Chapters 2-3: Messages to the 7 Churches

Common Features of the Letters to the 7 Churches

The Address to the Church

The Descriptions of Christ

Christ’s Knowledge of the Church

The Message to the Church

Promise to Overcomers

(2:1-7) – The Church in Ephesus

(2:8-11)  – The Church in Smyrna

(2:12-17)  – The Church in Pergamos

(2:18-29)  – The Church in Thyatira

(3:1-6)  – The Church in Sardis

(3:7-13) – The Church in Philadelphia

(3:14-22) – The Church in Laodicea

Summary Analysis of the Seven Churches

Chapters 2-3: Messages to the 7 Churches

Common Features of the Letters to the 7 Churches

Before we proceed to study God’s message to us as seen in the 7 churches, let us pause to review some common features that are in each of the messages to the churches. Each message can be divided into the following five divisions (not necessarily in this order):

• The Address to the Church
• The Descriptions of Christ
• Christ’s Knowledge of the Church
• The Message to the Church
• Promise to Overcomers

The Address to the Church

Unto the angel of the church of … write

Each of the messages to the 7 churches contains the above address. It is interesting to note that the message is addressed to the angel that is associated with each of the churches. At face value, it seems mysterious that the messages are addressed to angels and not to the people of each church. However, we remember that the term angel simply means messenger. Moreover, the term Gospel means Good Message. Therefore, the messages are addressed to those who bring the message to the churches. This reminds us that God writes His Word through men to deliver it to His people. Also, we remember that in a sense all believers are messengers. We are all to bring the Gospel to those who we encounter. We also note in the Bible many occurrences of the word angel used in connection with a human messenger. In these cases in the Bible, the Greek word for angel (aggelos) is usually translated messenger. We see that John the Baptist was called a messenger or angel (Mat 11:10). The messengers of John were called angels (Lk 7:24). Jesus sent his messengers ahead of Him (Lk 9:52). Finally, we note that the spies who searched out Jericho and met with Rahab were called angels or messengers (James 2:25).

Therefore, when we see the address to the angel, we are reminded of the fact that God brings His Word through mankind. Moreover, we are reminded that we all our messengers (or angels) and should be bringing God’s Word to those we encounter.

The Descriptions of Christ

In each of the messages, we also find descriptions of Christ that were provided to us in Revelation 1 as well as some new descriptions. Jesus uses these descriptions of Himself to remind the church being addressed of some important facet of His person and work.

Christ’s Knowledge of the Church

In this section of the message, we see important facets (whether good or bad) about the church being addressed. We note in these sections that Christ is omniscient and knows all things (John 21:17, Acts 2:23, Dan 2:22, Ps 139:4, Ps 139:23-24, Job 14:16, etc). The eyes of the Lord go out into all places (Pr 15:3, Heb 4:13). Christ knows what goes on in the church. He knows their strengths and weaknesses. This should make us fear that God knows all that we do.  God is completely omniscient. Nothing escapes His notice. This serves as a reminder that there are no secret sins. All things are laid bare before Him.

• Jesus is Omnipresent- Mat 18:20, 2:20, John 3:13
• Eyes of the Lord ‑ Pr 15:3, Jer 16:17, Heb 4:13, 2 Chr 16:9, Ps 10:8, Zech 4:10, Job 34:21, Job 24:23, Job 31:4, Pr 5:21
• Knowledge ‑ Dan 2:22, Ps 139:2‑4, Ps 139:23‑24, Job 14:16, Job 31:4, Eze 11:5, Num 32:23, Hos 7:2, Acts 2:23, Pr 15:3, John 21:17

The Message to the Church

Each message contains a rebuke, encouragement, or both. The purpose of the messages is to warn the people of the errors of their ways or to encourage them to persevere.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches

The messages to the churches are only for those who have ears to hear. This points to spiritual hearing – (see Ro 10:17, Is 29:18, Is 35:5, Is 42:18‑19, Is 43:8, Mat 13:13‑16, Acts 28:26f, Ro 11:8, Ro 11:25, Is 6:9, Jer 5:21, John 9:39‑41, hearing ‑ Special Revelation ‑ Ro 10:17, Gal 3:2, Gal 3:5, Hos 4:1, Eze 36:14, Hos 37:4, Hab 3:2, Is 1:10).  Those who are unsaved do not have spiritual ears to hear. They have closed their ears to the truth of God’s Word (Acts 28:26f). They will keep on hearing, but not understand (Mat 13:14). Then heart of the people has grown dull and with their ears they scarcely hear (Mat 13:15). In the case of Israel, God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes to see not and ears to hear not Ro 11:8). The ears in the Bible, therefore, can be viewed as a type of having the ability to truly hear and understand God’s Word. It is only the saved, through the illumination and teaching of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26, John 15:26, 1 John 2:20-27), that can truly understand God’s Word.

Therefore, the above phrase teaches us that we are dependent on the Holy Spirit for understanding. If we find ourselves in a condition that we continually are unclear as to what the Word of God is telling us or we have no interest in studying the Word, we in all likelihood may not have truly been saved. This simple phrase reminds us of the great need we have to be saved so we can hear the Words of God.

 

Promise to Overcomers

 

To him that overcometh

In each of the messages, God promises great blessings to those who overcome. It is clear from the passages that the overcomers are those who are saved.  But the question is: what does it mean to be an overcomer? What do we overcome?

We find that the Bible uses the word overcome (Gr: nikao) to indicate the position of one who is saved. We find in 1 John 2:13-14 that believers have overcome the evil one or Satan. Prior to being saved, we were under the bondage of sin and the bondage of Satan (2 Tim 2:24-26, Ro 6:1-23). But, when we were saved, we were set free from sin to serve the living God (John 8:30-33). In this sense, we have overcome the evil one to serve God. In John 4:4, we find that we have overcome, not because of who we are or what we do but it is through the indwelling God. It is whatever is born of God that overcomes the world and our victory is by faith (1 John 5:4-5). It is when God circumcises our hearts that we are saved completely by the working of God. Finally, we are more than conquerors through Christ who loved us (Ro 8:37). We find in Rev 6:1-2 that Christ, riding on the white horse that is the conqueror. It is only by His work that we are made victorious.

(2:1-7) – The Church in Ephesus

 

(Rev 2:1)  Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;

Ephesus – G2180, G2181

• Where Paul initially reasoned with the Jews – Acts 18:19-21
• Where Apollos diligently and boldly spoke to the Jews, although not perfectly and convinced the Jews that Jesus was the Christ – Acts 18:24-28
• Paul preaches at Ephesus – Acts 19:1-41
  • 12 men baptized into the Holy Spirit – Acts 19:1-7
  • Paul preached boldly in synagogue, but due to persecution, went and taught daily in the school of Tyrannus – Acts 19:8-9
  • Paul preached from Ephesus so that all that were in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks – Acts 19:10
  • Paul did miraculous works, exorcists imitating Paul, 7 sons of Sceva overcome by evil spirit, Word of God prevailed, many burned their books of curious arts – Acts 19:11-20
  • Acts 19:21-41 – The Riot at Ephesus concerning the threat to business generated due to worshiping Artemis (Diana) of the Ephesians
  • Paul fought with wild beasts at Ephesus – 1 Cor 15:32
• Tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost – 1 Cor 16:8
• Charged Tomothy to stay in Ephesus that no other doctrine would be taught there – 1 Tim 1:3
• Paul’s address to the Ephesian elders at Troas – Acts 20:16-38
• Jews presumed Paul had brought Trophimus, an Ephesian, into the temple – Acts 21:29
• Epistle to the Ephesians – Eph 1:1
• Onesiphorus served Paul well at Ephesus – 2 Tim 1:16-18
• Tychius sent to Ephesus – 2 Tim 4:12

He that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks

In Rev 1:11, Rev 1:12, Rev 1:16, we saw that the spiritual meaning of the seven stars in His right hand is that Christ is the one who, as God, controls the salvation of men. It is He who influences and causes the messengers to bring the Gospel to the church (Ro 10:15, Jer 23:32, Mat 9:38, Mat 10:1-6, Mat 28:18-20, 2 Cor 5:18-20, 1 Pet 1:12, Eph 3:8, Eph 4:11-12, Acts 9:15, Acts 13:2-4). The seven stars point to the perfect completeness of the Gospel as it goes out to the world. He walks in the middle of the churches (the candlesticks). Christ is the focal point of the church’s attention. The work of the church is only accomplished as Christ is kept in the midst of its activities. We recall that Jesus promised to us that He is with us to the end of the age (Mat 28:20, 18:20). Also, we recall that we have been made one with Christ.  He is in us and we are in Him (John 14:20, 15:4, Eph 1:4, 1 Cor 1:30, Ro 8:1, Gal 5:6, 1 John 3:24).

As we shall shortly see this description of Christ is relevant to the message to the church at Ephesus. Although they did many good deeds and were apparently quite proficient at identifying false apostles in the flock, they left their first love. They forgot that it is Christ who deserves the focal point of their attention. It is He who is in the midst of the candlesticks. It is by Him that we are able to bring forth the Gospel. We do not, in our own might, have the ability to know of the Gospel and be faithful to it. The church in Ephesus may have forgotten that their ability to identify false apostles and do other deeds was not due to their own abilities but rather it is God who is at work in them to do and to will for His good pleasure (Phil 2:13). They are God’s workmanship (Eph 2:10).

(Rev 2:2)  I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:

(Rev 2:3)  And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.

(Rev 2:4)  Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

We see here that the church at Ephesus was performing good deeds. They apparently were showing fruits of being saved. We recall that it is vitally important that fruits are seen in each true believer’s life (Mat 7:16-20, 12:33). We are warned in Scripture that good works must follow saving faith (1 John 3:4‑10, Eph 5:3‑5, Gal 5:19‑23, 1 Cor 6:9‑11. Moreover, we see that the Ephesians actually worked very hard at doing good deeds. The term labor points to hard, wearying labor (see 2 Tim 2:6, 1 Tim 4:10, 5:17, Col 1:29). In fact, we see that their labor was for Christ’s name sake. In other words, it was done with the motive of glorifying Christ and not themselves.

We see the fruit of the Spirit, patience working in their midst (Gal 5:22-23). They have apparently persevered through trials and tribulations and persevered and have not fainted (see Heb 3:6,14, John 6:37-40, Col 1:22-23, Mat 10:22, 24:13). The term fainted or weary (Gr: kamno) can refer to spiritual weariness (Heb 12:3, James 5:15). Therefore, we see that the Ephesians are persevering in the faith.

We see that this church was strong in doctrine. They pinpointed false apostles in the church and tried them. Even though the false apostles may have been as angels of light (2 Cor 11:11‑15, Acts 20:30), they discerned the error of their ways and proved them to be false. They heeded the command of 1 John 4:1 to test the spirits to see if they are from God.

With all this apparent fruit at Ephesus (which they are commended for and we should try to emulate), they left their first love. There are two implications we can learn from this.  Firstly, before all else we must love God with all our heart and secondly, we must love our neighbor as ourselves (Mk 12:29-31, Lk 10:27, Deut 6:5, James 2:8, Gal 5:14, Lev 19:18, Mat 19:19).  We find in 1 John 4:20-21 that he who cannot love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not. In other words, a characteristic of those who are saved is that they will love their brother (1 John 3:10-18).  Of course, the highest love we have for our brother is to love them in truth (2 John 1-5).  We note in Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians, that they were commended for their love of the brethren (Eph 1:15). See also Jer 2:2-5, 1 Thess 4:9-12, 1 John 3:14-18, 2:10, Heb 6:10-11, John 13:34-35, Ro 12:10, 2 Thess 1:3, 1 Thess 3:1, Phil 1:9, 1 Pet 1:22, Heb 13:1. Consider the following commands to love from the book of Ephesians:

• Therefore I also, hearing of your faith in the Lord Jesus and love to all the saints…(Eph 1:15)
• and to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge, that you might be filled with all the fullness of God. (Eph 3:19)
• …walk worthy…with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Eph 4:1-3)
• But that you, speaking the truth in love, may in all things grow up…(Eph 4:15)
• Husbands, love your wives…(Eph 5:25)
• Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity…(Eph 6:24)

What we can glean from this warning that they left their first love is that although they were very solid in their understanding of the Scriptures and they were very hard working in the ministry for the glory of God, their love of God as evidenced in the love of His people apparently was waning. This is an important warning for us today that in our zeal for the truth and for doing ministry, we do not forget about our devotion to God and His people.

 

(Rev 2:5)  Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

(Rev 2:6)  But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

‘Remember … from whence thou art fallen’ points to the fact that they were in a fallen condition. It was not enough that they worked hard in doctrine and ministry, it was important that they recall their love of God and His people. Similar to the Hebrews, they needed to remember their former days and return to the elementary principles (see Heb 10:32 w/ Heb 5:12, Eph 1:15).

