Ephesus – Study Guide & Scriptural Cross Reference – 7 Churches

Ephesus 2 Key Points!

1) God Requires your Best! Your “1st Love” “works!” He will not accept anyone’s 2nd Best!

2) Jesus’ words to Ephesus repeat and emphasizes the Greatest Commandment in Matthew 22:37-38 & Deut 6:5!

Matthew 22:37-38
And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great first commandment.


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EPHESUS Study Guide & Scriptural Cross-Reference

EPHESUS
Rev 2:1-7 – Study Guide & Scriptural Cross-reference!


1 “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:

Each Letter to ALL 7 Churches is Addressed to the Angel of that Church:
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:1
➥  Smyrna – Rev 2:8
➥ Pergamum – 2:12
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:18
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1
➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:7
➥  Laodicea – Rev 3:14
(“angle” appears 64 times in Revelation, aggelos Strongs G32.
Use of Angel in the rest of Revelation – Rev 1:1, 2, 20, 3:5, 5:2, 11, 7:1-2, 11, 8:2-13, 9:1, 11, 13-15, 10:1-10, 11:15, 12:7, 9, 14:6-10, 15-19, 15:1, 6-8)
(Angel or Angels appears 294 times in the Bible, Heb 1:6-7, 14, Heb 2:2, Rev 14:6-12, Exo 3:2, 14:19, 23:20-23, 32:34, 33:2, 2 Kin 6:17)


‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand,


In ALL 7 Letters to the Churches, Jesus is the Speaker & Provides a Brief Reference back to the 1st Vision of Chapter 1 & other visions in the latter chapters.
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:1 quoting Rev 1:12-13, 16, 20
➥  Smyrna – Rev 2:8 quoting Rev 1:17, 22:13
➥ Pergamum – Rev 2:12 quoting Rev 1:16, 2:16, 19:15, 21
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:18 quoting Rev 1:14, 15, 19:12
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1 quoting Rev 1:4, 4:5-6, Rev 1:16, 20
➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:7 quoting Rev 1:18
➥  Laodicea – Rev 3:14 quoting Rev 1:5, 19:11, 21:6
(“Seven” in Revelation hepta Strongs G2033, Rev 1:4, 11-12, 16, 20, 2:1, 3:1, 4:5, 5:1, 5-6, 6:1, 8:2, 6, 10:3-4, 11:13, 12:3, 13:1, 15:1, 6-8, 16:1, 17:1, 3, 7, 9-11, 21:9)
(“7 stars” Rev 1:16, 1:20, 2:1, 3:1)
(“right hand” dexios Strongs G1188 occurs 9 times in Revelation, Rev 1:16-17, 20, 2:1, 5:1, 7, 10:2, 5, 13:16,
Right Hand in Scriptures: 1 Pet 3:22, Heb 1:3, 13, 8:1, 10:12, 12:2, Col 3:1, Eph 1:20, Gal 2:9, Rom 8:34, Acts 2:25-34, 5:31, 7:55-56, Luke 20:42, 22:69, Mark 10:37-40,  12:36, 14:62, 16:19.)


who walks among the seven golden lampstands.


(“Seven” in Revelation hepta Strongs G2033,  Rev 1:4, 11-12, 16, 20, 2:1, 3:1, 4:5, 5:1, 5-6, 6:1, 8:2, 6, 10:3-4, 11:13, 12:3, 13:1, 15:1, 6-8, 16:1, 17:1, 3, 7, 9-11, 21:9)
(“Lampstands” in Revelation, Rev 1:12, 2:1, 5, 11:4)
Instruction for Lampstand construction – Exo 25:31-40,
Priest Duties with Lampstand, Exo 27:20-21, 30:7-8, Lev 24:2-4, 2 Chr 13:11
Lampstand’s purpose was for Light – Exo 35:14, 39:37,  John 8:12, 9:5, 1:4, 9, Matt 5:14-16 (Linked to WORKS!), Phil 2:15, Eph 5:8
Lampstand was 1 piece – Exo 25:31 – John 17:21-22
Lampstand was 1 shaft with 6 Branches – Exo 25:31 – John 15:5
Lampstand was pure gold – Exo 25:31 – Rev 3:18, 21:18
Lampstand has almond blossoms – Exo 25:33 – The Almond tree was the first tree to bloom after winter – Jesus as “firstborn” “first” “dead” Rev 1:5, 1:18, 2:8, Col 1:15, 18, John 3:13. Jesus “firstborn among many brothers” Rom 8:29
144,000 as firstfruits – “First Resurrection” Rev 20:4-6, “order” of  “firstfruits” 1 Cor 15:20, “assembly of firstborn” Heb 12:22-24,  “firstfruits” 2 Thes 2:13, James 1:18.


