7 shades of grey: a study of the letters to the 7 churches in revelation

7/28/2019 7 Shades of Grey: A Study of the Letters to the 7 Churches in Revelation

1/20

A study of the letters

to the 7 churches inRevelation.

Study Outline

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5

1

2

3

4

6

7

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Revelation Chapters 2-3

Context & overview

Church of Ephesus (Rev. 2:1-7)

Church of Smyrna (Rev. 2:8-11)

Church of Pergamum (Rev. 2:12-17)

Church of Thyatira (Rev. 2:18-29)

Church of Sardis (Rev. 3:1-6)

Church of Philadelphia (Rev. 3:7-13)

Church of Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22)

Recap

Session1

Session2

Session3

Session4

Session5


2/20

Context: Revelation Chapter 1

Read Revelation chapter 1 (printed on the next page) and well review

together some key points to set up our study.

What are your initial thoughts about how the book of Revelation is setup?

Here are some sections to discuss

Rev 1:1 The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to

show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by

sending his angel to his servant John

God Jesus Angels John Us

Rev 1:3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this

prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is

written in it, because the time is near.

Rev 1:9-11 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and

kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the

island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of

Jesus. On the Lords Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a

loud voice like a trumpet, which said: Write on a scroll what you seeand send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum,

Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.

Rev 1: 17-18a When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead.

Then he placed his right hand on me and said: Do not be afraid

Rev 1:19-20 Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and

what will take place later. The mystery of the seven stars that you

saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The

seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven

lampstands are the seven churches.

Revelation Chapter 1 (NET)

The Prologue

1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must

happen very soon. He made it clear by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who

then testified to everything that he saw concerning the word of God and the

testimony about Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed is the one who reads the words of this

prophecy aloud, and blessed are those who hear and obey the things written in it,

because the time is near!

4 From John, to the seven churches that are in the province of Asia: Grace and peaceto you from he who is, and who was, and who is still to come, and from the seven

spirits who are before his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christthe faithful witness, the

firstborn from among the dead, the ruler over the kings of the earth. To the one

who loves us and has set us free from our sins at the cost of his own blood 6 and has

appointed us as a kingdom, as priests serving his God and Fatherto him be the

glory and the power for ever and ever! Amen.

7 (Look! He is returning with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who

pierced him, and all the tribes on the earth will mourn because of him. This will

certainly come to pass! Amen.)

8 I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord Godthe one who is, and who was,

and who is still to comethe All-Powerful!

9 I, John, your brother and the one who shares with you in the persecution, kingdom,

and endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the

word of God and the testimony about Jesus. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lords Day

when I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11 saying: Write in a book what

you see and send it to the seven churchesto Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum,

Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.

12 I turned to see whose voice was speaking to me, and when I did so, I saw seven

golden lampstands,

13

and in the midst of the lampstands was one like a son of man.He was dressed in a robe extending down to his feet and he wore a wide golden belt

around his chest. 14 His head and hair were as white as wool, even as white as snow,

and his eyes were like a fiery flame. 15 His feet were like polished bronze refined in a

furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. 16 He held seven stars in his

right hand, and a sharp double-edged sword extended out of his mouth. His face

shone like the sun shining at full strength. 17 When I saw him I fell down at his feet as

though I were dead, but he placed his right hand on me and said: Do not be afraid!

I am the first and the last, 18 and the one who lives! I was dead, but look, now I am

aliveforever and everand I hold the keys of death and of Hades! 19 Therefore

write what you saw, what is, and what will be after these things. 20 The mystery of

the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and the seven golden lampstands is

this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven lampstandsare the seven churches.

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3/20

Names/Descriptions of Jesus

Look again at chapter 1, noting all of the names &

descriptions of Jesus in this one short chapter.

Faithful witness (v5)

Firstborn from the dead (v5)Ruler of the kings of the earth (v5)

Loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood (v5)

Has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father (v6)

Coming with the clouds (v7)

Every eye will see him, even those who pierced him(v7)

All people on earth will mourn because of him (v7)

Alpha and Omega (v8)Who is, and who was, and who is to come (v8)

The Almighty (v8)

Among the seven golden lampstands was someone like a son of man (v12)

Dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet (v13)

With a golden sash around his chest (v 13)

The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow (v14)

His eyes were like blazing fire (v14)His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace (v15)

His voice was like the sound of rushing waters (v15)

In his right hand he held seen stars (v16)

Coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword (v16)

His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance (v16)

Seven stars in his right hand (v20)

Significance of the number 7

Seven represents spiritual perfection

God created the world in 7 days and on the seventh day God

rested. It was full and complete and good and perfect. Nothing

could be added to it or taken from it without marring it.