The warning that Christ may come quickly relates back to Rev 1:1 that in principle life is short and there may not be another opportunity to repent. Jesus is warning His church here that they must repent. If they do not repent and get back on the right track, it may mean that they had never been saved. However, if they were saved, we are assured that there was repentance. Repentance is necessary for salvation ‑ Lk 24:46-48, Lk 13:3-5, 2 Pet 3:9, Acts 17:30-31, 26:20. But, of course, it is the work of God. Repentance granted by God – Acts 5:31, 2 Tim 2:24-26, Ro 2:4, Phil 2:13, 2 Pet 1:13. The warning for us is that we must be willing to repent of our errors as they are revealed to us by God.

The removing of the candlestick points to the fact that a church in rebellion to God can cease to be a church. It may become overrun with those who are unsaved and no longer be able to provide the Gospel light to the unsaved.

Another commendation is in order which helps us gain confidence that the Ephesians did repent of their ways. We see that they hated the deeds of the Nicolaitans (see also the Pergamos church – Rev 2:14-15). As we shall learn when we study the Pergamos church, the deeds of the Nicolaitans were that of licentiousness. Also, if we trust the Scriptures to define terms for us, we are led to the fact that Nicholas was one of the seven set apart ones to‘wait on tables’ in Acts 6:5. In other words, the Nicolaitans might be identified with those in the body of believers who have become licentiousness, or in other words, feel that they may practice sin and still be a saved individual. However, the Scriptures teach us that Christians will not practice sin (1 John 3:4-10, Gal 5:19-23, Gal 6:7-9, Col 3:39, Eph 5:3f, Titus 1:15-16).

(Rev 2:7)  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

The Tree of Life in the Paradise of God is promised to those who overcome (i.e. those who are saved). We find that The Tree of Life represents eternal life (John 14:6, Mat 13:32, Pr 13:12, Gen 2:9,24, Rev 2:7, Rev 22:2, Rev 22:14-19, Pr 3:18, Pr 11:30, Pr 13:12, Pr 15:4, Eze 17,  Eze 31:4‑18, 47:12). We recall in Genesis that the flaming cherubs guards the way to the Tree of Life. This flaming cherub is likely a representation of Jesus Christ as the messenger of the Gospel and being burned with the eternity in hell that He suffered for our sins. The Paradise represents having the blessings of eternity (Eze 31:8, Lk 23:43). A wonderful hope to look forward. This underscores the superiority of the eternal life compared to our physical existence on the earth.

Summary of the church:

The church can be summarized as one that is very strong doctrinally and morally and has persevered in difficult times, however, they have left their first love, that being of God as reflected in their love of the brethren.

(2:8-11)  – The Church in Smyrna

 

(Rev 2:8)  And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;

Smyrna – literally, myrrh (a perfumed oil)

• G4667 / G4668 – Rev 1:11, Rev 2:8 (the city of Smyrna)
• G4666 / G4669 (strengthened form of G3464, muron) – the perfumed oil myrrh
  • Mat 2:11 – one of the wise men’s gifts at the birth of Christ (looked forward to the death of Christ on the cross)
  • John 19:39 – Nicodemus offered myrrh for the burial of Jesus Christ
  • Mk 15:23 – Jesus offered wine mingled with myrrh on the cross, but took did not take it
• G3464 (muron) – The Greek word ‘muron’ is used in the New Testament when the ointment was placed on Jesus’ feet and also what was prepared for his death (Mat 26:7-12, Mk 14:3-4, Lk 7:37-38, Luke 7:46, Luke 23:56, John 12:2-3, John 12:5). In John 12:5, it is said to be very costly (300 denarii).  It was also part of Babylon’s merchandise (Rev 18:13). This ointment therefore could be identified with the death of Jesus Christ.
• Myrrh in the Old Testament (H4753) – Exo 30:23, Est 2:12, Psa 45:8, Pro 7:17, Son 1:13, Son 4:6 (2), Son 4:14, Son 5:1, Son 5:5 (2), Son 5:13
• H4753 cognates (H4751-H4755, H4843) point to bitterness (from which the name Mara / Mary is derived)
• Summary: Smyrna identifies with the suffering / death of Jesus Christ

The First and the last as we saw in Rev 1:8 points to the fact that Christ is in control. He is eternal God and the Source and Creator of all. He is sovereign God. The reference to the One who was dead and is now alive was discussed in 1:18 and points to the fact that Christ has undertaken the punishment for sins, the just for the unjust. This points to the suffering and overcoming of Christ – Heb 2:18, 4:16, Phil 2:1-10.

We see that this introduction is related to the message to the church at Smyrna since they are the righteous suffering church. The fact that Christ is the First and the Last should be of comfort that He is in control. He will not allow us to be tempted beyond that which we can handle (1 Cor 10:13). He is in control of the persecution that Smyrna is suffering. The fact that Christ was dead and is now alive reminds the church that He too has suffered great persecution and trial by suffering for the sins of His people. But, be of good cheer, He has overcome the world (John 16:33)

 

(Rev 2:9)  I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.

As did the Ephesian church, Smyrna also saw to it to maintain good works. This is a characteristic of true believers. We also see that they were in tribulation just as John was (see notes on 1:9). The term Tribulation (Gr: thlipsis – Rev 1:9, 2:22, Ro 2:9, Mat 24:21,29, 2 Thess 1:4, Mk 13:24, John 16:33) points to the fact that the norm of a Christian in the world is to have tribulation. In the world, we will have tribulation (John 16:33). When we remember that we are seated with Christ in heavenly places (Eph 2:6) and that we are a royal priesthood (see notes on 1:6, 1 Pet 2:9-10), we see the enormity of the tribulation we have in this world. In this world we have physical ailments yes. But, we also are faced with many spiritual ailments as we wrestle with sin every day. Also, we suffer the persecution and rejection of the world.

We find that the church at Smyrna was a church in poverty. We recall that Paul was poor, yet made many rich (2 Cor 6:10). In fact, we find many references to the fact that it is the poor who God particularly mentions as being the object of salvation (see e.g. Mat 11:5, Lk 4:18, 6:20, 7:22, 14:13,21, Ps 68:10, 69:29, 72:1-4, 74:19-21, 86:1). We recall that Jesus had nowhere to lay His head. Christ became poor – 2 Cor 8:9 so that through his poverty, we may become rich – Phil 2:6, Mat 20:28.  It is not a sin to be poor. In this world, many situations arise where physical prosperity may not occur. However, God chose the poor – James 2:1-6, 1 Cor 1:27ff, Job 34:19 of the world for salvation. No, not all the poor are saved. Rather, God oftentimes will use that in the world which is looked down upon to shame the mighty and rich. Moreover, when we have possessions, we should be concerned with sharing to bring forth the Gospel to a world dying in sin. God loves a cheerful giver – 2 Cor 9:7, 1 Cor 16:2, 1 Tim 6:18, Mat 19:21, Acts 20:35, Lk 12:33, 18:22, 19:8. Riches are deceitful ‑ 1 Tim 6:6-10, 17, Lk 12:15-21, Phil 4:11-12, Heb 13:5, Eph 5:3, Col 3:5.

The poverty of those at Smyrna also spiritually points to the fact that it is the poor in spirit who are to receive the kingdom (Mat 5:3). This is whom the Lord hears – Is 34:6. It is the one who is of a humble spirit that God will hear.

When we become saved, we find that we are made spiritually rich. This richness is grace (Eph 1:7,18, 2:7, 3:8,16, Phil 4:17, Col 1:27,2:2).

More than their tribulation and poverty, they were being persecuted by those who were called Jews, but are not. On the surface this seems mysterious, but the solution to the question of who these people are should be readily apparent from Scripture. There are two types of Jews referred to in the Bible. First, the physical, national race of people are known as Jews. However, spiritually speaking, all true believers are referred to as spiritual Israel, spiritual Jews (Ro 2:28‑29, Phil 3:3, Ro 9:6‑9, see also notes on 7:1-8, etc). Apparently, there were Jews who were persecuting the church at Smyrna for their faith in Christ. This was typical in the first century church.

But, there is a broader meaning which has great applicability to us today. True believers often receive persecution from right within the church. That is, those who are identified as Christians, spiritual Jews, but are not saved typically will persecute those who are truly a child of God.

The blasphemy of these false Jews refers to the fact that great persecution can result from what is said. To speak blasphemously means to speak injuriously.  The word in the Greek literally means to make ‘hurtful saying’.  We recall in 1 John 3:15 that he who hates his brother is referred to as a murderer and everyone who hates his brother or calls him a fool is worse than a murderer (Mat 5:21-22). In the Scriptures, we find several definitions of blasphemy. First, we find that it is blasphemy to make oneself equal to God – John 10:33-36, Lk 5:21, Rev 13:1-6, 17:3, Mk 2:7, 14:64, Mat 26:65. In the case of the Jews of Smyrna, they have made themselves the judge. In this sense, they make themselves equal to God. Second, blasphemy is to say Christ under the power of Satan – Mk 3:28-29, Mat 12:31, Lk 12:10. Whether this sin was committed by the Jews, we do not know for sure. But, it is possible that this type of blasphemy could have been involved. Finally, we find blasphemy can be defined by bad works – Ro 2:17-24, Is 52:5, James 2:2-7. But, whatever the blasphemy, we are told that these Jews are actually a synagogue of Satan. In other words, they congregate as if they were God’s people, but in reality they are children of the devil – 1 John 3:8-10. The term Satan refers to the fact that the devil is an adversary – see Rev 2:13, Rev 2:24, Rev 3:9, Rev 12:9, Rev 20:2 Rev 20:7.

The lesson for us is to ensure that we are not in the synagogue of Satan. That is, we are to ensure that we are following the right Gospel and not involved in the persecution of those who are of the true Gospel.  And, if we are true believers, the lesson for us is to ensure that we are ready to suffer persecution for the cause of Christ.

• Blasphemy – (means ‘hurtful saying’ – see Greek words G987, G988, G989)
  • … the one who before was a blasphemer and a persecutor and insolent. But I obtained mercy, because being ignorant, I did it in unbelief. (1Ti 1:13)
• True Jews
  • For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that outwardly in flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly, and circumcision is of the heart; in spirit and not in letter; whose praise is not from men, but from God. (Rom 2:28-29)

(Rev 2:10)  Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

We are not to fear if we suffer persecution. We are to persevere and not turn back in fear. We are called to suffer. We see that the devil was to cast some of those in Smyrna into prison  (see also Jer 32:2‑12, 33:1, 37:21, 38:6‑28, 39:14‑15, Eph 3:1, 4:1, 2 Tim 1:8, Phm 9, Acts 16:25‑27, 28:16‑17, etc.). This figure points to the fact that true believers will be persecuted and the sons of the devil will endeavor to limit our ability to spread the Gospel and proclaim God’s Word. We should expect from time to time that we are prevented from freely ministering the Word.

Christians in Prison:

Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;

(Mat 4:12)

Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,

(Mat 11:2)

For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife.

(Mat 14:3)

And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison.

(Mat 14:10)

Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

(Mat 25:36)

Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

(Mat 25:39)

I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.

(Mat 25:43)

Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

(Mat 25:44)

Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

(Mar 1:14)

For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife: for he had married her.

(Mar 6:17)

And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison,

(Mar 6:27)

Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

(Luk 3:20)

But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake.

(Luk 21:12)

And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.

(Luk 22:33)

And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

(Luk 23:25)

For John was not yet cast into prison.

(Joh 3:24)

And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.

(Act 5:18)

But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,

(Act 5:19)

And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

(Act 5:21)

But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,

(Act 5:22)

Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.

(Act 5:23)

Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

(Act 5:25)

As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.

(Act 8:3)

And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.

(Act 12:4)

Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

(Act 12:5)

And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

(Act 12:6)

And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.

(Act 12:7)

But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

(Act 12:17)

And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:  Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

(Act 16:23-24)

And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed.  And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

(Act 16:26-27)

And the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.  But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.

(Act 16:36-37)

And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

(Act 16:40)

Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.

(Act 26:10)

Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.

(2Co 11:23)

And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.

(Act 22:4)

By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;

(1Pe 3:19)

In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

(2Co 6:5)

Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

(Rev 2:10)

And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.

(Rev 18:2)

We find that the casting into prison is a trial for those afflicted. We find that there are many trials in life that God uses to test believers. However, we note that God does not test directly – see James 1:13. God allowed Satan to try Job. It is by trials that we gain endurance – James 1:2-4, Ro 5:3-5, etc. The following are other uses of trial (Gr:peirasmos) – Mat 6:13, 26:41, Mk 14:38, Lk 4:13, 8:13, 11:4, 22:28,40,46, Acts 20:19, 1 Cor 10:13, Gal 4:14, 1 Tim 6:9, Heb 3:8, James 1:2, 1 Pet 1:6, 4:12, 2 Pet 2:9, Rev 3:10, 2:10, James 1:3. The lesson for us is that trials are to be expected in the Christian life. These trials are allowed by God to teach us perseverance and to test us.

The number 10 is not by accident. We find the number 10 used in the Bible as completeness / fullness (Ex 20, 34:28, Mk 10:41, Mat 25:1, Lk 15:8, 17:12‑17, 19:13‑25, 10 horns ‑ Rev 13:1, 17:3, Rev 17:7, Rev 17:12, Rev 17:16 w/ Dan 2:42, Dan 7:7, Dan 7:19-23). In other words, the 10 days of being in prison can be seen as referring to the fact that all believers can expect trials and tribulations throughout their walk as a Christian. Ten days in prison refers to the completeness of trials in the Christian’s life.

