God Speals to the Church: Lesson 1, Day 3

Revelation 1

Before we go into Chapter 2 and the actual letters to the churches, I would like to make some summary-type comments.

1. You found the number 7 used several times in chapter 1. Where did you see it? The number 7 has a symbolic representation of completeness, perfection, the essence of a thing that is most likely applicable here. 7 spirits ... 7 churches ... 7 lampstands ... 7 stars ... The number is used 52 times throughout the book of Revelation.

2. The word translated "angel" in English is the Greek word angelos and means: messenger, envoy, one who is sent, one who functions as a messenger. The word does not always mean a heavenly messenger. To see other ways the word is used look at Matthew 11:10, Luke 7:24 and Luke 9:52 just to mention a few. In all of these verses the word "angelos" is translated messenger. Same word. So who are these angels of the 7 churches? Are they heavenly beings or are they leaders in these particular congregations of believers? Swindoll sees them as either a pastor/elder or a prominent leader in the church. ("Letters to Churches ... Then and Now" by Charles Swindoll)

3. Why these 7 churches in Asia? We know of others ... there is Colosse, Troas, Hierapolis ... why don't they get letters? Again, speculation is the best we can do. These 7 cities lay on a great circular road that connected influential parts of the province of Asia. They also are central cities in the 7 administrative districts of Asia. Maybe they were postal centers. Perhaps they were John's special responsibility. Church tradition places John in Ephesus as the central leader of the churches in the area.

As we leave chapter 1 consider this: Christ STILL stands in the center of His church. Look at verse 13. He is walking among them - STILL. Would you "behave" any differently if you really believed that Jesus was in your assembly? Would you pray more fervently? Would you sing with more soul? Would you be less critical? He is there - He is here - He walks among the lampstands. Expect His presence ...