Letters to the Church
We read in Revelation of letters from the Lord: directed to the Churches,
addressed to seven assemblies that were meeting in the first century,
they remain relevant to the condition of today's Churches
containing as they do commendations and warnings.
We do well to take heed of these in the Church today.
Thankfully there are those who faithfully follow the Lord
Like the churches mentioned which are commended without condemnation,
as in Smyrna and Philadelphia whose lives were reflecting their faith in the Lord
Some, we are told endured persecution, others even laying down their lives rather than deny the Truth.
Sadly, however, as we look at today's Church, we continue to see the sins condemned by the Lord.
As in the first century the need for repentance is clear,
from those in the Church who tolerate apostasy, sexual immorality, and a reliance upon their own wisdom, instead of trusting the Lord.
Such actions, as in the first century, require repentance and a sincere
desire for forgiveness.
Saddest of ali we still see evidence of the sin which receives the strongest condemnation.
As with the church in Laodicea there are those who are neither hot nor cold.
Their apathy also warrants being spewed from the Lord's mouth for their spiritual inaction.
Nevertheless in grace and mercy the Lord continues to knock on the door seeking to renew fellowship