What to Learn from the Seven Churches of Revelation

How should we live our lives with Jesus’ advice to the Laodicean church in mind? The answer lies in Jesus’ messages to the only two churches with no criticism—Smyrna and Philadelphia. The members of the Smyrna church age suffered greatly for their beliefs. Yet, throughout their persecution, they continued serving God and remained “faithful unto death.” Because of their devotion, Jesus said he would give them a “crown of life” and promised they would not be “hurt of the second death.”

The Philadelphia church represents the era most on fire for Jesus. During this age, the Roman Catholic Church lost its power to persecute Christians and suppress Bible ownership. As a result, Bible Societies spread worldwide, missionaries were dispatched, Protestant church membership grew, and new denominations were founded. Jesus was proud of Philadelphia, as evidenced by his profuse praise of their works, his open declaration of love for them, and his lack of a condemnation.

Each of us can personally benefit from Jesus’ advice in these chapters. Mimic the things he says the churches are doing well and avoid their spiritual failures. Read your Bible regularly, especially the New Testament. Emulate the Smyrnaean and Philadelphian Christians. Do not fear bigotry, ridicule, or persecution. Keep God’s Word, and do not deny his name. Vigorously share your faith with others, and avoid being the type of person Paul warned us to turn away from in II Timothy 3:1-5.

It is also critical that we do not succumb to the many temptations that Jesus warned would come during the Laodicean period. Recent technological advances have led to new enticements and distractions. Movies, television, music, social media, and the internet are some of the ways we prioritize our entertainment when we should be sharing God with others. Our desire for wealth and luxury has caused us to lose sight of what is important: spreading the gospel and living the Christian life that would make Jesus proud.

Summary

In Revelation 2-3, Jesus analyzes the seven churches in Anatolia
Jesus’ message to each church contains a compliment, a condemnation, advice, and a potential reward
Each message also represents a different age of church history
Christians can learn a lot about Jesus’ expectations for their daily lives by studying these messages