Lesson Summary:

Jesus Christ has a message for the churches at Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira.

Focus Passage: Revelation 2:1-11

Notes

Outline and Lesson Goal

The Seven Churches in Asia Minor

Seven Churches of Revelation Map — Map of the Seven Churches of Revelation

Principles and Applications

I. Message to Ephesus: Return to Basics (2:1-7)

Principle: Overcomers Are Committed to Love Jesus Christ Above All Things.
Application: What have you forsaken in your relationship with Christ since you first came to faith in Him? What do you need to remember? What do you need to repent from? What deeds do you need to do again?
Scripture Reference

²³ Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will follow My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our dwelling with him.
²⁴The one who does not love Me does not follow My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me.
John 14:23-24 (NASB 2020)

II. Message to Smyrna: Endure Until the End (2:8-11)

Principle: Overcomers Are Ready to Suffer All Things for the Sake of Jesus Christ.
Application: What tribulation are you experiencing right now? How is your current suffering drawing you closer to the Lord? What cost are you willing to pay for His sake?
Scripture Reference

Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
James 1:12 (NASB 2020)