Letters to the Seven Churches

While in exile on the Island of Patmos, the Apostle John recorded the final book of the Bible, Revelation. It was the revelation John received directly from the Lord Jesus. In chapters two and three, we read how Christ directed John to deliver messages to seven churches existing at that time. These churches were located in the cities of Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. The selected churches were representative of all the churches that existed at that time. They also are representative of and speak to our churches today. The letters contain powerful warnings and rich encouragements to churches throughout the world, then and now. In this series, Reverend William Macleod examines each of Christ’s direct and challenging messages to the churches. This series aims to provide meaningful insight, correction, and encouragement benefiting both individual believers and churches worldwide.

Lessons

Lesson Number Title Summary
1 Introduction By AD 90, it was a dark and discouraging time for the church. All the apostles are dead except for John. The first state of the Holy Spirit’s power and work in the church is passed, and she suffers...
2 The Letter to the Church in Ephesus Christ addresses this church as “He that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks.” He praises them for their works and patience, but he...
3 The Letter to the Church in Smyrna Every church is different, even today. As in all the letters from the Lord Jesus Christ, he introduces himself in a special way, and each introduction is particular to that church. Here he says he...
4 The Letter to the Church in Pergamos Christ introduces himself as “He which hath the sharp sword with two edges.” He praises this church for their faithfulness in persecution, and that there were good works and diligence among them,...
5 The Letter to the Church in Thyatira To this church, Christ describes himself as “The Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass.” He sees all that goes on among them, and he praises them...