already hold fast till I come.” (Revelation 2:24-25)
Those who have been faithful, serving Christ to the end will live and reign with Christ. We may never have much power on earth, but it will be ours for eternity. Those who turn their backs on Christ along the way were never part, according to I John 2:19. “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”
“And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star.” (Revelation 2:26-28)
“To emphasize the importance of these messages to the churches, for the fourth time Christ closes the message with the following words. “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 2:29)
Thursday, August 6, 2009
The Message to the Church at Pergamos
Revelation 2:12-17
“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.” (Revelation 2:12-13)
This church is clearly one of God’s churches, but to them, Christ portrays himself, not as the loving head of the church, or as the risen savior, but as the avenging judge. At first glance it seems like a great church, serving God and staying faithful when surrounded by satanic influences, even martyrdom of some of their people. Unfortunately there are some things going on that are not right, even in this church..
“But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.” (Revelation 2:14)
Most people who go to church are familiar with the story of Balaam and his donkey from Numbers 22-24. Balaam wanted fame and fortune, that Balak offered. In his effort to obtain them, Balaam tried to convince God to change his mind. As a result, God told him he could go if they came for him. Balaam didn’t wait, he went and told them he could go. It angered God, and only his Donkey’s alertness saved him. Numbers 31:16 describes the results of his sin. “Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD.” Though he was a prophet of God, he was destroyed along with the other Midianites in Numbers 31:8.
Some in the church a Pergamos were focusing on their own desires to the exclusion of God’s and were causing others to sin. They are described in James 1:10-11. “But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.”
They have begun to take positions for or against things without verifying that it is actually what God says. II Peter 2:12-17 expands on James’ statement, while I Timothy 1: 7 describes them as “Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.” I Timothy 4:1-3 warns that some of them are turning from the faith after other things. “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.”
Romans 14 deals with a couple of the issues that arise with such people. Verses 1-5 stress that each person is responsible for deciding for himself on such issues. “Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”
Judgement for such things is God’s business, not ours. By judging wrongly we can cause others to stumble in their Christian walk. Romans 14:13-14 instructs us, “Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.”
Colossians 2:16-17 says we are not to allow others to impose such standards. “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.” They fail to distinguish what is important and what is not. Their goal is not the edification of the church, but gaining some benefit for themselves, according to Galatians 4:17. “They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.”
The second problem in the church at Pergamos illustrates the first one. Unlike the church at Epehesus, who hated the actions of the Nicolaitanes, some in Pergamos were adopting it as doctrine, despite God’s repeated statements of his hatred for it. “So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate,” (Revelation 2:15) Like Balaam, they select a passage like Judges 17:6, or Judges 21:25, “In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes,” to prove the need for a strong leader.
They ignore I Samuel 12:17-18, which rebukes them for wanting one, or Mark 10:42-44, which forbids the practice in the church. “But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.” God’s plan, for Israel, and for the church, is of personal responsibility, and he hates any attempt to change it
Judgement and destruction will come on the church which continues to allow such. Revelation 2:16 warns, “Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.” It is impossible to win that fight. The practices and doctrines need immediate correction.
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.” (Revelation 2:17)
This is the third time God stresses the importance of these messages. Success in not falling for Satan’s tricks will enable us to experience God’s feeding us spiritually, and in personal identification as his child. The description is almost like having your own PIN number to get access to your account at the bank. It is reserved for you alone.
“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.” (Revelation 2:12-13)
This church is clearly one of God’s churches, but to them, Christ portrays himself, not as the loving head of the church, or as the risen savior, but as the avenging judge. At first glance it seems like a great church, serving God and staying faithful when surrounded by satanic influences, even martyrdom of some of their people. Unfortunately there are some things going on that are not right, even in this church..
“But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.” (Revelation 2:14)
Most people who go to church are familiar with the story of Balaam and his donkey from Numbers 22-24. Balaam wanted fame and fortune, that Balak offered. In his effort to obtain them, Balaam tried to convince God to change his mind. As a result, God told him he could go if they came for him. Balaam didn’t wait, he went and told them he could go. It angered God, and only his Donkey’s alertness saved him. Numbers 31:16 describes the results of his sin. “Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD.” Though he was a prophet of God, he was destroyed along with the other Midianites in Numbers 31:8.
Some in the church a Pergamos were focusing on their own desires to the exclusion of God’s and were causing others to sin. They are described in James 1:10-11. “But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.”
