Revelation 2: 2,3 Here is the Church at Ephesus, so far so good, they are working hard for Jesus, and diligently trying, identifying and dealing with those who invovled with or are preaching evil. This Church has rolled up it's sleeves and has got to work for the Lord. Is He pleased? It seems so. But He continues:
"Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love." Vs 4
Is it a major problem? After all they are keeping busy working hard and trying those who may be in error, certainly good qualities. Maybe if they just keep at the work it will outway other shortcomings and the'll be alright. Not too big of a deal. But He continues:
"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." Vs 5
The condition of this Church looks a little more serious after vs 5 then it did during vs 2 and vs 3
A Church that is very works orientated is a very busy Church. But have they forgotten that "...in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything nor uncircumcision but faith which worketh by love." It is interesting that Jesus tells this works orientated Church to "repent and do the first works"
A close and personal examination of exactly what the first works in Christ are might be in order for the reader. But how is the love of God shed abroad in our hearts? By the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. Here is just one example: It was asked of our Lord "what shall we do that we might work the works of God?" He replied "This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom he hath sent." Faith. And as we know faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
This Church needed revival. A quickening of the Spirit of God, restoring to them that which had grown numb in self effort. Because you can have all the works and if you have not love...you are nothing.
"I know thy works that thou art niether cold nor hot: I would that thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and niether cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 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 naked:" Revelation 3: 15-17
Here is the Laodicean Church. It seems that this Church has been lulled to sleep by the false comforts of this world. Riches and possesions have taken the place of the Lordship of Christ and complacency has taken the place of love. Stern judgment awaits this Church leading us to question it's position with God. And yet this mercy is still offered "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Be zealous therefore and repent." The Lord also says "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." An invitation is given for personal revival to all who will open to the Lord.