Scripture:
Revelation 2: 3- “I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary. But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.
Observation:
Jesus is speaking to the angel of the church at Ephesus. Through His power to overcome death, Jesus is warning the church of discipline to come or reward. The church has to endure for the glory of Jesus. Jesus calls them to remember the love of the gospel that they first experienced as a body of believers. Twice in verse 4 Jesus call the church to repent, embrace the love of the gospel and serve out of a response or the lampstand (church) will be removed.
Application:
Jesus’ words to the church at Ephesus are so applicable to our congregation and each and every believer including me, today. Jesus is most concerned with our heart and our Love for God and our neighbors as ourselves. We have to be careful that we don’t stray from the love of the gospel. Every day I must remember that God loved me so much that He sent Jesus to pay full price for my soul so I could, repent, be reconciled and have a relationship with Him! The love of the gospel is the most powerful thing in the world and it has the power to change lives! I have to repent, embrace that, focus on the love and respond in works accordingly.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy. Let me remember the love of the gospel and never forget what you have done for me. May I repent when I make it about anything else and live a live in response to glorify you.