We are instructed by the Scriptures that all Christians receive persecution ‑ John 16:33, Mat 5:10-12, Ps 34:19, Ps 84:5-7, John 15:18-20, 16:33, Ro 8:17, 2 Tim 2:12, 3:12, Mat 10:24-28, Mat 10: 32-33, 20:23, 16:24-27, Phil 1:29, 1 Pet 2:20-21, Mk 8:34-38, Lk 9:23-26, 14:27, Heb 11:35-37, Gal 4:29, 1 John 3:13, 1 Thess 3:3, Mat 14:30, 2 Thess 1:5, 1 Thess 3:2-3.

We are exhorted to be faithful until death (see Rev 6:1-4 notes and below on Pergamos). We are to be obedient slaves to the Master. We are to persevere – Heb 3:6, Heb 3:14, John 6:37, Jude 24. This is the command to us. This command to be faithful until death probably has a dual fulfillment. In the physical realm, we are not to deny Christ even under the threat of extreme persecution (2 Tim 2:11-13, Mat 10:33, 1 Tim 5:8).  But, this applies to the spiritual realm as well. We find that as a Christian, we die daily (1 Cor 15:31). We are like sheep led to the slaughter (Ro 8:36). We are constantly being delivered over to death (2 Cor 4:11) for Jesus’ sake. We have been crucified with Christ (Gal 2:20). In other words, spiritually, we are to present ourselves as dead to the world but alive to Christ. We, through trials and persecution, are constantly dying in the spiritual realm to the desires of the flesh. Therefore, the exhortation to persevere unto death reminds us that believers are to remain faithful throughout the Christian walk as we die daily for Christ.

We see that the promise that is to be looked forward is the crown of life. Although those at Smyrna undoubtedly had a difficult physical and spiritual existence while they were in the flesh, they are reminded that there is an eternal life as kings to be hoped for. The One who was dead and is alive promises us that there are better days coming. All believers receive the crown (1 Cor 9:25, 2 Tim 4:8, 1 Thess 2:19, 1 Pet 5:1-4, James 1:12) of eternal life. All believers are kings – see Rev 1:6 notes. God has made us kings so that we reign with Christ – Rev 1:6, Rev 5:10, 1 Pet 2:9‑10, Eph 2:6, 2 Tim 2:12, Ro 5:17. We are not kings separate from Christ.  But, we are reminded here by God that our position as Christians is royalty through Christ. Believers are seated with Christ in heavenly places – Eph 2:1-6, Ro 5:17.

 

(Rev 2:11)  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

The second death referred to here is eternal judgment (see Rev 20:6,14, 21:8). This provokes the question concerning what is the first death. The first death physically, of course, is the separation of the body and the soul/spirit. The first death spiritually is our deadness in sin prior to being saved (Eph 2:2, Col 2:13). Therefore, the promise that we will not be hurt by the second death comforts us that, even though we have persecutions and trials, the worst death of eternal judgment will never hurt us. On the other hand, those who are our persecutors that are unsaved will have to face the worst trial of all: Judgment Day.

 

Summary of the church:

The church can be summarized as one that is physically poor and endures persecution, but is spiritually rich.

 

(2:12-17)  – The Church in Pergamos

 

(Rev 2:12)  And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges;

Pergamos – 2 occurrences (G4010 – Rev 1:11, Rev 2:12)

• Not the same city as Perga of Acts 13:12-14, Acts 14:25
• G4010 derived from G4444 (purgos, meaning tower)
  • Mat 21:33, Mk 12:1 – parable of vineyard and tower
  • Luk 13:4 – tower of Siloam that fell
  • Luk 14:28 – count the cost prior to building a tower
• Hebrew word for Tower (H4026) – Gen 11:4-5 (2), Gen 35:21, Jdg 8:9, Jdg 8:17, Jdg 9:46-47, Jdg 9:49, Jdg 9:51-52, 2Ki 9:17, 2Ki 17:9, 2Ki 18:8, Neh 3:1, Neh 3:11, Neh 3:25-27, Neh 12:38-39, Psa 61:3, Pro 18:10, Son 7:4 (3), Isa 2:15, Isa 5:2, Jer 31:38, Mic 4:8, Zec 14:10, 2Ch 14:7, 2Ch 26:9-10, 2Ch 26:15, 2Ch 32:4-5, Psa48:1 2, Son 8:10, Isa 30:25, Isa 33:18, Eze 26:4, Eze 26:9, Eze 27:11, 1Ch 27:25, Son 5:13, Neh 8:4
  • And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. (Gen 11:4-5)
  • For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. (Psa 61:3)
  • The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. (Pro 18:10)
• Pergamos – although challenged by worldliness in the church, it is still a faithful tower

Only one description is given of Christ in the address to the church at Pergamos. The One who has the sharp two-edged sword (see Rev 1:16) refers to the fact that it is Christ, who as the Word of God, judges the world. He is the one who can discern the intents and thoughts of the heart (Heb 4:12). We see the two-edged nature of the sword. On the one hand the Word of God (i.e. the sword) brings life and peace to those who are saved. But, on the other hand, it is what will judge the unsaved. We see this two-fold nature of the Word in salvation and judgment in the following passages: 2 Cor 2:15-17, Ps 149:5-9, Pr 5:4. For example, we see in 2 Cor 2:15-17 that when we bring the Word of God, we are a savor of life to those who believe, yet to those who are unsaved we are the aroma of death as we remind them of Judgment Day.

Saved by Word of God:

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

(Rom 10:17)

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

(1Pe 1:23)

Judged by Word of God:

He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.

(Joh 12:48)

The description of Christ in this two-fold sense is applicable to Pergamos since we see that on the one hand there were some good works evident in Pergamos that points to those being saved, however, there are some significant spiritual issues (especially doctrinal issues) that will result in damnation if not corrected.

 

(Rev 2:13)  I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.

Jesus knows the works of the church. They dwell in a place associated with Satan’s seat. Satan’s seat, or throne, is pointing to the focal point of Satan’s strategies and operations. In the historical setting, Pergamos was apparently the place of great worship and activity of Satan. Spiritually, we see that Satan’s seat is actually the world itself (1 John 5:19, 4:4, Mat 4:8-10, Eph 6:12, 2:2, John 12:31, 16:11, Rev 11:15 notes).  He is the Prince of the power of the air. In Mat 4:10, we find that he controls the world’s kingdoms. The world is the dominion of Satan and the habitation of his children.  Sometimes, we are tempted to think that Satan’s dominion is a place only where there is Satan worship or witchcraft. This is not true at all. Satan’s agents come as angels and light and masquerade themselves in the church of God (2 Cor 11:11-15). Satan works in all types of ways in the world. Spiritually speaking, anyone who is alive in this world is physically residing in Satan’s seat of power.

There were those in Pergamos that did not yield to the temptations of the Satan’s kingdom. They held fast the name of Christ (see also notes on 3:8). They did not deny Him in time of trial. They maintained their identification with Christ and His kingdom. They did not deny the faith of Christ. They maintained obedience to Bible – 1 Tim 5:8, 2 Tim 2:12, Titus 1:16, 2 Pet 2:1, Jude 4 (see 3:8 notes). Very instructive to us is the fact that this faith is referred to as Christ’s faith.  As we will see in Rev 3:14, Christ is the Faithful and True Witness.  Faith is intimately connected with Christ. We also remember that Christ’s faith is what we are saved by, not our own human generated faith. Saving faith is a gift of God ‑ 2 Pet 1:1-2, Eph 2:8-9, Phil 1:29, John 6:65, 3:27, Heb 12:2, Gal 2:20, Phil  3:9, Ro 3:22, 1:17. It is only when Christ gives us faith as His gift that we are saved. We can receive nothing unless it is given to us by God (John 3:27). It has been granted to us to believe (Phil 1:29). We have obtained a saving faith (2 Pet 1:1).

Our attention is drawn to Antipas (Gr: antipas), which could simply mean ‘against all’.  (This name may also be related to ‘antipatris, a town where Paul brought to as a prisoner at night – Acts 23:31). We see that he is an example of a faithful witness (see Rev 1:2). Antipas is like those whose lives are consistent with godliness. We see that most important to him was not denying the faith of Christ. Although this is an example of a person that was physically martyred, we remember what we have already learned in the notes on Rev 2:10, namely that all believers are to be spiritually martyred. We sacrifice our beings on the altar of service (Ro 12:1-2). We die daily for the cause of Christ (1 Cor 15:31, Mat 24:9, 2 Cor 1:9, 2 Cor 4:10-12, 2 Cor 6:9, 2 Cor 7:3, Ro 8:35-39, James 5:6, 1 John 3:15, 1 Cor 4:9, Mat 5:21-22, Hab 1:2-4, James 2:9-11, Ps 94:1-7, Ps 44:22, Rev 6:9, Mk 8:35). We have been crucified with Christ – Gal 2:20, Ro 6:6, Ro:11, Gal 5:24, Gal 6:14.

(Rev 2:14)  But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.

 

(Rev 2:15)  So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.

The Pergamos church is a mixed church. There are elements of spiritual fervor be epitomized by Antipas, but here we see the weaker side of the church. These issues have ultimately to do with a false teaching in the church. This false teaching is that of Baalam (2 Pet 2:15, Jude 11, Num 22‑24, 31:16, 25:1-8, Deut 23:4, Neh 13:2) desired to curse Israel – Josh 24:9-10. We see that Balaam sought to destroy Israel by three methods. Balaam was hired by Balac of the Midianites (Moab) to curse Israel.

First, he sought to put a stumbling block (see also Ro 9:33, 16:17-18, Mat 16:23,18:7, 1 Pet 2:8, 1 Cor 1:23, etc, etc) in front of the children of Israel. He was a supposed prophet but he desired to curse Israel and see them destroyed. Similarly, we find in Pergamos that there are some who are actually trying to cause the people to stumble. To put a stumbling block in front of someone is to desire the person to not be saved. It is to cause someone to trip in the spiritual walk. The message for us is whether we are doing what’s best for our brother’s walk with Christ. Are we pointing our brothers to Christ and the Word of God or are we pointing them to the world and the world’s wisdom? Are we sharing the right Gospel with them? A stumbling block also is what we cast in front of our weaker brother when we partake in debatable areas that cause ruin to our brother (Ro 14:13-15ff, 1 Cor 8:13).

Second, Balaam taught the children of Israel to eat things sacrificed to idols. Surely, this would have been an abomination to Israel. However, in the New Testament we see that it is not forbidden (but emboldens weaker brother to sin 1 Cor 8:4-13, 10:23-33, Ro 14:13-15;1, Acts 15:20-29). When one partakes in a debatable area, it is possible that the newer brother may see the one partaking and being emboldened to do so as well with a conscience telling him that it is sin. Therefore, to eat things sacrificed to idols is a figure for partaking in areas which cause the newer or weaker brother to stumble. This has tremendous applicability to us today. There are so many debatable areas which the Bible is not clear as to whether they are right or wrong. For example, one who goes to a restaurant where alcohol is served may find nothing wrong with that. He knows that all worldly business establishments have various vices and sins and to try to pick some over others becomes a futile endeavor. However, another believer may think that it is terribly wrong to go to such an establishment because people may get drunk there. If the brother who believes it is wrong to go finds himself there he feels guilty and he is in rebellion to what his conscience is telling him. When this practice is done, we are teaching people to neglect their consciences and more sin can result.

The third tool of Balaam was that of immorality ‑ Gr: porneia (1 Cor 5:1,6:13-18, 7:1, Gal 5:19, Eph 5:3, Acts 15:20-29, 1 Thess 4:3, Col 3:5). In Num 25:1ff, we find that finally Balaam got the people of Israel to commit fornication with the women of Moab. We see the temptation of lust used to draw people away from obedience to God. Spiritually speaking, fornication (see 17:1-2 notes, Col 3:5, Eph 5:32, Jer 3:1-9, Eze 16:15-16,20, Ex 34:12-16) points to the condition of a person when he is involved with the world or other gospels and not truly following the Gospel of the Bible. This is a terrible condition to be in.

We see in the church of Pergamos that there were some who were departing from the truth of the Scriptures and falling back into wordly practices. The message to us is to examine whether we love the world system or do we love God? Do we serve God with our resources and time or do we serve our fleshly passions?

We see another reference to the Nicolaitans (see 2:6 notes). Here we see the close connection with the teaching of Balaam. We are led to believe that the teaching of the Nicolaitans is similar to the error of Balaam which ultimately was teaching that is contrary to the Bible. The term Nicolaitans reminds us that Nicholas (Acts 6:5) was once a pillar in the church.

 

(Rev 2:16)  Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

The warning that Christ is coming quickly (Rev 1:1) is a warning of judgment. In principle, today could be the last for any of us. We must examine ourselves right away and correct things that we find to not be in accordance with Biblical standards.