Seven occurs 287 times; Seventh (the fractional part) occurs 98

times; Seven-fold occurs 7 times; Seventy occurs 56 times

In Hebrew, 7 is shevah. It is from the root savah, to be full or

satisfied, have enough of.

Given the significance of 7 in the Bible, what do you think about the

relevance of 7 different churches in Revelation?
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4/20

General Pattern of Each Letter

Each of the letters follow a similar general pattern

Lords title how Jesus refers to Himself

Commendation/Praise what the Lord is pleased with (Sardis &

Laodicea dont have this)

Criticism/Condemnation what the Lord is upset about (Smyrna &

Philadelphia dont have this; Pergamum has two)

Admonition/Advice how to get back on track (Pergamum doesnt

have this)

Promise reward for overcoming

Go ahead and read Chapter 2 & 3. Note the repeated patterns in

each of the seven letters. Well read each section carefully

throughout the study, so this is just to give you an overview of the

two chapters.

What are your initial reactions to the readings?

What are you most interested in learning about the significance of the

letters?

Application of the Letters

As with many of the prophesies in the Bible, there are multiple

applications of the letters in Revelation

Historic (personal message for actual cities/churches during Johnstime)Rev 1:4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia

Prophetic -representative of all types of churches and differenttypes of churches (historical and today); seven is the perfect and

complete number and these seven churches represent all types of

churches of all time and today.

Prophetic representative of all types of church members(historical and today) from a personal perspective

Church History Evolution represents general direction over

churches from 1st Christian church in Acts to now (while many

commentators believe this, not all are in agreement)

The message is personal and for all of us. Every one of the messages

to the churches says He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit

says to the churches. That is all of us!

Read Matthew 7:22-23 and 2 Timothy 4:3-4. What kind of warning do

you think this is for us?

We need to ask for wisdom and discernment and study the scriptures

for ourselves.

The good news is there is hope until the end when Jesus returns.

Each of the messages to the churches says, To him who

overcomes It is not to late to change and overcome.


5/20

The 7 Cities

Following is a little bit of information about each of the 7 cities. Well

share more information about each of them as we study the letters.

Ephesus influential capital city of Asia Minor on the Aegean Sea.Ephesus is now known for its huge metropolis of ancient streets, arches

and ruins.

Smyrna located north of Ephesus in a powerful trading position on theAegean Sea known for its harbors, commerce, and marketplaces. The

primary ruins of Smyrna are located in the modern Turkish city of Izmir.

Pergamum located on the plains and foothills along the Caicus River inWestern Turkey. It was considered a major in Asia Minor since the 3rd

century BC, and became a Greek and Roman hub for temple worship.

Thyatira located in western Asia Minor about 42 miles inland from theAegean Sea. The ancient city was known for its textiles and dyeing trade,

and is now known as the Turkish city of Akshsar.

Sardis located on the banks of the Pactolus River in western AsiaMinor, 60 miles inland from Ephesus and Smyrna. Popular ruins include

the decadent temples and bath house complexes.

Philadelphia located on the Cogamis River in western Asia Minor,

about 80 miles east of Smyrna. Known for its variety of temples andworship centers.

Laodicea located in the Lycus River Valley of western Asia Minor, aprimary trade route between the cultures of the West and East. Known as

a primary hub for the Roman aqueduct system.

The seven churches are located in western Asia Minor (present-day Turkey),

accessible by way of the Aegean Sea and the ancient trade routes between the

West and East.

The cities/seven churches stood along one of the ancient postal Roman roads

of that day, and, beginning at Ephesus, would have been visited in the order

in which they are named. The distance between each is about 50 kilometers ;

a full days journey on foot .

The names of the cities are

significant in that they convey a

spiritual message relevant to

the Church as a whole. It isincredible that their names so

accurately reflect the history of the

Church. It is one of the great

evidences for the inspiration of the

Word and the omnipotence of God.

Take note of the meaning of the city

names and keep them in mind as we

read through the letters to them.

