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SEVEN CHURCHES OF REVELATION. The Book of Revelation. The only book of prophecy in the New Testament Author: The Apostle John Focus: The Revelation of Jesus (1:1-2) Message: Christ is coming to judge and He shall reign!. Seven Churches . Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7)
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SEVEN CHURCHES OF REVELATION
The Book of Revelation The only book of prophecy in the New Testament Author: The Apostle John Focus: The Revelation of Jesus (1:1-2) Message: Christ is coming to judge and He shall reign!
Seven Churches • Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) • Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11) • Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17) • Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29) • Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6) • Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13) • Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22)
Church at Ephesus Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) Rejected Evil Showed Patience Protected Sound Doctrine “Abandoned the love you had at first” “The church that lost its first love”
Church at Ephesus Question: How do we abandon our first love? Answer: We abandon our first love when we lose our awareness of our NEED for God. * Innocently * Unintentionally * Unknowingly * Gradually
I’ve lost my first love when… My delight in the Lord is no longer greater than my delight in someone else I do not long for times of fellowship in God’s word or in prayer My thoughts during leisure moments never reflect upon the Lord I easily give in to things I know displease the Lord, claiming “I’m only human” I do not cheerfully give to God’s work or the needs of others I view the commands of Christ as restrictions to my happiness rather than expressions of His love.
I’ve lost my first love when… I inwardly strive for the approval of people rather than the approval of God I fail to witness because of fear of rejection or reputation I refuse to give up an activity I know is offending someone I become numb to sinful conditions around me I am unable to forgive without being asked for forgiveness
My First Love Question: How do I re-ignite the flame? Answer: Activity that reaffirms and reminds me that I am needy for God * Prayer * Giving * Serving * Bible Study * Fasting