We are reminded of the Sword of His mouth (see Revelation 1:16, 2:12). This again is used to address a church that has positive and negative points. If repentance is not in order for those who are falling into the teaching of Balaam and the Nicolaitans, then Judgment Day is certain.

 

(Rev 2:17)  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

The overcomers (i.e. those who are truly saved and thereby, persevere) will receive the Hidden manna ‑ John 6:31, John 6:49, John 6:58, Mat 4:4, Deut 8:3, Amos 8:11, John 6:31-35, John 1:1. In John 6 we find the intimate connection between manna and Bread. We see that Christ, as the Word of God (Mat 4:4), was typified as the manna that came down from heaven. However, we see the manna is hidden. As we examined in the notes on 1:20, the Word of God is a mystery to the world. It is only when Jesus explains it to us through the anointing of the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:20-27, John 14:26), will our blind eyes be opened to see the truth of God. When we partake of the hidden manna we partake of the fullness of Christ which spiritually satisfies to the uttermost.

We see that the overcomers will be given a white stone. We recall from 1:14, that white refers to purity and righteousness. We see also that a stone refers to a part of the temple. The word here for stone refers to a believer (Acts 26:10 only other occurrence – Gr: a small pebble). In other words, this likely refers to the fact that a believer is 1 of many in the eternal temple of God (1 Pet 2:5, Acts 7:48, Acts 17:24, 1 Cor 3:16-17, 6:19, 2 Cor 6:16, Eph 2:21, 2 Thess 2:4, Rev 21:22). When we are given the white stone, we are guaranteed that we are part of the eternal building of God.

• The stone has a new name which no one knows. This must refer to the name of Christ – see Is 56:5, 62:2, 65:15, Rev 14:1-3, 19:12, 22:4. We see that when we are saved we are a new creation 2 Cor 5:17. The old man is dead – Ro 6:1-12. When we are brought into the kingdom of God, all things are new and we receive the new name of Christian. The fact that no one knows this name underscores the fact that Christians are hidden w/ Christ – Col 3:3, 1 John 3:1, Mat 13:33-34. Then world has no interest or appreciation for the fact that we have become part of the kingdom.

 

Summary of the church:

The church can be summarized as one that physically exists in a very worldly area and endures during times of persecution, however, they have been entangled in worldly pleasures and not concerned that they may be causing their brethren to stumble.          

 

(2:18-29)  – The Church in Thyatira

 

(Rev 2:18)  And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass;

Thyatira – 4 occurrences (Rev 1:11, Rev 2:18, Rev 2:24, Acts 16:14)

 

• At Philippi:
  • And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us. (Act 16:14-15)
  • And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed. (Act 16:40)

Here we find three descriptions of Christ: Son of God, eyes like a flame of fire, and feet like fine brass. As we saw in the messages to the previous churches, the descriptions of Christ relate to the messages to the churches. We see that the Son of Man, which points to Christ’s humility and His ministry of dying for the sins of His people, relates to the fact that the church was characterized by service, love and patience. We see his feet as fine brass (Rev 1:15) relates to the fact that the church at Thyatira was characterized by their patience, service, faith and patience. Apparently, those in Thyatira were willing to suffer for the cause of Christ and lay their lives on the altar of service.

We also see the eyes of Christ, as a flame of fire. As we saw in 1:14, this refers to the fact that Christ is all-knowing and will judge the secrets of men. At the church of Thyatira, we see amongst the positive works of the church that there is grievous sin that will result in Judgment. Therefore, if there is no repentance, judgment is sure.

(Rev 2:19)  I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first.

At Thyatira, we find 5 good works stated:  1. deeds (Gr: ergon), 2. love (1 Cor 13), 3. Faith, 4. Service (ministry), 5. Patience. Therefore, we see that they performed good works. They stood for Christ. They ministered to people. They spread the Word. They showed true charity for people. They were concerned for their well-being and their spiritual condition. They were faithful. They maintained their testimony for Christ. They held to the Word of God. They are seen as a serving church. They helped those in need. They were concerned for people. They maintained patience. In other words, amongst difficulties, they did not retreat. They did not retreat from their convictions about Christ.

Also, we find that their deeds of late are greater than at first. In 2 Cor 3:18, we find that it is characteristic of believers that they are transformed from glory to glory. In other words, it is the norm in a Christian’s life that they were becoming closer and closer with God. They were driving sin out of their lives little by little.  We find that progressive sanctification is characteristic of all believers: Heb 10:10-14, 2 Cor 4:16,3:18,7:1, 1 Pet 1:2,15-16, Ps 1:1-6, Titus 2:14, Eph 5:26-27, Phil 1:6, John 17:17-19, 1 Thess 4:3-4, Ro 8:29, 2 Thess 2:13.

With all the positive things said about the Thyatira church, we find the following significant adverse conditions:

(Rev 2:20)  Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.

 

(Rev 2:21)  And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.

The problem at Thyatira was a woman teaching very wrong things in then church. It should be noted that this church is mixed. On the one hand, they were characterized by charity, patience, good works, etc. However, unlike the church at Ephesus, they did nothing about false teaching in then church.

Firstly, it should be observed that the Bible teaches that women should not teach or exercise authority over men. In the congregation, they should be silent (1 Tim 2:9-15, 1 Cor 14:34-35). These are very simple and basic instructions that the Word of God gives us. Although, true that there is neither male nor female when it comes to being saved or not (Gal 3:28), however, we must be obedient to the word of God when it teaches on ecclesiastical matters.  It should also be noted that the qualifications of elders includes the fact that they are to be the husband of one wife (i.e. be a male). Perhaps the church at Thyatira was so generous and patient, that they overlooked the fact that this woman should not teach at all over men, let alone speaking in the congregation.

Here, she called herself a prophetess. In other words, in the New Testament church time, she was claiming to be an oracle of God. This was contrary to God’s command that it would be males in then church that would bring forth the Gospel to the congregation.

It is interesting to observe that another notable woman came from Thyatira, Lydia (Acts 16:14f). It can be observed here that she was involved with business and in the mode of working outside of the home. Therefore, it may have been a cultural norm that woman in Thyraitra were more liberated than elsewhere. However, while Lydia conformed to a godly life, Jezebel was corrupted into exerting her authority over men in the church and presented herself as a prophetess in opposition to God’s Word.

It is important to look at the relationship of her name, Jezebel, to the Jezebel of the Old Testament.  The Jezebel of the Old Testament was married to Ahab the King of Israel. However, she was not of Israel. She was a Sidonian (Baal worshiper) who married King Ahab (1 Ki 16:29-33). It should also be noted that she was very aggressive and head strong. For example, when Ahab wished to purchase Naboth’s vineyard, he seemed to resign himself to Naboth’s will to keep his property. However, she caused Ahab to do evil by having Naboth killed – 1 Ki 21:25. The parallel to Thyatira is instructive to us. It is likely that the Jezebel of Thyatira was very headstrong and took command of the situation. Instead of remembering her position of importance of being a wife and mother and of bearing children (1 Tim 2:12-15, 1 Pet 3:1-3, Eph 5:22-33, etc), she wanted to be the leader. She claimed revelation from God which was not the true Gospel at all.

The two errors that she brought into the church were immorality and eating things sacrificed to idols. We should remember from the message to the church at Pergamos (see notes on 2:12-17), that these two sins were also present there. In fact, they are very seductive sins. The immorality points to fornication. Fornication, in the spiritual sense as we saw, points to rebellion from God and loving the things of the world. We have found another lover other than our betrothed husband, God. In other words, Jezebel likely taught that it was fine to be very much enamored with then things of the world. Be part of the world and maybe we can reach some for Christ may have been the attitude. The eating of things sacrificed to idols points to the things that we do that may cause our brothers to stumble. These are the debatable things in life that may be left better not to participate in. However, Jezebel taught people that they have freedom in Christ and there is no problem indulging in things that are not specifically prohibited in the Bible.

I gave her time to repent – God is patient (2 Pet 3:9, Ro 15:5, Ps 86:15, 145:8, Num 14:18, Ex 34:6)

(Rev 2:22)  Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.

 

(Rev 2:23)  And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.

Jezebel will be cast into a bed. The bed, in the Bible, refers to a place of spiritual sickness – Mat 9:2,6, Mk 2:4, 4:21, Lk 5:18, 8:16, 17:34,  Jer 31:8, 3:22, Ps 41:4, 103:1-4, 1 Pet 2:24, John 9:39, 12:40, Is 35:5-6, 53:3-5, Acts  28:27, Mal 4:2 or a place of Spiritual adultery ‑ Mat 12:39, James 4:4, Is 54:5, Eze 16:32, Rev 17:2, 18:9. Both, the bed of sickness and the bed of adultery ultimately merge into the same thought. When one is in rebellion to God they are spiritually sick (Ps 41:4, Jer 3:22, Ps 103:1-4). We must plead for God to heal us of our apostasy (Hos 14:4).

Jezebel is in a condition of not being saved. She is a false minister within the flock. She is spiritually sick. This who follow her in spiritual fornication will also be cast into the bed of spiritual sickness ultimately resulting is the second death. The statement that these will be cast into Great Tribulation. The Great Tribulation, which will be studied in great detail in future chapters, refers to a time of severe spiritual affliction. The term tribulation (Gr: thlipsis) literally means affliction. Although all Christians receive tribulation – 1 Pet 2:20-21, John 16:33, Acts 14:22, Ro 2:9, 5:3, 8:35, 2 Cor 1:4, 7:4, 2 Thess 1:4 (see notes on 2:8-11), we find that the Great Tribulation refers to a heightened period of tribulation at end of church age – Mat 24:21,29, Mk 13:24, Rev 7:14, etc.

Being thrown into Great Tribulation refers to a time of great deception, spiritual famine spiritual death (Rev 6:7-8, Mat 24, Lk 21, etc).

Her children, or those who are following her gospel, are also in the state of being spiritually sick. They are spiritually dead (Eph 2:2) because they are following a false gospel. It is important to note how our doctrines and what we believe about the Gospel, our witness, affects our children (whether spiritual or physical children) – Ro 5:12-21, Gen 19, Ex 11, 2 Sam 12:14-19, 1 Sam 3:13-14, 28:18-19, Hos 2:4, 4:13, 5:7, 9:11-16, 10:14, 13:16, Lam 5:7, Lev 20:5, 26:39-42, Job 21:19, Is 14:20-21, 65:6-7, Jer 32:18, Dan 6:24, Lk 19:44.

Christ is the One  who searches the minds and the hearts – Ps 7:9, 26:2, Ro 8:27, Lk 16:15. He knows all things, nothing is hidden from His sight. They results of what we do will receive retribution according to our deeds – Mat 16:27, Rev 22:12-15, etc

 

(Rev 2:24)  But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.

 

(Rev 2:25)  But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.

We see in verse 24 that we actually have a divided church. We have those who follow Jezebel and those who do not. Jezebel’s teaching is noted as the deep things of Satan which is false doctrine that may not be readily apparent. We see that the deep things of God (see 1 Cor 2:10, Eph 3:18, Ro 8:39, 11:33, Mk 4:5) refer to deeper spiritual knowledge of God.  Therefore, the deep things of Satan, are doctrines that on the surface may appear to have wisdom, but when thought through they are actually very wicked.

• … as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak (Rev 2:24)
  • Depths – Greek: bathos
    • Symbolically – basis / profound
  • But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of God. (1Co 2:10)
  • Depths of Satan – worshiping other gods and idols, but saying one is a Christian
    • And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. (Gen 3:4-5)
    • Lies about salvation / judgment / pride / self-love
    • / obedience to Satan

For example, when one is teaching that worldliness is acceptable, one could reason that it is good since it makes us more part of the world and we can reach others for Christ. But, what we forget is that God teaches us to come out of conformance to worldly desires (1 John 2:15-17, 2 Cor 6:14-18, etc.). Also, on the surface participation in debatable areas may appear to have benefit in exercising our Christian liberty, however, we must remember that we are to walk a life of caring for our brethren so that they do not stumble over these debatable areas (Ro 14, 1 Cor 8).  The following are the occurrences of the Greek word bathos (literally, profound, depth – G899 and its related forms in G900 and G901): Mar 4:5, Rom 8:39, Rom 11:33, Eph 3:18, Luk 5:4, 1Co 2:10, 2Co 8:2, Mat 13:5, Rev 2:24, Luke 6:48, John 4:11 and Acts 20:9.

The promise of no other burden reminds us that Christ’s burden is light – Mat 11:28-30, Ro 8:21, Gal 5:13, Ro 6:23, Mat 10:8, 1 Pet 2:16. It is God who is at work in us both to will and to do for His good pleasure (Phil 2:13). It is the Word of God which effectively works in us who believe (1 Thess 2:13). It is His power that works mightily in us (Col 1:29). The Christian walk for those who are truly saved is not an arduous task. It is God who is at work within us.

 

(Rev 2:26)  And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:

 

(Rev 2:27)  And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.

 

(Rev 2:28)  And I will give him the morning star.

