Why are only 7 churches addressed by Christ when there were more than 7 churches in Asia Minor?
Numbers are symbolic in Revelation.
As Dr. Campbell explains: Seven, rooted in the creation account, is the number of God and completion…If the seven churches are representative of the universal church, as the numerical symbolism indicates, then the contents of both the letters and the visions are also applicable to the church throughout the ages.”
Therefore, what Christ commends in these 7 churches will also be found in the universal church today, and what He has against them will also be found in us.
This makes Revelation so relevant to us. The 7 churches are us.
Consider the first church we will study this week: Ephesus. They are commended for sound doctrine and not tolerating false doctrine. But they are rebuked for not loving as they did at first. Jesus warns them: “If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand…” What does this mean? I asked Dr. Campbell this question and this was our dialogue (his response is in red.)
Would you say that removing a lampstand means Christ will leave that church? They may continue meeting, but the Holy Spirit will be gone? There will be no true spiritual life?
Yes exactly – to me, this is a description of most liberal churches today. They are religious institutions, not churches in the Biblical sense. What we have to watch is that legalism, as one example, or hypocrisy or hidden sin does not come in and endanger our lampstand even when our doctrine is still correct – this was the danger facing the Ephesians. When love is no longer apparent in the fellowship, the fellowship is in serious danger of dying.
One of the false doctrines the Church at Ephesus would not tolerate was the doctrine of the Nicolaitans which involved sexual immorality. Christ commended them for this for He hated that false doctrine as well, seeing how it destroyed people He loved.
It is vital to hold to sound doctrine. How we need to do this today as well — including in the area of God’s plan for sex. But when we do that, we certainly need to combine it with love, and with humility about our own sin, or we will just be seen as judgmental finger-pointers.
Eberhard Arnold lived during the time of Hitler and saw how he was perverting Christian doctrine, and Eberhard said:
How terribly relevant this is for us today. How challenging it is for us to hold to the true doctrine of God’s plan for sex, yet do so with compassion and LOVE! So this week, just to show you how relevant each message to the churches is to us, I will address this.
There are those who believe the LGBT agenda is a “watershed issue” for the church. Here is a one-page excerpt from a recent discussion on the podcast The World and Everything In It. (Please read!) Transcript of Discussion on Why the LGBT Discussion Could Become Watershed Issue on Christian Doctrine Their main point, which certainly could apply to the whole area of Christian obedience, is “Are we going to let God decide what is best for us, or are we the captains of our fates and the masters of our souls?” For those who want to hear the whole discussion, (under 10 minutes) here is the link:
https://worldandeverything.org/2021/04/culture-friday-the-schism-in-womens-studies/
For many of you, this is extremely relevant. Someone you love has same-sex attraction, or someone you know seems repulsed by Christianity because they think Christians hate those who have same-sex attraction. I have a ten-year-old granddaughter who came home from her public school and told her mom: “Did you know there are seven different ways I can be?” And this week I’ve been in Nebraska with my youngest, and they are endeavoring to bring a program to the public schools where they begin in kindergarten showing children “different kinds of families” and after each picture, the children are to parrot together:
“And that’s okay!”
We must not be deceived, this is a spiritual battle as well with the forces of darkness, who twist the truth, portraying those who hold to Scripture as haters. The following clip is from the movie “Prom,” typical of what the media is telling the world about us, and I see the father of lies behind it.
One of Satan’s common tricks is to quote Scripture with a twist, as he did with Eve, and again with Jesus in the desert. For example, in this clip, the Christians (who are all portrayed as hateful) are told, “You can’t cherry-pick the Bible.” There is truth in that, yet, oh, how he misapplies it. People in the world do this all the time, but it is important to see our real enemy beneath their words. Satan wants us to be our own god, and I believe he wants to destroy the family. We are in a battle and we must fight with truth and love.
In this clip, you’ll see how he twists scripture, but the worst is the way he twists the words of Jesus in the chorus. See if you can discern that lie, for that is the lie being repeated in the world. “Love Wins” was the title of Rob Bell’s book that twisted the gospel. We must combine love and truth. We’ll talk about how to do that this week — together!
Please listen to this. (Under 4 minutes)
Here also is the link to Keven DeYoung’s sermon, which is a great optional resource for you this week.
Dr. Campbell continues to be so helpful. Last week a couple of you questioned his reasoning that the tribulation is occurring during the whole church age, which was different than you believed. I wrote him and his responses are in red if you are interested in that — here’s the link: Campbell on Tribulation
Word Document to Print off Questions:
3 The Churches are Us
Sunday: Getting Started
- What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
- What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
Monday: The Pattern
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us?
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3)
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a)
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)
Tuesday: The Church with Truth But Not Love
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28
B. Acts 20:25-36
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent?
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise?
Wednesday: Kevin DeYoung Sermon
I realize I might be overwhelming some of you, so you may skip this, but I’m hoping many of you will listen and share your notes, for it is so well done. You can listen while you multi-task. But if you can’t, here are a few highlights that spoke to me personally:
Listen most carefully to the church where the praise is like you, for probably the rebuke will fit at well.
The Ephesians’ careful eye for doctrine became a careful eye for finding fault in one another. Fighting got in their blood! They were just shining their light at each other and seeing problems, instead of shining their light to the world.
As in Pilgrim’s Progress, Mr Valiant for Truth must meet up with Mr. Great-Heart.
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung Sermon above and share what stands out to you.
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
Because I don’t want you to miss this, here is a quote from Dr. Campbell:
…if they do not remember and repent, their lampstand will be removed. The church which had been used so powerfully to bring light into darkness might be cast into darkness itself. Israel had also been a lampstand (Zech. 4:2, 11) but when the Israelites turned their back on God’s commission to be a light to the nations (Isa. 42:6-7; 49:6) their lampstand was removed and they were replaced by the church. (Rev. 1:6)…The church is called to be a witness, in the way Jesus talked of the lamp which was to be put on a lampstand. (Mk. 4:21, Lk. 8:16)
Thursday: Begin with Love
If we begin with love, as Jesus did, we are much more likely to be heard. With nearly every church He begins with a commendation.
Before this Covid pandemic, I was a guest in a home where the parents had one child who identified himself as bi-sexual and was living with another man. The parents have not compromised on their biblical view, but they also have been showing love. They invited this son to bring his roommate home for Thanksgiving. When the two young men left, the roommate told the son: “Don’t you ever tell me your parents are bigots again. I’ve never felt so loved in my whole life.”
12. What are some ways that you could show love to the world in which you live with both deeds and words? Be prayerful first, asking God to show you — for He may call you to show love to someone in particular and in a particular way. What does He impress on your heart?
Friday: Speaking The Truth in Love
13. When a non-Christian, or even a professing Christian disagrees with a biblical truth, and brings it up to you, what are some scriptural principles you should apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
14. Tim Keller says that when you disagree with someone, you must show them how you have heard them by repeating back to them the argument they have made. This could be doctrinal such as “A good God wouldn’t send anyone to hell.” Or behavioral. “It’s smart to live together before marriage.” It is only after they know they have been heard that they might listen to your rebuttal. Have you done this? If so, tell us briefly about it.
I think the main thing we need to gently express concerning behavioral disagreements, is that God’s boundaries, while they may seem heartless, are full of wisdom and love, for He is our Maker, and knows the best way for us to thrive. With sex, when used as our Maker intended, acts like a pure stream, cleansing and refreshing. Used as unintended, it becomes like a flood that destroys and kills. My absolute favorite author on this subject of homosexuality practice is Wesley Hill. You can find his books and talks on the internet. But in Washed and Waiting, he tells of how C. S. Lewis was the one who opened his eyes to the lie of the enemy:
Many might say that for me as a gay Christian to abstain from homosexual sex means that I’m choosing to prudishly, pitiably shelter myself from the only life worth living. Lewis turns the tables on this kind of objection, audaciously claiming that, no, in fact, it’s the sexually active homosexual person who misses out.
There’s more in this book that is of great value, but this is always the lie of the enemy. You are missing out if you don’t eat of the fruit of the tree! He still whispers it to me — you won’t be happy unless you give in. But he is such a liar.
Here is one idea — but the Spirit will lead differently with each situation. How about preparing to share an area where you were deceived, and how you went on that destructive path and it brought pain?? But then how God released you. That helps overcome the offensive belief that we think we are better than others.
I will often tell people how I thought making side-ways comments (instead of speaking the truth in love to someone who was upsetting me) was a good idea. But I was so wrong, for all I had to show for it was broken relationships. God has delivered me and healed my relationships.
15. Your turn:
A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? How did He rescue you? Be brief.
B. How might you gently share how God’s boundaries often seem heartless but are just the opposite?
16. Challenge question: How might a young mother explain God’s plan for sex to ten-year-old that would include why we should allow God to define our gender instead of deciding for ourselves?
Saturday:
17. What’s your take-a-way this week and why?
134 comments
Well, I am going to jump in! So first I am thinking that the first commandment is to love God with all your heart and mind and strength, then love your neighbor as you love yourself…But I am also thinking that we have all sinned in more ways than one, but through God’s forgiveness we have been made right with God. The sexual sins are no worse than other sins, but now they are really being promoted as ok…
I am struggling with how to talk about this for it seems that our young adults have been “brain-washed” with these ideas. I have 11 grandchildren from young teens to young adults and some are walking in the ways of the world. This takes love plus great wisdom and discretion, so I am waiting for all of your input.
Shirley, I am much in the same boat. Both with grandchildren, and with the young woman I mentor. What makes it hardest for me is that they are so vehement, and so fast with their verbal attacks/questions, that I don’t have time to give a reasoned and researched answer. I guess it goes back to Peter telling us to be prepared to give an answer to anyone who asks us. I confess I have not been ready. I’ve always admired those who are debaters at heart and can think fast on their feet, and I’ve not done the work necessary to be truly ready.