They have begun to take positions for or against things without verifying that it is actually what God says. II Peter 2:12-17 expands on James’ statement, while I Timothy 1: 7 describes them as “Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.” I Timothy 4:1-3 warns that some of them are turning from the faith after other things. “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.”
Romans 14 deals with a couple of the issues that arise with such people. Verses 1-5 stress that each person is responsible for deciding for himself on such issues. “Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”
Judgement for such things is God’s business, not ours. By judging wrongly we can cause others to stumble in their Christian walk. Romans 14:13-14 instructs us, “Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.”
Colossians 2:16-17 says we are not to allow others to impose such standards. “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.” They fail to distinguish what is important and what is not. Their goal is not the edification of the church, but gaining some benefit for themselves, according to Galatians 4:17. “They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.”
The second problem in the church at Pergamos illustrates the first one. Unlike the church at Epehesus, who hated the actions of the Nicolaitanes, some in Pergamos were adopting it as doctrine, despite God’s repeated statements of his hatred for it. “So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate,” (Revelation 2:15) Like Balaam, they select a passage like Judges 17:6, or Judges 21:25, “In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes,” to prove the need for a strong leader.
They ignore I Samuel 12:17-18, which rebukes them for wanting one, or Mark 10:42-44, which forbids the practice in the church. “But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.” God’s plan, for Israel, and for the church, is of personal responsibility, and he hates any attempt to change it
Judgement and destruction will come on the church which continues to allow such. Revelation 2:16 warns, “Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.” It is impossible to win that fight. The practices and doctrines need immediate correction.
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.” (Revelation 2:17)
This is the third time God stresses the importance of these messages. Success in not falling for Satan’s tricks will enable us to experience God’s feeding us spiritually, and in personal identification as his child. The description is almost like having your own PIN number to get access to your account at the bank. It is reserved for you alone.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
The Message to the Church at Smyrna.
Revelation 2:8-11
“And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.” (Revelation 2:8-9)
General Ulysses S. Grant was repeatedly passed over as top General for the Union army. Lincoln appointed various generals to the post on the recommendation of the War College, the secretary of war, and even the recommendation of the army itself. None of the popular, exciting, well known generals had significant success. Lincoln finally picked Grant against the advice of everyone, because “he wins battles.” That was the reason for having a General. Grant did not use spectacular tactics, or seek much attention, he just went out and persistently applied what he knew. It is believed that the Civil war would have ended at least two and possibly three years sooner, had Grant been in charge at the beginning.
The other Generals repeatedly failed to follow up on victories, allowing the South to re group. They attempted spectacular tactics that failed. They constantly demanded more soldiers and equipment, blaming failures on the lack of both. . Several times The confederate army was totally at the mercy of the Union army, but because the generals refused to move, was able to escape. The excuse was that a certain contingent was not yet in place. Despite superior manpower, weapons, and supplies, the Confederacy was winning until Grant was placed in charge.
The Church at Smyrna is not particularly exciting. Like General Grant, they were just doing all the basic things they should. They were going through tribulation, but it was not an issue, nor something to brag about. They are not complaining about what they didn’t have, simply trusting God, and seeing him supply their needs day by day. They were doing these things despite false accusations of others who proclaimed themselves to be God’s people but were not. To the outsider, the church seems far less exciting than the other churches, and yet it is one of only two that God never rebukes for anything wrong. The world tends to look for the flamboyant and exciting, rather than the best, and Smyrna was one of the best.
The only thing God offers this church is encouragement and re-assurance. No rebukes or corrections are needed. There is nothing that needs change because there is nothing wrong. Notice the Lord’s statement.
“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10)
Christ warned them that they were going to have trouble. and suffer, but that the suffering would be comparatively short lived. The rewards would far out weigh the costs. Romans 8:16-18 describes our state. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Peter gives similar assurance in I Peter 1:3-7. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:”
Serving the lord fully will probably not garner very much money, or much recognition, even by other Christians, in this life. Three times we are warned about seeking earthly praise in Matthew 6. There will be no future rewards. As Paul says in Galatians 1:10, “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” Getting men’s approval will probably cost God’s approval.
Christ then re-emphasizes the importance of heeding these messages to the churches. Obedience reveals a living faith capable of producing eternal salvation.
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” (Revelation 2:11”
“And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.” (Revelation 2:8-9)
General Ulysses S. Grant was repeatedly passed over as top General for the Union army. Lincoln appointed various generals to the post on the recommendation of the War College, the secretary of war, and even the recommendation of the army itself. None of the popular, exciting, well known generals had significant success. Lincoln finally picked Grant against the advice of everyone, because “he wins battles.” That was the reason for having a General. Grant did not use spectacular tactics, or seek much attention, he just went out and persistently applied what he knew. It is believed that the Civil war would have ended at least two and possibly three years sooner, had Grant been in charge at the beginning.