Church Meaning of the City Name

Ephesus Desirable, darling, beloved, maiden of choice

SmyrnaSweet smelling, crushed (like myrrh-spice releasing aroma

when crushed)

PergamumElevation, exalted, mixed marriage, objectionable marriage,

married to power

ThyatiraContinual sacrifice, sacrifice of contrition, sweet savor of

labor

Sardis Remnant, renewal

Philadelphia Brotherly love

LaodiceaThe people rule, judgment, judging the people, power of the

laity
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6/20

Church of Ephesus

Read Rev. 2:1-7 (text on next page). What are your initial thoughts

about this church?

List out all of the things this church is doing well:

What does Jesus have against this church?

What advice does he have for them?

What is promised to those who conquer?

Ephesus was the capital of Asia Minor, a center of land and sea trade,

and, along with Alexandria and Antioch in Syria, one of the three most

influential cities in the eastern part of the Roman Empire. The temple

to Artemis, one of the ancient wonders of the world, was located in

this city, and a major industry was the manufacture of images of this

goddess. Paul ministered in Ephesus for three years and warned the

Ephesians that false teachers would come and try to draw people

away from the faith. False teachers did indeed cause problems in the

Ephesian church, but the church resisted them, as we can see from

Pauls letter to the Ephesians. John spent much of his ministry in this

city and knew that they had resisted false teaching.

1Revelation 2:1-7 (NET)

To the Church in Ephesus

2 To the angel of the church in Ephesus, write the following:

This is the solemn pronouncement of the one who has a firm grasp on the

seven stars in his right handthe one who walks among the seven golden

lampstands: 2 I know your works as well as your labor and steadfast

endurance, and that you cannot tolerate evil. You have even put to the testthose who refer to themselves as apostles (but are not), and have

discovered that they are false. 3 I am also aware that you have persisted

steadfastly, endured much for the sake of my name, and have not grown

weary. 4 But I have this against you: You have departed from your first love!5 Therefore, remember from what high state you have fallen and repent! Do

the deeds you did at the first; if not, I will come to you and remove your

lampstand from its placethat is, if you do not repent. 6 But you do have

this going for you: You hate what the Nicolaitans practicepractices I also

hate. 7 The one who has an ear had better hear what the Spirit says to the

churches. To the one who conquers, I will permit him to eat from the tree of

life that is in the paradise of God.

Jesus has much good to say about this church. They test the doctrines with

the word of God and discern truth from lies in most instances. They dont get

weary. They work hard for the Lord, but maybe doing it their own way.

In verse 2 Jesus says he walks among the 7 golden lampstands. Look back

at Revelation 1:20. What do the lampstands represent?

Jesus is walking among the churches to this day. He sees everything on the

outside and inside.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=4UXNdHzMg2bSmM&tbnid=angJhBtXg6T6DM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.stonechurch.us/series/seven/&ei=9VmaUYucI4HA9QSezoGQCw&psig=AFQjCNHCa-Jl3WIq6jTjutU-6otaAZBa2w&ust=1369156367831255


7/20

This group has lost their first love. They have fallen out of love with Jesus.

The warmth is gone. The fire and flame have waned. They are doctrinally

correct, but cold.

Do you see any of yourself in this church? Has your passion waned?

We can be right theologically, but if we lose our love for Jesus, then theology

is nothing but cold academics. We can become so busy in church service and

even Bible studies, that we miss out on the relationship with Jesus.

Losing that love is what Jesus cares the most about he tells them they must

repent. We think a lot about repenting from our sins, but do we think about

it in terms of losing our love and passion for Jesus?

In verse 6, Jesus says But you do have this going for you: You hate what the

Nicolaitans practicepractices I also hate.

Nicolaitans were a heretical sect that advocated a blending of pagan customs,

like eating food sacrificed to idols and sexual immorality, into Christian

worship. They claimed to be Christians but considered it a matter of

indifference to practice adultery and to eat things sacrificed to idols.

Why do you think Jesus took special note to commend them on hating the

Nicolaitans practice?

Many commentators believe the seven churches represent the evolution of

church history. They see the church of Ephesus speaking to the period of

church history from around 33 to 100 AD. This time period represented the

first century after Christ. The Church has grown into a force to be reckoned

with and Christianity was starting to challenge the religions and ideological

institutions of the day. At 97 AD when John recorded this Book, the church

had already lost the flame we read about in Acts. The Book of Revelation was

written around 60 years after the span of the Acts church.

Jesus calls the church to repentto change direction, to return to the love

and passion they once had.

