Revelation 2:4
Verse
Context
To the Church in Ephesus
3Without growing weary, you have persevered and endured many things for the sake of My name.4But I have this against you: You have abandoned your first love.5Therefore, keep in mind how far you have fallen. Repent and perform the deeds you did at first. But if you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee - The clause should be read, according to the Greek, thus: But I have against thee that thou hast left thy first love. They did not retain that strong and ardent affection for God and sacred things which they had when first brought to the knowledge of the truth, and justified by faith in Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
somewhat . . . because--Translate, "I have against thee (this) that," &c. It is not a mere somewhat"; it is everything. How characteristic of our gracious Lord, that He puts foremost all He can find to approve, and only after this notes the shortcomings! left thy first love--to Christ. Compare Ti1 5:12, "cast off their first faith." See the Ephesians' first love, Eph 1:15. This epistle was written under Domitian, when thirty years had elapsed since Paul had written his Epistle to them. Their warmth of love had given place to a lifeless orthodoxy. Compare Paul's view of faith so called without love, Co1 13:2.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee,.... So the Jews represent God saying, concerning their fathers, "Abraham", &c. "I have something against them" (a). Christ has nothing against his people, his faithful ministers, and true churches, in a judicial way, or to their condemnation, for there is none to them that are in him; but he has often many things to complain of in them, and to rebuke and chastise them for, in a way of providence: and what he had against the church at Ephesus, and against the churches in the period which that represents, follows, because thou hast left thy first love: by which is meant, not hospitality to strangers, or an affectionate care of the poor of the church, or a zealous concern to feed the flock, and maintain church discipline; but the love of the saints to God, and Christ, and one another, which appeared at the beginning of this church state, when they were all of one heart and one soul, as generally at first conversion love is the warmest; and so it was at the first planting of Gospel churches, and therefore here called first love. Now this, though it was not lost, for the true grace of love can never be lost, yet it was left; it abated in its heat and fervour; there was a remissness in the exercise of it; what our Lord had foretold should be before the destruction of Jerusalem was fulfilled in this period of time, the love of many waxed cold, Mat 24:12; through the prevalence of corruption in some; and through an over love to the world, as in Demas, and others; and through a desire of ease and freedom from reproach and persecution; and through the introduction of errors, which damp the heat of love, and spirit of religion; and through the contentions and divisions among themselves, as at Corinth, Galatia, and elsewhere, which greatly weakened their love to one another, and to divine things; and which was very displeasing to Christ, who, for the restoring of them, gives the following advice. Compare with this Ti2 1:15. (a) Pesikta Rabbati apud Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 60. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:4 You don’t love me or each other as you did at first: When the church was first established, their love for Christ and for each other had been strong. Struggles with false teachers and persecution had caused that original love to grow cold. Correct theology, action, and even suffering (2:2-3) are just an empty shell of Christian life if dynamic love is absent (1 Cor 13).
Revelation 2:4
To the Church in Ephesus
3Without growing weary, you have persevered and endured many things for the sake of My name.4But I have this against you: You have abandoned your first love.5Therefore, keep in mind how far you have fallen. Repent and perform the deeds you did at first. But if you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Pure Heart - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill44K43:43RepentanceEXO 20:2PSA 34:18PSA 51:17PSA 67:3PSA 103:2ECC 3:4REV 2:4In this sermon, Dr. Luke Reisman preaches from the historic pulpit of John Wesley in London. He highlights the power of reading and understanding the Word of God. He emphasizes the importance of reading scripture with sincerity and authenticity, rather than trying to be dramatic like actors. Dr. Reisman shares a personal story of a tragic experience in his own life to illustrate the need for mercy and the intimate relationship with God. He also references the 8th and 23rd Psalms to emphasize the greatness of God and His mercy towards mankind.
