Church of Laodicea - Lukewarm is not OK

 Revelation 3:14-21

“And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: ‘The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation.  “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot!  So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.  For you say, “I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing,” not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.  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.  Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.  Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.  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.

The seventh church that Jesus addresses through letters, penned by John, was the Church of Laodicea.  One of the more popular church references from Jesus’ Revelation, in that most have heard of it, is the city with a “lukewarm” faith.  Laodicea was a city of wealth, from textiles exported around the Mediterranean and Far East, as well as its medical expertise.  An eye salve was created in Laodicea that was shipped around the known world at that time.  Like the other cities in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey, Laodicea was known to worship Greek and Roman gods, and the Church at Laodicea was a missionary outpost to spread the news of Jesus Christ to the Jews and Greeks alike in the region.

The problem the Laodiceans faced was not from within, but was one of water supply.  They had no access to fresh local water, but had it piped into their city from hot springs through a 6-mile aqueduct.  This made the water lukewarm upon arriving in the city.  As a valuable resource for their population as well as their textile mills and medical facilities, they were in constant fear of it being cut off.  This made them very vulnerable to outside forces, and they became a culture of compromising, rather than defending right and wrong within their city.  Outside influences would often infiltrate the church, and their reaction was to accommodate rather than stand up for righteousness, so as to avoid conflict.

Again, we see Jesus address the Church of Laodicea in a manner familiar to their culture.  He references their faith as neither hot nor cold – lukewarm, just as the water they receive each day.  He references their wealth (gold), their textiles (garments), and their medical (eye salve) in a manner that reflects their comfort in worldly things and not in Him.  He is at the door, knocking, and offers eternal life to those who will repent and return to His word.

Allowing sinful action without reproach or confrontation is complacency in one's faith.  They allow others to infiltrate their church with evil ways, and rather than stand up against it, they roll over to avoid confrontation.  This is where we are in the American church body as a whole today.  Oftentimes, when evil enters the sanctuary of our church, we are non-confrontational, so as not to offend.  Being lukewarm in the 21st century is to not stand up for Biblical values, for the Word, for the originator of creation, in an attempt to make others feel comfortable and welcomed.  

We are called to love others as God loved the church (Ephesians 5:22-23), which means sacrificially, wholeheartedly, faithfully, and selflessly.  It does not mean to love their actions.  When we encounter evil, as defined by God’s word, we are to love the person away from their actions.  Through counsel, guidance, teaching, and actions, help another through their sin, to repent and turn from it.  If they are unwilling, we are not called to support their actions.  This is lukewarm.  Cold would be to turn them away, without sharing Christ at all, and Hot would be to walk with them in constant prayer and support.  

You can share God’s love with another without loving their sin, but allowing them to stay in that sin is just as bad as not loving them at all.  We are not called to judge others by our own knowledge and wisdom, but through the righteousness of the Word.  We are all guilty of sin, and step into the church sanctuary on Sunday mornings.  Getting right with God through repentance is necessary before you should be addressing another’s sinful actions.  Take heed then, to check yourself and your ways, repent, and turn from your sin. Do not remain lukewarm in your commitment to love those around as God loved the church.  We are all in need of love from the Father.

Church of Philadelphia - The Open Door

 Revelation 3:7-12

“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens.  

“‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which 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.  Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say 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.  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.  I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.  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."

Not in Pennsylvania, but connected nonetheless.  Philadelphia, PA, is known as the city of Brotherly Love, as was the city of Philadelphia in 1st-century Asia Minor, now Turkey.  Philadelphia was built with the intent to spread the Greek culture, language, and way of life.  Theirs was a city commonly called “little Athens” because of the beautiful Greek architecture, statues, temples, and monuments to the Greek gods.  It was situated along the major trade route between the Far East and Rome.  Used as a Greek evangelistic outpost to those passing through.

Jesus addresses the church of Philadelphia as the “holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and shuts and no one opens”.  In this context, He is clearly advising the church of Philadelphia that they had the opportunity to be the evangelistic messengers for the Good news because He had opened the door for them.  With their strategic location, they had the ability to spread His message to the masses, but also to those in their own midst.  

He has given them the opportunity to share the gospel with those in the local temples and even synagogues.  There were people in Philadelphia worshipping Greek gods and claiming to be Jews.  He stressed the importance of reaching this group, and He alone opened the door for them to do so.  As a reward, He promised they would join with Him in the new Jerusalem when He returns.

Again, Jesus speaks of His pending return and His judgment at the end of days.  Those who endure with patience and spread His gospel will receive His name forevermore.  