What kinds of things were you doing when you felt most in love with and

passionate about Jesus?

Going to church regularly

Reading scriptures daily

Dedicated prayer time

Praising God throughout the day

Sharing the Gospel and fellowship with other believers

Other..

Think about these things and get back to them.
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8/20

Church of Smyrna


about this church?





The city of Smyrna was about 25 miles north of Ephesus. It was

nicknamed Port of Asia because it had an excellent harbor on theAegean sea. The church in this city struggled against two hostile

forces: a Jewish population strongly opposed to Christianity, and a

non-Jewish population that was loyal to Rome and supported

emperor worship. Persecution and suffering were inevitable in an

environment like this.

This church is suffering and persecuted. They are willing to open their

mouth to share Jesus no matter how people criticize them or what it

might cost them.


To the Church in Smyrna

8 To the angel of the church in Smyrna write the following:

This is the solemn pronouncement of the one who is the first and the last,

the one who was dead, but came to life: 9 I know the distress you are

suffering and your poverty (but you are rich). I also know the slander against

you by those who call themselves Jews and really are not, but are asynagogue of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of the things you are about to suffer.

The devil is about to have some of you thrown into prison so you may be

tested, and you will experience suffering for ten days. Remain faithful even

to the point of death, and I will give you the crown that is life itself. 11 The

one who has an ear had better hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

The one who conquers will in no way be harmed by the second death.

In verse 9, why do you think but you are rich is added after their poverty is

mentioned?

Jesus doesnt have a corrective exhortation for this church. Perhaps because

they are enduring persecution, they remain pure. Think about this for a

minute. They KNOW they need Jesus and are clinging to Him during their

trials. And for this they are promised an eternal reward.

Notice Jesus makes no promise to lighten their affliction. On the contrary, He

says they will be tested and endure suffering.to the point of death.

Read James 1:12 and compare it to the promise above in verse 10.

Commentators that believe the seven

churches represent the evolution of church

history see the church of Smyrna speaking to

the period of church history from around 100

to 313 AD. This period was among the most

vicious persecutions against Christians.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=YReVA1vQ2vd0MM&tbnid=UULwim5bj81BXM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://vimeo.com/38788412&ei=1CWaUb7pFIj89gSI8YDIBA&psig=AFQjCNG46uHGHSdwgQqB8hu-wA1gmu15PA&ust=1369143113878569


9/20

Church of Pergamos


about this church?





The city of Pergamum was built on a hill 1,000 feet above the

surrounding countryside, creating a natural fortress. It was a

sophisticated city, a center of Greek culture and education, with a

200,000 volume library. But it was also the center of four cults, and it

rivaled Ephesus in its worship of idols. The citys chief god was

Asclepius, whose symbol was a serpent and who was considered the

god of healing. People came to Pergamum from all over the world to

seek healing from this god.


To the Church in Pergamum

12 To the angel of the church in Pergamum write the following:

This is the solemn pronouncement of the one who has the sharp double-

edged sword: 13 I know where you livewhere Satans throne is. Yet you

continue to cling to my name and you have not denied your faith in me,

even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was killed in your citywhere Satan lives. 14 But I have a few things against you: You have some

people there who follow the teaching of Balaam, who instructed Balak to

put a stumbling block before the people of Israel so they would eat food

sacrificed to idols and commit sexual immorality. 15 In the same way, there

are also some among you who follow the teaching of the Nicolaitans.16 Therefore, repent! If not, I will come against you quickly and make war

against those people with the sword of my mouth. 17 The one who has an

ear had better hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who

conquers, I will give him some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a

white stone, and on that stone will be written a new name that no one can

understand except the one who receives it.

According to verse 13, where do they live?

They live where Satans throne is, and Satan is the prince of the world.

Read 1 John 2:15-17. How do these verses describe what the world has to

offer?

What do you think the double edged sword Jesus is holding represents?