Mary, you are so right! The young people of today are struggling between their parents views and the views of this world. Especially if their parents are Christians they are being led away from them by the toxic colleges we have in place right now. I think covid has helped some here. Many schools may not survive due to low enrollment . That’s not a bad thing in my eyes.
With respect to the debate… don’t be discouraged. It only takes a short and sweet, loving statement (one) to get someone thinking. Talking loud and long doesn’t mean it sticks 😉. What about this? “Have you read the best love story of all? Believe it or not, it’s in the Bible!” Or, “Have you seen The Chosen? It is phenomenal! Everyone is watching it.” After the statement you must exit the scene though….they need to wonder a bit and come back with questions (hopefully!).
Always push back to Christ and He will lead them ♥️✝️
You are so wise to want to be prepared Shirley. I know listening and repeating back what they have said is so important, plus questions that make them think — so I’m eager for the group to jump in with some of those!
1. What stood out in the introduction?
‘When love is no longer apparent in the fellowship, it is in danger of dying’, and going with some of the rest of the introduction, not having truth does the same. It is absolutely imperative that we have both. Oh, yes, yes! God must be the decider of what is the standard, of what is best for us.
I think the biggest reason the liberal agenda is sweeping through is that many of those who initially resisted have had it at their doorstep. They either suffered the complete loss of relationship, or their definition of love lead them to embrace. It is so very, very hard to keep both love and truth! I agree, the devil wants to destroy the family, because it shows us what God planned and desired for us.
In the video clip, there were a couple of things I noticed. At one point they spotlight a structure in the mall that looks like a cross. I’m also remembering that at one time, for a very long time, the most quoted line from the Bible was, ‘for God so loved the world.’ Then it became ‘do not judge.’ And now it appears here to be ‘love thy neighbor.’
2. Lies in the song….
Jesus never said that loving your neighbor trumps it all. He said that loving God was first, and then loving others as yourself was the next most important commandment. He also did not say to cut off your hand. In both of these, Jesus was emphasizing where our hearts are at in relationship to God. The point from Scripture is to see God as holy, other, the only real authority, and that our attitudes and actions need to show that. To accept the lies from the song, or from our culture, is to say that whatever the majority believes is what is right. It is true that all sin is sin, and it is true that all of the ‘Christians’ had sinned. But in the song, their implied conclusion is to throw out the law, rather than to kneel before the Savior and seek Him for forgiveness and how to live going forward.
You discerned the lies well.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
It is always sobering to read about the church at Ephesus—that they were commended for sound doctrine and yet they lost their first love. Reminds me that we can do the right things, serve even, without really loving…but we cannot really love without it showing fruit in service.
Video: So many choose money over Christ. Packer-materialism districts us from truth, we have become too busy to think about spiritual issues-where did we come from, what’s the meaning of life…where are we going…how can we find Jesus? Ken S.—we are plugged in constantly and we can’t hear the Spirit. We need to be quiet, still, listen for the Spirit.
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
I have to admit this was just hard for me to watch/listen to. In Scripture, Jesus tells us the greatest commandment is, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” The second is: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The song distorts the truth that first and foremost we are to love God, love His law and His ways.
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
a) a command to write to an angel of the church
b) Christ presents Himself to the church and the situation in the church is outlined.
c) Christ gives encouragement to persevere, or issues a warning to repent
d) a promise given to those who are obedient to its message
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us?
All of the letters deal with the theme of faithfulness to Christ in the midst of an often threatening pagan culture.
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)
The angel of the church in Ephesus.
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
Him who holds the 7 stars in His right hand, who walks among the 7 golden lampstands.
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3)
Hard work, perseverance, patient endurance, and they cannot bear with those who are evil or who practice false doctrine.
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
They have abandoned their First Love.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a)
Remember from where they have fallen; repent, and do what they did at first.
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)
Warning: Christ will remove the lampstand (His Spirit) if they do not repent.
Promise: The one who conquers will receive Eternal Life
Good notes as always Lizzy. I debated about the song! Yet it is what I am hearing from others, though a bit more pleasantly expressed.
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
We must not be deceived…the battle is fought by being in the word (knowing the truth), putting on the armor of God, prayer, fellowship, studies like this and love. So many churches, preachers and teachers out there are tickling the ear, mixing just enough truth with false teaching and leading many astray. Oh how we need the discernment of the Holy Spirit!
I have to admit that watching the video made me feel…unclean. It angered me when the four kids at the end gave in to the lie and that one kid had so much influence to change their minds. That spoke volumes to me of where our kids are at today.
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
Love is vertical too, not just horizontal. There is nothing in the rap about loving the Lord your God, just loving your neighbor. Love your neighbor trumps them all…just enough truth to deceive.
This is a good thought, Sharon: “Love is vertical too, not just horizontal.” And we as believers know too, that our attempts to love in many ways fall short anyway, so the love we really need is God’s.
What Sharon saw here is huge — and everywhere in liberal churches:
There is nothing in the rap about loving the Lord your God, only loving your neighbor.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
I think I get it that the seven churches in Revelation are about us today. I think it was here on this blog that we looked at Revelation in the not so distant past? And I remember reading the letters to the seven churches on my own, and writing down my thoughts as to how I personally am like each one….areas in which I need to repent. I also agree with the quote that “Love without truth kills”. We need both love and truth. I wish I was better at this, though. The LGBT issues in our world are everywhere….for example, one of my sisters moved to a new home last year, and her next door neighbors are a lesbian couple. My sister is a Christian, and she likes both of them as neighbors, and has done things socially with them….she and her husband have gone to their home for dinner, and also have invited to their home for dinner. I don’t think my sister would ever consider telling them that their relationship is “wrong”. Practically speaking, how would one go about that? My sister likes them, thinks they are nice neighbors, and has developed a friendship with them. She just accepts them as they are. I have no idea if these women go to church or what their spiritual background is.
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt 20:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor”.) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
I think first of all, all of “sins” pointed out in the song (the girl having a tattoo, another girl having lost her virginity, a guy’s parents being divorced, a gay friend) and the consequences (you and your family will be stoned) are pulled-out of context and what isn’t mentioned is the matter of forgiveness: it isn’t the particular sin, as if one is worse than another. But the remedy to these or any sin is that there is a Savior who can forgive. Yes, it is true that Jesus has great love….it was His great love that sent Him to the cross on our behalf. But the refrain is simply that Jesus said “Love thy neighbor trumps them all!” And we can indeed “love our neighbor”, but we cannot forgive sin. Our love alone doesn’t solve the problem of sin. The song’s refrain ignores the reality of a debt owed to God, a debt we cannot pay, and therefore, we need help. The love in this song seems to be a love that just dismisses sin or sweeps it under the rug, though I don’t really think having a tattoo would send someone to hell, as this song says. So the song also exaggerates the sins in a silly way.
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
Each letter begins with a command for John to write to an angel of the church. Then, Jesus presents himself to the church out summarizes the situation in the church. Jesus gives an encouragement and/or a warning to repent. Each letter ends with a promise for those who take it to heart and obey.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us?
All of the letters deal with remaining faithful to Christ in the midst of an often threatening pagan culture. We, too, live in a fallen world with secular influences. We need to live in an engaging way in our world, yet we are to remain set apart.
So good how your approached the letters in the past. We did do a brief overview of Revelation.
I think your sister loving her neighbors is great. I don’t think we should initiate that conversation with those living that lifestyle — but I think if they see Christ in her they may initiate it. And we all need to be ready. I think usually unless they come to Christ, they aren’t going to want to live the life. Yet I also know we can’t put God in a box as to how we talk — if they bring it up, we need to be ready to speak the truth I love.
5. Now read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)
The letter is addressed to the angel of the church in Ephesus.
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
Jesus is the one who holds the seven stars in his right hand and who walks among the seven golden lampstands. (The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven lampstands are the seven churches – Rev. 1:20)
C. For what are they commended? (Rev. 2:2-3)
This church is commended for its hard work and perseverance. They do not tolerate wicked men, and they test those who claim to be apostles – finding the ones who are really not to be false, meaning that they have good discernment. These believers have endured hardships for Jesus’ sake and have not grown weary.
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
Jesus says specifically, “You have forsaken your first love.” I think this means that they have forgotten that their main “task” is to love Him.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev.2:5a)
They are to “remember the height from which you have fallen” and to repent. They are to go back to the basics – do the things they did at first.
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)
If they do not repent, Jesus will come and remove their lampstand from its place. (THE lampstand, if I remember from last week, would be the Holy Spirit)
To those who listen and obey, Jesus will give the right to eat from the tree of life which is in the paradise of God.
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28
In the city of Ephesus, a silver-smith named Demetrius made silver shrines of Artemis, providing good income for the local craftsmen. He claimed, however, that the apostle Paul had led astray many people in Ephesus by telling them that man made gods are no gods at all. So these believers lived in a city that was very devoted to the worship of Artemis, and among those who were more than happy to profit from it. Perhaps some who listened and believed Paul’s words became part of that church, that body of believers.
B. Acts 20:25-36
The church at Ephesus received direct teaching from the apostle Paul, who shared with them the “whole will of God”. Paul told them to keep watch over themselves (the church elders) and for them to watch over their flock; to be shepherds of the church. Paul warned them that “wolves” would come in among them – wolves would arise even from their own number, and would try to distort the truth in order to draw away some to follow them. Paul urges them, therefore, to be on their guard.
https://wng.org/podcasts/culture-friday-the-schism-in-womens-studies-1618350771
Dee, the link to the podcast didn’t go straight away to it. Here is a link that will.