We are faced with similar opportunities in our daily walk to spread His word.  He has opened the door for His followers to share the gospel and to advance His kingdom message.  But, are we taking up the mantle, the burden, and stepping through the door?  One day this door will shut, and He will come again, with judgment for our eternal destination.  

Jesus has stated time and time again that He will return, and for us to endure patiently, doing His work until that day comes.  How many opportunities have you passed by where you could have influenced and shared the gospel?  Your parents, spouse, children, your co-workers, your friends and peers, extended family members…. Do you know if they have accepted Christ and are living for Him?  If not, do you not see the open door before you to share the gospel with them?  Jesus has opened the door for you just as He did for the Church of Philadelphia.  You have to decide to step through it and share His message.  You are not responsible for their salvation, but you are responsible to share the word with everyone in your circle of influence.  

Love them enough to step through the Open Door.

Church of Sardis - Hypocrites

Revelation 3:1-5

“And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars.  “‘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.  Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. 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.  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.  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.

Today, we talk about Jesus’ letter to the Church of Sardis.  Sardis was a wealthy village in Lydia, modern-day Turkey, centered around agriculture and textile mills.  Known for the manufacturing of wool, jewelry, pottery, and even early coin minting, Sardis was the early capital of Lydia in the 7th century BC.  Similar to the other cities we have discussed, Sardis was heavily influenced by Greek and Roman deities in the late BC and early AD periods. Sardis was also known as “the city of a thousand hills” for the massive graveyard, Bin Tepe, located just outside the city.

Jesus’ letter to the church focused on completion and fullness.  Referencing seven spirits and seven stars in His description draws attention to the completeness of God.  Biblically, seven is seen as a symbol of completeness, perfection, and spiritual harmony; so Jesus’ reference to the Seven Spirits and Seven Stars in his description sends a message to the church.  Seven spirits can be tied back to the characteristics of the Holy Spirit from Isaiah 11:2: Spirit of the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord.  The seven stars referenced in Revelation 1 point us to the seven angels of the seven churches.  In this case, the reference to angels is interpreted as messengers (or Pastors), not specifically angelic beings.  So, when Jesus comments to John, to write to the “angel of the church of …”, He is referring to the Pastor at that church.

The church of Sardis was built right next to the Temple to Artemis (Goddess of Fertility).  Started as a vibrant, highly sought-after church in a wicked city.  After 70 years, though, they had become very fake in their works.  With a strong demonstration of good works and actions, God knew that there was only a small remnant of true followers remaining.  The larger part of the members were acting the part, but did not have a true spirit within.  Jesus’ references to their works as being alive, but inside they are dead, demonstrates the fakeness of the church.  

Similar to Jesus’ words to the Pharisees in Matthew 23 – “Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites….like whitewashed tombs…beautiful outward…but full of dead men’s bones.”  He chastises the church of Sardis for acting the part, but not being true to His word.  He instructs them to remember how they came to love Christ and His teachings.  He then instructs them to repent and turn back to where they were at the start.  Here again, Jesus talks to the church of Sardis about His return, His coming back like a thief in the night, at a time they do not know.

To the remnant, though He gives an encouraging message, to those who have remained faithful, He references their garments (see what He did there – tied it to their culture of textiles) being unsoiled, and their names will not be blotted out of the book of life.  His promise is that they will be with Him in eternity, and He will stand for them before the Father.  What a magnificent promise, to have Jesus Christ stand for you when the day of judgment comes.  

My fear is that this form of pseudo-Christianity is pervasive across our society and the church body today.  Claiming a belief in Jesus Christ from the lips, but without any substance or actions representing the truth of His teachings and words, is everywhere.  From Hollywood, to politics, to sports, to worship, and even churches throughout the world, words are said from behind a microphone, and even actions in some cases, but the soul is truly empty, and lacking the spirit of Jesus Christ.  Certainly, I am not the judge of right or wrong, and oftentimes I fear that I am a whitewashed tomb, but we all must be careful not to become complacent and fake in the truth of our beliefs.  

God knows all things.  We can fool our family, our friends, neighbors, and even the church with the image we present.  We put on our best smile, clean clothes, and watch our actions carefully around those that we know are followers.  When the reality is that we are dead inside, we do not have a relationship with Jesus.  Many of us have fallen into the trap of once saved, always saved; or the trap of “it’s okay, Jesus forgives everything,” and go about our merry way, continuing in our sin, but outwardly showing the world we are Holy.  God knows the truth and will judge accordingly, for we can hide from those around us, but we cannot hide our secret sins from the Almighty.  My prayer for you today is that you are convicted to get right with Jesus once again so your name is not blotted from the Book of Life forever.  