10/20

The story of Balaam and Balak is in Numbers 22-24 & 31. Balak, the newly

elected king of Moab, believed that the only way to destroy the victorious

Jews was to outdo them in magic by a spell stronger than theirs. Balak,

therefore, sent messengers to Balaam, the greatest magician of those days,

asking him to come to Moab to curse the people of Israel who were

threatening to overrun their lands. Balaam discovered that he could not do

anything against God's will, and he so informed Balak's envoys, even though

his personal hatred of the Jews made him only too willing to follow the call.However, Balak was persistent, but all Balaam could do was bless Israel,

under the inspiration of God. Now Balak was really angry, and he ordered

Balaam to return home. Before he left, however, Balaam told Balak that the

only way to harm the people of Israel was to seduce them into sin (his magic

and curses wouldnt work, but they could be seduced). For only then would

God punish His people. The kings of Moab and Midian acted upon this shrewd

advice of Balaam. They arranged a big feast in honor of their idols and invited

the children of Israel to participate in the ceremonies, seducing them with

sexual charms by the wives and daughters. Many of the Jewish people fell for

this ruse and participated in these heathen celebrations. The blending of the

truth of God with paganism and wicked pagan festivals and practices is an

abhorrence to God. It is called religious syncretism (following God and

other gods at the same time).

The Nicolaitans were the early Christian-pagan syncretists, the false teachers

that crept into the church, who disguised themselves as followers of Christ

who professed to be His ministers and servants but who led the people

astray.

Commentators that believe the seven churches represent the evolution of

church history see the church of Pergamum speaking to the period of

church history from around 313 to 606AD. This was a period of

deteriorating moral standards and doctrinal corruption. Christian

standards were lowered, and a union was formed between Christianity

and paganism. The Church began to adopt many pagan practices. During

this period the Church and state worked together as a political power and

as a result the church began a downward spiral.

How do you think we may be similarly influence, or seduced by ungodly

things in our culture? Do we try to blend our Christian lives with the

ungodliness in our culture? What kinds of ungodly things do we easily

overlook because they are so accepted in our culture?

2 Peter 2:1-2 says, But there were also false prophets among the people,

just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce

destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them

bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved

conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.

In verse 17 we see the conquerors will get hidden manna and a white

stone with a new name written on it. What do you think these symbols

represent?
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=aWwPCMR9obECqM&tbnid=cnu2UtOepVSz4M:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.dailydevotionals.co/2012/09/identifying-false-prophets-wednesdays.html&ei=-kaaUeadDYf48wTO14GAAg&psig=AFQjCNG6wKnL0Xbzpnxwt8CEz6UrZVur_A&ust=1369151560467201


11/20

Church of Thyatira


about this church?





Thyatira was a working persons town, with many trade guilds for

cloth making, dyeing, and pottery. Lydia, Pauls first convert in

Philippi, was a merchant from Thyatira. The city was basically secular,

with no focus on any particular religion.


To the Church in Thyatira

18 To the angel of the church in Thyatira write:

These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and

whose feet are like burnished bronze. 19 I know your deeds, your love and

faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than

you did at first.

20 Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel,

who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into

sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. 21 I have given

her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. 22 So I will cast her

on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her

suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. 23 I will strike her children

dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and

minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.

24 Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her

teaching and have not learned Satans so-called deep secrets, I will not

impose any other burden on you, 25 except to hold on to what you have

until I come.

26 To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give

authority over the nations27 that one will rule them with an iron scepter

and will dash them to pieces like pottery [a]just as I have received

authority from my Father. 28 I will also give that one the morning star.29 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%202:18-29%20%20&version=NIVhttp://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=hlq4iN2mTj-sSM&tbnid=Vxv4_s6smSv5YM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://bentohwestloop.blogspot.com/2013/03/love-without-discernment-rev-218-29-to.html&ei=YlmaUbDhNZSm8gSr7IDQCg&psig=AFQjCNF2VamxLSFP4_YoKpxp6cW97xVCpg&ust=1369156246435579http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%202:18-29%20%20&version=NIV


12/20

This is a sinful church teaching false doctrine. Jezebel was the daughter of

the King of Phonecia, a pagan princess best known for her advice to her

Israelite husband King Ahab on how to obtain a vineyard he wanted. She

brought trumped up charges against the vineyards owner, hired witnesses

to bear false testimony and had him convicted and executed. She then

confiscated the vineyard in the name of the king. She was an evil woman

who killed many prophets of God while feeding and caring for the prophets

of two gods called Baal and Asherah. Baal was the god of fertility(agriculture, livestock and human). Worship of Baal carried out in terms of

imitative magic whereby sexual acts by both male and female temple

prostitutes were understood to arouse Baal who then brought rain to make

Mother Earth fertile.

Here Jezebel is described as a prophetess, a false teacher, an immoral

woman and idol worshipper. She attended a church at Thyatira. She

encouraged those who attended the church to engage in sexual sin and

worship other gods.