2 “‘I know your works, your toil, and your patient endurance,


In ALL 7 Letters, Jesus expresses complete Awareness of the 7 Churches’ condition, good and lacking when He says to each, “I Know:”
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:2
➥  Smyrna – Rev 2:9
➥ Pergamum – 2:13
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:19
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1
➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:8
➥  Laodicea – Rev 3:22
This gives a deeper understanding of the meaning of the words,  Jesus “walks in the midst of the 7 golden lampstands” Rev 1:12-13, Rev 2:1.
(“works” Oregon Strongs G2041 occurs 19 times in Revelation, Rev 2:2, 5-6, 19, 22-23, 26, 3:1-2, 8, 15, 9:20, 14:13, 15:3, 16:11, 18:6, 20:12-13, 22:12)
(“toil” Kopos Strongs G2873, Rev 2:2, 14:3)
(“patient endurance” hypomonē Strongs G5281 occurs 7 times in Revelation, Rev 1:9, 2:2-3, 2:19, 3:10, 13:10, 14:12)


and how you cannot bear with those who are evil
but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false.


Testing false apostles –  2 Cor 11:12-15
In the Book of Revelation, real Apostles are connected to the 12 foundations of New Jerusalem in Rev 21:14 where it says, the “wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb” – Revelation 21:17 then connects”wall of the city,” with the “12 names of the 12 apostles” to the 144,000 stating: “He also measured its wall, 144 cubits by human measurement, which is also an angel’s measurement.” According to the words of Revelation 21:9-10, New Jerusalem is synonymous with “Bride,” “Wife of the Lamb,” “a Great High Mountain” & “Holy City.” Revelation 14:4 calls the 144,000 “First fruits” of  those who “have been redeemed from mankind.” Revelation 5:9-10 calls these redeemed first fruits “a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.”
When any man or woman on earth calls themselves an Apostle, they are claiming to be part of the 144,000, Priests, Kings, and Judges, who will reign with Christ for 1,000 years. Rev 20:4-6


Some Biblical qualifications for an Apostle
➥ Must be Martyred, 11 of 12 Apostles were Martyred. (John was in Jail). 1 Cor 4:9, Rev 6:11, 12:11, 20:4
➥ Must abandon all that He has: Luke:14:33
➥ All 12 Apostles were poor materially & did not sell or peddle God’s words or Shepherding the flock in exchange for money. Matt 10:8-9, 1 Cor 9:7-18, 2 Cor 2:17
➥ Bear Christ’s suffering: Luke 14:27
➥ Left families to Harvest Souls Luke 14: 26
➥ Left Business to Fish for Men
➥ Taught Correct Doctrine – Matt 28:19-20
➥ All 12 Apostles were chosen by Jesus as most today self-appoint, self anoint & self-seal themselves. Rev 7:3, Honored Position at Wedding Feast Luke 14:7-11
(Testing Fake Jews – Rev 2:9, 3:9)


Women?
Were any women apostles in the scriptures?
Were women ever priests in the Scriptures?
Do the Levitical Priests Foreshadow the Priests of Revelation?
Can a woman be a King?
Would not we have to add the word “Queens” to Revelation?
Can a woman be part of Rev 14:4?
Has it ever been in God’s arrangement for a woman to take the Lead?


3 I know you are enduring patiently
and bearing up for my name’s sake,
and you have not grown weary.


(“name’s sake” 2:3, 13, 3:8 Opposite – Rev 13:7)
(“patient endurance” hypomonē Strongs G5281 occurs 7 times in Revelation, Rev 1:9, 2:2-3, 2:19, 3:10, 13:10, 14:12)


4 But I have this against you,


To 5 of the 7 Churches, Jesus Provides REPROVE & DISCIPLINE.
Rev 3:19 “Those whom I love, I reprove & discipline, so be zealous & repent.”
Only 2 of the 7 Churches, Smyrna & Philadelphia received no reprove or discipline.
5 of the 7 Churches needed to Repent of Jesus’ reprove & discipline or perish. His reprove & discipline to these 5 Churches are:
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:4-5
➥ Pergamum – 2:14-16
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:20-23
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1-3
➥  Laodicea – Rev 3:15-18


that you have abandoned the love you had at first.
5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first.


Defines the Level & Measure of Love demonstrated by works required for First Fruit Survivors!
Love for Jesus is Equated with WORKS!

