Year of the Bible: Part Twelve of TwelveEgzanp

To the Church

In today's reading, Jesus addresses the last three churches. When reading this book, you will find a wide variety of interpretations. It is good to remember who the first audience was: the seven churches. Often, good Bible interpretation happens by looking for the simplest meaning in the text before looking for deeper meanings.

The churches in today's chapter mirror much of what we see in modern churches: apathy to the simple Gospel of Jesus, permitting members to live their lives as they define truth, defending financial prosperity as a sign of God's approval, or seeking to remain true to the message of Jesus found in the Gospel accounts of the New Testament.

Question: What type of church do you attend? What constant messages do you receive from the pulpit?

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." This directive from Jesus is to individual readers—not to a ruling class of people, but to you and me.

Question: Do you have ears that hear? Are you pursuing a lifestyle of hearing what the Spirit is saying?

Jesus's greatest accomplishment on earth was restoring our direct relationship with the Father. Through His death and resurrection, we now have access to God's throne of grace. We are positioned to hear the Shepherd's voice because we belong to His flock.

Question: If Jesus is knocking at your door, will you let Him in? Are you living a lifestyle that overcomes, even in the days of trial or persecution? Are you remaining loyal to Jesus and His word?

Prayer: Father, help! We look to You to grant us the understanding of how to live a life of victory. Grant each of us eyes that see, ears that hear, and hearts that understand You and Your word.