Church of Thyatira - Flee from Jezebel

 Revelation 2:18-28

“And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: ‘The words of the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet are like burnished bronze.  “‘I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first. But I have this against you, that you 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. I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. 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, 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. 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.  Only hold fast what you have until I come. The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him 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.”

The fourth church in Jesus’ revelation to John was the Church of Thyatira.  Thyatira was a wealthy city of merchants, traders, and skilled laborers.  As with the other cities we have looked at, those in Thyatira also had leanings toward Greek and Roman gods.  Elevating the Roman gods with temples and statues to worship the people of Thyatira would be found in idolatrous festivals throughout the year. 

The Church of Thyatira was a strong, active church as recognized by Jesus’ words of encouragement.  “I know your works, your love and faith, and service, and patient endurance, and increasing works from where you began.”  Jesus comes to them in this letter, representing the characteristics of strength against a formidable foe – eyes like a flame of fire, and feet like burnished bronze.  These strengths point to his purity and the ending judgment of the corruption in their city.

Upon acknowledging the church’s strengths, though, He is quick to call out the sinful actions of sexual immorality, and allowing the spirit of Jezebel to resonate throughout the church.  As with the other churches, Satan is busy challenging Jesus’ authority from within the church, and being accepted.  This requires repentance and turning away from.  

He is clear to those that do not repent, great tribulation, sickness, and even death will come.  God is the supreme authority and He states it clearly that they will come to know this.  Some within the church are holding true to His teachings and living according to His works, and they will be rewarded, but woe to those who do not.

This is the first church where Jesus talks of His “coming back”.  If you notice in His statement to those who are holding strong and true, he says continue to hold on until I have come, and you will be conquerors and have authority over others.  This is a soft encouragement to those in the church who are abiding in Him, a promise of things to come.

We are living in a time where the spirit of Jezebel is rampant throughout our society, and yes, even the church in many cases.  We must be able to stand strong on the principles Jesus taught us and hold fast to what is righteous and in line with His word.  Jesus is going to judge all mankind one day, when He returns, and He is not playing around.  His judgment will be consistent with His character in this letter - eyes of flames of fire and feet of burnished bronze.  Likewise, we are called to repent from our wicked ways and turn back to His teachings.

There is no patience extended for following the teachings of Jezebel within the church.  Seductiveness, following the world, raising up idols, and worshiping man over God will not be tolerated.  Recognize how this is so prevalent today and turn from it.  Let us not be found chasing Jezebel when He returns.

Church of Pergamos - Satan is Alive and Well

 Revelation 2:12-17

“And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: ‘The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword.

“‘I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.  But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality.  So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans.  Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth.  He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. 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.

The Church at Pergamos was unlike Ephesus or Smyrna in that it was not a port city, nor known for it’s wealth.  Pergamum was a city known for it’s religious piety.  As such, it was also a center for the church of Satan, and several other Greek gods, including Zeus, Aphrodite, and Aesculapius.  The church of Pergamos was standing in faith against Satan, and against these Greek gods, as best as they could, or so they thought.

In Jesus’ letter to them, He describes Himself as a sharp, double-edged sword.  Recall from Hebrews 4:12, the double-edged sword is the Word, and able to separate souls from spirit, joints from marrow, and a discerner of thoughts and intents of the heart.  In this manner, Jesus is communicating to the church that, despite their best efforts to keep the faith, they have allowed sin into their church.  

They had allowed the teachings of Balaam to infiltrate their church in place of the righteous teachings of God.  They had allowed sexual immorality, as well as allowing some to claim Christianity in order to prosper themselves and their charter, and purpose, rather than the one true purpose.  The reference to following the Nicolaitans refers to allowing sexual immorality, Pagan rituals, and beliefs to infiltrate the Christian doctrine of Jesus Christ.  This cannot be tolerated.

Several parallels are seen in today’s society and the church population.  So many are claiming Christianity as a moniker for their own personal gain, and to expand their popularity, or prosperity, instead of God’s.  There is unrepentant sexual immorality and covetousness throughout today’s church body and even leadership.  Our culture has become complacent and even encouraging to these same exceptions and blindly accepting under a false belief system outside of God’s doctrine.

Satan is alive and well within the church walls, and within the political and cultural walls of our world today.  We have allowed this to happen through complacency and politeness, rather than holding onto God’s Word as the single point of truth.  Jesus’ references to the church at Pergamos are just as relevant in today’s world.  Yes, the idols we worship have changed from Greek gods, but the blind eye and acceptance of worldly ways are very much the same.  

Jesus’ words were very clear to the church of Pergamos: repent from these ways, turn away, and admonish this evil from infiltrating your Christian doctrine.  Using the “word” as a sword, defend against Satan and his evil, for Christ will not stand for it.  His words are no less true for us today.  We are called to righteousness and given the tool of Jesus’ word to fight against Satan.  Jesus’ promises eternity for those who do stand up and fight, and repent from this evil, but I fear for those who do not, and continue to rest in the lies of the devil himself, within the church.