Where there is tolerance for false doctrine the gospel begins to get watered

down and Satin brings in sin. This church seems to be swimming in it. Here

is a reminder again that we need to ask God for wisdom and discernment to

know the truth and not be swayed by false doctrine.


church history see the church of Thyatira emerging around 600 AD which

exerted major influence on Martin Luther and the Reformers through 1500

AD (and some say the timeframe continues into present times). This is the

church of the middle ages. At the time the church was inundated with falsedoctrines and persecuted for faithfulness to God and his word. It was a time

a spiritual darkness.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=cBdrKlAlia_DtM&tbnid=nQF6a77preD1YM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://arpchurch.com/2012/06/16/the-deep-things-of-satan-in-the-church-of-thyatira/&ei=J1maUdzCNIbe9ATXxYCoDw&psig=AFQjCNF2VamxLSFP4_YoKpxp6cW97xVCpg&ust=1369156246435579


13/20

Church of Sardis


about this church?





The wealthy city of Sardis was actually in two locations. The older

section of the city was on a mountain, and when its population

outgrew that spot, a newer sections was built in the valley below.


To the Church in Sardis

3 To the angel of the church in Sardis write:

These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the

seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but

you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I

have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God.3

Remember,therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if

you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what

time I will come to you.

4 Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They

will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. 5 The one who is

victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name

of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before

my Father and his angels. 6 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit

says to the churches.

This is a dead church. Things may be getting done (grounds kept up,

bulletins printed, programs executed, sermons preached), but the church is

in a spiritual stupor. Nothing happens in their lives. They were self-satisfied

and have fallen asleep.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=EIECgGa1jmX70M&tbnid=3Q_WI2e18LqdIM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://vimeo.com/40418211&ei=d1qaUdCqNpCc8QT-qIHoBA&psig=AFQjCNH6APhGYNaB-dYEUJ5CBs_Xsr4hwg&ust=1369156518414232


14/20

What is there in your life that could lead Jesus to say this about you?

Here are a few things to be aware of:

1. You treat your faith like a routine a series of checkboxes, with no

passion, meaning, value or purpose. If your faith is more routine, you

will inevitably stop marking off the boxes because you dont really love

him.

1. Youre not passionate about Jesus - the more time and energy we

invest in things and others, the more passionate we become about

them. Is a lot of your time and energy invested in your relationship with

Jesus? Be honest. Get with Jesus. Spend time with him and spend time

with other people who are passionate about him.

1. You treat your faith like a have-to, not a get-to Christianity is not

about laying upon people a burden of religious duties and moral

obligations. It is based upon a relationship with Jesus. Your faith in

Jesus will be sustained by Gods grace through your love and joy in Jesus

not guilt.

1. Youve closed your eyes to Jesus mission - Do you care about Jesus and

what he cares about? Do you care about his people?

What can you do to stay alive and passionate about Jesus?


church history see the church of Sardis spans 1517 AD through 1740 AD

(some say through present time). This was the post-reformation period, from

the close of the Council of Trent in 1563 to the beginning of the great

religious awakening in the 18th century.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=9J5btnEhRTSaPM&tbnid=BqpwUa_r6QQxFM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://marshill.com/media/the-seven/dead-in-sardis-stopped-caring-or-trying&ei=ObKcUZysK4e_0QHd-oDQDQ&psig=AFQjCNHl0aw5IOuLjunmm_MpTEnlZcyimQ&ust=1369310073205983


15/20

Church of Philadelphia


about this church?





Philadelphia was founded by the citizens of Pergamum. The

community was built in a frontier area as a gateway to the central

plateau of Asia Minor. Philadelphias residents kept barbarians out of

the region and brought in Greek culture and language. The city was

destroyed by an earthquake in AD 17 and aftershocks kept the people

so worried that most of them lived outside the city limits.


To the Church in Philadelphia

7 To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write:

These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of

David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one

can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my wordand have not denied my name. 9 I will make those who are of the synagogue

of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liarsI will

make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have

loved you. 10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will

also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole

world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your

crown. 12 The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my

God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God

and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming

down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new

name. 13 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the

churches.

This is a beautiful church where Jesus is not denied. This church puts their

strength in God and God opens a door to the world. This is a faithful, Christ-

honoring, zealous, missionary-minded church alive with the flame of

evangelism and in love with Jesus. This is the kind of church that brings

glory to God.

