“A Letter To The Church of Ephesus”

Revelation 2:1-7

Summary:

In the Book of Revelation, Jesus writes seven letters to seven different churches. The church in Ephesus receives the very first one. With 3 points, we can discover Jesus’ intention.

1. The Ephesus Church lost their “first love”: Despite the flourishing of the cultic teachings in Ephesus, the Ephesian Christians actually held on to the truth of the gospel. Not only did they have defended the truth well, but also endured variety of difficult circumstances as a church. Outwardly, they may be seen as a healthy and a vibrant church, but however, they have still received Jesus’ rebuke. He said, “you

have abandoned the love you had first” (2:4). The first love that’s mentioned here is not just the love they had for Jesus in the very first place. It’s actually talking about the constant and genuine love they must have for God and for others. They may have been seen as a church that had a strong and firm doctrine but Jesus points out that inwardly, they had lost their genuine love for God.

2. The Ephesus Church was called to repent: Jesus says, “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” (2:5). First thing Jesus tells them to do when repenting is to remember where they have fallen. They are called to remember how they met and followed Jesus Christ and then remember at what point they have begun to follow their own ways. Then, Jesus says to repent but this repentance isn’t just about feeling guilty. Jesus says to repent and do the works you did at first. So, true repentance requires action.

3. The Ephesus Church has been reminded of the salvation: Not only Jesus rebukes and tells them to repent but He also reminds them of the salvation they have received in Him. “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God” (2:7). This message of hope is not only for the church of Ephesus but is also for all the churches. We must love our God and Him only. We must love Him with all of our

heart, mind, and strength. Though the world may bring us down at times, He who has won the final victory will give us the living hope.

Application:

Let us never forget our God’s love for us. And as we remember His love, may we always look to Him. Even if we drift away at times, let’s always remember to repent—turn from the wicked ways and run to God. It is always His kindness that leads us to the true repentance (Rom. 2:4).

Prayer:

Gracious and loving God, we thank you for your love which has been shown to us so clearly through your son Jesus. Help us, Holy Spirit, that we may always love you and follow after you. In Christ name we pray. Amen.