Church of Smyrna - Tribulation will Come

Revelation 2:8-11 

“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life.

“‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.  Do not fear what you are about to suffer.  Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation.  Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.  He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.  The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’

The city of Smyrna was known as a center of wealth and prosperity in the 1st century.  Like Ephesus, they had erected shrines, temples, and statues to the Greek and Roman gods of the day including Apollos, Zeus, and others.  The city had become a center for the Roman Caesar Domitian, with statues and altars claiming him as Lord.

The Church at Smyrna had been strong in faithfulness against bowing down to these altars and gods.  But, in doing so, they had cost them dearly.  In Jesus’ letter to the Church at Smyrna, you can see Jesus proclaiming himself as God, the Lord on high.  The phrase “the first and last” at that time was associated only with Yahweh, God the Father, yet here Jesus was claiming it upon himself, and tying it back to the action of his death and resurrection 80 years prior, to give those in Smyrna confidence that He was still with them.

He knows of their tribulation and persecution at the hands of the authority in Smyrna.  For you see, they were suffering deeply in losing their livelihood, and in many cases, even their life by not bowing down to the gods of that day.  They held firm in their faith and were martyred because of it.  Satan was working through others in the city, including professed Jews, who had fallen to worship Rome and Greek gods to avoid persecution.  

Jesus’ letter is clear to those in the Church, though – remain faithful, and you will receive the ultimate reward – the crown of life eternal.  Tribulations will come, persecution will continue, but even if they were to die, they will receive their reward in heaven.

In our 21st century, there is persecution of this nature in many countries around the world.  Christians are being murdered for not conforming and giving in to the demands of other worldly religions.  In America, we haven’t a clue what real persecution is when it comes to defending our faith.  But, we can learn from Jesus’ words to the Church at Smyrna to hold fast to our faith, to our trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, even unto death.  The world is trying to pull you away, to entice you to “bow down” to their standards and give up your faith.  Do not.  Stand firm in what God has given you, even if it costs you your livelihood, your wealth, your friends, and your life.  For the true reward is eternity with Him in heaven and it is worth it to suffer while here.  Stay strong my brothers and sisters, for Satan is on the prowl and seeking the weak.

Church of Ephesus - First Love

 Revelation 2:1-5

“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands.

 “‘I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, 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.  I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary.  But I have this against you, that 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. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.”

John captures Jesus’ message to the church of Ephesus.  John had spent time in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) teaching and preaching throughout his Ministry.  As one of the seven churches referenced in Revelations 1, Jesus has a very specific prophetic message for them based on their current actions and standing in the 1st century.

Ephesus was known as a large city, the center of merchant trade, culture, and travel.  Their beliefs centered on Greek and Roman gods.  Their worship was centered around the temple of Artemis, the Greek fertility goddess, also known as the Roman goddess Diana.  She was seen as the protector, savior, and mother patron of the city of Ephesus.  Paul, the Apostle, wrote of Ephesus in Acts 19, as well as the book of Ephesians.  Paul and John had both spent significant time building up the Christian church in Ephesus in the mid-1st century, around 50AD.

The church played a strategic part in the development and spread of the early church.  Paul used Ephesus as a central location for his evangelical ministry throughout the Greek and Roman peninsulas along the Mediterranean.  Their love of Jesus Christ, spreading His word, and turning from the local beliefs was captured throughout Acts, Ephesians, and other letters from Paul in the New Testament.

Jesus’ letter to the church of Ephesus was direct and to the point.  Their focus on hard work for the ministry, patience and endurance in living amongst those worshipping other gods, as well as calling out the false teachers and leaders.  These were all called out by Jesus as the strength of the church at Ephesus.  Then, He transitions in v. 4 “but, I have this against you”, to which Jesus calls out that they have abandoned their “first love”.  They have become so busy in their daily work for the church that they are no longer acting with love of Christ, but rather as a duty.

We are all guilty of this at some point in our Christian walk.  We fall in love with Christ and begin telling others about this wonderful love we have found.  Then, we get absorbed in our busyness and daily tasks, and we fail to remain “on fire” to spread His love to others.  But, just as Jesus tells those in Ephesus, there is a way for redemption.  Remember, Repent, and Do.

“Remember” why you fell in love with Jesus.

“Repent” (turn away) from the actions that have pulled you away.

“Return to do” the things you did when you first came to Christ. 