(Pdf Book) My All for Him / 5 Chapters
By Basilea Schlink9.1K00:00First LoveEbooksDiscipleshipPSA 23:3MAT 9:15MAT 13:45LUK 6:38LUK 10:42JHN 7:37EPH 5:32PHP 4:81JN 4:19REV 2:4Basilea Schlink emphasizes the necessity of 'first love' for Jesus, which is crucial for enduring the trials of our time. This love, akin to 'bridal love,' is a powerful force that enables believers to face suffering and persecution with courage and joy. Schlink illustrates that true discipleship stems from this intimate love for Christ, which should be undivided and prioritized above all else. She encourages believers to cultivate this love through personal devotion and worship, as it is the key to genuine happiness and fulfillment in their faith. Ultimately, she reminds us that Jesus, as our Bridegroom, desires a deep, loving relationship with each of us, inviting us to surrender our hearts fully to Him.
(Messages) Repentance
By Basilea Schlink7.5K51:16RepentancePSA 51:17MAT 3:2ACT 3:192CO 7:10JAS 5:20REV 2:4REV 3:5During World War II, many German people experienced suffering and developed a hunger for the word of God. The speaker received numerous requests for Bible studies and lectures, which brought joy and gratitude. However, a moment of revelation unsettled the speaker, leading them to realize the importance of repentance. The speaker emphasizes that repentance is the gateway to heaven and the heart of the Father, as preached by John the Baptist and Jesus himself. The speaker highlights the human tendency to be apathetic and indifferent towards our own sins, often blaming others or even God. They stress the need to recognize our lack of repentance and turn to God in faith, as He is able to create repentance in our hearts through His Holy Spirit. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross not only destroyed Satan's power but also the hardness of our hearts, enabling us to weep over our sins and the suffering we have caused. The call to repentance is both a command and a promise.
Travailing
By Leonard Ravenhill7.1K54:37TravailMAT 6:33GAL 3:3EPH 2:8REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not losing one's first love for God. He distinguishes between losing something and deliberately leaving it, suggesting that the people he is addressing have made a deliberate choice to turn away from their love for God. The preacher calls for pastors to recognize the spiritual decline of their congregations and to lead them in a revival of love for God. He also highlights the need for a new baptism of love and courage, referencing the challenges and darkness in the world. The sermon concludes with a call to cry out to God for the necessary love and courage to turn the world upside down, just as the early apostles did.
Challenge of Every Christian - Part 1
By Alan Redpath5.4K44:42PSA 30:2PSA 51:10ISA 44:3JER 2:19MAT 28:19ROM 7:18REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of revival in the church. He highlights the need for the Holy Spirit to bring life and vitality to the church and its ministries. The preacher encourages the audience to not be complacent or smug, but to have a hunger for God and His presence. He references Isaiah 44:3, where God promises to pour water on the thirsty and floods on the dry ground, symbolizing His promise of revival. The preacher concludes by urging the audience to seek revival now, rather than waiting for it to happen in their own churches.
The Dreamer
By B.H. Clendennen4.1K1:14:26JosephGEN 37:19MAT 7:7MAT 22:37JHN 5:6ACT 17:11EPH 1:15REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the increasing knowledge and advancements in the world, particularly in the field of science. However, he observes that religious dreamers are still held in contempt and are often overlooked because they are not focused on entertainment and pleasure. The preacher emphasizes the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in the presence of Christ, rather than being consumed by worldly desires. He also highlights the need for Christians to live out their faith and be a living testimony of the resurrected Christ, so that others may see and believe.
Seeking God for Power - Coming to an End of Ourselves
By Zac Poonen2.6K1:01:11PowerISA 40:29HOS 10:12LUK 18:2LUK 18:8JHN 7:38ACT 3:19REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the idea of being filled by God. He uses the analogy of a boat being filled with fish and a net being filled with fish to illustrate this concept. The preacher also highlights the importance of waiting upon the Lord and exchanging our own human strength for God's strength. He encourages those who are tired and worn out to come to Jesus and find renewal. The sermon concludes with the message that when we come to the end of ourselves and give up all hope, that is when the Lord can fill our lives with abundance.
Eternal Values - Demonstrating Heaven's Values
By Zac Poonen2.2K52:30EternityJER 17:9MAT 22:39JHN 10:27ACT 20:272CO 11:31JN 2:27REV 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of aligning our values with those of heaven, particularly in relation to money. He highlights the need to fight the good fight of faith and take hold of eternal life, as mentioned in 1 Timothy 6. The speaker also emphasizes that the life of God cannot be organized or predicted, comparing it to the work of the Holy Spirit, which is like the wind. The sermon encourages listeners to seek a deep understanding of eternal life and to be mouthpieces of God, focusing on the message of the heart rather than impressing others with worldly greatness. The speaker urges listeners to follow the example of Jesus in preaching and to study His teachings as a guide.
