Revelation 2:1-7
In Revelation 1, John writes about the things which were presently happening to him. He
was seeing a vision of the things which were to come and being given a glimpse of
Christ's future glory. Beginning in Revelation 4 John will begin exposing future events
but in chapters 2-3 he is recording a message given by God to the seven churches in
Asia Minor (modern day Turkey). These churches were historical, but are also
comparable to churches which exist in our day. It is important that we heed the
warnings given to these churches so that we do not fall into the same condemnation.
Ephesus is the first church written to (2:1-7) and John is careful to write that the
message he is delivering is not from him but God: "These things says He
[Jesus Christ] who holds the seven stars [leaders of the seven churches] in His
right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands [seven
churches]..." (2:1). The church at Ephesus was commended for their good "works,
labor, and patience." They had stood against those who were evil and had faithfully
discerned the truth about those who claimed they were teachers of the truth but
were not (2:2-3). John even mentions that they hated the "deeds of the Nicolaitans"
(2:6). The Nicolaitans were led by a man named Nicolas who deceived some in
the church into false teachings - mainly the mixing of immorality and loose living
with the church. Ultimately, the Nicolaitans believed that the forgiveness of sin
enabled them to live the way they wanted. So, it seems as if the church at Ephesus
worked very hard to keep their doctrine pure and continue in the things which they
knew they should do (2:3b).
Although their works were good, Jesus pointed out something which needed
changed. John, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, writes, "Nevertheless I have
this against you, that you have left your first love" (2:4). The church at Ephesus was
doing all the right things outwardly, but they had lost their passionate love for
Christ inwardly. Every Christian needs to evaluate this concept in their life. We
are very good at going through all the right motions but still lacking the proper
love for God.
What was the solution to getting this passion back? "Remember therefore from
where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you
quickly and remove your lampstand from its place - unless you repent" (2:5).
Work for God does not equate or lead to a love for God. Work for God must be
driven by a love for God. We must continually examine our hearts to make sure
that our love for God has not diminished. How can this love for God be sustained?
I believe we must get back to "old school" basics of the faith -reading/meditating
on God's Word, prayer, Christian fellowship, reverence for God, and thankfulness
for His goodness. Without these simple elements, we cannot grow in our love for
God. It is imperative that every follower of Christ develop a personal relationship
with God and not allow their work for God to be the measurement of their love
for Him. May we all be challenged to love God first and then be motivated to work
for Him.
Dear God, forgive me for losing my passion for You. Although I do a lot of things
for You, I know I fail in moving my heart closer to You. Please remind me often
of Your love for me and may I respond by giving all my love to You.