First love
Introduction
The Apostle John wrote the Book of Revelation at the command of the Holy Spirit (1:10-11) when he was exiled on the Island of Patmos ‘because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus’. It was written somewhere around 90 AD. This book was initially addressed to believers who were facing the threats and challenges of living for Jesus in the pagan Roman Empire. What he writes is intended to challenge all those who need to be warned about their spiritual condition. However it is also to be an encouragement for those who need to be reminded to persevere and remain faithful to Jesus and love and serve him wholeheartedly.
You may be familiar with chapters 2 and 3 of Revelation, where John is instructed to write specifically to the seven churches in Asia Minor. As we start this new year, let’s look at the first letter – the letter to the church at Ephesus.
Reflect – a hard-working church
- Who is speaking to the church in Ephesus? (Consider the words of Revelation 1, especially verse 20)
- What is the church in Ephesus commended for in verse 2?
- What are the Ephesians praised for in verse 3?
The believers in Ephesus have measured up in so many areas. They have worked hard . They have tested and rejected false teaching. They have persevered, endured hardships and not grown weary in their service for the Lord. Sounds like a pretty good group of believers, right? But let’s read on…
Reflect – resetting our priorities
- What does Jesus hold against the believers at Ephesus? (verse 4)
- Even though they have worked so hard, what does Jesus now call on them to do? (verse 5a)
- What will Jesus do if they do not change?.
I find this a great challenge. I may work hard in Christian service, persevere in difficult situations, and strive to get all my theology biblically correct. But if I don’t have love, then all this is useless. See 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.
The believers in Ephesus had forsaken their first love. Jesus takes this very seriously. He urges them to repent and reset their priorities. And if they don’t do this the prospect is grim. Jesus says he will leave their church!
God wants them – and us – to return to the love we had when we first believed. If our love for Jesus has been replaced by Christian activity, then we must repent. Love is not just an added extra; it is at the very heart of who we are as children of God. Loving God with all our heart, soul and mind is the first and greatest commandment.
See Matthew 22:37-40.
Reflect – eternal delight
- What does Jesus promise to the person who is victorious?
- Read, reflect on and delight in the promised future shown in Revelation 22:1-5
At the start of this new year let’s make loving Jesus the priority that drives everything we do. And let’s remember that we love him because he first loved us. Pray that God would lead and guide you step by step throughout 2025.
Let’s sing!
The Cause of Christ (Kari Jobe); My Jesus I Love Thee (Living Stones Quartet); I Love You Lord (Heria).