Scripture to Read: Revelation 2:1
Over the next few weeks, we're going to be focusing on the letters from our Lord Jesus Christ written by John to the seven churches in Revelation in chapters 2 and 3. Each of these letters to the seven churches share a similar structure. Each letter has an introduction from our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus talks about the condition of that church, gives a judgment regarding its condition, and a command to that church. Then Jesus gives an exhortation to all Christians and a promise of reward. We will see each of the seven churches' conditions and the condition of our walk with our Lord Jesus Christ as we examine what Jesus said to each church. We know Jesus addressed the seven churches because Revelation 1:4 says, “John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace, from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne.” The first church Christ addressed was the church in Ephesus. This church receives quite a bit of attention in the New Testament (Acts 18:18-19; Ephesians 1:1; 1 Timothy 1:1-3). Christ’s Words serve as an evaluation and a call to repentance to all seven churches. We must examine our lives because God calls us to daily repentance as well. We must confess any sin the Holy Spirit convicts us of and turn away from that sin in order to walk in right fellowship with our Lord.
Challenge & Application
1. What sin or sins has the Holy Spirit convicted you of today that you need to confess to our Lord and turn away from to be in right fellowship with our Lord?
2. How are you practicing daily repentance (turning away from sin) and walking with our Lord?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!