Welcome to a new Bible Study of Revelation, Chapter 2:

Let’s reason and take an inspiring verse by verse look at “Revelation 2:1-28“, followed with a Summary and Prayer.

Vers 1:  “Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;”

The “angel” represents the messenger or the leader of the church. The description of CHRIST as holding the seven stars indicates His authority and care over His churches. The imagery of the golden candlesticks symbolizes the churches themselves, which are meant to shine the light of CHRIST in the world.

Vers 2: “I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:”

JESUS affirms the efforts of the Ephesians. Their hard work, endurance, and commitment to truth are commendable. They have discerned false teachings and defended the faith. This sets a strong foundation for spiritual diligence.

Vers 3: “And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.”

The church has persevered for the sake of CHRIST and has not given up despite challenges. This persistence is a necessary trait for all believers, reminding us of the importance of enduring in faith.

Vers 4: “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.”

Despite their commendable qualities, they have lost their initial passion for CHRIST. This serves as a poignant reminder that even in vigorous service, our love for JESUS must remain the central motivator.

Vers 5: “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.”

The call to remember, repent, and return to the first works reflects the need for introspection and restoration of hearts towards our almighty dear HEAVENLY FATHER. The warning is severe; losing the candlestick signifies losing their effectiveness as a church.

Vers 6: “But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.”

This verse highlights their discernment in rejecting false practices. The Nicolaitans, often associated with antinomianism, represented a corrupting influence. It’s very important to stand against immorality and error.

Vers 7: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of GOD.”

This invitation to listen is crucial for all believers. The promise of the tree of life symbolizes eternal life and communion with GOD, a reward for those who overcome challenges in faith.

Vers 8: “And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;”

CHRIST identifies Himself as eternal and victorious over death, which is particularly comforting to the suffering church in Smyrna.

Vers 9: “I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of satan.”

Despite their material poverty, the church is rich in spiritual wealth. GOD acknowledges their suffering and is aware of the deceit against them and their steadfastness amid opposition.

Vers 10: “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”

This verse offers tremendous encouragement amidst impending trials. The call to faithfulness until death assures them of the ultimate reward eternal life, represented by the “crown of life.”

Vers 11: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.”

The promise of protection from the second death (spiritual death) embodies the hope of everlasting life with GOD, reinforcing the importance of endurance.

Vers 12: “And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith He which hath the sharp sword with two edges;”

The “sharp sword” symbolizes the Word of God. Jesus authority over truth and judgment emphasizes the seriousness of the messages to follow.

Vers 13: “I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where satan dwelleth.”

Pergamos is described as a difficult place for Christians. Yet, their commitment to CHRIST despite persecution is commendable. They are encouraged to remain steadfast in a hostile environment.

Vers 14: “But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.”

The church is warned against compromising with pagan practices and immoral behavior, akin to the sins of Balaam. It serves as a stark warning against blending worldly influences with faith.

Vers 15: “So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.”

The repetition of the Nicolaitans warns that such doctrines can creep into the church. It urges vigilance against false teachings that can corrupt true worship and lifestyle.

Vers 16: “Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.’

The call to repentance emphasizes the urgency for the church to correct itself. The consequences of failing to do so are dire.

Vers 17: ” He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.”

The hidden manna symbolizes divine sustenance, while the white stone signifies approval and a personal name indicates a deeper relationship with GOD. These promises encourage and inspire believers to remain faithful.

Vers 18: “And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of GOD, who hath His eyes like unto a flame of fire, and His feet are like fine brass;”

This introduces CHRIST as the righteous judge. His fiery eyes symbolize discernment and purity, revealing that He sees accurately into the church’s conditions.

Vers 19: “I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first.”

The church in Thyatira is commended for its love, service, and growth. It illustrates that faith should be evident through deeds, and this church shows the positive aspect of spiritual growth.

Vers 20: “Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.”

The church is accused of tolerating false teachings, particularly a person or group that leads believers astray. This reflects the serious consequences of not addressing sin within the community.

Vers 21: “And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.”

GOD’S patience is evident. Despite His grace, refusal to repent leads to judgment. It shows that GOD desires repentance but takes sin seriously.

Vers 22: “Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.”

The strong figurative language indicates severe consequences for unrepented sin. It underscores the importance of holiness and purity within the church and towards GOD.

Vers 23: “And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am He which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.”

“Killing her children with death” signifies the destruction of those following the false teachings. This assurance promises that GOD will judge according to the truth of each person’s heart and actions.

Vers 24: “But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.”

A distinction is made between those who remain faithful and those who have fallen into error. The faithful will not be burdened further, showcasing GOD’S mercy to His true followers.

Vers 25: “But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.”

This charge emphasizes the importance of holding onto faith and truth until CHRIST’S return. It reassures believers that perseverance in the faith is vital.

Vers 26: “And he that overcometh, and keepeth My works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:”

The promise of authority over nations marks a reward of significant responsibility and blessing for those who endure in their commitment to CHRIST.

Vers 27: “And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.”

This reflects the authority that believers will have in JESUS CHRIST kingdom, emphasizing that there will be governance and judgment reflecting GOD’S justice.

Vers 28: “And I will give him the morning star.”

The “morning star” symbolizes CHRIST Himself, who brings hope and renewal. This promise assures believers of the intimate relationship they will have with Him in eternity.

Let’s summarize Revelation, Chapter 2:

“Revelation 2:1-28” contains messages to three churches: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, and Thyatira. Each message honors the strengths of the congregations while admonishing them for their shortcomings. The passages emphasize the importance of maintaining a fervent love for CHRIST, being vigilant against false teachings, enduring tribulations with faith, and the necessity of repentance. Each church is called to overcome challenges with the promise of rewards for those who remain faithful until the end. Ultimately, these messages serve as timeless reminders to contemporary believers about spiritual vigilance, the importance of love in service, and the hope of eternal fellowship with GOD.

Let us Pray:

Dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, we thank You for Your marvelous, righteous Word, which guides and instructs us. Help us to carry the lessons of “Revelation Chapter 2” in our hearts. May we always cherish our first love for You, remain vigilant against false teachings, and endure through trials, knowing with a trustworthy, peacefully understanding that You walk among Your people. Strengthen our faith and lead us to repentance where needed. We eagerly anticipate the promises of Your kingdom and look forward to the day when we will be with You eternally. Thank you dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER. We pray this throughout the mighty, glorious, fulfilling name of JESUS CHRIST. Amen!

Much LoVe, JoY, Peace and Blessings to You, through JESUS CHRIST, our almighty dear LORD, SAVIOUR and REDEEMER!