Thanks so much, Laura. I will change it to this.
Sunday: Getting Started
What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
The gender and homosexuality topic makes me squirm. My granddaughter “identifies” as Pan, she began to do so at age 12. Who knows anything really at 12 years old? I think her mother encourages her in this, enjoying the cultural correctness of it. It makes me sad and frustrated.
What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
One lie is that being loving means that all behavior should be condoned as good.
Loving God means accepting the parts of his commands we find difficult. If we really love people we will want that for them too, not to leave them separated by their sin and following what feels right to them.
I personally wish God didn’t care if people were homosexual – but he has clearly stated otherwise.
So well put: Loving God means accepting the parts of his commands we find difficult. If we really love people we will want that for them too, not to leave them separated by their sin and following what feels right to them.
And your last sentence shows submission to God. I think in a mysterious way the male female union somehow reflects our union with Christ – in His image, yet so different.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
I listened to the podcast, and I agree that we all know someone who is going through something, with a confused person about this issue. I also agree that people are scared to hold their Christian view with the idea that they might hurt someone’s feelings. It does make sense that an atheist would be longing to know their creator though, because God left Himself in everyone, even the atheists. The sad part is that we don’t point that out to the individual for pondering in their hearts. If we did, they might consider their “source” in a different light. The whole gender identity thing is SO impersonal and sterile. Recently, on vacation, a little girl sat next to Grace at the pool. I asked the mom how old her daughter was. She replied, “It is a boy.” I apologized (she said it was okay and that it happened all the time) but couldn’t stop thinking how that child did not look like a boy at all. After the incident, I thought two different things…was she truthful in saying (he) was a boy because she wants her daughter to be a boy OR did she just make a grammatical error in saying the word “it?” Children would never know this adult idea if they weren’t told. That gets back to the podcast….it is definitely all about me.
About the video clip Prom…let me first say, UGH….what a great way to indoctrinate our kids than with a musical? It’s one BIG reason I pulled the plug on Netflix for our family about a year ago. The shows there were a bit too much for me. I think the thing that stands out is the mockery, and how the 4 “bullied” kids finally just gave in to the pressure. It’s just like what’s happening with the LGBQ issue for Christians. It’s just easier to give in than to fight.
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
I guess I’m too literal to “get it?” I do see the mocking, but love does trump it all, right? The problem I see is that is you go around with a flippant attitude about your life (oh, I can eat/drink too much, have sex before marriage, lie, etc. just this once) without remorse, as long as I love my neighbor, I will be ok. There is no stake in the ground, no skin in the game, no awareness of Jesus being right there with me through it all. If I love Him, I will want to please Him. It’s all a lie otherwise.
I love your questions. Trump means “obliterates” — and love does not obliterate commands but upholds them, because they are part of His love. Does that make sense? Love doesn’t mean you condone sin, for sin destroys.
Monday: The Pattern
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
Christ presents himself and outlines a situationHe gives and encouragement to persevere or a warning to repent
Then a promise is given to those who are obedient
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us? The theme of the faithfulness of Christ amidst a pagan culture. We sure live in the midst of a pagan culture, and Christ has promised us opportunities for service and repentance and encouragement.
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)The church at Ephesus
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
As the one who holds the 7 stars in his right hand and walks among the 7 golden lampstands
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3)
Toil and patient endurance, for not bearing with evil people, for testing false apostles , for enduring for Christs name and not growing weary.
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
For abandoning their first love
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a)Repentance and turning
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)Warning- their lamp stand will be removed
Promise- To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
That we are in a battle indeed and especially now regarding same sex attraction and gender identity. The video is spot on in regard to the pressure we are under to embrace their version of loving others. It’s ironic because i think that kind of love is a form of indifference and as we have all heard, the opposite of love isn’t hate but indifference. So if I decided to embrace becoming, let’s say a polygamist then they would say, that is alright-no judgment here, we are glad for your choice-to each his own and we love you, and then the natural guilt and outward consequences would start happening-I wouldn’t feel loved because no one told me the truth about it and the pain it would cause. As Rosaria Butterfield relayed something like, if the couple God used to draw her to Jesus would have told her that being a lesbian was okay it would be the same as putting a millstone around her neck and letting her drown.
That was scary what Dee heard her grandchild come home and say. It is getting worse!
Good point on indifference!
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?” The truth is, that we can love our neighbor the way God loves us if we love God first. God speaks the truth in love in both words and in action in scripture and Jesus did so as well. I think Jesus dying on the cross was an action of speaking the truth in love, and the resurrection-oh! We are all sinners in need of a savior, but if we really aren’t and certain sins are okay (except murder and pedophilia-at least for now that isn’t acceptable) then Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection wasn’t needed. Saying this sin is okay is communicating that God isn’t really holy for He embraces it too..and therefore Jesus isn’t, and again, the cross and resurrection end up meaning nothing.
I’m personally wondering if I should take the Prom song out of the opening! I put it in because my sister pleaded with me to watch it, thinking it would educate me. I realize this is the lie that has been swallowed and needed to be dismantled, yet I hate making people feel dirty!
Dee, my husband drove me to the airport this morning and I was telling him about the Prom video, and how a couple of our bloggers said how it was hard for them to watch or made them feel unclean. I said that I must not be that great of a Christian because I could watch it so objectively and it didn’t really bother me. In my lifetime, especially as a young unbeliever, I watched much, much worse….trust me. Maybe that makes me somewhat jaded?
I guess what I saw was a group of very young, talented and energetic actors just doing their job; of course whoever wrote the script had a message to convey, but I actually like to be made to think critically. I’m sure that I am likely the only one here who watched the entire series of Schitt’s Creek. There were certainly questionable things in that show, but I looked for and saw how a few of the characters grew and evolved and demonstrated, albeit imperfectly, more admirable traits such as becoming less selfish and self focused. Some things made me uncomfortable but asked me to think about just what do I believe about certain issues like homosexuality.
I remember when you had us watch a video of Wesley Hill speaking. So he is a believer who does have same-sex attraction yet chooses not to act upon it because He wants to follow God. So it’s my understanding that a person can be homosexual – be attracted to a member of the same sex, but that attraction doesn’t mean he or she cannot be a Christian.
Thanks, Susan. I so appreciate this. And yes, Wesley Hill is such a wonderful example. The temptations we struggle with are not sin — I am greedy, self-centered, and have heart idols — but I am confident I am washed, as Wesley Hill says. I may fall, but I repent. Even someone with same sex attraction who falls can be a Christian, but when they rebel at God’s commands, you have to question whether they know Him at all.
You’re not the only one who watched Schitt’s Creek. If we love God then we will love people no matter what their sins are and that love will lead us to wanting what is best for them which is forgiveness for their sins, all of their sins even the ones that we have in common, but are reluctant to admit to.
I think I’m the only one who said I had a hard time watching it–and that’s just my own sensitivity I guess. I know I’m not as able as some to watch various things, not sure why i have always been more sensitive, I think it just made me sad to see the truth so twisted, but I’m not saying it’s wrong to have us earn from it. This is probably an area I need to grow, I have a hard time watching anything with a lot of language too, sometimes I wish I wasn’t so sensitive to it all, not sure if that’s a bad thing to be, but always have been.
Sharon was troubled too — and it is a question of how much is too much to learn from — I so appreciate input!
I wish I was more sensitive like you, Lizzy. I feel like my heart isn’t as pure as it should be….like I hear swear words daily in my home…I’m so used to it, it just goes in one ear, out the other. Of course when I was in college, I could swear with the best of them. I had a really bad mouth.
Dee, I think this is a very good learning tool and maybe “unclean” wasn’t the right word, although to see the Word of God construed like this made me cringe! I can see this being used in a “progressive “ church youth group to convey the message that “loving your neighbor” is what is most important…our kids aren’t only learning this in school but in church as well😡. BUT, it could be used in the way you’re using it here too, which would be very good. I hate that what I said made Susan think she wasn’t as good a Christian, not my intent…It seems the older I get the more sensitive I’ve become. I cringe at foul language and the truth being made fun of. I found it interesting that your sister wanted you to watch it…what a wonderful springboard for having a conversation and lining it up with what is really truth.
Sharon — I so appreciate you. I think unclean is a good word — for we are looking into Satan’s trash. I pray for discernment on what to share — balancing the need to be prepared to give an answer in love and truth — with the warning that some things are not fit to even mention. I appreciate your input and prayers!
And yes — in our churches. Just go an e-mail from a silent follower who told about her son’s Christmas Eve sermon — comparing no room at the Inn to no room in our churches for those practicing homosexuality. Wow.
I watched it at 5:15 this morning in bed and my husband said “turn it off!” after a few minutes! I think it annoyed him (he was already awake; I didn’t wake him up.
It’s High School Musical-ish for sure. It draws you in. Again, I think it is sad that the 4 being bullied are drawn over to the other side 🤷🏻♀️.
3. Typical outline pattern.
Command to write what he sees to the church.
Jesus presents Himself to that church, and its situation is described.
Jesus gives encouragement to persevere/warning to repent.
Ends with a promise for those who obey the message.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is it true for us as well?
All deal with being faithful to Jesus in the midst of a threatening, pagan culture. I think every culture tries to turn us away from Jesus. All cultures rely on men, effort, conformity. There are no earthly cultures that rely on God. Even what we thought of as a Christian culture in the past in the western world didn’t rely on God. It relied on individual strength, hard work and being moral.
5. A. The first church addressed was Ephesus.
B. Jesus is described as the One holding the seven stars, walking among the seven lamps, and being totally aware of them.
C. They are commended for working hard, persevering, not tolerating evil men, not growing weary, and later for hating the Nicolatians.
