Introduction
Messages to the first four assemblies (churches).
Questions
1. To which assembly (church) does John write to say they have lost their first love?
v 1 “To the angel of the assembly in Ephesus write: ...
v 4 But I have this against you, that you left your first love.
2. To which assembly does John write that by overcoming their fear, they will be saved from the second death?
v 8 “To the angel of the assembly in Smyrna write: ...
v 11 ... He who overcomes won’t be harmed by the second death.
3. What does the Son of God say he knows about the assembly in Thyatira?
v 19 and 20 “I know your works, your love, faith, service, patient endurance, and that your last works are more than the first. But I have this against you, that you tolerate your woman, Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. ...
Summary Points
- v 1 to 7 The assembly at Ephesus is persevering and does not tolerate false teaching. However it has lost its initial zeal and needs to regain it
- v 8 to 11 The assembly at Smyrna, although poor is rich in faith. However it is suffering from opposition, and is about to suffer persecution. The members are encouraged to remain faithful
- v 12 to 17 The assembly at Pergamum is remaining faithful despite opposition. However they are tolerating members who have wrong doctrines and practices and are warned to take necessary action
- v 18 to 29 The assembly at Thyatira is commended for its faith and service. But they are tolerating some members who are leading others astray with false doctrines and practices. The faithful are encouraged to hold fast to the truth