Sardis: Jesus tells this church that they have a great reputation...but they are dead in spirit. Jesus then says. "Wake up...you guys need to put into practice what you have heard or received from me....and if you don't I will come back and take it back from you when you least expect it. (This is not directed toward all of you...for there are many that are walking with me.)
Philadelphia: Jesus says, "I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name." Jesus continues by saying, "I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown."
Laodicea: Finally Jesus speaks to the church where the members were very self-sufficient...maybe a rich suburban church full of high charging successful people. Jesus criticizes them because they don't realize they need a savior. He says, " I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." Whoa...doesn't sound good...does it?
But Jesus...then says, "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent."
With all 7 churches Jesus has one common statement, "To him who overcomes" What does He mean? Is Jesus saying it is about works? I think he is warning and encouraging us to hang on to Him...to truly believe in Him with all our heart....and not rely on ourselves...not get tangled in the "world"...not lose heart....but keep seeking the God we once trusted...keep living and believing that "Jesus is Lord".
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