Jesus again reconfirms & repeats the most important Command for believers in Matt 22:37, quoting from Deuteronomy 6:5, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”

Believers’ Love for God was foreshadowed by the Levitical Requirements for one to bring their BEST as an offering. Exodus 23:19, 34:26, Numbers 18:26, 29, 30, 32.

YHWH’s requirements of the Best Offerings under the Levitical System foreshadowed or pictured the High Standard requirements of “Living Sacrifices” (1 Peter 2:5, 9 & Romans 12:1) who would labor for the Spiritual Harvest of  Human Souls (Phil 2:17, Luke 10:1-2) and witness of Christ even to Death (2 Tim 4:5-7).

Light & Lampstand Linked to works at Matt 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

This brings new meaning to the words in James 2:17, “faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” & James 2:26, “so also faith apart from works is dead.”
Jesus’ words to Ephesus also reinforce, “that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works” James 2:22
For Context consider James 2:14-22

Love for Jesus is Equated with WORKS!
WORKS & the 7 Churches
➥Ephesus – Rev 2:4-5 “…you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first.”
Rev 2:6 “You hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.”
➥ Thyatira –  Rev:2:19, “Your latter works exceed the first.”
Rev 2:23, “I will give to each of you according to your works.”
Rev 2:26-29, Reward for Keeping Jesus’ works until the end!
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1“‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God.”
➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:15 “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot!”
Few Places with “Works” in the Bible: Titus 2:14, 3:8, 14, 1 Peter 2:11-12, 2 Peter 1:3-8, and Eph 2:10.


If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.


Light & Lampstand Linked to works at Matt 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
CONSEQUENCES
 for NOT zealously repenting of Jesus’ REPROVE & DISCIPLINE are:
Rev 3:19 “Those whom I love, I reprove & discipline, so be zealous & repent.”
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:5,
➥ Pergamum – 2:14-16,
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:20-23
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1-3
➥  Laodicea – Rev 3:15-18


6 Yet this you have: you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.


“Nicolatians” Pergamum – Rev 2:12-15


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


 Jesus Concludes All 7 Letters to each Church with the words, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, 22.
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:7
➥  Smyrna – Rev 2:11
➥ Pergamum – 2:17
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:29
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:6
➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:13
➥  Laodicea – Rev 3:22
1 other occurrence in Rev 13:9-10
The phrase used in the Bible is equated with REMEMBERING, PERCEIVING & UNDERSTANDING God’s Words.
➥ Matt 11:15, John the Baptist is Elijah, Matt 11:10-15, 36-43
➥ Matt 13:9, 43, Parable of the Sower, Matt 13:3-23
Not Hearing Matt 13:14-15, 19, 22
Fruitful Hearing Matt 13:23
Blessings for Hearing Matt 13:16
➥ Mark 8:17-18, 21, Remembering, Perceiving & Understanding Mark 8:13-21

➥ Jesus concludes all His Parables in Luke 14 with the saying, Luke 14:35
Parable – Luke 14:7-11,  Honored Position at Wedding Feast.
Parable – Luke 14:12-14, Invite the poor, crippled, lame & blind for repayment at the Resurrection of the Just.
Parable – Luke 14:15-24, Excuses for not attending the banquet.
Luke 14: 26-27, 33, Requirements for being a disciple: Hate all family & own life, bear his own cross & renounce all that he has.
Parable – Luke 14:28-30, Counting the cost of building a tower.
Parable – Luke 14:31-32, Counting cost for battle
Acts 7:51 – Uncircumcised in hearts, ears & resist holy spirit.
also: Acts 28:27, Rom 11:8


To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.’


Jesus concludes ALL 7 Letters to the Churches with a Reward for Overcomes or Conquerors:
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:7
➥  Smyrna – Rev 2:11
➥ Pergamum – 2:17
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:26-29
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:5
➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:12
➥  Laodicea – Rev 3:21

(“Tree of Life” in Revelation 2:7, 22:2, 14, 19,
“Tree of Life” in Genesis:2:9, 3:22-24,
“Tree of Life” in Proverbs 3:18, 11:30, 13:12, 15:4)


Ephesus –Learning Jesus’ High Standard to Overcome!

Ephesus - Learning Jesus High Standards & Requirements to Overcome!

Ephesus – Jesus’ High Standard to Overcome!