Jesus is clear that they need to return to their first love, or He will remove their lampstand.  He will remove the church in Ephesus altogether if they do not change.  We are no different.  We are taught through the gospels (Matthew 22) to love God and to love others as God loves us.  Jesus tells us this is the most important of all the 10 Commandments.  

We can do great works and persevere through trials and still lose sight of loving God. Saying or doing the right thing is meaningless without love (as we are taught in 1 Corinthians 13).  We must not forsake our first love, and we must continue doing the things that encourage our love for God.

Bow before the King

Revelation 1:10-11, 17-20

I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet saying, “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.”

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.”

The Lord of all creation stands before you. What would you do?

John, the apostle, was a prisoner on the island of Patmos late in his life.  He was exiled by Rome for his evangelical work following Christ’s crucifixion.  Some historical documents reference John being persecuted throughout Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) and Rome, including an attempt to boil him in a vat of oil, whereby he emerged unharmed.  This is said to have caused the Roman Emperor Domitian to exile him to isolation in Patmos.

In his isolation, John draws daily on the Holy Spirit and continues to spread the news of Jesus Christ’s divinity and gospel through his writings and conversations.  As captured in Revelation 1, John was in the spirit (prayer and meditation) when he was visited by Jesus Christ, in His full glory.  John sees seven lampstands, representing the seven churches of Asia Minor, and sees Jesus standing amongst these lampstands. John had been the pastoral leader, teacher, and mentor to these church communities and pastors.  John captures Jesus’ vision as the final Revelation to these churches, in a manner to address the growing tension, discontinuity, false teaching, and theological divide that was occurring.

Jesus’ sovereignty, authority, and glory are magnified in this visionary description from John in Revelation 1.  To this point, when John sees Jesus, he is petrified and humbled immediately.  Falling to his face before the Lord out of fear, he lies prostrate at Jesus’ feet.  In all of His glory, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords reduces all mankind to a state of humility and unworthiness.  Prior to Christ’s crucifixion, John (the beloved) walked daily with Him, spoke with Him, loved Him, ate with Him, and I can imagine even cared for Him when He was tired or needed space.  John loved the man, Jesus Christ, as evidenced throughout the gospels, but here He was face to face with the Lord in all of His magnificent glory.

So again I come back to, what would you do?  Do you see Jesus Christ in this light?  Is He to be feared and revered in all of His glory, or do you see Him as a meek, gentle, and peaceful friend/buddy?  Let us not forget that Jesus Christ is God, in human form, but God nonetheless.  God cannot tolerate or condone sinful actions.  As we read through Revelation 1, draw comparisons of Jesus’ words for the seven churches to your church and your walk with the Lord.  

Over the coming weeks, I will be walking through the book of Revelation in my bible study and capturing my highlights and thoughts here.  I hope you will join me in this study and share your thoughts as we progress together. What John records throughout the book of Revelation will unveil the warnings Jesus has for each church.  Please take heed to reflect on these warnings with a focus on turning back to Him.

Thank You for Your Service

 

"The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. "  - Proverbs 11:3

To all of you who are veterans, I want to take this moment to personally thank you for the freedom that you fought so hard to provide for me and my family. We walk in the best country in the world, and you were responsible for making this country what it is today. It is my prayer for you and your family that you find peace and comfort in your life here at home.

  I think about the heroes who have stood up for America with integrity, courage, and bravery. In the face of danger and the difficult decisions that must be made on the front lines, they stand there, ready to fall for the country and people they love. Integrity is defined as "adherence to moral and ethical principles; moral character and honesty". Others might define it as "doing what's right in the eyes of God, despite what your enemies or peers say is right."

  Walking with integrity takes commitment, diligence, and confidence in your beliefs and the underlying truth of those beliefs. Hard decisions face each of us every day, and choosing to stand upright for God's truth will always lead you down a path of righteousness. Falling prey to political correctness and tolerance will lead you away from righteousness. Proverbs 11:3, clearly states God's plans for you to follow when faced with these decisions. Like our armed service veterans stood with integrity for this country's foundational truths, we need to stand for the truth in our lives.

Two Shall be One

 “And He answered and said, “Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?  So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate.” –Matthew 19:4-6

A marriage built on the strength of the Lord and the principles of love, grace, mercy, and servitude will endure.  The ratio of marriages that are ending in divorce is at an all-time high, and it is my belief that in every single case, you could trace the cause back to one of these areas.  There are situations of abuse, adultery, and addictions that come between a husband and wife, and I hypothesize that these are outward actions of a deeper self-centeredness in one of the two partners.  Selfishness, pride, and ego are all examples of one who is more concerned about themselves than those around them.  This individual offers up no grace or mercy and, in most cases, is not willing to serve the other person’s needs first.