Return to Your First Love
By Sammy Tippit2.1K34:28REV 2:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of returning to one's first love for Jesus Christ, highlighting personal testimonies of transformation and the need for intimacy, obedience, and devotion to God. It calls for a renewal of passion and commitment to Christ, urging individuals to prioritize their relationship with Him above all else.
Holy Spirit and the Crisis of Pentecost - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K45:54PentecostMAT 6:33ROM 8:15ROM 8:17HEB 6:101JN 2:4REV 1:10REV 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications and significance of the statement that God's people should grasp the spiritual content rather than focusing on outward appearances. The speaker highlights the idea that the journey of spiritual growth and transformation may be difficult and painful, but it is necessary to eliminate vanity and artificiality. The sermon explores the concept of groaning, which represents the struggle and striving in the spiritual journey. The speaker also discusses God's original purpose for humanity and how the fall and change of human nature contribute to the challenges faced in fulfilling that purpose.
(The Foundation and the Building) Five Danger a Christian Worker Faces
By Zac Poonen2.1K59:24ACT 1:41CO 4:7REV 2:4REV 2:14In this video, Zach Poonen shares his concern about the inaccurate portrayal of Jesus Christ by many Christian workers, pastors, and churches. He emphasizes the importance of accurately representing Jesus to the world. Poonen encourages believers to show the love, compassion, purity, humility, and service that Jesus exemplified during his time on earth. He urges Christians to correct this wrong and present Jesus Christ accurately to the corners of the land.
What Church to Go? What Denomination to Stay?
By Zac Poonen1.9K06:39MAT 18:20JHN 4:23REV 2:4REV 3:16REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of being true disciples of Jesus rather than being loyal to denominations or organizations. It highlights the need to seek churches and leaders that challenge individuals to grow spiritually and be radical in their faith, even if they are not part of the same denomination. The speaker warns against the dangers of worldly churches and the importance of being connected to Jesus rather than a specific group or denomination.
The Only Thing
By Sandeep Poonen1.8K51:28MAT 13:45LUK 9:23LUK 14:33JHN 3:30JHN 16:13ACT 2:38ROM 8:29PHP 3:8JAS 4:4REV 2:4This sermon emphasizes the need to make Jesus the only thing that matters in our lives, not just a great thing or the main thing. It challenges listeners to seek a deep immersion in the Holy Spirit, count the cost of discipleship, and earnestly seek fellowship with those who desire only Jesus. The speaker shares personal reflections on the journey of making Jesus the sole focus amidst the distractions and idols of the world.
In Love With Jesus
By Jim Cymbala1.6K30:01JesusMAT 24:12MAT 26:6MRK 14:1MRK 14:32TI 3:1REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving as an expression of love. He uses the example of buying books for his grandson to illustrate that love always gives. The preacher also highlights that if we claim to love God, we should be willing to give to Him and His work. He challenges the notion that teaching on stewardship alone will lead to giving, stating that true giving comes from a heart that is in love with Jesus. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that what we spend our money on reflects what we truly care about, and that love should be the driving force behind our giving.
First Thing Is First
By J. Glyn Owen1.6K43:33ObedienceLEV 19:18DEU 6:4MAT 6:33MAT 22:37MRK 12:29JHN 3:16REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. He quotes from Mark and Matthew, highlighting the commandment to love God completely. The preacher also emphasizes the need to love our neighbors as ourselves, as a way of expressing our love for God. He encourages the congregation to listen to God and respond to His love with devotion and service.
A Thankful People in a Reprobate Age
By Rolfe Barnard1.3K51:44ThankfulnessPSA 65:4MAT 24:102CO 13:52TH 2:31TI 4:12TI 3:1REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of being a thankful people in a reprobate day. He reads from the 65th Psalm and emphasizes the blessing of being chosen by God. The preacher shares a personal anecdote about speaking at a Baptist school and facing opposition for his message. He emphasizes the need for individuals to be saved by God and not just make a profession of faith. The sermon concludes with a call for prayer and a preview of the next message on the folly of knocking at a door that God has shut.