D. They are rebuked for not loving as they did at first. He calls it ‘forsaking’.
E. They need to remember the height they have fallen from, and do things as they did at the beginning. I take that to mean not just in outward acts, but in rekindling their love for Jesus and each other.
F. To keep their lamp they need to listen, hear what the Spirit is saying, and do things as they used to. Implying out of love rather than duty, pride, or habit. I found it interesting that the promise/warning is not just to Ephesus, but plural, to the churches. The promise is that they will have the right to eat from the tree of life in paradise.
I was unable to finish the last few days of the study last week, but knowing that it is a continuing study I didn’t want to skip anything or I may miss the bigger picture.
I spent this morning reading all of the comments from last week and I’m glad that I did. So many insightful answers and comments from everyone. It is one of the top reasons that I love this blog.
Now to start on Sunday’s lesson a day behind….
I am glad you’re here Dawn 🥰
Monday
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
A command to write to an angel of the church.
Christ presents Himself to the church.
The situation in the church is outlined.
Christ gives encouragement to persevere/or issues an warning to repent.
Ends with a promise to those who are obedient to its message.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us?
The theme of faithfulness to Christ in the midst of an often-threatening pagan culture.
The culture continues to be pagan and threatening today and we must remain faithful to the truth.
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)
To the angel of the church in Ephesus
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
The One Who holds the 7 stars in His right hand and the One Who walks among the 7 golden lamp stands.
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3)
Hard work, patient endurance, don’t tolerate evil people, examined the claims of those who say they are apostles and are not – discovering they are liars and patiently suffered for Christ without quitting. They hate the deeds of the Nicolations, which He also hates.
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
Don’t love Christ or each other as they did at first.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a)
Remember from where they have fallen, repent and do the deeds they did at first.
F. Find both the warning and the premise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)
Unless they repent, He will come and remove their lamp stand out of its place.
What stands out to you from the above and why? Truth without love kills and love without truth lies. Because it simply yet profoundly shares that delicate balance that we endeavor to strike. One to which we should constantly be comparing our responses to the people around us. From the 4 minute video? How on the surface what this guy is saying makes sense and how someone could easily be taken in by his “logic”.
What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? That loving someone means accepting their sin as OK. Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?” Jesus said in verse 37-38 “And He said to him, “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND. This is the great and foremost commandment.” We are to love God above all else (even our neighbor) and that means speaking His truth even if the person that you’re speaking it to says that you’re being hateful. We still need to speak it with the person’s best interest at heart and with concern for that person and their salvation.
You got it, Dawn. All the law and the prophets hang on these two commands.
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus: A. Acts 19:23-28
The town of Ephesus had many people who believed in man made gods and worshipped the goddess Artemis. The people of the town feared the church and its affect on their lives and jobs. The church held to the true doctrine that Paul taught and they stood firm against false teaching.
B. Acts 20:25-36
They were alert to false doctrine, they worked hard, and preserved the true teaching.
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
The churches are always addressed through an angel. In some sense, the churches have angelic help acting on their behalf in heaven. Also, the worship in heaven is a model for the church’s worship on earth.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
They are prophetic messages from God, spoken through Christ.
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?
The Ephesians are praised for testing and rejecting false teaching. They have suffered patiently and endured. But they had become inward-focused, and had stopped evangelizing outside their walls. They may have also lost their love for one another. The pursuit of truth must be grounded in sacrificial love so it does not grow cold.
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent?
I think the Spirit.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
The city was filled with those who worshipped Artemis, the goddess of fertility. Sexual immorality was rampant. They also had temples dedicated to Caesar. It was dangerous to refuse to join in the pagan religion.
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
The purpose of the symbolic teaching and using parables—”these prophetic words and actions were designed to sharpen the understanding of true believers while at the same time drawing others to repentance”. Parables were meant to “lead believers into deeper understanding while hardening the hearts of the rest”.
“Only those with a heart for God and for truth will go beyond the outward symbols to discover the true meaning in its Biblical context.” This was a little convicting because sometimes all the symbolism has felt so complex, I just rest in my simple faith of not thinking I need to understand everything, and yet this makes me want to try harder, for I do love truth and want to understand more.
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern. A command to write to an angel of the church, Christ presents himself to the church and the situation in the church is outlined, Christ gives an encouragement or issues a warning, then a promise is given to those who are obedient.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? The faithfulness of the church to Christ. How is this also true for us? We have to be faithful to Him even though our culture says otherwise.
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a) To the angel of the church of Ephesus
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b) The one who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the lampstands.
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3) Their labor, their perseverance and that they put people to the test.
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4) They have left their first love.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a) Remember from where they come from and to repent and do their first deeds.
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7) If they will not heed his warning, he will remove their lampstand. If they overcome they will eat from the tree of life.
Sunday: Getting Started
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video?
The Churches are us.
“Are we going to let God decide what is best for us, or are we the captains of our fates and the masters of our souls?”
From the 4-minute video:
Talking about the rich young ruler: His allegiance was to his money; we cannot have allegiance to 2 things at the same time-allegiance to God or to something of this world.
Preoccupation with material things-fill our minds-they command our minds
We are plugged into many things; We cannot hear the Spirit; I need to be quiet and listen to the still small voice.
Oh, so true of me especially as of late! Oh, Lord that I would be still before you and know that you are God. Help me to not be plugged into the world but to you.
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
Loving God means obeying what He says and if we obey what He says, our love for our neighbor follows!
I can hardly listen to the Prom rap. I had a sickening feeling especially as the 4 who were being “indoctrinated” gave in!
And this is the type of movie that our youth are watching and they do not think it is a big deal!
My students talk about their birth control stuff like it is the most normal thing to talk about! And they also converse about their sexual life and make no qualms about it.
Am so befuddled about this casual way and don’t know how to approach the topic without being a judgmental pointer finger.
I have included some points on abstinence until marriage when we got to the topic of the reproductive system and health. Crickets and then the conversation went the wrong way and I had to end it to get us the off tangents comments.
Dee and all, I just want to add a few more things here after I posted my comment. I usually read everyone’s comments after I post mine.
The song from the Prom bothered me to the point of tears. For some reason, the lies hurt after feeling a deep sorrow that this is the kind of music and movie that our younger generation is listening to. I think I hurt too knowing that I have been sheltered from these realities and therefore haven’t been able to relate at a certain level with them. Language has been a barrier and most of my students can’t believe that I do not know certain slang words that they use on a daily basis!
I guess I do want to know what is out there and yet not be jaded after so many exposures to it. I want to be aware, relatable, open to listening, loving but wise. Truth and love. I need the Holy Spirit’s instructions and help.
You are certainly living right in the midst of the culture. You are in the world but not of it, and you can be such a light. I do think we need to know the lies so we can dismantle them, as you did, in your answer to question 2. I think we need to then also be ready with good questions to make them think — such as, Why do you think the Bible sets boundaries at all — concerning stealing, murder? I’m looking to this group for some more good questions. Just preaching isn’t is as effective as questions, I believe.
Monday: The Pattern
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us?
Pattern:
Command to write to an angel of the church
Christ presents himself to the church
Outline of the situation of the church
Then an encouragement or a warning
Ends with a promise given to those who are obedient to its message
The contents and visions for these churches are also true for the churches throughout the ages.
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)
The church of Ephesus
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
He holds the 7 stars and walks among the 7 lampstands.
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3)
Their toil and patient endurance
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
You have abandoned the love you have at first
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a)
Remember from where you have fallen.
Repent and do the works you have at first.
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)
I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
To the one who conquers, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the paradise of God.
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern.
The first of the pattern is to “write to an angel of the church.” Christ is them presented and the situation is “outlined.” Christ then either gives an encouragement (persevere) or a warning (repent). The ending is a promise to those who follow the command.
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us?
All of the letters deal with being faithful to Christ in the midst of a pagan world. We are living in a pagan world. We need to be faithful too.
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a)
The church at Ephesus.
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b)
Jesus is described as an angel, who holds the seven stars in His right hand and walks among the seven golden lamp stands.
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3)
They are commended for their hard work, their toil, and their patient endurance. They have fought off evil in the form of apostles who were false. They did not grow weary in the wait.
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4)
They had abandoned their first love.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a)
Remember and repent.
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7)
Go back and do the first of their works, or lose their lamp stand. Those who comply will receive the tree of life; the paradise of God.
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28
The people were craftsmen (silver smiths and such). They built the shrines to the Greek goddess Artemis. They loved their wealth. They were concerned that Paul had traveled around Asia telling people that the gods they worshiped were not God at all. They thought they would lose their livelihood and their “god – goddess.”
B. Acts 20:25-36
Paul testifies to the Ephesians about being faithful to Jesus although he knows he will go to prison at some point. He warns the elders to take care of their flock for whom Jesus paid the price in blood. He warns of those who will come to waylay the church and those who will speak “twisted things.” He warns them to be “alert.” He tells them to take care of the weak, for it is “…better to give than to receive.”
That phrase “twisted” is so true — the way Satan works.
6. What do you know about the church in Ephesus?
A. Acts 19:23-28. It was the center of worship for Artemis, and a riot broke out during the time Paul lived and preached there, over the threat to their goddess.
B. Acts 20:25-36. Paul met with the spiritual leaders when he was on his way to Jerusalem. Paul charged them to be careful, to shepherd the flock, and that wolves dressed as sheep would show up out of their own number and distort truth, taking people away from Jesus.
These wolves didn’t come from outside the group, but from within. That seems really significant to me today. Maybe because when you see someone as an outsider, you more objectively evaluate what they say and do, but when you’ve already accepted them and they are one of you, you trust them and believe them. You tend to sweep things under the carpet and not see the danger. You want to make nice with them.