Jesus’ incredibly high standard of requirements for Overcomers can be clearly seen in His letter to the Church of Ephesus.
Look at the Amazing Qualities of Ephesus which were NOT ENOUGH to meet Jesus’ high standard of requirements for Overcomers:

Fantastic Qualities of Ephesus:

Revelation 2:2-5
➥ 2 “I know your works, your labor & your patient endurance”
➥ 2 “You cannot bear with those who are evil”
➥ 2 “tested those who call themselves apostles…& found them to be false”
➥ 3 “I know you are enduring patiently”
➥ 3 “Bearing up for my name’s sake”
➥ 3 “You have not grown weary”
➥ 6 “You hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.”

Christs Reproof and Consequences for Non-Repentance:

Revelation 2:4-5
4 But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.
6 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

Although Ephesus had all these amazing qualities it was NOT ENOUGH to meet Jesus’ high standard of requirements for Overcomers or Conquerors!

JESUS’ HIGH STANDARD EPHESUS LESSONS:

➥ 1) Jesus requires the complete or full package in order to meet His high standard to overcome! Failure in any 1 area outlined in Jesus’ 7 letters means failure to “overcome!” Jesus is not going to allow any overcomer to be weak or insufficient in any area He lists.
➥ 2) All of Ephesus’ good qualities would not cover, excuse, outweigh, or make up for their abandonment of 1st Love works in Rev 2:4-5.
➥ 3) We learn from Ephesus that God not only requires your best, but he will also reject anyone’s second best. Jesus’ words to Ephesus repeat and emphasizes the requirements of the 1st and Greatest Commandment in Matthew 22:37-38 & Deut 6:5!
➥ 4) There was no grace, salvation, or reward for Ephesus unless they repented. There is no “once saved always saved” for Ephesus or any of the 7 Churches. Refusal to repent in any area of Jesus’ standards means disqualification!

Not only are most Believers completely unaware of Jesus’ REQUIREMENTS to “Overcome” or “Conquer” but are also oblivious to His Incredible HIGH STANDARD to meet the goal of Overcoming or Conquering as outlined in His letters to the 7 Churches of Revelation!

SOLUTION – WHAT WE NEED TO DO

1) ”Hear what the Spirit says to the Churches”
Reading, Studying & Rereading!
A person must first understand what Jesus requires of them outlined in the 7 Churches. Reading & Studying Jesus’ 7 Churches is an absolute must! We must understand what He requires of us and His standard for approving or disapproving us as overcomers or conquerors. 7 Times Jesus concludes each letter to the Churches with, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” We must listen to what He repeats 7 times!

2) Strive to meet ALL of Jesus’ Requirements
No fear or self-denial about our lacking qualities
Once a believer understands Jesus’ requirements, the next most important challenge is to meet ALL His standards. Ephesus has so many good qualities but there was an issue that was going to prevent them from overcoming if they did not repent, despite all their good qualities. You and I must not be afraid to identify our weaknesses and work aggressively to change, strengthen and correct our shortcomings. It will literally mean life or death.

3) We must Promote, Advertise, Market, or Preach Jesus’ high standard for Overcomers so that other Christians are not in the dark as to what Jesus expects and requires of them! Jesus High Standard for overcomers is not taught in today’s modern Churches we call Lamestream Twistianity!

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Ephesus Questions & Quiz…???

Ephesus Questions & Quiz...???
Ephesus Questions – Can you answer?
1) Was Ephesus’ good qualities in vs 1-2 enough to meet Jesus’ requirements or standards for overcomers?
2) According to Jesus in vs 4, what was Ephesus doing wrong?
3) Will Jesus approve & accept anyone’s 2nd best?
4) How high are Jesus’ requirements or standards for Overcomers?
5) What is Jesus’ formula for Ephesus to regain their 1st Love in vs 5?
6) Does Jesus define “1st love” for him by “works” in vs 4-5?
7) Does Jesus REQUIRE your best or “1st Love” to overcome?
8) How are Jesus’ requirements similar to Deuteronomy 6:5?
9) How do Ephesus’ works compare to Thyatira’s works in Rev 2:19?
10) Like Ephesus in vs 2, how can we test “those who call themselves apostles and are not, and find “them to be false?”
11) Was Ephesus saved if they do not repent?
12) What is Ephesus’ consequence if they do not repent in vs 5?
13) Did Jesus have or show any grace to the Church of Ephesus?
14) Where is the “Tree of Life which is in the paradise of God?”

Consider Revelation 1-3 as 1 Collective Vision!