The other Generals repeatedly failed to follow up on victories, allowing the South to re group. They attempted spectacular tactics that failed. They constantly demanded more soldiers and equipment, blaming failures on the lack of both. . Several times The confederate army was totally at the mercy of the Union army, but because the generals refused to move, was able to escape. The excuse was that a certain contingent was not yet in place. Despite superior manpower, weapons, and supplies, the Confederacy was winning until Grant was placed in charge.
The Church at Smyrna is not particularly exciting. Like General Grant, they were just doing all the basic things they should. They were going through tribulation, but it was not an issue, nor something to brag about. They are not complaining about what they didn’t have, simply trusting God, and seeing him supply their needs day by day. They were doing these things despite false accusations of others who proclaimed themselves to be God’s people but were not. To the outsider, the church seems far less exciting than the other churches, and yet it is one of only two that God never rebukes for anything wrong. The world tends to look for the flamboyant and exciting, rather than the best, and Smyrna was one of the best.
The only thing God offers this church is encouragement and re-assurance. No rebukes or corrections are needed. There is nothing that needs change because there is nothing wrong. Notice the Lord’s statement.
“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10)
Christ warned them that they were going to have trouble. and suffer, but that the suffering would be comparatively short lived. The rewards would far out weigh the costs. Romans 8:16-18 describes our state. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Peter gives similar assurance in I Peter 1:3-7. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:”
Serving the lord fully will probably not garner very much money, or much recognition, even by other Christians, in this life. Three times we are warned about seeking earthly praise in Matthew 6. There will be no future rewards. As Paul says in Galatians 1:10, “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” Getting men’s approval will probably cost God’s approval.
Christ then re-emphasizes the importance of heeding these messages to the churches. Obedience reveals a living faith capable of producing eternal salvation.
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” (Revelation 2:11”
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
The Message to the Church at Ephesus
Revelation 2:1-7
“Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.” (Revelation 2:1-3)
This is clearly a message from the Lord to the Pastor of the church at Ephesus, for the church. It was sent through John, but it is not from him. The Lord describes himself as holding the seven pastors of the churches in his hand and walking among the churches. He is intimately aware of what is going on, and is in many ways complimentary. The description is impressive.
They have been doing what God has commanded, and they have actually worked at it, rather than just sliding by. The effort has continued despite less than impressive results, trials, and discouragements. They hate evil. They have checked the claims of various teachers and identified the false ones. They have been faithful to his name, serving him unflaggingly. They are doctrinally sound and doing all the right things, but still there is a problem.
“Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” (Revelation 2:4-5)
We’ve all seen the newly married couple who are so wrapped up in each other they hardly have time for anything else. They can’t wait for quitting time so thay can be with their mate. Their holding hands as they walk or drive, and she sits next to him. They are more apt to be talking to each other than to their friends when there is a get together, and when they talk to their friends, the subject is likely to drift toward things about their mate. They eagerly go to things the other likes even though they don’t care for them themselves. That first love is wonderful.
Unfortunately, most couples reach a point where they begin to take their time together for granted. They are no longer in a hurry to see their mate. They sit on opposite sides of the car, and rarely hold hands. They no longer direct talk to their mate unless there is some thin dramatic to report, or they are upset about something, and they either drop things the other doesn’t enjoy as much, or they begin to spend more time doing their own thing.
While the marriage still appears to be solid, and most would consider themselves happy, they have left that first love. The marriage is no longer what it once was. Other things have taken precedence over the relationship to each other. Much of the pleasure is gone, and temptations can begin to enter as a result. The behavior has less to do with pleasing their mate than with doing what they are supposed to do.
This later was the state of the Church at Ephesus. They were doing the same basic things, but out of a sense of obligation, rather than freely from love. They can cure the problem by remembering where they have come from, and that they got there by what Christ has done for them. By focusing on what he has done for them and is doing for them they can renew their love for him. Failure to repent, to rebuild that relationship with Christ will result in the collapse of the church, or in it‘s becoming no longer a testimonial to Christ. Action needs to be taken immediately.
There is one area where the church is especially commended. “But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate.” (Revelation 2:6) They hate the same thing God hates, the deeds of the Nocolaitanes. Since there is no record of a group called the Nicolaitanes, we will need to identify what he means adifferent way.