7. I have to share a tangent. For some reason, the ‘angel’ of each church was niggling at me. So I looked up the word. Angel is the same word throughout the New Testament, and the primary meaning is messenger. It can refer to a human messenger, such as John the Baptist, messengers sent by him or by Jesus, or to the supernatural class of being that serves God. Once it is even used of spies, and this is only in the Greek.
Jesus can’t be telling John to write to the supernatural being over each church, so is He saying the letter is to go to the leader of the church, who has supernatural help to shepherd the flock? Not sure why this is sticking for me….
A. How can we see heaven and earth connected?
Each church seems to be represented by an angel, who would have a presence in heaven and intercede for them there. But isn’t Jesus who intercedes for us? I am confused….
B. How do we see the letters going beyond the usual pastoral instructions?
When John says, ‘the words of Him’, it is a reflection of how Old Testament prophets would start out, ‘thus saith the Lord.’ Jesus is doing in the New Testament what God did in the Old. So the messages are prophetic and not just John writing a pastoral letter to the churches.
C. How does Campbell summarize Jesus’s message to this church?
He says Ephesus is praised for testing and rejecting false teachers. They’ve not given up but have suffered patiently. They are rebuked for getting inwardly focused and not acting out of love, taking the message to others/or between themselves. That part isn’t real clear to me.
D. What does the symbolic nature of the lamp represent?
The lamp brings light into darkness. It represents God, to whom nothing is dark. If we are not bringing/shining our light, then we aren’t doing what God planned for us.
E. Artemis was a fertility goddess, and sexual acts were integral to her worship. There was also a temple to Caesar in Ephesus. To not participate in these was counter cultural, dangerous and costly.
F. What else stood out?
How the phrase, ‘he who has an ear’ is related both to Jesus and to the Old Testament prophets. How it isn’t about being able to spit back the words, but to allow those words to penetrate you to the point of changing your behavior and attitude.
8. Campbell says the church has always been counter cultural and pays the price. How do you see this today, in standing against sexual sins? How might you be affected?
Being ostracized, vilified, targeted for even physical vandalism. Those who are small business owners have been taken to court or forced to shut down. More recently with so much being classified as hate speech, ordinary churches have to choose between preaching truth and not getting into trouble, or taking a stand and have to face possible legal action. I’ve thought about this, because as a member of a local congregation, authorities could try to hold individuals responsible financially for fines, etc. That seemed far fetched a few years ago, but is looking more and more likely. The social pressure isn’t enough for the people who want to take down traditional values. They want to destroy, and do it as quickly as possible. And none of what I’ve said touches on the pain so many of you are in with your own family members.
Tuesday
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28
The great temple of the great goddess Artemis (Diana) was located there. The silversmiths, Demetrius being one, made shrines to this goddess and were afraid of not only losing their business but the temple where many worshiped throughout the province of Asia. This was because Paul had persuaded people that handmade gods aren’t gods at all.
“The Ephesian Diana was invested with very different attributes. The head wore a mural crown, each hand held a bar of metal, and the lower part ended in a rude block covered with figures of animals and mystic inscriptions. It was regarded as an object of peculiar sanctity, and was believed to have fallen down from heaven.” Smith’s Bible Dictionary
B. Acts 20:25-36
Paul is saying to the elders of the church in Ephesus his last good byes. He speaks of his faithfulness and it’s not his fault if anyone experiences eternal death because he was obedient in declaring to them all God wanted them to hear. He implores them to guard themselves and God’s people, to feed and shepherd the flock-His church, which was purchased with His blood-over which the Holy Spirit appointed them as leaders. Paul likens false teachers to wolves which will come among them after he leaves, not sparing the flock. He says that even some among them will rise up and distort the truth in order to draw a following. Paul speaks of his constant watch over them for 3 years and with many tears. He entrusts them to God and the message of His grace that builds them up, gives them an inheritance with all those He’s set apart for Himself. Paul goes on to tell them how hard he worked to supply his own needs and those with him, not coveting anyone’s silver or fine clothes. He was an example of how they can help others in need by working hard himself. He quotes Jesus saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
I can only imagine how hard this goodbye was for Paul and how what he said is so relevant today.
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?”
That video of the Prom “rap” song was very difficult to watch because I know that in it is the message that is going out to our children and grandchildren implying that we should ignore the Christian God and the Bible and just “love” each other. It makes me so very sad. Sadly, the rap song put it in a soft-sell palatable way and showed the “Christian” kids being pressured to give in and then, at the end, doing so quite willingly.
The first commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul and mind and THEN to love our neighbor as ourselves. Without God, there is no true understanding of love and certainly no ability to sustain love when the going gets tough.
I don’t think you should withdraw the video, though, Dee. It is the world we live in, showing us just how far from God and His Word the culture has moved. Even our Christian children and grandchildren are being led astray.
Close to home, I have a niece who identifies with this LGBTQ+ lifestyle. I have read about much about this topic, and prayed much about it, and yet still feel almost completely at a loss at how to respond to anyone who might confront me about this. May the Lord give us all wisdom to respond in truth AND love to this lost culture.
Diane — your “feeling at a loss” as to how to respond is being echoed throughout this blog. I know listening and repeating back what they said is key — and I also think following up with questions is key. I’m hoping, together, we can come up with some of those questions. The core issue seems to be “Who defines who we are” Do we or does God? But it is interesting on the podcast I listen to (The World and Everything In It) they have some good questions that don’t involve God or the Bible. The CMA is objecting to hormone replacement in children on medical grounds on the damage it does. The world has gone so crazy — has it not?
Thanks, Dee. I appreciate that this study is challenging us with real issues that we face in our own homes, extended family, communities and culture. We need to think these issues through. (Much as I might like to bury my head in the sand.) I appreciate your emphasis on repeating back and asking questions of those who are misled, rather than responding defensively. This study on Ephesus truly has challenged me on the importance of not just knowing the truth but in loving others as an important part of shining our light.
Diane–that is really close to home for you with your niece. Praying for you to have wisdom. You and Sharon have similar situations there. So hard but I am so encouraged seeing how He has placed you in their lives as light and truth.
9. Sermon notes.
Neither churches nor people have really changed much, so who they were in the first century is very applicable to us. When Jesus says, ‘he who has an ear, let him listen’ , He is pointing out that not everyone will understand. Having the Holy Spirit makes a huge difference in how we are able to hear.
The letters are all about how to overcome in a hostile culture, and is common to all. It is important to listen to each of the letters, and especially so where their strengths are your strengths, because you probably have their weaknesses as well.
Ephesus was very large for the time. It was diverse with a lot of spiritual things going on. There was a brief but strong history of Christian witness. The believers were doers, hard workers. Jesus makes word plays, telling them they labor hard without getting labored at it, and they are bearing up under adverse circumstances but they don’t bear evil. They are commended for their intolerance and hatred of evil… something that sounds strange to our ears. They are not chastised for the areas where they are strong or told to be less of what they are. But they have forgotten the only thing that matters, and that is love, as in 1 Cor 13. And it probably isn’t love for God, because in the Old Testament, when people quit loving God, they became idolatrous. Here, they had stopped caring for others. First of all within the church.
It was only the first and last churches of the seven that were threatened with destruction. The last for lifelessness, and the first – Ephesus – for lovelessness. For Ephesus, it wasn’t enough to be against the wrong God hated. They, and us, need to be for what God is for. Don’t argue so you can be right, argue out of love and wanting to see good come to that person.
Then, secondly, love toward those outside the church. We need to have both fellowship and witness with our neighbors. We need a purpose outside the walls of the church, or we end up like the frog in the beaker, never noticing the heat rising and death coming. We need to bring the light of God into the world. Defending the light isn’t enough; that just keeps dimming it. We have to give the Gospel or we will lose it. We must engage the world without compromise.
There are three commands. To repent, to remember, and to return. So look for those, in or out of the church, that you don’t naturally gravitate toward and serve them. To fight to overcome is to love again. Without love, you don’t live forever. Ask yourself, am I bearing any fruit? Do I see greater worship, more connection to people, increasing sharing of faith, any burden for the lost and poor? John, originally a son of thunder who always wanted to call people out and fight over things, became the apostle of love. If we want the promise of eating from the tree of life, we need to be headed in the same direction.
This sermon was convicting and challenging for me. I can see how through the years I’ve gotten more ingrown and less willing to do the work of interacting with those I don’t agree with. The line about needing a purpose outside the church was especially relevant because my husband and I have been praying about what God wants our retirement to look like. Pray for me as I ask him to listen to the sermon and consider how this changes our outlook.
So many good notes.
I highlighted this too:
Don’t argue so you can be right, argue out of love and wanting to see good come to that person.
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung Sermon above and share what stands out to you.
Tolerating all and hating nothing is not like God. Jesus does not chastise their strengths or tell the to be “less” in their strengths but He tells them that those are not the only things that matter. They have lost their first love, it’s not that they necessarily love God less but they have lost their love for others.
They had keen minds, busy hands, and shriveled hearts. They had become quick to judge, slow to forgive, and had become critical of others. It doesn’t matter if you’re against all that you should be against if you are not for all that He is for. They lacked life giving fellowship and life giving witness. They had turned inward, no purpose outside of themselves.
The warning-give the Gospel away or you will lose it.
Repent from judgmental love-less-ness.
Remember sweet fellowship, and the joy of sharing your faith.
Return to the things you used to do, sharing life together, love others, love ones not like you. Serve others.
It’s a strong reminder that doing the right things means nothing if it is not in love. And if we really love God, we cannot help but love one another more.
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
I need to always check myself and repent of being judgmental and being critical of others. I want to be more intentional to forgive and give grace for the things that maybe hurt my feelings or frustrate me, and instead offer love. Turn the light away from looking at others and judging how they act and instead, shine the light on my own heart and repent of the ways that are not like Him.
