Letters to the Churches - Part 2

Smyrna – 2:8-11

Here is a militant church. Although they were going through tribulation and lack, yet Jesus called them rich. It is a persecuted church but they refused to deny Christ. You might be going through tribulations. Christ is asking you to be faithful and you will receive a crown of life. We also need to remember/identify with those who are going through persecutions for their faith. Pray and support them.

If we’re not experiencing hot persecution, then we must maximise the present peace for the advancement of the gospel. Those who die through persecution have experienced the first death but they will not be hurt of the second death.

Pergamos - 2:12-23

The sharp sword with two edges. They were dwelling in a zone described as ‘where satan’s seat is’ but through the power of God’s word, they were able to hold on to Christ’s name.

However, the Lord had a few things against them.

The doctrine of Balaam who cast a stumbling block before God’s people

1. Lured them into idolatry

2. To commit fornication

3. The doctrine of the Nicolaitans which is connected to sexual immorality and idolatry

What is the implication today?

All teachings that encourage sinfulness and worldliness in the Church today. All teachings that excuse sin. How can we who are dead to sin live any longer therein?

It’s a battle we must fight. It’s a spiritual contention. We must earnestly contend for the faith both by engaging in spiritual warfare, living the faith we preach and giving a defense (apologia) of the faith.

Thyatira - 2:24-29

The woman Jezebel – symbol of fake prophetess…sponsoring idolatry and fornication among God’s servants.

This is a real spiritual entity that has her cohorts sent among the children of light but the Lord who searches all hearts will fish them out and cast them out!

God hates immorality and backsliding. He will judge all false believers and ministers who parley with the world and occultic powers.

As many who do not know about the depths of satan but are contemplating it or being sorely tempted to give up on their faith, God is calling them to hold fast to the word of God. The word of God is sufficient.