In the book of Revelation, John was instructed to write what Jesus Christ showed him in a vision. He was then instructed to send those messages to the seven churches in Asia Minor. The number seven symbolizes God and His perfection; therefore, the seven churches make up one perfect and complete church in His eyes. This church becomes the representation of the Bride of Christ, which denotes transforming spiritual oneness, purity, fullness, wholeness, completeness, and perfection through the workings and plan of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost- “who is, who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
In this writing segment, we will look at Christ’s letter to the leadership and congregation of the church of Ephesus. The meaning of Ephesus is “desirable” or “darling”. Every believing Jesus lover is desirable to God, for He constantly loves us and has loosed us from our sins by His own blood. Because of this great love He expresses pleasure and encouragement to us, but at the same time He expresses correction; “For whom the Lord loves He corrects “(Hebrews 12:6).
The “Alpha and the “Omega” proclaims to His beloved bride, “I know all that you’ve done for me- you have worked hard and persevered”. In addition, He then professes His pleasure that they don’t tolerate evil, and are not manipulated by the many religious, watered down, and false teachings of imposters that would lead them away from His heart of Truth and Light. Later, He adds that He is pleased that they despise the teachings of the Nicolaitans; who took part in pagan rituals, sacrificed innocent children, and manipulated and hurt others, to get what they wanted. He then adds, “I also know how you have bravely endured trials and persecutions because of my name, yet you have not become discouraged.” They endured suffering without complaining!
Yet, in all of this outward service there is something missing within their heart. Jesus states, “But I have this against you: you have abandoned the passionate love you had for me in the beginning”. They had lost their first love for Him, and all this doing without a passionate love for Jesus Christ weakens our power and witness in the world.
Jesus said to them and to us today, look within and “Think about how far you have fallen! Repent and do the works of love you did at the first.” That is humble yourself, turn back and allow me to revive your heart and mind, while we rekindle our relationship. There are many Christians’ and churches that continue to work and perform without the love and power of the Holy Spirit- this is mere religion, and it is not alive!
Jesus said, “If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand”, which represents the burning presence of Christ! If you don’t turn to Him, you will lose your authentic place of influence that Christ longs for you to abide in.
“The one whose heart is open let him listen carefully to what the Spirit is saying now to all the churches. To the one who overcomes I will give access to feast on the fruit of the Tree of Life that is found in the paradise of God.” The Tree of Life is Christ within us, the hope of glory. The fruit of that tree (love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance) is reserved for those who overcome on this earth and throughout eternity. Revelation 2:1-7
