In Revelation 2, the letter to the church in Ephesus highlights both commendations and a significant concern. The church is praised for its deeds, perseverance, and rejection of false apostles, yet it is admonished for having "left its first love." This decline in love is linked to a shift from genuine devotion to routine practices, leading to a disconnect from the heart of their faith. Mac emphasizes the importance of remembering and repenting to restore that initial love, which is essential for true service to God. He draws parallels between the early church's struggles and contemporary challenges, urging believers to avoid complacency and self-love that can hinder their relationship with Christ. The church's history serves as a reminder of the need for unity and the rejection of a clergy-laity divide, advocating for a community where all believers actively participate in worship and service. Mac concludes by encouraging individuals to listen to the Spirit's call, emphasizing that personal engagement with God is vital for maintaining a vibrant faith.
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; 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: 3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 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. 6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 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.
2 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.
23 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
To the Ephesians written from Rome, by Tychicus.