Sign of Times (Part XV -15)

By Moonings

The Message to Each Church

Ephesus/New Testament Churches

Salutation: Christ walks in the midst of the seven candlesticks.
Relevance to this church: This church has always tended to think of itself as the only true church. Christ reminds Ephesus that He is Lord of the other churches also.

Acknowledgment: He notices seven instances of work, patience, and discernment.
Relevance to this church:In its achievements, this church is superior to all the others. One excellence peculiar to this church is its ability to distinguish truth from error.

Exhortation/Criticism: They have lost their first love.
Relevance to this church: In the latter twentieth century, the remnant of New Testament churches rapidly lost their zeal for service and their devotion to Christ.

Warning: He may remove their candlestick.
Relevance to this church: Ephesus will not survive until Christ's return.

Commendation: They have rejected the Nicolaitanes.
Relevance to this church: The Nicolaitanes, which means "conquering of the people," probably represent those in the church who seek to master the souls of men. In the modern world, the Nicolaitanes are the ecumenists who wish to put men under the bondage of a single church organization.

Promise: Overcomers will eat the tree of life in the midst of paradise. The members of this church, so dedicated to work and separated living, have a suppressed desire for pleasure. Christ reminds them that the hope of the faithful is to live forever in a place where pleasure abounds.