What struck me today as I read through the first four letters to the seven churches was how Jesus describes himself to each church. Rather than calling Himself by one name, He highlights different characteristics and then praises the churches and identifies problems in their congregations.
- To Ephesus, Jesus calls Himself the One with Seven Stars in his right-fist grip, striding through the golden seven-lights' circle. (2:1)
- To Smryna, the Beginning and Ending, the First and Final One, the Once Dead and Then Come Alive. (2:8)
- To Pergamum, the One with the sharp-biting sword draw[n] from the sheath of his mouth. (2:12)
- To Thyatira, God's Son, pouring fire-blaze, standing on feet of furnace-fired bronze. (2:18)
- Ephesus needed to be reminded that He is in control and watching over His churches.
- Smyrna needed to be encouraged that their Divine Savior, who had suffered, died, and been resurrected, could carry them through their suffering.
- Pergamum needed to be reminded that His Word is truth, and He will not tolerate heresy or disobedience.
- Thyatira needed reminding that Jesus is the authority, as God's Son, who will see and judge all things, crushing underfoot whatever offends Him.
It makes me wonder what sort of a letter God would write to me today. What does He know that I need? What does He see that's going well in my life? What sin would He expose?
Regardless, it's clear that Jesus expected these churches to face their sin and, through the power of the Spirit {not in the flesh!}, to be conquerors (2:7, 11, 17, 26). And He expects the same of me.
"[God speaking:] Look at your community and yourself. See My Son seeing you. Listen to what He says. Examine yourself in light of His words." 66 LL
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