The Spirit and the Throne
By Zac Poonen1.3K1:02:44GEN 1:11SA 2:30ISA 6:1MAT 11:28MRK 8:341CO 12:3JAS 4:10REV 2:4REV 4:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of making Jesus Lord of our lives, highlighting the need to surrender all areas to Him, including pride, reputation, and past mistakes. It stresses the significance of recognizing God's authority and seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit to empower us for God's work. The message urges humility, repentance, and a deep desire to prioritize God above all else, acknowledging that true transformation and spiritual growth come from surrendering completely to Jesus as Lord.
Are You Born Again?
By Llewellyn Van Der Merwe1.2K40:24Born Again2CO 6:171PE 1:12REV 2:2REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher speaks passionately about the negative influence of television in our lives. He encourages the audience to take a stand against the devil by getting rid of their TVs and breaking them with a hammer. He emphasizes the importance of first love, which involves repentance and restitution for past wrongs. The preacher also challenges the audience to examine their spiritual lives and question where they have lost their sweet communion with God. He reminds them that anything other than God can become an idol and that Jesus came to set us free from sin, not to indulge in it. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the message is freely available to all and encourages support for the ministry.
Grace of God
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K18:04Grace Of GodISA 6:5MAL 4:2ACT 9:1ROM 7:24PHP 2:5REV 2:4In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his childhood experience of receiving a camera and how much it meant to him. He contrasts this with the lack of appreciation he sees in today's generation. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of seeking Jesus and relying on Him for everything, as without Him, we can do nothing. He emphasizes that there is only one life, which is Jesus' life, and that through Him, blessings can flow and curses can be overcome. The speaker concludes by acknowledging that he realized his entire being was under a curse until he found Jesus.
The Spiritual Declension of the Soul
By Michael Durham1.2K1:07:17DeclensionPSA 119:67HEB 5:8REV 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a Biblically balanced knowledge of God. He explains that we need to know God as He has revealed Himself and not overemphasize one truth about Him over another. The speaker also highlights the need for a personal reality of knowing God, citing Hebrews 5:14 which talks about discerning good and evil through the exercise of our senses. The sermon then shifts to discussing the priesthood of Jesus Christ and how He is our high priest after the order of Melchizedek. However, the speaker notes that further explanation is difficult because the audience has become dull of hearing, indicating a decline in their love for God. The sermon concludes with a call for revival and the importance of constantly practicing and cultivating a deeper understanding of our own hearts and spiritual patterns.
Knowing Him
By Anton Bosch1.2K41:41MAT 10:37LUK 14:331CO 1:18GAL 2:20PHP 3:7JAS 4:41JN 2:15REV 2:4This sermon delves into the profound message from Philippians chapter 3, emphasizing the need to prioritize knowing Christ above all else. Paul's example of counting everything as loss compared to the excellence of knowing Jesus challenges listeners to evaluate their values and willingness to sacrifice for a deeper relationship with Christ. The sermon highlights the danger of valuing worldly things over knowing Jesus intimately, urging a shift in priorities towards a genuine, experiential knowledge of Christ that transforms lives.
Know Jesus, and Make the Exchange: Himself for Your Self
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K17:46Great ExchangePSA 133:1MAT 6:33ROM 8:91CO 6:19GAL 2:201TH 4:7REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of intimacy with Jesus and being joined to Him in spirit. He laments how people often run after worldly things instead of seeking the living water that Jesus offers. The preacher shares a personal experience at a convention where he witnessed a lack of true spirituality and a focus on self-promotion. He emphasizes that revival is not about flashy displays or speaking in tongues, but about hearts and bodies being filled with the power of Jesus' resurrection. The preacher urges listeners to know Jesus and open the door of their hearts to Him.
How Satan Destroys a Church - Part 7 (Who's the King of the Jungle?)