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
They are warned to repent and go back to what they did when they first loved God and others, otherwise their lampstand will be removed.
12. What are some ways that you could show love to the world in which you live with both deeds and words? Be prayerful first, asking God to show you — for He may call you to show love to someone in particular and in a particular way. What does He impress on your heart?
I had a detailed answer here but I think I will edit it to be more vague. The main thing I feel lately is that He is making me more secure in His love for me so I do not fear loving others who use to scare me or have hurt me deeply. I feel less wound-able, because of Him. The more grounded and filled up I feel with His loving me, seeing me, hearing me—the less I feel insecure about risking loving those who may reject me, or who already have. Not sure I really answered, sorry!
13. When a non-Christian, or even a professing Christian disagrees with a biblical truth, and brings it up to you, what are some scriptural principles you should apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
“be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger”
I agree with the importance of repeating back what they’ve shared so they do feel heard, and to be respectful, kind, share truth in love. I love the example Dee gave of the parents welcoming their son’s friend. I hate that I am not sure I would respond that way at least not on my own, but having read that exampe I see the beauty of it and I want to be that gracious, that Christ-like. I do believe that people are not won over by arguments but ultimately by the Spirit, but the Spirit needs a softened heart, and I think the best way to help a heart get soft, is love. Not total acceptance of whatever they are doing, because that is not really love. But a genuine love and care for them as God’s creation and creation that He longs for.
I know you could do it, Lizzy.
And I love this:
I feel less wound-able, because of Him.
Tuesday: The Church with Truth But Not Love
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28
B. Acts 20:25-36
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
There are angels helping us in heaven and worship proceeding there can be a model for worship here on earth.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
These letter are also prophetic words from God through Christ.
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?
Take the love of Christ to the world and not just be inward-looking. To love the lost and one another.
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent?
First Israel and now representing the church in its capacity as a prophetic witness to the world.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
The worship of Aphrodite (fertility) and of Caesar.
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
The prophetic words and actions were designed to sharpen the understanding of true believers, while at the same time drawing others to repentance. The hearts of the rest, whose spiritual deafness prevented them from hearing properly, were hardened. .. Those who want to understand will pursue God for understanding, while the rest will scoff and turn away from what they consider incomprehensible.
Lord, may I pursue understanding and not let my heart be hardened.
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise?
One of my fear is a loss of relationships. But I also realize that in this fear is an idol at work. I struggle to give this up because of the pain of loss. I have to remind myself that I have a choice to make: Jesus as Lord of all of me or the idol(relational) to be lord over me.
To a people-pleaser like me, it is hard for me to know how to speak the truth in fear of losing that person or being misunderstood. But Jesus was misunderstood by many including His disciples. But His death and resurrection made the difference! Would it be the same for us- to love unconditionally without compromise but also to die daily to self, die to the desire of being right each time?
Bing–this is so good ” I have to remind myself that I have a choice to make: Jesus as Lord of all of me or the idol(relational) to be lord over me.” I relate to the people pleasing, fear of losing relationship, and for me especially, just the fear of not being liked. But like you said, it’s a daily dying to self and remembering His love is greater!
Also–just saw your post about the musical and I felt much as you did. It helped to read how you articulated it, helped me understand my feelings better. I do want to be able to learn and discern, to know how much is helpful to learn about so I can be an informed and loving witness. But I admit sometimes like my sheltered bubble!
Sunday: Getting Started
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? From the 4 minute video? – Oh my, there is so much in this week’s opener it’s hard to pick out all the good stuff. I’m going to have to go back and re-read and listen to everything again. I think I tend to agree with the thought that we as Christians sometimes feel so overwhelmed with how the country is appeasing these groups that go against what we believe to be true that we just sit back and think we can’t change anything. Or perhaps we feel we don’t know enough to come back with an accurate rebuttal and point everyone back to The Word. In the video I think some feel it’s just easier to go along with the ‘in’ crowd, but we are doing ourselves a major disservice and will see the consequences to our choices when Jesus returns. Will it come down to Him not knowing us at all.
2. What lies do you discern in the Prom “rap” song Love Thy Neighbor? Jesus did say in Matt. 22:40 that “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:40) (The two commandments being “loving God and loving our neighbor.”) How is what Jesus said being twisted by the rap “Love trumps them all?” – I have to first say, that little clip was very disturbing to me and I didn’t even want to watch it. The song is taking parts of scripture that a lot of true Christians struggle with because we want to please God and is using them to make others doubt the truth. The whole context of the verse and the verses around it need to be studied together. I think the twist is that as Christians, we are to love everyone including our enemies but we do not need to conform to their ways in how they choose to live their lives. And I think the Eberhard Arnold quote “Truth without loves kills, but love without truth lies” fits in perfectly to this. We can love others where they are, but true love will guide them back to The Truth.
Julie — you weren’t the only one disturbed by that clip. I hate it that this is what is going out to impressionable minds. What a battle we are in! Yet Greater is He.
Monday: The Pattern
3. In the opening paragraph of Chapter 2 of Mystery Explained, Dr. Campbell explains the pattern that we see as Christ addresses each of these seven churches. Outline the typical pattern. – it starts with (a) a command to write to an angel of the church (b) Christ’s presents himself to the church and the situation in the church is outlined (c) Christ gives an encouragement to persevere or issues a warning to repent (d) a promise is given to those who are obedient to the messages given
4. What does Campbell say all the letters deal with? How is this also true for us? – they are all dealing with faithfulness to Christ while living in a fallen world pushing their worldly beliefs on us. I think this is happening now because we are losing ground to these pagan beliefs and we are becoming the minority and afraid to stand up for what we know, that Christ and His Word are true.
5. Now, read Revelation 2:1-7 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? (Rev. 2:1a) – it is addressed to the angel of the church in Ephesus
B. How is Jesus described? (Rev. 2:1b) – he is described as the one who holds the seven stars in his right hand and who walks among the seven golden lampstands.
C. For what are they commended? (Rev 2:2-3) – they have persevered and worked hard and endured hardships for his name and did not grow weary.
D. For what are they rebuked? (Rev. 2:4) – they had forsaken their first love and concentrated more on persevering in the face of opposition instead of finding compassion and loving one another.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? (Rev. 2:5a) – they are to repent and go back to what they were doing in the beginning, finding compassion and love
F. Find both the warning and the promise. (Rev. 2:5b-7) – the warning – if they don’t repent, they will no longer have The Holy Spirit with them, and the promise – if they repent and have ears to hear the truth and follow it they will be given the right to eat from the tree of life and be eternally in His presence.
Tuesday
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
The angel in the church represents them in some sense in heaven, which means they have help (in the form of a designated angelic representative) acting on their behalf in heaven.
The 7 stars which represent the 7 angels are in Christ’s right hand so He must have control of them.
The worship shown in chapters 4 and 7 is a model of the church’s worship on earth.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
In each letter there are variations of how Jesus introduces Himself, which reflect Old Testament language used only by God, Christ assumes the role of God, and the letters become prophetic messages from God, rather than pastoral epistles only.
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?
They’re praised for testing and rejecting false prophets, have suffered and never given up. They may have become selfish and lost sight of spreading the gospel, may of lost their love for one another. “The pursuit of truth must be grounded in the experience of sacrificial love, or a living church will turn into a religious mausoleum.” Wow…isn’t the definition of “agape” love a sacrificial love…not a feeling but a choice, actually a command.
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent?
The church is used to bring light into darkness and if there is no repentance or remembrance it might be cast into darkness itself. If no response their church will die – their lamp stand removed. Jesus Himself will “come” to judge, which doesn’t refer to His 2nd coming but rather indicates He must of come repeatedly through history to various churches in similar judgment.
Israel was the lamp stand at one time and when they turned their backs on God their lamp stand was removed and given to the church.
‘The lamp stand refers to the church in its capacity as prophetic witness to the world.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
The city of Ephesus was dominated by the cult of the goddess Artemis, goddess of fertility. Her temple had thousands of priests and priestesses. Sexual immorality was part of the temples function. It also had temples devoted to the worship of Caesar.
I agree with your “WOW” Sharon — living sacrificially or we become a religious mausoleum.
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
Each church is “given” an angel that will help them.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
There is a phrase that lets us know, something along the lines of, “in the words of Him,” when introduced. Another phrase, “thus says the Lord,” is a phrase only used by God, and is noted over 100 times in the OT. Jesus also refers to the seven lamps and lamp stands during his ministry here in earth. They are also referred to here as well. These words are from God.
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?
He applauds their discernment when dealing with false prophets however He is also reminding them to reminding them that they used to love one another dwell and may have lost that. They have suffered well, but sacrificial love must prevail or their church would suffer from religiosity.
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
The church has an appointed angelic representative, worship in heaven is a model for worship in the church.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?Christ has assumed the role of God by using OT language that was used by God alone
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?That they have held to Paul’s admonition to guard against false teaching but that they are lacking in love
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent? The church in its capacity as a witness to the world.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
That Christians were under pressure to worship Artemis and Caesar, to refuse meant danger and economic isolation.
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
It stood out to me that the teaching in symbols and parables is tough, we need to desire understanding and pursue it. It feels discouraging to me until I remember that the disciples were dull, like me, they had to ask Jesus what he meant again and again.
I also thought about my own church. We had a major upheaval about 2 years ago. I had shared here in the past that I felt like right theology was an idol in our church that some stood on their correct understanding as making them more righteous than their neighbors and actually supplanted Christ. The schism that took place resulted in the resignation of the senior pastor, the unjustified firing of a staff member , the complete departure of the elder board, and an abundance of hurt for so many people. I felt like our church was squarely in the place of the church at Ephesus. The whole experience has been heartbreaking.
