““Write this letter to the angel of the church in Ephesus. This is the message from the one who holds the seven stars in his right hand, the one who walks among the seven gold lampstands: “I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and your patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars. You have patiently suffered for me without quitting. “But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first! Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first. If you don’t repent, I will come and remove your lampstand from its place among the churches. But this is in your favor: You hate the evil deeds of the Nicolaitans, just as I do. “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give fruit from the tree of life in the paradise of God.”
Revelation 2:1-7 NLT
The church at Ephesus had a problem. Though it was a church that had been faithful, it had also lost the vitality of its faith. It worked hard against false teaching and false teachers but it also allowed false love. They are told to the work they once did. This is accompanied with the warning that their lamp stand will be removed if they don’t. Here we can glean some truth about the nature of a church. Firstly, we know that a church, despite its history must continue until Christ returns to be stalwart for him. They must stay dedicated. Second we know that there is some sort of corporate judgment for the church. It will not simply be judged on an individual performance but also as a group. Interestingly, we learn that an angel is responsible for the message to Ephesus. Lastly we know that its status as a church can be revoked. The very first church message in revelation is given to a church who mirrors the pharisaical nature of Judaism. This type of legalism and caste system has always been present in Christianity and continues to be a warning for today. Even the pious can have their lampstand removed. It is not enough to act Christian. We must take on God’s character to remain in his favor.
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