If individuals took the words of the Lord seriously prior to marriage, I propose that their marriage can withstand the trials of this world.  There are 3 levels of relationship: the Spiritual, the Emotional, and the Physical.  At the young age of 20 – 25, most are so drawn to the other by the physical appearance and in most cases, put this ahead of either the emotional or spiritual.  Any relationship that is built on sex, intimacy, and a physical relationship is destined to fail at some point.  There is no substance there to hold it together for the long run, because let’s face it, there will come a time when that attractive, passionate spouse is going to become older and most likely less passionate.  At that point, what is left to provide strength to overcome obstacles in life?

The preferred path of relationship is to develop from a spiritual basis or foundation, evolving into an emotional relationship, and then the realization of a physical relationship after marriage.  This path centers on God and the Holy Spirit as the strength of the relationship, forming the intimacy between the two individuals.  A solid foundation that will last throughout married life between the man and woman shares a core belief in the one true God.  When life’s obstacles, struggles and situations arise the faith that binds these two together is held onto as the armor to defend what God has brought together. 

Furthermore, each individual with a strong relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, enters into the relationship with an attitude of love, mercy, grace, and servitude.  As Christians, we are tasked in becoming more Christlike in our maturing life cycle.  This includes serving others first and thinking of themself second.  This selflessness allows individuals to overcome many of the problems that cause strife in relationships today.  On their wedding day, individuals have no problem promising that they will stay with someone for the rest of their life, through good, bad, sickness, and health; but without the love of God drawing them together and holding them together, it is nearly impossible to remain committed to that promise. 

Love is a precious commodity and can be given or withheld based on our emotional feelings at any given moment. But let me tell you about the woman I was fortunate to marry. Her love is as genuine and unconditional as you will ever find on this planet. She has been gifted with the innate ability to love others through their problems, heartache, and circumstances when others would normally turn away. I am so overwhelmed by the love she has given me for the last 38 years that it is beyond description.  The joy of my marriage to Lisa is that after 38 years, I can still stand before her with love in my heart and state – “I do”.

Be Patient as the Lord is Patient

 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”  – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

As those gathered quiet themselves and find their seats, the Minister looks down over the congregation and then directs his eyes to the front row.  Tears are ever present on the delicate cheeks of the woman seated right near the center of the aisle as her husband sits next to her and take her hand in his.  He provides strength and compassion as all eyes focus on the couple at the front of the church.  The Minister opens his bible to 1 Corinthians 13 and begins to recite the all too familiar verse describing the love of the Father.  The soon to be married couple hear some of the words, but the butterflies in their stomach, and the nervousness that they feel take their attention away from his words.  They are focused more on getting through this service and onto the rest of their life together. 

Many of us have been there, standing in the front of the church, all eyes upon us as we recited our vows of love for one another.  The words of Paul the Apostle have become a standard part of most weddings in an attempt to describe the act of loving one another as God has loved us.  This is not a new verse to most of you, but it is a verse that is often times overlooked as we build a marriage relationship centered on the heart of God the Father.  These verses capture the keys to a successful marriage: “Love each other as much as God loves the other person and your marriage will be long and fruitful”

Love is patient and this is absolutely necessary in a marriage.  The other person will have a different and unique personality from you, and you will have to be patient to accept them for who God made them to be.

Love is kind – it all starts with kindness.  In every situation, the first thing we should focus on is kindness and in doing so realize that God is kind to us in all things.  Kindness is highly under-rated when it comes to relationships, yet such a strong power for building trust between two people.

Love does not envy, even when you feel cheated out of something.  God has blessed you and your focus needs to be on being grateful for what you have been given, not what your neighbor may have.
 
Love is not boastful or proud.  We all struggle with pride from time to time.  It is a tool of the evil one to separate individuals from one another and from God.  It requires that one focus their attention on themselves, lifting their qualities up and in doing so, pressing down upon others.  We are all created equal and in God’s eyes there is no hierarchy of importance, therefore there is no room for boasting or being prideful.

Love does not dishonor another individual.  In a marriage, we should be looking for ways to lift up our spouse and bring honor to them through our words and actions.  So often I see spouses pointing out the shortcomings and problems with each other rather than focusing on the positives.  When God looks at any of us, He sees who He made us to be, not who we have become.  When you look upon your spouse, focus on the fact that they are a child of God, and when you speak about them, you are reflecting an image of the Father to those who are listening.

Love is not self-seeking.  Studies have shown that the number one reason for divorce is selfishness.  People in general want happiness and joy for themselves first.  Putting another’s needs ahead of our own is difficult and counter-cultural.  Society has taught us to look out for number one because nobody else is going to.  God teaches us to serve one another and humble ourselves before His throne.  The contradiction is evident and requires a conscious choice in every situation.  When we place our own needs above the needs of the marriage, we are destined to slide down this slippery slope.  This is an area that requires strict attention and work from both members of a marriage.