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Consider Revelation Chapters 1-3 as 1 Collective Vision, the 1st Vision!
Jesus in the Midst of 7 Lamp Stands / 7 Churches Sending 7 Letters to the 7 Churches.Ephesus

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7 Churches Introduction

7 Churches Introduction

➥ Chapters 1-3 are the 1st Vision in Revelation.
➥ The 7 Letters to the 7 Churches serve as Jesus’ complete INSTRUCTION GUIDE for Believers to “OVERCOME,” “CONQUER” or be “VICTORIOUS!” (Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, 22, 21:7, 22:14)
Rev 3:19 – “Those whom I LOVE, I REPROVE & DISCIPLINE, so be ZEALOUS & REPENT.”
Out of “LOVE,” Jesus provides “REPROVE & DISCIPLINE” with encouragement to be “ZEALOUS & REPENT” to 5 of the 7 Churches. According to Rev 2:5, 16, 21-23, 3:3, 16-17, failure to Repent means destruction by Jesus personally.
➥ Jesus Concludes All 7 Letters with the words, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, 22). Believers Must listen to what the Spirit says through Jesus (Rev 5:6, 4:4, 1:4) to ALL 7 Churches (es) PLURAL. Failure in any 1 area means failure to “Overcome,” as exemplified by Ephesus in Rev 2:1-7. Jesus’ high standard for Conquerors is NOT taught or highlighted in most of today’s Churches.
MAY YOU “Overcome,” “Conquer” and be “Victorious” by “KEEP(ING)” ALL the words of Revelation! May God Bless you with HIS WORDS, SPIRIT, REPENTANCE & OBEDIENCE! (Rev 1:3, 2:7, 21:7, 22:7, 14)

7 Things Jesus REPEATS to ALL 7 Churches!

7 Things Jesus REPEATS to ALL 7 Churches!

Summary

1. ➥ Starts with “to the Angel.”
2. ➥ Jesus is the Speaker.
3. ➥ Jesus refers to His attributes described in Chapter 1.
4. ➥ Jesus says, “I Know…”
➥ Jesus praises positive qualities. (5 of the 7)
➥ Jesus provides “Reproof & Discipline” (Rev 3:19) with a call to “repent.” (5 of the 7)
➥ Jesus describes destruction from Him personally for non-repentance. (5 of the 7)
➥ Jesus speaks about “works.” (5 of the 7)
5. ➥ Jesus says, “to he who overcomes…”
6. ➥ Jesus says, “he who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches.”
7. ➥ Jesus speaks of a “Reward” for Conquerors!
5 of the 7 Churches need to Repent or be destroyed by Jesus personally.
Jesus has only good things to say about 2 of the 7 Churches, Smyrna and Philadelphia. Jesus speaks to both of these approved Churches about the “Blasphemy” or “Slander” of the “Lying” “Jews” who are a “synagogue of Satan.” (Rev 2:9 & 3:9)


“to the Angel…”

Each Letter to ALL 7 Churches is Addressed to the Angel of that Church: Rev 2:1, 8, 12, 18, 3:1, 7, 14.
1.➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:1
2.➥ Smyrna – Rev 2:8
3.➥ Pergamum – 2:12
4.➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:18
5.➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1
6.➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:7
7.➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:14
(“angle” appears 64 times in Revelation, aggelos Strongs G32.
Use of Angel in the rest of Revelation – Rev 1:1, 2, 20, 3:5, 5:2, 11, 7:1-2, 11, 8:2-13, 9:1, 11, 13-15, 10:1-10, 11:15, 12:7, 9, 14:6-10, 15-19, 15:1, 6-8)
(Angel or Angels appears 294 times in the Bible, Heb 1:6-7, 14, Heb 2:2, Rev 14:6-12, Exo 3:2, 14:19, 23:20-23, 32:34, 33:2, 2 Kin 6:17)


Jesus is the Speaker
& His Description Refers back to Ch 1 & Forward to Future Visions in Revelation

In ALL 7 Letters to the Churches, Jesus is the Speaker & Provides a Brief Reference back to the description of Himself in the 1st Vision of Chapter 1 & forward to other descriptions of Himself in visions in the latter chapters.
1.➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:1 quoting Rev 1:12-13, 16, 20
2.➥ Smyrna – Rev 2:8 quoting Rev 1:17, 22:13
3.➥ Pergamum – Rev 2:12 quoting Rev 1:16, 2:16, 19:15, 21
4.➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:18 quoting Rev 1:14, 15, 19:12
5.➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1 quoting Rev 1:4, 4:5-6, Rev 1:16, 20
6.➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:7 quoting Rev 1:18
7.➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:14 quoting Rev 1:5, 19:11, 21:6


“I know…”

In ALL 7 Letters, Jesus expresses complete Awareness of the 7 Churches’ condition, good and lacking when He says to each, “I Know…”
1.➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:2
2.➥ Smyrna – Rev 2:9
3.➥ Pergamum – 2:13
4.➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:19
5.➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1
6.➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:8
7.➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:22
Revelation 2:23 – Jesus “searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works.”
Jesus “walks in the midst of the 7 golden lampstands” Rev 1:12-13, Rev 2:1.
Jesus Knows!


