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In Revelation 1, Jesus is revealed as a majestic, divine King, Judge, High Priest, and Overseer of the churches. Jesus intended those who heard His message to recall this vision of Himself.
Ephesus was a church strong in truth and labor but had lost their love; they are called to remember their previous devotion and repent. Ephesus reminds us that doing well in some things doesn’t make up for critical failure.
Smyrna was struggling with persecution and poverty but is praised as being rich. Jesus only calls them to stay faithful. Smyrna reminds us that Jesus is not impossible to please.
Pergamos was faithful under opposition but tolerated false teaching. Pergamos reminds us how important the purity of a church is to Jesus.
Thyatira did well in many things but also allowed major corruption. Thyatira reminds us that Jesus calls all sinners to repentance, and He sees those who are still faithful.
We learn from these evaluations:
- Love, purity, endurance, and labor are all important to Jesus.
- Jesus understands what we are facing.
- Jesus is not impossible to please.
- Jesus sees a way forward in each situation.