Jesus turns His attention now to a church that is “on the front lines!” They are right in the middle of the battlefield. He addresses the good and the “but”… with them. When I first read this I was thinking that they were letting “Satan’s throne” rule in their midst. That would make this a […]
Jesus now addresses the church in Smyrna. This group doesn’t get a “but” behavior statement but a warning about what is about to happen to them. He sees every tear we cry. He knows our heartaches and joys. “I know your tribulation and your poverty” (verse 9a). He knows what they were going through and […]
It’s time to start speaking directly to the seven churches. Jesus starts with the church at Ephesus. It’s time for the good and the but… Jesus addresses His instructions to “the angel of the church” (verse 2a). I have a question about this address. Yes, already. Ok. So Jesus told us that the seven stars […]
John begins describing his vision. This first part is given to him directly by Jesus and starts with John hearing His voice. John sets the stage first by telling his readers where he was and why he was there when all this took place. John has been sharing the gospel since the Holy Spirit fell […]
John defines his audience. He also further clarifies those who are bearing witness to what he is about to share. The very first groups that John mentions are the “seven churches that are in Asia” (verse 4a). What is about to be revealed is especially pertinent to them. But that is not the whole of […]