Positive Qualities

To 5 of the 7 Letters to the Churches Jesus Knows, recognizes & reinforces qualities or conditions He has judged POSITIVE and mandatory for “Overcomers” or “Conquerors!”
2 of the 7 Churches, Sardis & Laodicea, received NO Positive reinforcement.

Summary of POSITIVE Qualities:

1.➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:2-3, 6 – Works, toil, patient endurance, cannot bear those who are evil, tested false apostles, enduring patiently, bearing up for my name’s sake, not grow weary, hate the works of Nicolaitans.
2.➥ Smyrna – Rev 2:9 – Tribulation, poverty yet rich. (ALL POSITIVE! NO Reproof, Discipline or call to Repentance Revelation 3:19)
3.➥ Pergamum – 2:13 – Hold fast my name, did not deny my faith even in days of Antipas
4.➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:19 – Works, love, faith, service, patient endurance, latter works exceed the first.
5.➥ Sardis – NOTHING Positive (Revelation 3:4, yet some at Sardis worthy)
6.➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:8, 10 – Little power yet kept my word, not denied name, kept my word about patient endurance. (ALL POSITIVE! NO Reproof, Discipline or call to Repentance Revelation 3:19)
7.➥ Laodicea – NOTHING Positive


Reproof, Discipline & Zealous Repentance!

In 5 of the 7 Letters to the Churches, Jesus Provides “REPROVE” & “DISCIPLINE
with a call to REPENTANCE.
PURPOSE = Rev 3:19 “Those whom I LOVE, I REPROVE & DISCIPLINE, so be ZEALOUS & REPENT.”
Only 2 of the 7 Churches, Smyrna & Philadelphia received no reprove or discipline.
5 of the 7 Churches needed to Repent of Jesus’ reprove & discipline or be destroyed by Jesus personally.

His reprove & discipline to these 5 Churches are:
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:4-5 – abandoned the love you had at first.
➥ Pergamum – 2:14-15 – Teaching of Balaam, eating food sacrificed to idols, practicing sexual immorality & teaching of Nicolatians.
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:20, 24 – Tolerate Jezebel, practice sexual immorality, eat food sacrificed to idols & learned the deep things of Satan.
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:1-3 – Reputation for being alive but dead, Wake up, strengthen what remains and is about to die, have not found your works complete in the sight of my God,
Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent.
➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:15-18 – I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot, lukewarm, for you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.


Consequences for Non-Repentance

To 5 of the 7 Churches Jesus Provides DEADLY CONSEQUENCES for NOT ZEALOUSLY REPENTING of His REPROVE & DISCIPLINE :
Jesus states His PURPOSE of Deadly Consequences in Revelation 2:23 “ALL the CHURCHES WILL KNOW that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works.”
➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:5, “Remove your Lampstand.”
➥ Pergamum – 2:16, “War against them with the sword of my mouth.”
➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:20-23, “throw her onto a sickbed,” “throw into great tribulation,” & I will strike her children dead. And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works.”
➥ Sardis – Rev 3:3, “If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you.”
➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:16, ” I will spit you out of my mouth.”
Rev 3:19 “Those whom I love, I reprove & discipline, so be zealous & repent.”


WORKS & the 7 Churches

Jesus speaks of “works” 11 times to 5 of the 7 Churches! Rev 2:2, 5-6, 19, 22-23, 26, 3:1, 2, 8, 15
Revelation goes on to mention “works” an additional 8 times. Rev 9:20, 14:3, 15:3, 16:11, 18:6, 20:12-13, 22:12.
According to Strong’s G2041, the Greek word for “works,””Ergon,” appears 176 times and is translated as work (152x), deed (22x), doing (1x), labor (1x).“Ergon” appears 19 times in Revelation!

LOW “WORKS”
Ephesus – Rev 2:4-5 “…you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first.”
Love for Jesus is Equated with WORKS!
Rev 2:6 “You hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.”

“NOT COMPLETE” “WORKS”
Sardis – Rev 3:1“‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God.”

“LUKEWARM” WORKS
Laodicea – Rev 3:15-16 “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot!” 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.