One sermon that was preached after the smoke began to settle emphasized that knowledge often puffs up, that any pursuit of biblical knowledge that doesn’t result in a greater degree of love for God and neighbor is knowledge gone wrong.
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise?
I think the day is on the horizon when to declare what the Bible says is true will be deemed hate speech. The sad truth is people who claim Christ are often hateful. Speaking truth with no love at all out of a sense of moral superiority. Those people can have the effect of shutting the rest of us up because we sure don’t want to be seen in that light. I feel like the position of having actually shown that you care is the prerequisite for speaking truth in a really compelling way.
Oh Chris — that is a perfect illustration of his sermon! So sad.
Chris, I can really relate to what you said about the worst examples of church people can shut the rest of us up. My mother claimed to know Jesus but had absolutely no fruit in her life. At one point, my sisters said to me, ‘how can you be a Christian with mother the way she is?’ I started trying to explain to them, but we got interrupted. They’ve never been interested since in hearing from me about it, and now two of the three have died. I tried again just a couple months ago again with the remaining sister, but she does not have ‘ears to hear.’ Because of the current situation, we sent out a letter to about 50 of our family/friends who we didn’t know for sure know Jesus, explaining ourselves and the gospel. We got maybe a dozen responses, but none where they want to hear more. So sad.
Tuesday
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
”He who has an ear let him hear.” A phrase used by OT prophets and Jesus before speaking in parables or symbols. These were designed to sharpen the understanding of true believers, while at the same time drawing others to repentance.
“Those who want to understand will pursue God for that understanding, while the rest will scoff and turn away from what they consider incomprehensible.
Only those with a heart for God and for truth will go beyond the outward symbols to discover the true meaning in its Biblical context.
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise?
I think of the cake bakers in Oregon and Colorado who refused to bake a same sex wedding cake, the florist in Washington who refused to put together a flower arrangement for a same sex marriage. There is a lawsuit against Christian colleges by the LGBTQ for discrimination…and the list goes on. I might have to pay this price by being rejected by family members and even losing those relationships.
Dee, when you changed the end of the week, the numbers for Friday and Saturday didn’t change, so there are 2 10’s, 11’s &12’s. Please don’t let me nitpick if it’s not helpful….
10. Remember, repent, return. How could you apply this to your walk with Jesus? To your marriage?
Even while too much inward thinking is bad, some of it is useful. You can’t do these three if you don’t do the first two. Remembering is going back in your mind to what it was like at the beginning, or at the height of the relationship. Repenting is recognizing the differences now and deciding you want what you used to have. Returning is making consistent choices in actions and mindset that mimic what you used to do, say and think. It is a lot of telling truth to yourself. And then moving forward in correct actions.
11. The warning in Revelation 2:5.
They could lose their lamp. I take that to mean their ability to show others truth, rather than a loss of salvation. Though in the past, I have considered that. Through this study, I am pondering the light believers have. Like the parable of the ten virgins. There the issue is having the oil, which I take to mean the Holy Spirit, and they don’t really have Him, because they run out. In Revelation, it isn’t the oil that runs out, but that the lamp is removed. I’m not really sure if I’m looking at this right…
Mary — I appreciate it. I need all the help I can get.
As far as removing the lamp, think of it as a church body rather than as an individual. It isn’t about an individual losing his salvation but about the presence of God being gone from a church. I think there are often true believers who are naive in a dead church.
Thursday
12. What are some ways that you could show love to the world in which you live with both deeds and words? Be prayerful first, asking God to show you — for He may call you to show love to someone in particular and in a particular way. What does He impress on your heart?
I will go back and do Wednesday but this question really popped out at me. My daughter and her husband have their niece living with them who identifies as a man and has even changed her name. She hates Christians as she was raised in a “Christian” home, I put that in quotations as I don’t know how grounded it was in the gospel. On Easter I went over for lunch and had quite a bit of time alone with her…the whole time I’m praying for wisdom throughout our conversation. I felt led to just listen to her and keep the conversation light. I really feel that God has placed her in my life and my daughters for a purpose. I continually pray for the whole situation. She does have mental problems and my daughter is trying to get her in for counseling, which is not an easy fete. I want to build a relationship with her and pray that God will open her heart to truth and give me direction in what to ask and how to respond.
I would also appreciate all of your prayers as well.
Oh Sharon — you are living this out! I’m so proud of you. I sent yo an e-mail too, but you may not have seen it.
Also — was thinking how Satan attacks the vulnerable — even those with mental problems.
oh Sharon–so thankful God put you in this girl’s life.
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
I must continually remember what Christ accomplished on my behalf, the depth of his love his taking my place and choosing to purchase and protect me, this softens me to want to repent of my over attachment to the good things he has given me and my own comfort, makes me desire closeness with him more than “the vain things that tempt me most”As for the marriage piece, I am praying about that, my conflict avoidance hasn’t done us any favors. I need the Lord’s help to be different.
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
Repent- lest their lampstand be removed.
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28 They were making themselves known and causing a disturbance for the businesses there.
B. Acts 20:25-36 It was about to go into some seriously hard times.
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected? The churches have a representative angel in heaven and the worship that is going on in heaven is a model for the church’s worship on earth.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church? That they may have been so inward focused that they lost their love for the lost or that they may have lost their love for one another.
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent? The church in its capacity to be a prophetic witness to the world.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus? They were focused on the goddess of fertility Artemis.
10. Your turn: A. How might you be vulnerable about a sin God delivered you from? What lie did you believe? How did He rescue you? Be brief.
I believed that if I did everything “right” in raising my kids, they would turn out right. I recently heard someone in a Bible Study say they believed this to be true and everything in me wanted to stand up and speak against it, but I prayed for her in my head instead. God delivered me from both lies, one, I cannot do everything “right”, but 2, even that would not save my kids or create “good” people. I think the best way to parent is to go back to my knees over and over, in repentance and prayer, and releasing them back to Him. I make mistakes every day but God is bigger than my mistakes. And I do believe that if I am rooted in Him, He knows my heart and will work even my mistakes for good in my children’s lives. I trust more in His sovereignty and goodness than I do in my performance as a mom.
B. How might you gently share how God’s boundaries often seem heartless but are just the opposite?
Sometimes God’s ways seem limiting and it may seem that there is more freedom in going outside His boundaries. But when we follow His ways, we are actually more free to fully receive the joy and peace He brings when we obey Him.
11. Challenge question: How might a young mother explain God’s plan for sex to ten-year-old that would include why we should allow God to define our gender instead of deciding for ourselves?
God created us and He loves us. He does want good things for us and wants us to have real, lasting joy. He knows how we are made, every part and He does not make mistakes. If you create something out of Legos, you, the creator, decide what it is, what it’s designed for and what it is not good for (like being used as a pillow). God created each of us on purpose and for a purpose, He knows what He designed us for. He is good and we can trust that His ways are best.
Lizzy…“I think the best way to parent is to go back to my knees over and over, in repentance and prayer, and releasing them back to Him.” I so appreciate your humility and love for the Lord…such an encouragement to me.
Tuesday: The Church with Truth But Not Love
6. Read the following and describe what you know about the church at Ephesus:
A. Acts 19:23-28 – Paul was causing a disturbance by preaching that God was the only way to go and that the man made gods were not gods at all. The people of Ephesus were worried that the temple of Artemis and the goddess herself would be discredited.
B. Acts 20:25-36 – Paul gave those who were listening to his preaching a warning that he would be gone and they would not see him again and to remember what the Word of the true God says. He warned them that some would come in among them and lie about what he was doing and saying and lie about what the Word of God says and try to persuade them to not believe that any longer. They were sad that they would not see him any more and prayed together before he left them.
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected? – I’m not quite sure on this, but the as the churches are addressed by the angel and in a sense represents heaven, it shows that they have help, this reminds me of the Holy Spirit we now have among us. This type of worship being done is an example or a model of what the church’s worship on earth should be.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters? – The letters are introducing Jesus in different variations with phrases like “the words of him” or “These things says the Lord”. Because of these phrases it is beyond just our pastors saying it, it is referring back to what was given to us by Christ to takes on the form of God in the Old Testament.
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church? – Because of the rebuke by Christ that they lost their first love, Dr. Campbell brings out a thought that perhaps “they became inward looking and lost sight of our mandate to take the love of Christ to the world outside”. He went on to say “If we love Christ we must love others. The pursuit of truth must be grounded in the experience of sacrificial love, or a living church will turn into a religious mausoleum”. I love this last thought.
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent? – The lampstand represent the church in it’s capacity as prophetic witness to the world. I think too it represents us, his chosen ones, the ones that he has instructed to go in to the world and preach the Gospel.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus? – To refuse to participate in the pagan culture could be very dangerous for the individual to is standing up for God and His Word and also the church it self could lose popularity. It is so easy to follow the crowd so you feel like you are a part of what others are all hyped up about. But in reality you are killing yourself eternally, and may never see the sights of heaven without repenting from the pagan ways.
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you. – Jesus tried in many ways to help those who had ears to hear. He would explain things in multiple ways for those who chose to learn would get it. I’m so glad he does this, because each of us learns in a different way and may not understand his teaching in poetry style, but we can learn it from a ‘picture’ or parable example. He wants everyone to hear His Word, but there are some who will not want to dig deeper and those are the one that will not see the promise of the ‘tree of life’.
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise? – Sadly when we stand up and are against what seems to the popular topic for others, we are called many names and have people say how can we believe and love a God that doesn’t love everyone. This is where I need to have more experience to know how to respond. Our own daughter in law asked us why we hate gay people and we told her we don’t hate anyone, we believe in relationships as God has designed them in His Word and those that go against that are living in sin. We love the person, but don’t agree and will not conform to their choice of lifestyle. Whether we stated that correctly to her or not, she accepted that and was ok and understood where we were coming from. I always say that our government is trying to please everyone, but that will never be a thing that will happen because someone, somewhere will always not like or agree with and so someone will not be pleased with a decision. We, our government have fallen away from the constitution and what it stood for in my opinion.