This is the kind of church/people we should aspire to be. This is what is

pleasing to God!
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=ahgJ4o7Dnn9yRM&tbnid=azJPl4UxjKIsNM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://marshill.com/media/the-seven/missional-in-philadelphia-didnt-give-up-or-give-in&ei=amKaUezhComs8AT4jIHgDQ&psig=AFQjCNEa2wHmoCBIWwhRLiXMCvuy3s_kiQ&ust=1369158604889533


16/20


church history see the church of Philadelphia as the next phase in church

history where there is a stirring in the dead denomination that had strayed

from the simplicity of the gospel. The time period spans 1740 AD through

1850 AD (some say through present time). This a period of the Great

Awakening of the 18th century. It was a period of mission. Great conflict

between truth and terror reached its pinnacle. In this age of spiritual

enlightenment, Satan endeavored to destroy the work by the introduction of

counterfeit movements. Spiritism in all its forms saw modern revival, such as

concepts of humanism and atheism.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=fYTqCGknR0K46M&tbnid=hy2DoNn9Ch3WbM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.notcheycreekbaptist.org/2012/06/the-church-of-the-open-door/&ei=aLScUee9EYu50AHjuYH4Aw&psig=AFQjCNHeo7CIvC61sNX_7u61XW71et9_PA&ust=1369310509391181


17/20

Church of Laodicea


about this church?






To the Church in Laodicea

14 To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:

These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of

Gods creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I

wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm

neither hot nor coldI am about to spit you out of my mouth.17

You say, Iam rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing. But you do not

realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you

to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white

clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to

put on your eyes, so you can see.

19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and

opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on mythrone, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

The church in Laodicea had become lukewarm and thus distasteful and

repugnant. The believers didnt take a stand for anything; indifference had

led to idleness. By neglecting to do anything for Christ, the church had

become hardened and self-satisfied and it was destroying itself.

This is a church of form without substance and happy about it they have a

no commitment, no responsibility religion. People go to church, but dont

know Jesus. They go through spiritual motions, but have no relationship with

Jesus. Laodicea was enormously wealthy and proud of it. It was a prosperous

regional banking center, famous for a rich black wool cloth and a soothing

salve that helped reduce the painful effects of eye strain. They were rich in

the worldly sense, but poor in the things of the Spirit. Like them, we can

think we are self sufficient, but are blinded by sin.


church history see the church of Laodicea spanning 1850 AD through present

times.

Laodicea was the wealthiest of the seven cities,

known for its banking industry, manufacture ofwool, and a medical school that produced eye

ointment. But the city had always had a

problem with its water supply. At one time an

aqueduct was built to bring water to the city

from hot springs. But by the time the water

reached the city, it was neither hot nor

refreshingly cool only lukewarm. The church

had become as bland as the tepid water that

came into the city.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=948MNSuB794-5M&tbnid=iYZXErfcWLEw-M:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.fireonyourhead.org/2010/07/26/laodicean-church-age/&ei=fYaaUae0KZLy8ATW04GQBA&psig=AFQjCNF6BHPn6jqCIFGol9UUIbiMbFB6iQ&ust=1369167817839557


18/20

Recap

These letters are for all of us and they provide good check points on

where we may be going astray, how we can get on track and the

rewards that are waiting for us i f we endure and overcome.

Christs rebuke to Christians:

You have abandoned your first love

Some of you are Balaamites

Some of you are Nicolaitans

You tolerate Jezebel

You wont repent

Your works are imperfect

You seem alive, but are dead

You say you are rich and increased with goods but you are

lukewarm, poor, blind, naked and wretched

Christs counselto Christians:

Repent!

Return to your first love

Dont fear

Be faithful to death

Hold fast to what you know

Awake

Strengthen

Open the door to Me

R

Christs promised rewards to those who overcome:

Eat from the tree of life

Given a crown of life

Hidden manna

White stone with a new name

Rod to rule the unbelievers

White garments

Walk with Me

Name of God, city of new name

Christ will dine with them and promises that we will sit with Him

on his throne

In looking over this list, and the recap on the next page, where do you

feel most convicted?

What steps can you take to get back on track?