 

(Rev 2:29)  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

We are promised that we are to have power over the nations. It is not that we desire authority or rule. But, it is the outcome. We are told that Satan will soon be crushed under our feet (Ro 16:20). If we are faithful to keep God’s command to the end we will ultimately be satisfied.

We find that Christians are to judge with Christ on Judgment Day:

                Give authority over the nations – Ps 2:8, 3:21, 20:4

                Rule with rod of iron – Rev 12:5, 19:15, Ps 2:9

                Vessel of potter are broken to pieces – Is 30:14, Jer 19:11, Jer 18, Ro 9:20-23

We find here the promise of Judgment day and vindication of those who through faith have persevered, they will ultimately be triumphant with Christ on Judgment Day. The breaking into pieces of the vessel point to destruction of those appointed to wrath on Judgment Day.

Being given the morning star points to the fact that we will be forever present with Christ. It is Christ who is the Sun of righteousness with healing in His wings (Mal 4:2, see also notes on Rev 1:16, 22:16, Num 24:17, 2 Pet 1:19). The brightness of Christ points to the fact that in God there will be no more darkness of sin and false teachings to be concerned with, only the ever present glory of God (1 John 1:1-7).

 

Summary of the church:

The church can be summarized as one that is very strong in service and in their endurance for the cause of Christ, but they have compromised by allowing a false female teacher to have a ministry in the church resulting in become worldly and not concerned that they may cause the brethren to stumble because of the things they are involved with.

 

(3:1-6)  – The Church in Sardis

 

(Rev 3:1)  And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.

Sardis – no other references in the Bible except Rev 3:1, Rev 3:1 and Rev 3:4

The description of Christ is that He has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. We recall from Rev 1:4 that the seven spirits refer to the complete perfection of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of Christ that goes into the world (1 Pet 1:10-12) bringing the Gospel to a lost world (John 14:26, 15:26, 16:7-11). The seven stars are the angels, or messengers, that bring the Gospel to the churches.

The description of Christ to the church of Sardis reminds them that it is Christ that is in control of the Gospel that they definitely need, being a dead church. The Word of God is living and active, sharper than a two-edged sword (Heb 4:12).

Christ is omniscient and knows all things (John 21:17, Acts 2:23, Dan 2:22, Ps 139:4, Ps 139:23-24, Job 14:16, etc). The eyes of the Lord go out into all places (Pr 15:3, Heb 4:13). Christ knows what goes on in the church. He knows their strengths and weaknesses. This should make us fear that God knows all that we do.

We see that the church has a name of being alive, but is dead (see 2 Tim 3:5).   In other words, they have the name of Christian (Acts 11:26, Acts 26:28, 1 Pet 4:16), but are spiritually dead (Col 2:13, Eph 2:1-10).  Christians have a new name as a member of the kingdom of God (Rev 2:17, Rev 3:12). Christians have eternal life and are never to die again (John 11:25). We have been raised with Christ to walk in newness of life (Ro 6:1-8). We have been born from above (John 3:3-8, 1 Pet 1:23). However, if we never have been saved, we are still dead in our sins (Eph 2:2). The church in Smyrna was by and large a congregation of those who have the name of Christ but are not saved.

 

(Rev 3:2)  Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.

 

(Rev 3:3)  Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

The church is commanded to be watchful and strengthen the things that remain. This church is at the point of extinction. There are some bright spots that remain and there is some truth still remaining. Even in the deadest church, some truth can be found. They are commanded to build upon that which remains. That which remains must be connected to the Scriptures. They need the pure milk of the Word to grow thereby (1 Pet 2:2). They must cleanse their way by the Word of God (Ps 119).

There works have not been found to be perfect or complete. There are elements of works that become a Christian, but they need to be worked on. There are remnants of truth and good works, but they are not complete. They must fulfill the law by the work of love proving faith (Ro 8:4, 2 Cor 10:6, Gal 5:14).

They must remember what they have received. They must remember the tradition of the Scriptures which can make us wise unto salvation (2 Tim 3:15). They, at one time, received the truth of the Scriptures, but over time they appear fell into behaviors that seem to indicate that they are unsaved. They must now repent. As we have already seen, it is only by God’s working that repentance may be gained.

• Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. (Act 20:31)

However, if they do not watch, damnation is certain. The idea of not watching refers to the fact that they are not searching the Scriptures. We see in 1 Thess 5:11 that when people think all is well with their souls (peace and safety), then sudden destruction comes upon them. The Lord comes as a thief in then night to those who are spiritually asleep and not cognizant of the Scriptures – see 1 Thess 5:1-11, Eph 5:18, Lk 21:34, Mat 24:42-51, 2 Pet 3:10, Rev 16:15. We must remember and be alert to the things that we have been warned of (Acts 20:31).

Like the days of Noah (Mat 16:27, 24:36-39, Lk 17:26-32), so is the coming of Christ. When people going on in their normal course of events, then destruction comes. People are concerned with their worldly affairs but not the affairs of God.

Those in Sardis are spiritually asleep. We see that this points to the fact that they are spiritually dead – see 1 Thess 4:14, 1 Cor 11:30, 15:20,51, John 11:11-12. All Christians are to look forward to coming of Christ – see 1 Cor 1:7, Ro 8:19, Micah 7:7, Heb 9:27-28, 1 John 3:1-3, Rev 22:20, Titus 2:13, Phil 3:20, Ro 5:1-2, 2 Pet 3:12. As we saw in Chapter 1, all believers must have a desire for the study of end events since we earnestly await and look forward to the Lord’s return.

Thief in the Night:

Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

(Mat 24:42-44)

To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

(1Th 3:13)

But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

(1Th 5:1-4)

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?

(2Pe 3:10-12)

Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

(Rev 3:3)

Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.

(Rev 16:15)

And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.

(Luk 12:39)

But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

(Mat 24:43-44)

• Remember:
  • Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.  (Act 20:31)
  • And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  (2Ti 3:15)
• Hold Fast:
  • And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increased with the increase of God. (Col 2:19)
• Repent:
  • Greek: metanoia (literally, another mind)
  • Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord (Act 3:19)
  • For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world works death. (2Co 7:10)

(Rev 3:4)  Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.

 

(Rev 3:5)  He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.

 

(Rev 3:6)  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Amongst any dead church, perhaps a few saved people can be found as in Sardis. We recall that many are called but only few are chosen (Mat 20:16, Mat 22:14). Many wish to be in the kingdom of God. Many flock to church on Sunday morning only to live in the world and its pleasures the rest of the week. We find that broad is the way destruction, but narrow is the way of life and there are only few that find it (Mat 7:13-23, Lk 13:24-30). There are only few left after the burning of the earth (Is 24:6). We wonder sometimes, if when Christ returns, will he find faith on the earth – Lk 18:8?

The soiled garments (see Zech 3:3, Jude 23) refers to the dirtiness of sin and the need for cleansing – Eze 36:25, Is 4:4, Eph 5:26, 2 Pet 1:9, Titus 2:14. The soiled garments are also a contrast to the fine linen (righteous acts) of the saints – see Rev 19:7-10. Those in Sardis who are not saved are in sin. They are in love with the world although they hold to a form of godliness (2 Tim 3:1-9).

The saved in Sardis will walk in white (see notes on 1:14-15) – Rev 3:4-5, Rev 4:4, Rev 6:11, Rev 7:9-13, Rev 19:8, Rev 19:14. This refers to the purity of being found righteous in Christ. The garments (see notes on 1:13) refers to the fact that believers are clothed with Christ and are no longer naked in sin and shame. They are worthy due to the righteousness in Christ – 2 Cor 6:14, 2 Tim 4:8, Ro 3:21-31, Ro 4:3, Ro 4:22, Ro 8:10.

Much debate has arisen over the statement that their names will not be erased from the Book. It is presumed by some that salvation can be lost. This is in conflict with much other Scripture that teaches that God will keep us from falling and will complete His good work in us (Jude 23, Phil 1:6). However, we find the following facts:

• There are multiple books – Rev 20:12, Rev 20:15, Dan 7:10
• Lamb’s book of life – Rev 21:27
• Book of remembrance – Mal 3:16
• Book of Life – Rev 20:12, Rev 20:15, Rev 21:27, Phil 4:3, Is 4:3, Dan 12:1
• God will not erase the saved person’s name from the book of life – Rev 3:5
• Some names are not written from the foundation of the earth – Rev 13:8, Rev 17:8 (see also Eph 1:3-4)
• Names recorded in heaven – Lk 10:20, Eze 13:9, Heb 12:23, Ps 87:6, Is 4:3
• Names can be blotted out from Thy book – Ex 32:32-33, Ps 69:28 (Rev 3:5)

The above Biblical facts reveal that there is a Book of Life written from the foundation of the world that contains all the names of those who will be saved (Eph 1:3-4). It is from this book that no names will be erased. But, there is another Book of Life that contains all the people’s names who would ever live. From this book, the unsaved person’s names will be erased as they spiritually die because of sin, do not repent of their sins, and die unsaved. In the final count, the books (plural) will each contain the same names, that of the believers.

Summary of the church:

The church can be summarized as one that is by and large populated with those who are unsaved and near the point of not being a church anymore.

 

(3:7-13) – The Church in Philadelphia

 

(Rev 3:7)  And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;

Philadelphia – G5359, G5360, G5361 – literally, brotherly love / affection / kindness (brotherhood)

• G5359 – Rev 1:11, Rev 3:17
• G5360 / G5361 – 7 other occurrences besides G5359 – Rom 12:10, 1Th 4:9, Heb 13:1, 1Pe 1:22, 2Pe 1:7 (2), 1 Pet 3:8
  • Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another (Rom 12:10)
  • But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. (1Th 4:9)
  • Let brotherly love continue. (Heb 13:1)
  • And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. (2Pe 1:7)
  • Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently (1Pe 1:22)
  • Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous (1Pe 3:8)

The fact that Christ is holy is without dispute. He was the sinless One who committed no sin, neither was deceit in His mouth (1 Pet 2:22). He who was without sin, became sin for us that we should be made the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5:21). We also are taught from the Scripture that it is the Lord alone who is holy (Rev 15:4, Ex 15:11, 1 John 1:5, Is 6:3, Lk 4:34). The Lord, Yahweh, the Rock is the One whose eyes are too pure to approved evil (Hab 1:13).

Jesus is also described as He who is True (see also John 1:14, John 14:6, Mat 24:35, Rev 3:14, Rev 6:10, Rev 15:3, Rev 16:7, Rev 19:2, Rev 19:22, Rev 21:5). This reminds us of Christ’s intimate relationship with truth. In God, there is no deceit. Everything God tells us in true. We are instructed that God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). We are also instructed that Jesus is the Word of God (John 1:1). Therefore, the Lord is reminding us here that the Bible is intimately connected with the Lord Jesus Christ and that it is completely reliable and true.

… he that hath the key of David

Jesus is also noted as having the Key of David (Is 22:22, Mat 16:19). This points to His authority and power in controlling the Kingdom of God (Is 22:22, Mat 16:19, Mat 28:18, Lk 1:32, Rev 1:18, Rev 5:5).  It is Jesus who controls who may enter into salvation.  Salvation is the work of God, not man (Eph 2:8-10).

This description of Christ points to the fact that it is Christ that controls salvation (Is 22:22). Christ has chosen His people (John 15:16) for salvation; they have not chosen Him. The key reminds us of the door that is locked. No man can open the door. It is Christ who must open the door. David was the blessed Psalmist who represented Christ in so many ways. David represented the line of righteous kings who typify Christ. The key of David represents the authority and the power to control the entrance to the kingdom of God (Is 22:22, Mat 16:19, Mat 18:18-19, Rev 1:18).

He that openeth, and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth

• And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open. (Isa 22:22)

Jesus is the door to salvation (John 10:3, John 10:9). He is also the doorkeeper (John 10:3). He has the keys to the kingdom (See on keys – Rev 1:18, Rev 9:1, Rev 20:1) and has sovereign authority over salvation. Even faith is given by God (Phil 1:29). Once the door is closed, no man can enter into the wedding feast (Mat 25:1-12). See also John 10:3, John 10:9, Rev 3:20, Job 11:10, Job 12:14, Mat 16:19, Mat 25:1-12.  Jesus choses His people:

• Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. (Joh 15:16)
• Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began (2Ti 1:9)
• According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will (Eph 1:4-5)

(Rev 3:8)  I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

I know thy works

God is completely omniscient. Nothing escapes His notice. This serves as a reminder that there are no secret sins. All things are laid bare before Him.

• Jesus is Omnipresent- Mat 18:20, 2:20, John 3:13
• Eyes of the Lord ‑ Pr 15:3, Jer 16:17, Heb 4:13, 2 Chr 16:9, Ps 10:8, Zech 4:10, Job 34:21, Job 24:23, Job 31:4, Pr 5:21
• Knowledge ‑ Dan 2:22, Ps 139:2‑4, Ps 139:23‑24, Job 14:16, Job 31:4, Eze 11:5, Num 32:23, Hos 7:2, Acts 2:23, Pr 15:3, John 21:17

Behold I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it

This points back to Rev 3:7 (see also 1 Cor 16:9, 2 Cor 2:12, Col 4:3).  Jesus is sovereign over salvation. Once He opens the door of salvation, no man can resist His will. No man can shut the door. Once a person is saved, their salvation cannot be lost. Christians have eternal security (Phil 1:6, Jude 24, etc). Christians have eternal life. Life could not be eternal if salvation could be lost.

