Letters to the Church (Revelation 2-3)
Revelation records letters from Jesus to seven ancient churches (given in a vision to John). Since the church is not buildings or places, but people, we are looking at these as letters to you and me. Though 2000 years separates our context, the common themes of life, faith, and struggle are remarkably similar. In this series we will consider what it means to be known and loved by Jesus.
All Things New
Revelation 21:1-7; 22; Luke 4:14-21 — Jesus brought the Heavenly future of Revelation down to earth in his own ministry; these promises and hope are something we can experience here and now.
Heavenly Worship Service
Revelation 7:9-17; Psalm 23:1-3a — As other-worldly as worship in Revelation may seem, it is not so far-removed from our own lives and worship.
First and Last
Revelation 1:4-8,17-18; Isaiah 48:12-14a — Who is God? Who is Jesus? — Revelation’s naming Jesus as “the first and the last” will point us towards some answers to those questions.
Lukewarm
Revelation 3:14-22 — A look at spiritual ineffectivness, Jesus’ diagnosis and prescription for it, and the opportunity and invitation before us still.
Anchors
Revelation 3:7-13 — Holding fast to God’s Word and Jesus’ name keep believers anchored in this world and in the face of persecution.
Stubborn
Revelation 2:18-29 — Are there things of which I need, but refuse, to repent? The letter to Tyatira serves as a sobering warning that, though God is patient and loving, we cannot rebel indefinitely.
Sleepy
Revelation 3:1-6; Psalm 130:5-7 — Wake up to faith – don’t put it off until old age or a desperate moment. Wake up to faith that engages the world around us.
Lost Love
Revelation 2:1-7 — Where have you lost the balance between truth and love? What would it look like to restore that balance in your life?
Mixed Bag
Revelation 2:12-17; Hebrews 12:1-6; Psalm 24:3-6 — Spiritually, emotionally, realistically, we are such a mixed bag of good and bad, mature and immature, strong and weak… Today… an example, an illustraion, and some words of hope.
Suffering
Revelation 2:8-11; Hebrews 12:1-6 — God sees what you are going through. God weeps with those who weep. God is always good and loves you more than you can know.