The Seven Churches of Revelation Pt. 4 by Chris White

Author and Library of Ephesus a wonder of ancient times

 But I have this against you, that you have left your first love.  Therefore remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place—unless you repent.      –Rev. 2:4-5

The church of Ephesus had been in existence nearly 25 years before John the apostle had moved there to flee the war between Rome and Jerusalem that had ended in the city’s destruction.  Paul, who had planted the church, had been martyred in Rome two years prior.  Paul’s associates Luke and Timothy were also living in Ephesus around this time as well and so with such an assembly of choice servants of the Lord there is little doubt that this church was sound in its doctrine and discipline.  But the Lord Jesus had a criticism for this church that had everything to do with their orthodoxy:  they held sound doctrine but had significantly cooled in their love for him and each other.   Many years ago, I heard a respected church leader suggest that every church should put it in their by-laws that at the 50 year mark they will disband as a corporation and donate their facilities and equipment to congregations that are just starting out.  The reason: when a church reaches a certain age they tend to lose track of what’s important and often become so critical of each other they become more a house of humbug than a house of worship.  In the case of the church of Ephesus, they had hit the 35 year mark by the time this was written and so they were at a prime age for “hardening of the attitudes.”  The exhortation of Jesus was to remember, repent, and return to their first love.  As we grow towards maturity in our Christian faith our love should be increasing not diminishing over time.  If a church is long on orthodoxy and short on love, it is in danger of losing its light which is its witness to the world.  How do we put this exhortation into practice?  I believe it is simple at its core.  Love and prioritize the value of people over anything else in our lives.  When a church is young, its people are everything and the love is real, almost palpable.  But in the course of time everyone’s love must be rekindled and the quickest way to that end is to invest time and energy in each other’s lives.  Never underestimate the power and importance of loving your brothers and sisters in Christ and yes, even your enemies.  For while love is no church dogma, it is the unmistakable sign of being one of Christ’s disciples.

With you on the journey,

 Chris