• Door Open in Heaven ‑ Rev 4:1. Eze 1:1, Mat 3:16, Acts 7:56, 10:11
• Salvation ‑ John 10:1‑9, 1 Cor 16:9, 2 Cor 2:12, Col 4:3, Rev 3:8, Rev 3:20
• Salvation at second coming ‑ Mat 24:33, Mk 13:29, Lk 12:36, James 5:9, Mat 25:10
• Door = Jesus ‑ John 10:7-9

… for thou hast a little strength

This phrase points to the fact that in the physical realm, those in Philadelphia did not have much political or physical strength (Greek word ‘dunamis’, which means power). They were in the midst of persecution and trials and other than the grace of God, had no strength to do anything of themselves. They learned not to trust in riches but in God.  We recall that it is by Christ that Christians are strengthened (Phil 4:13).  They are able to all things through Christ which strengthens them. This passages also points to the weaknesses that Christians inherently have and their need to trust in Christ in all their daily endeavors:

• For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (2Co 12:8-10)

… and hast kept my word

The Word is the Bible. God has revealed Himself as the Word of God (John 1:1). To keep points to obedience. All Christians are Holy. All Christians will be obedient (see 1 John 2:3-6, 1 Pet 1:1-2) to the commands of Scripture in their innermost self. With their recreated spirit, they always want to follow God although the flesh at times gets in the way (Ro 7:14-25).  All Christians will be obedient – 1 John 2:3-6, Heb 5:8-9, 1 Pet 1:1-2, John 15:9-14, Ps 103:17-18, Eph 5:5-6, Mat 7:21-27, 12:46-50, 13:41, Mk 3:31-35, Lk 8:19-21, James 1:22-27, 2:26, John 3:36, 14:15,23, Lk 11:28, Ro 2:12-16, 6:16, Rev 1:3, Heb 10:36-39, 1 Cor 12:3, Hos 14:9 , Ro 1:5.

… and has not denied My name

In the Bible, names were often given to people to represent some type of truth about a person.  For example, Abram’s name was changed from Abram (High Father) to Abraham (Father of a multitude) – Gen 17:5.  The name ‘Jesus’ literally means Jehovah or Yahweh saves and was given to Him because he was to save His people from their sins (Mat 1:21).  Therefore, to deny the name of Jesus is to deny that He will save His chosen people from their sins.

To deny Christ and His name is also to deny all that He is. This is characteristic of one who is unsaved (2 Tim 2:12, Mat 10:33, Rev 2:13, Mat 26:70-72, Lk 12:9, Acts 3:13-14, 1 Tim 5:8, 1 John 2:22-23, Jude 4).  A name often in the Bible describes the person to whom it belongs. Christ is the Lamb of God, but also the Judge.  In fact, there are over 100 names of Christ in the Bible.  To not deny His name is to be faithful to all the Bible teaches (Acts 20:28).  False teachers often remove from the Bible which amounts to denying Christ (Rev 22:18). To not deny Christ also points to the fact that a Christian is not to have any fear of proclaiming the whole Gospel in light of possible persecution (Mat 10:33). Christ’s name represents all that He is (Prophet, Priest and King):

• Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. (1Jn 2:22-23)

 

(Rev 3:9)  Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.

Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie

 

The synagogue was the meeting place of the Jews to perform their religious service. There were apparently many physical Jews that lived in the vicinity of the church of Philadelphia. They professed to be Jews and therefore would testify to be God’s chosen people (Deut 7:7). However, they lied. The true Israel is the spiritual Israel of God which is comprised of all Christians of all time (Ro 2:28-29, 9:6-9, Phil 3:3, Gal 3:27-29). Therefore, anyone who claims to be God’s people are lying if they are not Christians. In fact, they lie and therefore are of their Father the devil (John 8:44).  Satan is the Father of lies and his ministers appear often as ministers of a gospel (2 Cor 11:11-15), but in reality are evil. See also notes on 2:8-11.

…behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet

 

This is a symbol used in the Bible to signify that on Judgment Day all will be made right (Is 45:14, 49:23, 60:14). That is, on Judgment Day, the saints come with Christ to judge the world. Believers reign with Christ in spiritual places (see Rev 1:6, Rev 1:17). Also, on Judgment Day, Satan will be crushed under the believer’s feet (Ro 16:20). This phrase points to an important theme of the book of Revelation, Judgment Day. The feet represent subjection. To be under someone’s feet means to be under their subjection (Gen 3:15, Heb 1:13, Heb 2:8-15, etc). When Christ returns for judgment, He will be accompanied by his armies of believers to do battle at the Armageddon of Judgment Day.

… and to know that I have loved you

On Judgment Day, those who are unsaved will understand that God loves Christians (John 3:16). This also points to the fact that God does not love all men. In fact, He hates the wicked (Ps 5:5, Mal 1:2-3).  At Judgment Day, the unsaved will realize the wrath of God and His hatred for them as wicked people.

Persecution from Organized Religion (Church):

• Israel was the church in the wilderness – Acts 7:38
• Israel (Judah) persecuted / killed the prophets of God – Mat 23:37, Mat 23:30, Mat 5:12, Mat 21:35-36, Mat 22:6; 2Ch 24:21-22; Neh 9:26; Jer 2:30, Jer 26:23; Mar 12:3-6; Luk 20:11-14; Act 7:51-52; 1Th 2:15; Rev 11:7, Rev 17:6
  • Jeremiah persecuted – Jer 15:10-15, Jer 17:15-18, Jer 18:18-23, Jer 26:1, Jer 32;2, Jer 33:1, Jer 36:26, Jer 37:1, Jer 38:1-6,
• Pharisees / Scribes / Lawyers (Jews) persecuted and sought to kill Christ – John 5:16-18, John 7:19, John 5:23, John 8:54, John 8:58, John 10:30, John 10:33, John 14:9, John 14:23; Zech 13:7
• Jews delivered Jesus to Pontius Pilate (Roman) – John 18:28-32, John 18:40, John 19:15, Mat 27:1-2, Mat 27:17-25, Mk 15:1-5, Mk 15:11, Lk 23:1-5, Luke 23:16-23, Acts 2:23-24, Acts 3:13, Acts 5:30, Acts 13:27-28
• Jewish leaders persecuted apostles

• • Acts 4:3-22, Acts 5:17-42: Peter and John arrested by Sadducees, questioned by the Sanhedrin, and flogged
  • Acts 6:8-8:1: Stephen is arrested by the people, the elders and the scribes
  • Acts 8:3, Acts 9:2: Saul imprisons many Christians
  • Acts 9:23-24, 20:19, 23:12-14: Jews plot to kill Paul
  • Acts 12:1-5: King Herod (believed to be Agrippa I) executes James and imprisons Peter
  • Acts 13:44-51: Paul and Barnabas being driven out of Antioch of Pisidia.
  • Acts 14:5-6: Jews and Gentiles attempt unsuccessfully to stone Paul and Barnabas
  • Acts 14:19-20: Jews stone Paul nearly to death
  • Acts 16:16-24: Paul and Silas are flogged and imprisoned by Gentiles in Thessalonica.
  • Acts 17:1-15: Paul and others are chased out of successive towns by Jews
  • Acts 18:12-17: Paul is made to appear before the Roman proconsul Gallop in Achaia, who dismisses the case as an internal dispute. Sosthenes is then beaten by the Jews
  • Acts 19:23-41: Worshippers of Artemis in Ephesus riot against Paul and his companions, but they are not harmed.

• • Acts 19:27-28:30: In his final journey to Rome, Paul is taken by Jews in Jerusalem to be killed, but is rescued by Roman soldiers who imprison him. He testifies before the Sanhedrin (Acts 22:30-23:11), and the governor Felix at Caesarea (Acts 24:1-27) before using his status as a Roman citizen (Acts 22:29) to have his case heard by the emperor.
  • 2 Cor 11:23-26 – persecuted by the Jews on numerous occasions

• Satan / false ministers infiltrate Christian Church during church age
  • 2 Cor 11:3-4,12-15, Jude 3-4, Gal 2:4, Phil 1:15‑17, Lk 20:3‑8, Mk 11:27‑33, Mat 21:23‑27, Eph 4:14, Ro 16:17‑18, Gen 3:4‑5, 1 John 4:1‑6, Mat 23:1‑12, 2 Cor 11:12‑15, Mat 23:27‑28, Phil 2:21, Mk 12:38‑40, 2 Tim 3:13, Phil 3:17‑19, 1 Tim 6:3‑5, 2 Cor 2:17, Ro 16:17‑18, Mat 23:14, Titus 1:10‑16,  2 Pet 2:1-2, Eph 4:14, etc.
• Persecution by the church
  • Mat 5:10-12, Mat 10:23, Mat 23:34, Lk 11:49, Luke 21:12, John 5:16, John 15:20, Acts 7:52, Acts 9:4-5, Acts 22:7-8, Acts 26:14-15, Acts 22:4, Acts 26:11, 1 Cor 15:9, Gal 1:13, Gal 1:23, Phil 3:9, Acts 8:1, Gal 4:29, Rev 12:13, 1 Thess 2:15 w/Acts 17:5,13 (also 2 Thess 1:4), Acts 13:42-50, Gal 5:11, Gal 6:12, 2 Tim 3:11-12, Acts 13:50, Acts 14:2, Acts 14:19
• Great Tribulation – Church becomes the harlot, Babylon – Rev 17-18
  • Rev 17:6 – being drunk with the blood of the saints and the blood of the witnesses to Jesus
  • Man of sin (Antichrist) takes seat in temple – 2 Thess 2:1-4
  • Mat 24:9-10 – Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
  • Dan 8:23-24 … when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up … and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.
  • Rev 13:7 – And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

(Rev 3:10)  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Because thou hast kept the word of my patience

To keep the Word is to be obedient to the commands of God.  All Christians will earnestly desire to be obedient to the Word of God (1 John 2:3-6). The fact that the Word of God is called the word of patience points to the fact that the Word of God must be kept by faith. Many commands of the Bible do not have immediate gratification. That is, to be obedient to God is to trust in a future reward of glory. Therefore, patience points to faith.

• Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. (Rev 14:12)
• I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. (Rev 1:9)

I will also keep thee from the hour of temptation

Those who are obedient to the Word of God are Christians. They have become saved and indwelt with the Holy Spirit (Ro 8:9, 2 Tim 1:14). Therefore, in their spirit they always want to be obedient to God (Ro 8:1-9, 7:14-25). Because they are saved, they will not endure the hour of temptation or Judgment Day. The hour elsewhere also points to the day of Judgment (e.g. Mat 24:36, Rev 11:13, 14:7, 17:12). Judgment Day is ultimately the day of temptation or trial. The unsaved will be judged by the things written in the Book. However, believers are not to be judged again – see John 5:24-29.  The word ‘hour’ reminds us of the two following hours:

• Judgment of Christ on the Cross – Dan 3:6, Mk 14:35-41, John 2:4, 8:20, John 5:25
• Coming of Christ / Judgment – Mat 24:36, Mat 24:42, Mat 24:44, Mat 24:50, Mat 25:13, Rev 9:15, Rev 11:13, Rev 14:7, Rev 17:12, Rev 8:10, Rev 8:17-19, John 5:25-30

The hour in view in this context is the Day of Judgment.

… which will come upon the whole world

All men shall stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ (Ro 14:10, 2 Cor 5:10). For those who have been saved, crucified with Christ (Gal 2:16-20), the judgment on Christ will atone for their sins. For those who are not saved, they will be resurrected in a general resurrection to stand accountable for their sins.

… to try them that dwell upon the earth

All people who are unsaved that came from the earth will be judged and found guilty of thier sins. The reference to the earth reminds the readers that man is but flesh and connected to the physical. The creation is in a fallen condition and in corruption. This is due to the fall of man.

 

(Rev 3:11)  Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.

Behold I come quickly

As examined in Rev 1:1, life in principle is short. It is appointed for man to die and then the judgment (Heb 9:27). In other words, Christ can say some 2000 years ago that He comes quickly because for all people their life is a wisp of vapor. They are like grass that quickly perishes. Also, for God, one day is as a 1000 years and 1000 years as one day. Therefore, from God’s perspective, He comes in a short time.

Hold that fast which thou hast

Although eternal security is a fact of Scripture, it is also true that God commands believers to hold fast or persevere. This is a command that all Christians will keep because God is able to keep them from falling and preserve them to the day of Christ (Phil 1:6, Jude 24). Believers are to hold fast to the grand inheritance that they have been freely given (Ro 8:32). So, the command to persevere is a holy command of God, however, it is God working within them that causes them to be obedient to this command (Phil 2:13).