Love is not angered easily, regardless of the situation.  Controlling ones temper is an example of maturity in the Lord.  During the courtship and dating phase of a relationship it seems so easy to bite your tongue when the other person says or does something wrong.  Something changes, though when we put the wedding band on the finger, as if all of a sudden the individuals are no longer working together, but are against each other.  My wife has a subtle way of reminding me of this when we are having a difference of opinion.  “We are on the same team.”  This little phrase is a quick reminder that the situation is not bigger than the commitment we made to God and to each other.  The “team” consists of the three of us: God, Lisa, and me; and there is no room for fighting amongst the team.

Love keeps not record of wrong-doing.  God forgives and forgets; why then can’t we?  Human nature is generally forgiving, but it is something completely different to forget.  Our memories hold onto those things that cause hurt or pain in our lives as a defense mechanism for the future.  Unfortunately, this hanging on causes the pain to resurface again in the future, long after the actual event has been washed away.  We must learn to let go of the past, for if God has forgotten it, who are we to hold onto it?

These words take all of about 15 seconds to read during the wedding ceremony, but when put to use throughout the marriage, can help sustain, for a lifetime, what God has brought together.  Entering the holiday season, take time to focus your attention on how God loves you in these ways, and how you should be loving your spouse likewise.

Soul Mates

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’- Matthew 22:37

They were soul mates. She was 14, he was 17 and when they first caught a glimpse of each other across the basketball court, there was a sparkle in their eyes. They were each with someone else that night, but the little bit of harmless flirting that went on would one day be recorded in their memoirs. Years later they walked down the aisle together to begin the tumultuous roller coaster of a life filled with a love from deep within. As the words from the Pastor echoed through the church rafters, "What God has brought together, let no man put asunder" were heard it was taken to heart. Time will pass and these two soul mates will rest on the strength of their love and commitment, and watch their family grow and prosper, all from the comfort of a front porch swing. 

Love between a man and woman will last a lifetime. Certainly, some would argue that a mother's love is stronger than any other, but I propose that a stronger love does not exist than that between husband and wife. It is also the most difficult to put parameters around, until one fathoms the depth of love from God and required of God. You've heard me say a hundred times and I'll keep saying it until the day I die; God cannot love you any more or any less than He does right this minute. Pastor Randy (Harvey) once made the following statement which clearly articulates the love I imagine from God.

"God looked from the beginning of your life and all the way out past it, and said, "There is nothing this boy(girl) will ever do that will keep Me from loving him." 

So, the real question of the scripture is, are we able to love God as much as He loves us? The answer is emphatically, "No." Loving with ALL your heart, soul and mind is impossible with humanity, but that is what God deserves. Why - because that's the way He loves you. God looked down from heaven on the first Good Friday, I suspect with tears, and watched them beat His son, crucify His son, and bury His son. Could God have stopped it? Absolutely, but it would have cost the eternal lives of every other human for all time. All of His heart, All of His mind, and All of His soul were laid open on that day; and God with His infinite love for mankind, swallowed His love for His own son and watched Him die a horrible death. 

Christ prepared a way for us to return that love back to the Father. For Jesus Christ has the capacity to love the Lord with ALL of His heart, His soul and His mind, and only through Him are we able to reciprocate love for the Father, that he deserves. Taking up this scripture and claiming the love of the Father as an entitlement will begin to enrich your desires to love Him back. For as much as you love your husband/wife and children, the love we can give back to God is exponentially greater. Take hold of it my friends. You don't deserve it, but He is giving it to you freely.

Our Savior Had No Home

“Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.”  Jesus replied, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” – Matthew 8:19-20 

The summer heat has died down, and the humidity has dissipated and been replaced by the chill in the air often associated with Autumn in the South.  The weather is oftentimes unpredictable as we have all experienced this past year.  Flooding, earthquakes, tsunamis, wildfires, and winter blasts that lasted well into early Spring have impacted many throughout this year.  We watch the news as they describe the devastation brought upon the buildings, businesses, schools, and residential communities after one of these events.  We’ve seen the debris field left behind afterwards and prayed for those that are impacted and we pray for those that have lost family members.  It’s tragic when something like this happens because if you are in the path of one of these storms it can change your life forever.

The ones we seldom hear about though, are the homeless in these circumstances.  What have they lost should a tornado rip through their cardboard community?  Their wealth and their life belongings fit into a box or a shopping cart.  The roof over their head is often a cardboard box if they are lucky enough to find one.  Have you thought about the plight of the homeless during these catastrophic events?

