NREV 02a
210811AM
Short Clip
The first stop on Jesus’ medical inspection tour is Ephesus. And it doesn’t take long for Him to find a serious spiritual heart condition. But you wouldn’t know it to look at them.
Ephesus appeared to be thriving. It was easily the largest church in Asia Minor. Paul had pastored there for three years, explaining the Scriptures daily, answering their questions and teaching them to live sanctified lives. When Paul moved on from Ephesus, he left Timothy behind, his spiritual son in the faith.
And just before being exiled to Patmos, John lived and ministered in Ephesus, and he had Mary, Jesus’ mother, living with him.
More Scripture books (4) were written directly to Ephesus than any other city. (Ephesians, 1 Timothy, 1 John, Rev. 2)
This letter Jesus dictates to John is epistle number four written specifically for this church, and yet when Jesus examines Ephesus, He finds a major heart problem.
At first glance, Ephesus appeared healthy.
If you read the diagnostic report found in Revelation 2:1-7, Jesus’ initial observations appear to be a glowing report on the health of His largest and most influential local church. “I know your works,” He says. “Your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary.”
Sounds like a healthy heart to me.