• But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. (Heb 3:6)
• Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1Co 1:8)
• Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy (Jud 1:24)

… that no man may take your crown

The crown referred to here is the crown of eternal life (1 Cor 9:25, James 1:12, etc.) and reflects the fact that believers are kings and a royal priesthood. The idea that one could-take that away from a Christian will not actually occur. This phrase refers to the fact that there are many false teachers sent out by Satan (2 Cor 11:11-15) and that the devil walks about as a roaring lion seeking someone to devour (1 Pet 5:8). In that sense there are those who wish for Christians to err. However, God will keep them from falling (Phil 1:6). The book of Hebrews addresses the need for perseverance (Heb 3:6, Heb 3:14). This does not contradict the doctrine of eternal security, but complements it. God commands Christians to be believe, be obedient and persevere, but they, in themselves are not able to do it. However, God works within believers to enable and cause them to believe, be obedient and persevere (Phil 2:13). Believers must make their election sure (2 Pet 2:10). Christians are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation (1 Pet 1:5).

Coming Quickly – see notes on Rev 1:1

(Rev 3:12)  Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

Him-that overcometh I will make a pillar in the temple of my God

The overcomers (i.e. those who are saved), will be as pillars. Pillars are those items that support the building. The pillar in the Bible is related to the truth (1 Tim 3:15) in that Christians will follow the truth of the Word of God. Each Christian has a mandate from God to be a pillar of truth upholding the temple (or church) of God. It is each believer’s responsibility to be a witness to the truth of God in the church.

• • Temple: believers (Acts 7:48,17:24, 1 Cor 3:16-17, 6:19, 2 Cor 6:16, Eph 2:21, 2 Thess 2:4, Rev 11:1-3, 21:22)
  • Pillar: church (true Christian) as holder of truth (1 Tim 3:15, Rev 10:1, Gal 2:5, Jer 1:18, 1 Ki 7:21)

…and he shall go no more out

 

Once more, the readers are provided with a reminder of eternal security. Once one is saved, they enter the temple of God never to leave again.  Salvation Cannot be Lost – John 6:37-40, Jude 23-24, Ro 8:29-30, 35-39, 2 Cor 1:22, etc.

…and I will write upon him the name of my God

 

When one is saved, they become intimately connected to God. The name of God reveals the character and nature of God. To have the name of God is to be called a Christian. It is to be identified with Christ.  As we saw in Rev 2:17, there is a reference to Christians as a stone that has a new name which no one knows.  This must refer to the name of Christ – see Is 56:5, 62:2, 65:15, Rev 14:1-3, 19:12, 22:4. We see that when we are saved we are a new creation 2 Cor 5:17. The old man is dead – Ro 6:1-12. When we are brought into the kingdom of God, all things are new and we receive the new name of Christian. The fact that no one knows this name underscores the fact that Christians are hidden w/ Christ – Col 3:3, 1 John 3:1, Mat 13:33-34. Then world has no interest or appreciation for the fact that we have become part of the kingdom.

Write on him the name of God and the New Jerusalem (see notes on 2:12-17)

• New Jerusalem – Rev 21:2,9-27, 2 Sam 24:16, Is 65:18,52:1 (see Rev 11:2-4 notes)
• City of God – Heb 11:10,16, 12:22, 13:14, Is 45:13, 48:2, 60:14, 62:12, 66:6, Eze 48:35
• New name – see 2:17 notes

…and the name of the city of my God

 

The name of God’s city is also on the Christian. In other words, the believer is first identified with God but is also identified with the city of God which is kingdom of God. Therefore, Christians are not only identified with God but with His entire nation or people. No Christian is an island to Himself. He is connected with all Christians.

…which is New Jerusalem

 

The city of God is not the old physical city of Jerusalem. It is the new heavenly Jerusalem (Heb 12:22) that is intimately connected with the fact that all Christians are part of spiritual Israel. Christians are part of God’s divine government and kingdom. The physical Jerusalem as the center of divine worship in the Old Covenant is a type of the real kingdom that all Christians are part of.

…which cometh down out of heaven from my God

 

There is a Day coming in which heavenly Jerusalem will come down. This New Jerusalem will exist in the New Heavens and the New Earth.  God will descend and dwell with His people (see Rev 21). The New Jerusalem which is the church itself (Rev 21:2) will descend to the New Earth in the eternal state. This symbolic points to a coming day in which God will be with His people.

…and I will write upon him my new name

The name of God will be in the foreheads of His people (Rev 22:4, Rev 2:27, Rev 7, etc). The new name points to the fact that God recreates His people in their soul existence at salvation (2 Cor 5:17) and their spiritual bodies at the resurrection (1 Cor 15). At the resurrection, all things will be as new. There will be a new heavens and a new earth (Rev 21:1).

 

(Rev 3:13)  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Summary of the church:

The church of Philadelphia is a church that has suffered persecution and has persevered. They have manifested the genuineness of their faith with obedience to the Word of God.  They are an obedient, persecuted church of little strength, but loved of Christ.

 

(3:14-22) – The Church in Laodicea

 

(Rev 3:14)  And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;

Laodiceans – (G2992 / G2994, literally, people of justice) – 6 occurrences – Rev 1:11, Rev 3:14

• For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh (Col 2:1)
• Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. (Col 4:12-16)
  • Nearby Colossae, epistle to Laodiceans not in Bible

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write – The Laodiceans are a sad example of a church that has become a compromising church. But, they are still a church and have a messenger from God warning them of impending judgment.

These things say the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness – Christ is described as the Amen or the truth.  The word ‘Amen’ means firm and is used extensively through the Bible.  In the New Testament, this Hebrew word often is translated as ‘verily’ or ‘truly’ (e.g., Mat 5:18, Mat 6:2, Mat 6:5, etc., etc.).  He is the Word of God (John 1:1). He is also the perfect fulfillment of faith. In fact, it is His faithfulness; it is the faithful of Christ that saves (Gal 2:16, Phil 3:9). It is the faith of Christ that is given to believers as a gift (Eph 2:8-9). It then becomes their faith by which they are saved. Christ was faithful in that He patiently endured the cross as a perfect example of obedience (Heb 5:9).  Although scourged and blasphemed, He did not sin. He came as a Lamb to be sacrificed. Jesus testified before Pontius Pilate and made the good confession (1 Tim 6:13).  In Rev 3:14, Jesus is called the faithful and true witness.  Isaiah says that Jesus Christ would be given as a witness to the people, a leader and commander.  Christians have also been given the faith of Christ (Eph 2:8-9) as a gift, by which they are saved (Gal 2:16, see also Gal 3:2, Gal 3:5, Gal 3:7, Gal 2:20, Phil 3:9, Ro 3:22, Ro 1:17, Rev 2:13, 14:12).

• Christ is the faithful one ‑ Rev 1:5, Rev 3:14, Rev 1:9, Rev 19:11 (name is Faithful), Heb 10:23, 1 Cor 1:9, 1 Cor 10:13, 1 Thess 5:24, 1 John 1:9, Is 49:7
• God’s words are faithful and true – Rev 21:5, Rev 22:6
• Faithful – 2 Tim 2:13, Deut 7:9, Is 11:5, Ps 36:5, Lam 3:22-23, Heb 10:23
• The Faith of Christ saves – Gal 2:16,20, Phil 3:9, Ro 3:22
• True – see notes on Rev 3:7

The beginning of the creation of God – The word beginning is the Greek word ‘arche’ which literally means source or architect (John 1:3, 1:10, 1 Cor 8:6, Col 1:16, Heb 1:2).  Although some have abused this phrase to teach that Christ was the first created, the phrase cannot mean that. It means that he is the source or architect of creation (John 1:1-3).  Jesus is the creator ‑ Acts 17:24f, Col 1:16, Gen 1:1, Eph 3:9, Rev 4:11, John 1:3, 10, 1 Cor 8:6, Heb 1:2.

Therefore, the description of Christ reminds the reader that Christ is God. He has created all things and is the source of truth and faithfulness. These are all issues that the Laodiceans need to reckon with in dealing with their compromise and sin.

 

(Rev 3:15) I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

I know thy works

Christ is omniscient and knows all things (John 21:17, Acts 2:23, Dan 2:22, Ps 139:4, Ps 139:23-24, Job 14:16, etc). The eyes of the Lord go out into all places (Pr 15:3, Heb 4:13). Christ knows what goes on in the church. He knows their strengths and weaknesses. This should make us fear that God knows all that we do.

… that thou are neither cold not hot, I would thou were cold or hot

The picture of cold points to the blessings of salvation.  A cup of cold water refers to sharing the Gospel with one in need (Mat 10:42).  Pr 25:25 tells us that as cold waters are to a thirsty soul so is good news (i.e. the Gospel) from a distant land. To be cold therefore, in context refers to those who bring the Gospel. On the other hand, to be hot points to judgment. The idea of a hot furnace is used as a portrait of hell itself (e.g. Dan 3:22, Jud 2:14).

To be hot or cold reminds the reader that the word of God is as a sharp two-edged sword (Heb 4:12) Believers are as an aroma of death and also an aroma of life (2 Cor 2:14-17). The dual nature of the Word of God (salvation and judgment) cannot be denied. Therefore, to be neither cold nor hot points to compromise. Christians are warned that they must bring the whole counsel of God and not compromise (Acts 20:27, 2 Tim 4:3, Eze 33:7-9, Is 30:10, Jer 6:14). The fact that the Laodicenas had compromised the Word of God is a significant error of false teachers which will result in judgment as will be examined shortly.

Neither cold nor hot (lukewarm)

• • Lukewarm – gr: chloros – pale, green – (Mk 6:39, Rev 6:8, Rev 8:7, Rev 9:4, Jer 30:6)
  • Cold: salvation (Pr 25:25, Mat 10:42)
  • Hot: judgment (Ps 6:1, Ps 38:1, Dan 3:22, Ex 22:22-24, Ex 32:10-22, Deut 9:19, Jud 2:14, Jud 3:8 ,Jud 6:39, Jud 10:7, etc.)
  • Word of God is a two-edged sword – see notes on Rev 1:16 (Lukewarm ‘compromise – see Acts 20:27, 2 Tim 4:3, Eze 33:7-9, Is 30:10, Jer 6:14)
  • Cold and hot are rare words in the Bible (in original languages)
  • Gospel includes judgment – Ro 2:16

 

Verses commanding no compromise

• For we are unto God a sweet savoir of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savoir of death unto death; and to the other the savoir of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. (2Co 2:15-17)
• Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. (Act 20:26-27)
• I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. (Gal 1:6-7)
• For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb 4:12)

 

(Rev 3:16) So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot

The term lukewarm is added to the argument. The term ‘lukewarm’ is from the Greek ‘chloros’ meaning pale or light green (see also Mk 6:39, Rev 6:8, 8:7, 9:4, Jer 30:6). In Rev 6:8 this is the color of the horse whose rider brings the four sore judgments of famine, wild beasts, sword, and death. This color is tied to judgment and also that which is green such as grass (Mk 6:39, Rev 8:7, 9:4). In Jer 30:6, paleness is used as a symbol of judgment. Therefore, the word lukewarm points to the condition of being under the wrath of God.

I will spue thee out of my mouth – The idea of spit in the Bible refers to shame and judgment (e.g., Is 50:6, Deut 25:9, Num 12:14, Job 30:10, Jer 25:27).  The thought of spitting those who are lukewarm out of the mouth of God therefore points to the fact that it is God’s word that results in the shame and rejection of the Laodiceans symbolized by the spit.  It can also be observed that Christ was spit at on the cross – Is 50:6, Mat 26:67, Mat 27:30, Mar 10:34, Mar 14:65, Mar 15:19, which symbolized the shame of being found guilty and sentenced to death on the cross.  Jesus also healed the blind / deaf by the His spit – Mk 7:33, Mk 8:23, John 9:6.  This could be understood as symbolizing the fact that Jesus would be put to shame and judged to provide healing for His people.

The mouth of Christ is where the sharp two-edged sword proceeds, which is a symbol for where the Word of God is found (see Rev 1:16, Rev 2:12, Heb 4:12, etc.).  The church is supposed to bring the Word of God.  However, the Laodiceans were to be put to shame and judged by being cast out of the mouth of Christ.  There candlestick of supporting the deliverance of the Gospel is soon to be removed.

(Rev 3:17) Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:

Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing

 

The Laodiceans also were well off. That may not by necessity be a sin, however, they said because they were rich they did not have need of anything. This resulted in their pride and the fact that their faith was now in things rather than in God. The story of the Rich Fool (Lk 12) illustrates the futility of trusting in one’s own abilities and riches. The Bible warns that the love of money is the root of all evil (1 Tim 6:10). Those who become materially rich are generally not rich towards God. The Bible warns people that they must take up their cross and follow Christ (Mat 16:24-26). They must forsake all to follow Christ (Mat 19:27, Lk 5:11). This points to the fact that one must not trust in physical things but rather the spiritual things (Col 3:1-4).