“WORKS EXCEED the 1st”
Thyatira – “Works” mentioned 3 times!
Rev:2:19, “Your latter works exceed the first.”
Rev 2:23, “I will give to each of you according to your works.”
Rev 2:26-29, Reward for Keeping Jesus’ works until the end!

WORKS COMPLETE!
Philadelphia8 “‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, that no one is able to shut.

The Doctrines of “Once Saved always saved” & “Saved by Grace” is NOT compatible with Jesus’ repeated consistent words, Judging the 7 Churches based on the level of their “Works!”
James 2:17, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead”
James 2:26, “So also faith apart from works is dead.”
James 2:2 “that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works.”
(consider James 2:14-22 for context)
Acts 26:20 – “They should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance.”
Just a couple more references to “Works” in the Bible: Titus 2:14, 3:8, 14, 1 Peter 2:11-12, 2 Peter 1:3-8, Eph 2:10.


“Overcome” or “Conquer” or “Victorious”
“to the one who Overcomes….”

Jesus says to ALL 7 Churches, “to the one who overcomes….”
1.➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:7
2.➥ Smyrna – Rev 2:11
3.➥ Pergamum – 2:17
4.➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:26
5.➥ Sardis – Rev 3:5
6.➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:12
7.➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:21

“Overcome” occurs 7 times to the 7 Churches in Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 26, 3:5, 12, 21, and 8 times in the visions following at Revelation 5:5, 6:2, 11:7, 12:11, 13:7, 15:2, 17:14, 21:7.
Jesus stated GOAL To ALL 7 Letters to the 7 Churches is to “Overcome,” “Conquer” or gain “Victory!”
The 7 Letters to the 7 Churches serve as Jesus’ complete GUIDE or INSTRUCTION List for Believers to “Overcome,” “Conquer” or be “Victorious” over the Devil’s world & their own sinful nature.
Believers must follow ALL the instructions to all 7 Churches to “Overcome!”
Failure in any 1 area means failure to “Overcome,” “Conquer” or gain “Victory.” (See Ephesus – Rev 2:1-7)
Jesus’ high standard for Overcomers is NOT taught or highlighted in most of today’s Churches.

“Overcome,” Strong’s G3528, nikau, occurs 28 Times in the New Covenant writings. The KJV translates Strong’s G3528 in the following manner: overcome (24x), conquer (2x), prevail (1x), and get victory (1x). Strong’s definition is, 1) to conquer, a) to carry off the victory, come off victorious, i) of Christ, victorious over all His foes, ii) of Christians, that hold fast their faith even unto death against the power of their foes, and temptations and persecutions.
John 16:33 – “But take heart, I have overcome the world.”


“Let Him Hear What the Spirit Says to the Churches”

Jesus Concludes All 7 Letters to each Church with the words, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches”. Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, 22.
Believers are to listen to what the Spirit says to ALL 7 Churches (es) PLURAL.
1.➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:7
2.➥ Smyrna – Rev 2:11
3.➥ Pergamum – Rev 2:17
4.➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:29
5.➥ Sardis – Rev 3:6
6.➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:13
7.➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:22
1 other occurrence at Rev 13:9-10

“He who has an ear,” or “let him hear,” is mentioned in Eze 3:27, Matt 11:15, 13:9, 43, Mark 4:9, 23, Luke 8:8, 14:35, Acts 28:27, & Rom 11:8.

According to Jesus’ Parable of the Sower, SEEING, HEARING, REMEMBERING, PERCEIVING & UNDERSTANDING God’s Words is EQUATED with PRODUCING FRUIT!.
According to Jesus, True Hearing, Seeing, Perceiving & Understanding is “Small” (Matt 13:31-32) “Secret” (Matt 13:33-35) & “Hidden” ( Matt 13:44).

Parable of the Sower

➥ In Parable of the Sower Jesus uses the word “hear” 12 times! Matt 13:9, 13-23, 43. Consider Matt 13:3-23 for context.
The first occurrence in Matthew 13:9 after Jesus lists 4 scenarios :
According to Matt 13:8, 23 True “Hearing” “PRODUCES 100, 60 & 30.”
Matthew 13:9-17, 35 states the Purpose of Parables is for Jesus to impart the “hidden” “secrets of the kingdom” to those He considers worthy verses those who worship in vain, Not Hearing, Not Seeing, Not Understanding & Not Perceiving (Matt 13:14-15, 19, 22). Jesus is quoting from Isaiah 6:8-11.
As for the future fulfillment compare Isaiah 6:11 with the 7th Vial of Wrath at Revelation 16:17, 19.
BLESSINGS & HEALING for Hearing, Seeing, Perceiving & Understanding “secrets of the Kingdom” at Matt 13:15-16.