The word Nicolaitane is derived from the Greek “nicolaus” meaning “To conquer or rule over the people.” Jesus Specifically forbid this practice in Matthew 20:25-28. “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
His comments are repeated in Mark 10:42-45 and again in Luke 22:25-27. Samuel recognized that Israel was sinning in demanding an earthly king to take God’s place, according to I Samuel 10:19. “And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands.”
God revealed that it was wicked to the people in I Samuel 12: 6-20, because they were replacing God with a man. As he says in Revelation 2:6, he hates this, and compliments the Ephesian church because they hated it as well.
He then directs that everyone who is able listen to the messages to each of the churches. There is a promise to those who are victorious in these things.
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:7)
Revelation 22:14 tells us, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” They are guaranteed access to the new home of the Saints, New Jerusalem.
“Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.” (Revelation 2:1-3)
This is clearly a message from the Lord to the Pastor of the church at Ephesus, for the church. It was sent through John, but it is not from him. The Lord describes himself as holding the seven pastors of the churches in his hand and walking among the churches. He is intimately aware of what is going on, and is in many ways complimentary. The description is impressive.
They have been doing what God has commanded, and they have actually worked at it, rather than just sliding by. The effort has continued despite less than impressive results, trials, and discouragements. They hate evil. They have checked the claims of various teachers and identified the false ones. They have been faithful to his name, serving him unflaggingly. They are doctrinally sound and doing all the right things, but still there is a problem.
“Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” (Revelation 2:4-5)
We’ve all seen the newly married couple who are so wrapped up in each other they hardly have time for anything else. They can’t wait for quitting time so thay can be with their mate. Their holding hands as they walk or drive, and she sits next to him. They are more apt to be talking to each other than to their friends when there is a get together, and when they talk to their friends, the subject is likely to drift toward things about their mate. They eagerly go to things the other likes even though they don’t care for them themselves. That first love is wonderful.
Unfortunately, most couples reach a point where they begin to take their time together for granted. They are no longer in a hurry to see their mate. They sit on opposite sides of the car, and rarely hold hands. They no longer direct talk to their mate unless there is some thin dramatic to report, or they are upset about something, and they either drop things the other doesn’t enjoy as much, or they begin to spend more time doing their own thing.
While the marriage still appears to be solid, and most would consider themselves happy, they have left that first love. The marriage is no longer what it once was. Other things have taken precedence over the relationship to each other. Much of the pleasure is gone, and temptations can begin to enter as a result. The behavior has less to do with pleasing their mate than with doing what they are supposed to do.
This later was the state of the Church at Ephesus. They were doing the same basic things, but out of a sense of obligation, rather than freely from love. They can cure the problem by remembering where they have come from, and that they got there by what Christ has done for them. By focusing on what he has done for them and is doing for them they can renew their love for him. Failure to repent, to rebuild that relationship with Christ will result in the collapse of the church, or in it‘s becoming no longer a testimonial to Christ. Action needs to be taken immediately.
There is one area where the church is especially commended. “But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate.” (Revelation 2:6) They hate the same thing God hates, the deeds of the Nocolaitanes. Since there is no record of a group called the Nicolaitanes, we will need to identify what he means adifferent way.
The word Nicolaitane is derived from the Greek “nicolaus” meaning “To conquer or rule over the people.” Jesus Specifically forbid this practice in Matthew 20:25-28. “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
His comments are repeated in Mark 10:42-45 and again in Luke 22:25-27. Samuel recognized that Israel was sinning in demanding an earthly king to take God’s place, according to I Samuel 10:19. “And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands.”
God revealed that it was wicked to the people in I Samuel 12: 6-20, because they were replacing God with a man. As he says in Revelation 2:6, he hates this, and compliments the Ephesian church because they hated it as well.
He then directs that everyone who is able listen to the messages to each of the churches. There is a promise to those who are victorious in these things.
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:7)
Revelation 22:14 tells us, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” They are guaranteed access to the new home of the Saints, New Jerusalem.
Monday, August 3, 2009
The Messages to the Seven Churches
John’s Commission
Revelation 1:9-20
“I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.” (Revelation 1”9-11)
John starts out by identifying himself as a Christian, our brother and companion, waiting like us for the Lord’s return. He does not attempt to set himself at a higher level than we are. As brethren, we are equals, and he is struggling with tribulation just like the rest of us. He was on the isle of Patmos, in exile, because of his preaching of Christ. His obedience had gotten him in trouble, but he was walking in the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit was keeping him from depression, and strengthening his faith.
