THE 7 CHURCHES

 

THE 7 CHURCHES Revelation begins with a focus on Christian believers, and the book ends with the same focus. Although we automatically think of Revelation as a dreadful book of destruction, punishment and judgment (which it is), it's also a Revelation of the love and concern Jesus has for those who believe in him. Christian believers are frequently mentioned throughout the book of Revelation. If you want to see the “undercurrents” of God’s love, take time to notice every mention of Christians.  Repentance is also a frequent theme. As earth shudders under one disaster after another, God is trying to bring people to their knees in repentance! God is not willing that any should perish, even in these last days. The earth is in chaos during the Tribulation, but Revelation gives us rare insight into what’s happening in heaven at the same time! John’s vision frequently shifts back and forth from heaven to earth, and back to heaven again. There is a profound sense of order in heaven because these days have been meticulously planned by our righteous God. It is time for Jesus Christ to take control and come for his Church! There is joy in heaven as souls are gathered and the day of Christ's return is imminent. The first three chapters of Revelation are special instructions for seven churches scattered through Asia. Each prophecy comes from Jesus himself. The encouragement, advice, admonitions, warnings and blessings given to these seven churches have resounded with all churches and Christians ever since. The seven churches (or assemblies) are: Pergamum (or Pergamon), Thyatira, Sardis, Smyrna, Ephesus, Philadelphia and Laodicea. These seven were located in what is now Turkey, south of the Black Sea and west of the Aegean Sea. I have wondered why these seven were chosen for the book of Revelation, out of all the many Christian churches that existed at the time. Perhaps these seven churches represented the most common spectrum of typical church problems, because the messages to each of the churches are still relevant today. Scholars also believe the seven churches are a prophetic timeline for the future of the Christian church. Which makes Laodicea (the 7th church) all the more concerning, if that's where we are now. IMAGE CREDITS: John records the prophecy to the 7 Churches; generated by SeaArt.ai and edited by C.A. Stevens. Map of Turkey, public domain. A 12th century mosaic in the Basilica of San Marco in Venice, depicting Angels watching over each of the Seven Churches of Asia. Public domain.