- They Were Familiar To John

These Asia Minor churches were especially dear to John. No doubt he had assisted in their founding and for years had lovingly nurtured their spiritual growth. There is indication in extra-biblical sources that John had made Ephesus his adopted city and in his home there had cared for Mary, Jesus’ mother, until her death.

What of the messages to these seven churches? Let us consider their highlights.
To the church at Ephesus Jesus gave this word: “You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! (Revelation 2:4-5). To Smyrna, Jesus had this instruction: “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).

Jesus had a rebuke for the church at Pergamum: “Nevertheless, I have a few things against you. Repent !” (Revelation 2:14; Revelation 2:16). At Thyatira, wrong teaching and evil conduct were to be repudiated. The Savior said, “All the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds” (Revelation 2:23).

Jesus commanded the church at Sardis to rouse itself. “I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up!” (Revelation 3:1-2). The One “who is holy and true” had encouragement for the church in Philadelphia: “Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth” (Revelation 3:10). His final message was to the church at Laodicea: “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth” (Revelation 3:15-16). From these brief summaries, it is apparent that even in that early period of church history, congregations were in need of reproof—and encouragement. Thankfully, a God of love and provision knows how to give both. In these messages we see the wise authority and loving direction of the Head of the church. In no better way could we be given a sweeping view of what Christianity is—and what the churches are all about.