A New “OnFire Cafe” Book Club series in The Study of Scripture. Come Study with us as we present our new Narration Series “The Book of Revelation”. Join us here for Part One. The Video contains the narration of the Chapters with images for your entertainment. Because of the complexity and the nature of the Book of Revelation I am not attempting an interpretation of the content at this time. However, this would be a great discussion to have, or discussion group to create at some point forward. The series is being uploaded on all the “OnFire Cafe” Channels for easy access.
Part One
John’s Letters to the Seven Churches
Revelation 1 , Revelation 2 , & Revelation 3
Part One begins the book of Revelation with Chapters 1, 2 and 3.
The Apostle John is given a prophetic vision from Jesus Christ, guided by an angel. He refers to it as a Revelation from God, and Testimony of Jesus Christ. By his angel to his servant John…
There is also a blessing within it to those who read, hear and keep the words.
John is shown a specific communication to be written to the seven churches which are in Asia (actually in Turkey); Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Each church is to be sent a specific message unique to them. John writes the letters to the Churches as instructed.
I found that while reading and rereading this portion of Revelation those communications to the churches were about things we as individuals are also involved with. There is guidance in what God tells John that can be applied to our daily lives.
The Message to the Churches
Ephesus
Ephesus is recognized for it’s labor and patience. For persecution of the false prophets and not abiding sin. They are also warned that they have lost their purity of heart in favor of doctrinal purity. They are no longer expressing the love of Christ that they once had. They are warned to repent.
Smyrna
Smyrna’s struggle is recognized and though they are financially in poverty they are rich in the spirit.
They are warned that persecution is coming to them but if they hold true there is nothing to fear and they will be rewarded in heaven.
Pergamos
Pergamos is recognized for holding their faith in an evil stronghold. Though surrounded by pagan beliefs they did not deny Jesus in the face of persecution. They are warned to repent of their religious and moral compromises.
Thyatira
Thyatira’s positive qualities are called out in recognition. The areas of Charity, Service, Faith and Patience.
They are warned about those engaged in sexual immorality and idolatry. But those who remain faithful will be rewarded.
Sardis
Sardis is greeted with a warning. They are spiritually without life just going through the motions. They are warned about judgement if they do not repent. The few faithful are recognized as worthy. They are promised their just rewards.
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is recognized for keeping God’s word though they are weak. They did not deny Christ and will be rewarded by an open door of blessings and removal before the hour of trial.
The persecutors of the Philadelphia Church are warned they will be subjugated at their feet.
Laodicea
Laodiceans are met with contempt due to their hypocrisy. They are described as luke warm without recognition for any positive aspects. Jesus says that he is knocking on their door if they chose to open it they can still be saved by their repentance and acceptance of him.
Rather than write out the scripture on the blog I have uploaded the video. I think that if you listen to it you will find out what I mean about application of the principles discussed here in our own lives as well…
For the Love of God,
Sparks