REWARD

Jesus concludes ALL 7 Letters to the Churches with a Reward for overcoming or Conquerors:
1.➥ Ephesus – Rev 2:7, “I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.”
2.➥ Smyrna – Rev 2:11, “will not be hurt by the second death.”
3.➥ Pergamum – 2:17, “I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.”
4.➥ Thyatira – Rev 2:26-29, “I will give authority over the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. And I will give him the morning star.”
5.➥ Sardis – Rev 3:5, “clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels.”
6.➥ Philadelphia – Rev 3:12, “I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name.”
7.➥ Laodicea – Rev 3:21, “I will grant him to sit with me on my throne.”

Revelation 11:18 at the 7th Trumpets says, “and the TIME for the dead to be judged, and for REWARDING your servants, the prophets and saints, and those who fear your name, both small and great”
Heb 11:6, Luke 6:23-25, 1 Cor 3:14

Quick OVERVIEW & SUMMARY of Jesus' 7 Letters to the 7 Churches!

Overview & Summary of Jesus’ 7 Letters to the 7 Churches!

Hear what the Spirit Says to the 7 Churches!


1) EPHESUS


POSITIVE
Rev 2:2-3, Works, toil, patient endurance, cannot bear with those who are evil, tested false apostles, enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary.
Rev 2:6, Hate works of Niclaitians
NEGATIVE – Reproof & Discipline (Rev 3:19)
Rev 2:4-5 Abandoned the love you had at first, Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first.
CONSEQUENCES for NON REPENTANCE = Rev 2:5, remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

REWARD = Rev 2:7, To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.

Rev 2:7 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.


2) SMYRNA


POSITIVE
Rev 2:9, Tribulation & Poverty yet Rich, Slander of fake Jews who are Synagogue of Satan
Rev 2:10, Do not Fear what you are about to suffer, Testing & Prison
Be faithful till death!
NEGATIVE – Reproof & Discipline (Rev 3:19) = None!
CONSEQUENCES for NON-REPENTANCE = None!

REWARD = Rev 2:11, The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.

Rev 2:11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.


3) Pergamum


POSITIVE
Rev 2:13, Dwell where Satan’s throne is, Hold fast My Name, Not deny faith even in days of Antipas who was killed.
NEGATIVE – Reproof & Discipline (Rev 3:19)
Rev 2:14, Teaching of Balaam, eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. Rev 2:15, Some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans.
CONSEQUENCES for NON-REPENTANCE = Rev 2: 16 Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth.

REWARD = Rev 2:17, To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.

Rev 2:17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.


4) Thyatira


POSITIVE
Rev 2:19 Works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first.
Rev 2:24 But to the rest of you in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not learned what some call the deep things of Satan, to you I say, I do not lay on you any other burden. 25 Only hold fast what you have until I come.
NEGATIVE – Reproof & Discipline (Rev 3:19)
Rev 2:20 tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols.
CONSEQUENCES for NON REPENTANCE = Rev 2:22 Behold, I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her I will throw into great tribulation unless they repent of her works, 23 and I will strike her children dead. And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works.

REWARD = Rev 2:26 The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, 27 and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. 28 And I will give him the morning star.

Rev 2:29 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.


5) Sardis


POSITIVE
Rev 3:4 Yet you have still a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy.
NEGATIVE – Reproof & Discipline (Rev 3:19)
Rev 3:1-3, “‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2 Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent.
CONSEQUENCES for NON-REPENTANCE = Rev 3:3, If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you.

REWARD = Rev 3:5 The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels.

Rev 3:6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.


6) Philadelphia


POSITIVE
Rev 3:8 “‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, that no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who says that they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. 10 Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth. 11 I am coming soon. Hold fast to what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.
NEGATIVE – Reproof & Discipline (Rev 3:19) = None!
CONSEQUENCES for NON-REPENTANCE = None!

REWARD = Rev 3:12 The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name.

Rev 3:13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.


7) Laodicea


POSITIVE= NOTHING positive! Wow!
NEGATIVE – Reproof & Discipline (Rev 3:19)
Rev 3:15 “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. 17 For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. 19 Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.
CONSEQUENCES for NON-REPENTANCE = Rev 3:16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.

REWARD = Rev 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and eat with him, and he with me. 21 The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.

Rev 3:22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

Higher Quality JPG Picture LinkEphesus

10 Comments

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