Our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ was a homeless man for the few years of His ministry.  Sure, His mother and father had a place in Nazareth, but Jesus was seldom in Nazareth after His ministry began.  He called the disciples to “follow Me”.  It wasn’t a request to go on vacation, it was a request to give up their current life and to follow the Messiah, the son of man.  A bold request, that most would spend hours if not days thinking about, before agreeing to.  Jesus called these men away from the comfort of their homes, their families, and their peace of mind.  There were no guarantees, no assurances that He would provide transportation, shelter, or an income.  For these things were not of concern to Jesus Christ.

In towns and villages Jesus, and the disciples, would often stay with one another.  Sometimes it was a friend, sometimes it was a tax collector.  His command to the disciples was to go out among the communities, heal the sick, and cast out demons in His name.  In doing so He instructs them “do not take anything and to stay with others when they come upon a community” (Matthew 10:9-11).  Their nourishment and provisions should not be their concern, for their mission is to spread His grace, love, and salvation.  When they traveled, they looked to the Father for provision, and in doing so became less dependent upon worldly possessions which would only distract them from their calling.

We all become preoccupied with this world and material possessions at times.  When storms roll through and all is lost, it is so easy to fall prey to the evil one and believe that our life indeed is lost because we have nothing.  Take a moment and consider this outlandish idea.  If you did not have a home, car, or a job; all you had were the clothes on your back and shoes on your feet; what would you do for God?  Would you travel from city to city spreading His good news?  Would you look for shelter from a stranger and then share the gospel with them?  I have heard a story of a young man, successful by the world’s standards, who gave up everything to travel America and hand out bibles.  He moves from city to city, begging and working for his keep, and in the process asking for folks to donate bibles, which he gives away to those in need.  This is a modern-day example of what Jesus Christ was asking His disciples to do.  It seems far-fetched and counterintuitive when looked at from the world’s perspective.  Yet, he is not concerned about losing everything to floods, tornados, hurricanes, or wildfires. 

It’s a strange thought I know, but it’s one that we all must face at one point or another – What worldly possession is separating me from truly serving the Lord?  I think about this and often shutter at my answer, for it is worldly by nature.

Trust in His Plan

 “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord.  - Jeremiah 29:11-14

Israel was in captivity in Babylon when this prophecy was given. They felt forgotten, abandoned, and as though all the promises of God they once believed were gone due to their sin and disobedience. And they thought they knew what God thought about them. His “thoughts” must not be good towards them because their current circumstances were so bad. This is why God says, “I know my thoughts. They are not what you think. My thoughts and plans for you are good. I’ve not forgotten you.”

‘Does God love me?”
“If God knew what I have done, there is no way He could love me.”

How many people have you heard say something of this nature?  It is so common for people to eliminate themselves from God’s grace and blessing because of their past actions.  Repeat sinful actions, turning away from God, anger with God, painful experiences in life – these are all things that will cause individuals to discount their place in God’s kingdom and plans.  We all believe that we can know the thoughts of the Lord, and know His ways.  This is impossible, for He is not of this world and our mind is so infinitely small, His glory and ways are incomprehensible for us.  What these folks need to understand is that God is a God of love, an eternal love that cannot be diminished, be eliminated or withdrawn. 

 

God has provided eternal salvation for all mankind.  I have often seen the Hebrew interpretation of the word “all” is ….. (wait for it) ALL.  Yes, even you.  You see, when Jesus Christ carried that cross through the stone streets of Jerusalem, he wasn’t choosing which people of all time He would be dying for.  He was fulfilling God’s plan of salvation through one sacrificial act.  His blood was shed, just like the sacrificial lambs in the historical Jewish customs, for the forgiveness of sin.  He was crucified and died on that hill so that mankind’s sins would be atoned for.  He was buried and rose again, so we could become the redeemer for all of mankind from that day forward.  Today, He is alive and seated next to the right hand of God, appealing on your behalf for every sinful act you have lived through.  It is not a game of scale, because if His blood sacrifice is not sufficient for one sin (regardless of how heinous) it is not sufficient for any of our sins, regardless of how small.

So, what have you done that disqualifies you?  Do you really believe that God has turned His back on you and no longer wants you in His eternal kingdom?  Please take a deep breath and pray on this.  I am here tonight to tell you, God has not turned from you, and His love is no different today than it was the day you born.  You are His child and He cannot love you more, nor can He love you less than He did on that day.  You see God’s love is immutable, never changing.  His demands are high (as we discussed yesterday) and He wants for you to love and worship Him.  The one requirement is to believe in His son – Jesus Christ – as your personal Savior and Lord, repent of your sinful actions and turn to follow Him.  Your eternal peace is within your reach, just grab the Father’s hand.