I think you articulated that well to your daughter, Julie.
Wednesday: Kevin DeYoung Sermon
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung Sermon above and share what stands out to you.
These letters are very relevant. It is contemporary. We should read our Bible. Pastors say the message, the listeners live it and communicate it to others. The Lord’s work is to give them ears to hear.
Many do Christian stuff but never perceive the truth.
Characteristics of the 7 churches:
a. Doctrinally sound navel-gazing Ephesians
b. Vibrant fearful Smyrna
c. Witnessing, undiscerning Pergamum
d. Loving over tolerant Thyatira
e. White washed tombs Sardis
f. Struggling but strong Philadelphia
g. Affluent apathetic Laodicea
Same message to all seven: How to overcome in a hostile world
Listen to all the letters; carefully listen where the strengths are your strengths; pay attention to where the church has your strengths.
10. Pastor DeYoung pointed out the Remember, Repent, and Return turns out nicely in English. How could you apply this to your walk with Christ? Possibly to your marriage?
Remember the love we share for God and for each other
Repent of my tendency to be judgmental of others (and husband)
Return to showing love to others and my husband in ways that truly minister to their/his needs
The Ephesians love God but their fault was the second commandment; they have keen minds but shriveled hearts.
11. What warning in Revelation 2:5 does Jesus give to the church at Ephesus?
I will come to you and remove your lampstand.
extra notes:
Whereas Laodicea had grown lifeless, Ephesus had grown loveless (being right but they did not love); doctrinally right quick to judge and slow to forgive.
You hate what I have but you do not love what I love. God said to the Ephesians
The Ephesians also had a lack of life-giving fellowship and a lack of life-giving witness…Navel gazers…
Good at not bringing the world into the church; terrible at bringing the church to the world.
Repent from judgmental lovelessness and lackluster witnessing
Remember, sweet fellowship, and share your faith
Return to doing what you used to do.
Some sheep will hear the Master’s voice.
A time to love again….our imperfect brothers and sisters and imperfect neighbors. Do I like people?
Little children, love one another.
My notes are not very organized but just want to share my thoughts as I do not want to be too behind.
7D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues” we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent?
The lampstand is the church’s prophetic witness to the world.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
There was sexual immorality, and they worshipped the pagan goddess Artemis. They also worshipped Caesar.
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
I think the line, “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of life, will often be paid” is true.
The use of the phrase,”… those with ears to hear …” how often it is repeated in the OT and how we know it from Jesus in the NT.
Those who want to understand God will dig deeper and not just “blow off” the hard stuff (like the parables and Revelation itself). if they do give up, their hearts will be hardened. To persevere is to gain the tree of life.
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise?
Hahaha…I didn’t know you had this question here when I answered above! Believers who stand up for their Christian beliefs (which do not include the lifestyle of the LGBT community, but does include love) are thought of a “mean” people. They are dismissed and not taken seriously. They are ignored.
Great minds think alike! 🙂
Thursday
9. Listen to the Kevin DeYoung Sermon above and share what stands out to you.
Convicting sermon. It’s important for me to look at each church, to see their strengths and weaknesses and then look at my own.
They were good at keeping the world out of the church but terrible at bringing the church to the world.
The fight to overcome is to fight to love again, not just a fight for purity…
When was the last time I shared my faith? Is there some kind of mission for the loss?
Little children, love one another.
Sharon, yes! Good to keep the world out of the church, but need to keep the church in the world!
12. I cried over the story about the people who invited their son’s live in boyfriend to come for Thanksgiving. I don’t know if I could have done that, and I look down on myself for having that reaction. I wonder if anyone would ever say of me that they have never been more loved.
I am praying for God to show me how to show love to the world in both words and deeds.
By the way, my husband did listen to the sermon from this week, and we were able to talk about it. We are going to move ahead on the couple of tiny ideas we have on being more involved with people. Both from church and in our neighborhood.
That’s exciting Mary — keep us in the loop to pray.
7. Read the section about the Church at Ephesus in Mystery Explained and answer:
A. In the first paragraph, how can we see that somehow heaven and earth are connected?
Campbell says that in all seven letters, the churches are addressed through an angel who represents them in heaven, demonstrating that the churches have help (a designated angelic representative) acting on their behalf. This was a new idea for me. It reminded me of the belief of some in a “guardian angel”, an angel “assigned” to an individual to help them. So each of these seven churches had an angelic representative. Does each church today have one?
He also said that the worship happening now in heaven is to serve as a model for the church’s worship on earth.
B. In the second paragraph, how do we see that these letters to the churches go beyond pastoral letters?
Jesus introduces Himself in each letter with phrases like “the words of Him”, or “these things says the Lord”, meaning that the letters are direct prophetic messages from God, rather than pastoral letters from John.
C. In the third paragraph, how does Dr. Campbell summarize Christ’s message to this church?
The Ephesian church is praised for its discernment in testing and rejecting false prophets, for their patience and not giving up. But Jesus’ rebuke about abandoning their “first love” may represent their failure to take His love to the rest of the world, or losing their love for one another.
D. In the fourth paragraph, which begins with “the rebuke continues”, we learn about the symbolic nature of the lampstand. What does it represent?
Campbell says the lampstand means that the church is called to be a witness, in the way that Jesus spoke of the lamp is to be put on a lampstand. Israel was supposed to be that lampstand, but when the Israelites failed to be a light to the nations, their lampstand was removed and replaced by the church. If this church also fails to respond, the church at Ephesus will die.
E. In the fifth paragraph, what do you learn about the practice of the pagan culture of Ephesus?
The city was dominated by the worship of Artemis, a goddess of fertility, and her temple employed thousands of priests and priestesses. Worship at her temple involved sexual immorality. The city also had temples for worshipping Caesar.
F. Read the rest of the section on Ephesus and share anything that stands out to you.
I learned the significance of the phrase, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Jesus used this phrase, as did Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Jeremiah, referring to the prophets use of symbols and parables. The purpose was to sharpen the understanding of believers, leading them to want to discover more truth, while hardening the hearts of the rest. Dr. Campbell also explained that all of the frightening images in Revelation, like a dragon, strange creatures, etc… were for the purpose of shocking believers out of their complacency or compromise. The compromise part reminded me again of the book I read recently that said that these images were for revealing the monster for what it is (for example, Rome was often seen as a powerful icon of civilization, but the truth was; Rome was a monster.)
8. Dr. Campbell writes: “The church, when functioning properly, is always counter-cultural, for which a price, from loss of popularity to loss of income to loss of life, will often be paid.” How do you see this happening to individuals today who are standing, in love, against the lies of the LGBT agenda? How might you have to pay this price if you do likewise?
I’ve been following the story of the recent statement issued from the Catholic church that it cannot bless same sex unions. The reason being that “It is impossible for God to bless sin.” (A blessing being a blessing given by a priest or other minister in the name of the Church) I believe that in response, among many, about 700 young people in Canada officially left the church. Also, I believe there are a few priests in Germany who are going ahead and blessing anyway. One group, called Catholics for Choice, issued a statement saying “Being LGBTQ is not a choice; LGBTQ people are wonderfully made by God. We are born this way and perfectly so, regardless of what the Vatican or any other religious authority might claim.”
So this is a difficult thing, when you have people who sincerely believe that God made them LGBTQ, and that therefore, this is the way He made them and so how can their sexual identity be wrong? So when any church says that is not so, it is seen as judgmental, condemning, and unwelcoming. And I really do not know the solution. Do you exclude practicing LGBTQ people from coming through the church doors? Or do you welcome them in so that they can hear God’s Word?
Surely the model of Jesus is to welcome them, love them in. But not put them in leadership.
I loved this from you: The compromise part reminded me again of the book I read recently that said that these images were for revealing the monster for what it is (for example, Rome was often seen as a powerful icon of civilization, but the truth was; Rome was a monster.)
13. When someone disagrees with you about Bible truth and brings it up to you, what are some principles to apply? What do you learn from James 1:19-20?
First of all, pray as soon as you get an inkling of what is happening, and pray throughout. Then, work at making sure you totally understand what they think. Ask any clarifying questions. Not to challenge them, but to make sure you aren’t missing anything in your comprehension of their position. Repeat back to them how you hear their heart until they can tell you you’ve got it right. I would need, within myself, to proceed as I often did as a nurse. By that I mean, knowing that I’m not just speaking for myself. There is a bigger picture here that I need to be working with and for. It is important to validate as much as possible, both their feelings and any truth to what they are saying.
I think at that point I would respond differently to an unbeliever than to a believer. I think it would be a good idea to ask to pray together as we approach the discussion. With a believer I could be more free with referring to scripture, and appeal to both of us to remember we belong to the same Lord. I would ask where in the Bible they find support for their stance, and how they see the verses that I think are on ‘my side’. If I find that I am wrong, I need to say so and not dig in my heels about it. Also, not to think that we have to ‘settle’ the issue in one discussion. It may take time. And affirm your love for that person.
With an unbeliever, I feel more at a loss. I am afraid that I couldn’t appeal to scripture, and am insecure, thinking that they wouldn’t be willing to listen to anything I have to say. I think I would feel attacked. Maybe because the unbelievers I’ve had anything close to this with haven’t been interested in discussion. But maybe I just haven’t seen beyond their presentation and my fear.
Sometimes though someone is an unbeliever, I have a sense God is at work in their life — there’s a tenderness. Other times no.