God rarely commissions one who is not actively obeying God or who is not walking in the Spirit. Many who have shown no interest in serving God suddenly claim to have been directed to do some thing. It is probably not God’s direction. Why would God give a special assignments until they complete the work he already gave them, or who isn‘t listening? According to John 7:17 and John 8:31, obedience will enable us to know if the directions are truly from God. John was in a state where he could be given an new assignment, and the speaker clearly identified himself before giving directions.
John was to write down the things he saw, and send them to seven individual churches. All seven churches were active at that time, several having been started by Paul. To me this implies that these churches do not represent different periods of time in church history, but actual churches at the same time. The descriptions of the different churches thus are applicable to churches in any age.
When John turned around, What he observed was definitely in accord with the identity he’d been given. The speaker looked like Christ, whom John had been very familiar with, although in a different state. While still recognizable, he would no longer be accepted as an ordinary man.
“And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.” (Revelation 1:12-16)
John’s response is typical of those who have seen a real vision of God. There was a sense of fear and respect. Every other glimpse of God had the same effect of making mankind aware of their wickedness, and in every case, God gave reassurance, while reminding them of who he is.
“And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” (Revelation 1:17-18)
The Command is repeated, to write what John has seen, with two extensions, that he was to write the things that were then present, and the things which would happen in the future. He then explained part of the vision of himself. The seven stars represent the seven messengers to the churches, by implication the pastors, especially since angels in the common sense would not need a book written to them. The candle sticks represent the churches themselves. The messages to the churches are specifically to the pastors to be given to the churches.
“Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.” (Revelation 1:19-20)
Each of the Churches clearly are God’s churches, as are their pastors. The warnings are for Christian people. While all of revelation is important, perhaps the messages to the churches are the most critical for our day, because they deal with things the churches need to do immediately, before the Lord’s return. The rest of Revelation is for a later date, and is about things we can do little about. The fact that he stresses the need to hear what the Spirit says to the churches seven times underlines the idea. This is important!
Revelation 1:9-20
“I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.” (Revelation 1”9-11)
John starts out by identifying himself as a Christian, our brother and companion, waiting like us for the Lord’s return. He does not attempt to set himself at a higher level than we are. As brethren, we are equals, and he is struggling with tribulation just like the rest of us. He was on the isle of Patmos, in exile, because of his preaching of Christ. His obedience had gotten him in trouble, but he was walking in the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit was keeping him from depression, and strengthening his faith.
God rarely commissions one who is not actively obeying God or who is not walking in the Spirit. Many who have shown no interest in serving God suddenly claim to have been directed to do some thing. It is probably not God’s direction. Why would God give a special assignments until they complete the work he already gave them, or who isn‘t listening? According to John 7:17 and John 8:31, obedience will enable us to know if the directions are truly from God. John was in a state where he could be given an new assignment, and the speaker clearly identified himself before giving directions.
John was to write down the things he saw, and send them to seven individual churches. All seven churches were active at that time, several having been started by Paul. To me this implies that these churches do not represent different periods of time in church history, but actual churches at the same time. The descriptions of the different churches thus are applicable to churches in any age.
When John turned around, What he observed was definitely in accord with the identity he’d been given. The speaker looked like Christ, whom John had been very familiar with, although in a different state. While still recognizable, he would no longer be accepted as an ordinary man.
“And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.” (Revelation 1:12-16)
John’s response is typical of those who have seen a real vision of God. There was a sense of fear and respect. Every other glimpse of God had the same effect of making mankind aware of their wickedness, and in every case, God gave reassurance, while reminding them of who he is.
“And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” (Revelation 1:17-18)
The Command is repeated, to write what John has seen, with two extensions, that he was to write the things that were then present, and the things which would happen in the future. He then explained part of the vision of himself. The seven stars represent the seven messengers to the churches, by implication the pastors, especially since angels in the common sense would not need a book written to them. The candle sticks represent the churches themselves. The messages to the churches are specifically to the pastors to be given to the churches.
“Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.” (Revelation 1:19-20)
Each of the Churches clearly are God’s churches, as are their pastors. The warnings are for Christian people. While all of revelation is important, perhaps the messages to the churches are the most critical for our day, because they deal with things the churches need to do immediately, before the Lord’s return. The rest of Revelation is for a later date, and is about things we can do little about. The fact that he stresses the need to hear what the Spirit says to the churches seven times underlines the idea. This is important!
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