19/20

Ephesus

(Rev. 2:1-7)

Smyrna

(Rev. 2:8-11)

Pergamum

(Rev. 2:12-17)

Thyatira

(Rev. 2:18-29)

Sardis

(Rev. 3:1-6)

Philadelphia

(Rev. 3:7-13)

Laodicea

(Rev. 3:14-22)

Name Meaning Desirable,

darling, beloved,

maiden of

choice

Sweet smelling,

crushed (like

myrrh-spice

releasing aroma

when crushed)

Elevation,

exalted, mixed

marriage,

objectionable

marriage,

married to

power

Continual

sacrifice,

sacrifice of

contrition,

sweet savor of

labor

Remnant,

renewal

Brotherly love The people rule,

judgment,

judging the

people, power

of the laity

Character of the

Church

Effort Relaxed Martyrdom &

Tribulation

Union of Church

and State

Counterfeit;

Anti-Christian

Reformation Evangelical;

Missionary

Modernism;

Spiritual Poverty

Lords Title Holds the 7 stars

in his right hand

and walks

among the 7golden

lampstands

The first and the

last; died and

came to life

again

Has the sharp

double edged

sword.

Son of God; eyes

like blazing fire;

feet like

burnishedbronze

Holds the 7

spirits of God

and the 7 stars

Holy and true;

holds the key of

David; what he

opens no onecan shut and

what he shuts

no one an open

The Amen; the

faithful and true

witness; the

ruler of Godscreation.

Commendation Deeds; hard

work; cannot

tolerate wicked

men;

persevered and

endured

Endured

afflictions and

poverty and

slander

Remain true;

faith not denied

even living

where Satan has

his throne

Deeds, love,

faith, service,

perseverance;

doing more now

than at first

(NONE) Deeds; kept the

word and not

denied

(NONE)

Criticism Left first love (NONE) Some hold to

the teaching of

Balaam; idolatry

& immorality

Tolerate

Jezebel; idolatry

& immorality

Spiritually dead (NONE) Lukewarm


20/20

Ephesus

(Rev. 2:1-7)

Smyrna

(Rev. 2:8-11)

Pergamum

(Rev. 2:12-17)

Thyatira

(Rev. 2:18-29)

Sardis

(Rev. 3:1-6)

Philadelphia

(Rev. 3:7-13)

Laodicea

(Rev. 3:14-22)

Advice Remember the

height from

which you have

fallen; Repent

and do thethings you did at

first.

Do not be

afraid of

suffering; be

faithful, even

to the point ofdeath

Repent! Repent ; do not

hold onto

Jezebels

teaching

Wake up!

Strengthen

what remains;

Obey and

repent

Hold onto what you

have so no one will

take your crown.

Buy gold refined

in the fire to

become rich,

white clothes to

wear to covernakedness; salve

to put on eyes

to see; be

earnest and

repent; open

the door

Promise to

overcomers

Right to eat from

the tree of life

the paradise of

God.

Crown of life;

will not be hurt

by second

death

Hidden manna;

white stone

with a new

name written

on it

Authority over

the nations with

Jesus; the

morning star

Dressed in

white; name

not blotted

from the book

of life;

acknowledged

before God

Keep you from the

hour of trial that is

coming upon the

earth; will make a

pillar in the temple of

God; write on him

the name of God and

the new Jerusalem

Right to sit with

Jesus on the

throne.

Challenge H e w h o h a s a n e a r , l e t h i m h e a r w h a t t h e S p i r i t s a y s t o t h e c h u r c h e s .

Historical

time period

33-100 AD 100-313 AD 313-606 AD 606 1517 AD 1517 1740 AD 1740 1850 AD 1850 - present

Notes & References

Life Application Study Bible, Tyndale House Publishing, 2005

GraceThroughFaith.com, Revelation Study, http://gracethrufaith.com/revelation-times/revelation-2-and-3-seven-letters-to-seven-churches-part-1/

Amazing Discoveries, Revelation 2-3: Letters to the Seven Churches, http://amazingdiscoveries.org/S-deception-Revelation_letter_seven-churches

All About Archeology, Seven Churches in Revelation Literal Historical Truth, http://allaboutarchaeology.org/seven-churches-in-revelation.htm

Good News About God, The Seven Letters to the Seven ChurchesRevelation 2 & 3, http://www.goodnewsaboutgod.com/studies/spiritual/revelations/seven_churches.htm

BridalCovenant.com, Seven Churches in Revelation Study, www.bridalcovenant.com

7 shades of grey: a study of the letters to the 7 churches in revelation

Documents