Rich – Deceitfulness of riches (see notes on 2:8-11)

• I have become rich – Hos 12:8, 13:6, Ps 62:10, Zech 11:5, 1 Cor 4:7ff, Mat 5:3
• Must take cross and follow – Mat 10:38, 16:24-26, Mk 8:34-38, Lk 9:23-25, 14:27

• Must forsake all – Mat 19:27-29, Lk 5:11, Luk 18:28-30; Mat 4:20, Mat 10:37, Mar 1:18-25, Mar 10:21, Mar 10:29-30; Php 3:7-8

• Easier for a camel to enter – Mat 19:23-24, Mk 10:25, Lk 18:25
• Rich young ruler – Mat 19:16-24, Mk 10:17-30, Lk 18:18-30
• Do not love the world – 1 John 2:15-17

…knowest not that thou are…

The five descriptions that follow point to the utter depravity of man. Man without the Holy Spirit are spiritually blind and deaf. They have not the knowledge of the Bible. They are blind to their sin condition and there need of a Savior.

Wretched (never-ending trial / suffering)

 

To be wretched points to the fact that man is unable to merit any spiritual good in his depraved state. The same word is used in Ro 7:24 (see also Ro 3:16, James 5:1) where Paul speaks of his inability even as a Christian to do all that he wanted to do. It was because of his wretchedness in the flesh. Therefore, the first truth one needs to know is that he is unable in his own strength to come to God or merit any spiritual good.

Miserable

 

This term is used two other times in 1 Cor 15:19 where the Bible states that if one has hope only in this world, he is miserable. Therefore, to be miserable points to a person who hopes and trusts in the world’s system. In short, he places his trust in the world instead of God. Therefore, one must recognize that the world cannot provide solutions to our spiritual needs.

Poor

 

To be spiritual poor is not to have the riches of salvation. To be spiritual rich is to be given the grace of God (Eph 1:7, Eph 18, Eph 2:7, Phil 4:17). Therefore, one must understand that the world cannot provide riches. It is only the grace of God that can provide true riches in heaven.

Blind

 

To be spiritually blind means to not be able to see the truths of God. Even the revelation that is naturally given to man may not be acknowledged (Ro 1:18-23). Therefore, to spiritually see, one must acknowledge that it is through God only that one can see the way to salvation. Otherwise, even the obvious truths of God can be perverted and twisted into faint images of the truth.

• Mar 8:18  – Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?
• Joh 12:40  – He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.
• Rom 11:8  – (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.

Naked

In many places throughout the Bible, we find the portrait of nakedness refer to the fact that we are exposed and in the shame of sin. Being uncovered points to the shame and nakedness of sin (Gen 3:7, Rev 3:17‑18, 2 Cor 5:3, Eze 16:7‑8,22,36‑39, Hos 2:3, Gen 3:7,10‑11, Deut 22:30, 1 Sam 24:4-11, Ruth 3:7-9, Hos 2:10, Eze 23:29, Is 47:2-3, Jer 27:20, Jer 13:22-26, Lam 1:9, Nah 3:5, Rev 16:15).

We also see that there was a time that Christ was stripped and exposed as naked. This, of course, was at the cross (Mat 27:35, Mk 15:24, John 19:24). This is a portrait that Christ became sin for us that we may become the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5:21). Christ had to experience the humiliation of bearing our sins on the cross so that we could have eternal life.

To be spiritually naked means to have one’s sins exposed. To be a Christian, one must see that he is sinful and in need of a covering. It is the robe of Christ’s righteousness that is needed for a covering of the bare naked sin that people have (Is 61:10). One must be clothed with Christ to be saved (Gal 3:27).

I know your deeds – Jesus Christ is omniscient (1 John 3:20, Ps 147:5, Heb 4:13, Ps 139:1-4, Acts 1:24).

(Rev 3:18)  I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

I counsel thee – God’s counsel is the Word of God. His testimonies are a delight and are Christian’s counsellors (Ps 119:24). Therefore, when the counsel is offered by God, it is not just a suggestion. It is a command of Scripture.

…to buy of me gold tried in the fire that thou may be rich

As an antidote to physical riches which can bring ruin and despair, God offers that which brings true riches. The gold tried by the fire refers to the faith that is tested by trials (1 Pet 1:7). However, the idea that one must by the faith to be saved seems to go against the truth of Scripture. This is solved by seeing that God in Is 55:1-2 commands people to buy food, wine and milk without money.  To buy without money is to sell all and follow Christ (Lk 5:11, Luke 14:33, Mk 10:28-30, Mk 1:18-20, etc.). This portrait reflects the true motivation of the Christian’s heart. It is to be willing to count all things as rubbish to gain Christ (Phil 3:7-8). No, physical money cannot buy faith. It is the new heart of a believer that is willing to leave all to follow Christ that is the essence of faith. This is what brings true spiritual riches.

Buy Gold refined by fire – 1 Pet 1:7

• Buy – Is 55:1, Mat 13:44-46, Pr 23:23 (sold out)
• Be willing to give up all to follow Christ – Mat 19:27-29, Lk 5:11, 14:25-33, Mat 4:20-22, Mk 1:18-20, Lk 5:28, 1 John 2:15-17
• Sell all and have treasure in heaven – Mat 6:20, 19:2, Lk 12:33-34, 18:22

…and white rainment that thou mayest be clothed

The willingness to forsake all to follow Christ also results in the buying of white clothing. This points to being clothed with the robe of Christ’s righteousness (Is 61:10, Gal 3:27, Rev 19:8). The white points to the purity of being cleansed by the blood of Christ (Rev 3:4, Rev 19:8, Rev 19:14, Rev 7:9, etc.).

White garments – (see notes on 1:14-16, 3:1-6)

• Clothed so not naked (see notes on 1:13)

…and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear

To be spiritually naked is to be exposed and shameful of one’s sin. On Judgment Day, all people who are not saved will stand as naked before Christ. All their sins will be exposed and they will have shame. An illustration of this can be found in the story of Adam and Eve when they fell into sin. They now knew they were naked (Gen 3:7-11) and they were ashamed. They knew they needed a covering for their sin so they made leaves to clothe themselves. Of course, it was the skin of animals that God used to cleanse them. This pointed to the need for the shedding of blood to cover the shame of sin.  See discussion on nakedness above.

Eye salve to anoint your eyes

• Spiritual blindness  –  Mat 13:13-16, Acts 28:26f, Ro 11:8,25, Is 6:9, Jer 5:21, Eze 12:2, John 9:39-41
• Anoint – refers to HS – 1 John 2:20-27, 2 Cor 1:21-23
• Jesus was anointed – Lk 4:18, Acts 4:27, 10:38
• Blind man w/ anointed eyes – John 9:6-11

 

(Rev 3:19)  As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten

 

God does not love all men (Ps 5:5, Mal 1:2-3). He does love those who are to be saved. It is these that He considers to be sons. Therefore, He chastens them so that they will learn obedience (Heb 12:5-11, see Fathers). He also rebukes through the Word of God. God is concerned with the behavior and spiritual benefit of His sons.   God does not love all people:  John 3:16‑17, Ps 5:5‑6, Ps 11:5‑6, Ps 45:7, Ps 106:40, Lev 26:20, Deut 32:19, Ro 9:13‑15, Mal 1:2‑3

…be zealous, therefore

To be zealous is to have energy to affect change. It is to be concerned about the Gospel in order to become more and more obedient to the Word of God.

… and repent

• Repentance is necessary for salvation (Lk 24:46-48, 2 Pet 3:9, Acts 17:30-31).

To those I love, I reprove

• All Christians receive chastening – Heb 12:5-10, Pr 3:11-12, Ps 39:7-11
• Not all are loved – Ro 9:13, Ps 5:5, 11:5, Mal 1:2-3

 

Be Zealous  – Acts 20:21, John 2:17, Gal 4:17-18, Titus 2:14, 2 Cor 7:11, 1 Cor 9:2, Col 4:13

 

(Rev 3:20)  Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

Behold, I stand at the door and knock

Salvation is illustrated as a confrontation at a door. Christ knocks at the door in that the Word of God is active and becomes a call of God when the Word of God comes to ears of the unbelievers. The Bible says that many are called, but few are chosen (Mat 22:14). The Word of God goes out to all the ends of the earth knocking at the door of the hearts of many people. The door is the gate to the kingdom of God. It is the entry way.  The door is a picture of Jesus Christ as the way to salvation (john 14:6)

• Door Open in Heaven ‑ Rev 4:1. Eze 1:1, Mat 3:16, Acts 7:56, 10:11
• Salvation ‑ John 10:1‑9, 1 Cor 16:9, 2 Cor 2:12, Col 4:3, Rev 3:8, Rev 3:20
• Salvation at second coming ‑ Mat 24:33, Mk 13:29, Lk 12:36, James 5:9, Mat 25:10
• Jesus is a Door ‑ John 10:7-9

…if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him

The unsaved man is spiritually deaf. Therefore, no man will hear Christ knocking at the door. No man seeks or understands the ways of God (Ro 3:9-23).  All men are depraved. It is only when God opens the ears of the deaf that they will be able to hear Christ and open the door.  The following passages discuss that it is God, who provides ears to hear:

• Ps 40:6, Mat 13:13-16, Job 33:16, Is 50:4-5, Deut 29:4, Ro 10:17, Is 29:18, Is 35:5, Is 42:18‑19, Is 43:8, Mat 13:13‑16, Acts 28:26f, Ro 11:8, Ro 11:25, Is 6:9, Jer 5:21, John 9:39‑41, Gal 3:2-5, Hos 4:1, Eze 36:14, 37:4, Hab 3:2, Is 1:10, Mk 7:31-37, Lk 22:49-51, John 18:10

When Judgment Day comes, the door will be closed forever and salvation will not be possible (Lk 13:25, Mat 25:10). The other aspect of Christ knocking on the door will be at the second coming of Christ (Mat 24:33, Mat 25:10, Mk 13:29, etc.). It will only be those who will spiritually hear him that can open the door and be with Him for eternity. The others will be sleeping (Mat 25:1-10).

…and will sup with him, and he with me

This phrase once again has a dual meaning. At the time of salvation, Christians commune with Christ. The communion supper symbolizes the fact that all Christians partake in the body and blood of Christ. At the second coming of Christ, those who open the door to Christ, will eat the supper of God on Judgment Day and forever will dwell with God (Lk 14:15-24, Rev 19:9, Rev 19:17-18, Mat 25:1-13, etc).

Christ knocks at door

• Fulness of salvation at 2nd Coming – Lk 12:36, John 10:2, Mk 13:29, Mat 24:33, James 5:9
• Judgment day – the door is closed – Lk 13:25, Mat 25:10

 

Those who hear Voice

• Spiritual hearing (Mat 13:13-16, Acts 28:26f, Ro 11:8,25, Is 6:9, Jer 5:21, John 9:39-41)

To dine with Christ

• Union – John 14:20-23,15:4, 1 John 3:24, etc
• Wedding Feast at 2^nd Coming – Lk 14:15-24, Mat 25:1-13,22:1-14, Zeph 1:7, Rev 19:9,17-18, 20:8, Is 34:6,  Jer 46:10, Lk 17:37, Mat 24:38, Eze 39,4,17-20, Lk 12:36, etc
• Lord’s Supper – 1 Cor 11:17-34, Mat 26:26-28, 1 Cor 10:16, John 6:41-71

 

(Rev 3:21)  To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne

To sit with Christ is to reign with Him. Christians are a royal priesthood and are kings (1 Pet 2). They do not yet physically reign however (1 Cor 4:8). In the eternal state, believers will be resurrected into their spiritual bodies and receive their spiritual crowns (1 Cor 9:25) as they are seated to reign and judge with Christ. To sit also points to the fact that believers come as armies with Christ to judge with Him.  (See also Mat 19:28, 2 Tim 2:12, Rev 2:26, Rev 20:4, Eph 1:20, Eph 2:6 for more verses involving believers reigning with Christ).

…even as I also overcame, and am sat down with my Father in His throne

 

Christ overcame and became a conqueror when He endured suffering to redeem the saints. To overcome is to win a spiritual battle. Christ defeat Satan at the cross (Heb 2:14). To sit is to reign. Christ is the Kong and shares the throne at the right hand of the Father. The reference to the Father points to the fact that the son and the Father are one (John 10:30). As believers are also one with Christ, they also reign with Him in spiritual places (Eph 2:6).

• Christ seated on the throne – Rev 5:6-8, Rev 7:17; Dan 7:13-14; Mat 28:18; Joh 5:22-23; Eph 1:20-23; Php 2:9-21
• Christians reign with Christ – Rev 1:6, Rev 2:26-27; Mat 19:28; Luk 22:30; 1Co 6:2-3; 2Ti 2:12

 

(Rev 3:22)  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Summary of Church:

The church at Laodicea is still a church of God however, it is a compromising (lukewarm) church that is on the verge of extinction. This church is physically rich, but spiritually poor.

Summary Analysis of the Seven Churches

	Ephesus (mixed)	Smyrna (good)	Pergamum (mixed)	Thyatira (mixed)	Sardis (bad)	Philadelphia (good)	Laodicea (bad)
Poverty		+				+	–
Works	+	+	+	+	–	+	–
Morality	+		–	–	–
Love	–			+	–
Doctrine	+		–	–			–
Perseverance in persecution		+	+	+		+
Idolatry			–	–