By Don Courville1.1K1:02:16Spiritual WarfareJHN 14:15EPH 6:11EPH 6:18HEB 4:14HEB 10:23REV 2:4REV 3:3In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of David and Goliath from the Bible. He emphasizes four key points for winning battles in life. First, he highlights the importance of loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Second, he emphasizes the need to live for God and not compromise with the enemy. Third, he encourages the willingness to lay down our lives for God. Lastly, he emphasizes the mindset of not intending to lose but having the confidence of victory in Christ. The preacher also mentions the importance of recognizing that the battle belongs to the Lord and that He is the one who ultimately gives strength and victory.
Only What Can Be Done for Jesus Will Last
By Ian Paisley1.1K1:13:41God's WorkMAT 6:33LUK 12:32REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher shares a powerful story of a notorious drunkard who attended a church meeting. The preacher delivers a message on salvation and asks the congregation to respond if they want to escape God's wrath. The sermon emphasizes the need for a restoration of our first love for Christ and a desire to know the Bible. It also highlights the importance of being burning and shining lights, having no compromise with sin, and relying on the Holy Spirit's work in our hearts. The sermon concludes with a call to be watchful and prepared for the Lord's return.
Do You Remember When?
By Derek Melton9851:14:20First LoveREV 2:1REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher shares his personal experience of being deeply moved by a specific portion of biblical text. He emphasizes the importance of paying attention to these moments as they can be defining and transformative. The sermon addresses the issue of waning devotion to Christ and a lack of enthusiasm for attending church and studying God's word. The preacher urges the congregation to recognize their fallen state and calls for repentance, emphasizing the need to turn back to God and return to the fervent devotion they once had.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee - The clause should be read, according to the Greek, thus: But I have against thee that thou hast left thy first love. They did not retain that strong and ardent affection for God and sacred things which they had when first brought to the knowledge of the truth, and justified by faith in Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
somewhat . . . because--Translate, "I have against thee (this) that," &c. It is not a mere somewhat"; it is everything. How characteristic of our gracious Lord, that He puts foremost all He can find to approve, and only after this notes the shortcomings! left thy first love--to Christ. Compare Ti1 5:12, "cast off their first faith." See the Ephesians' first love, Eph 1:15. This epistle was written under Domitian, when thirty years had elapsed since Paul had written his Epistle to them. Their warmth of love had given place to a lifeless orthodoxy. Compare Paul's view of faith so called without love, Co1 13:2.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee,.... So the Jews represent God saying, concerning their fathers, "Abraham", &c. "I have something against them" (a). Christ has nothing against his people, his faithful ministers, and true churches, in a judicial way, or to their condemnation, for there is none to them that are in him; but he has often many things to complain of in them, and to rebuke and chastise them for, in a way of providence: and what he had against the church at Ephesus, and against the churches in the period which that represents, follows, because thou hast left thy first love: by which is meant, not hospitality to strangers, or an affectionate care of the poor of the church, or a zealous concern to feed the flock, and maintain church discipline; but the love of the saints to God, and Christ, and one another, which appeared at the beginning of this church state, when they were all of one heart and one soul, as generally at first conversion love is the warmest; and so it was at the first planting of Gospel churches, and therefore here called first love. Now this, though it was not lost, for the true grace of love can never be lost, yet it was left; it abated in its heat and fervour; there was a remissness in the exercise of it; what our Lord had foretold should be before the destruction of Jerusalem was fulfilled in this period of time, the love of many waxed cold, Mat 24:12; through the prevalence of corruption in some; and through an over love to the world, as in Demas, and others; and through a desire of ease and freedom from reproach and persecution; and through the introduction of errors, which damp the heat of love, and spirit of religion; and through the contentions and divisions among themselves, as at Corinth, Galatia, and elsewhere, which greatly weakened their love to one another, and to divine things; and which was very displeasing to Christ, who, for the restoring of them, gives the following advice. Compare with this Ti2 1:15. (a) Pesikta Rabbati apud Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 60. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:4 You don’t love me or each other as you did at first: When the church was first established, their love for Christ and for each other had been strong. Struggles with false teachers and persecution had caused that original love to grow cold. Correct theology, action, and even suffering (2:2-3) are just an empty shell of Christian life if dynamic love is absent (1 Cor 13).