Revelation 2:1-7

Ephesus (Verses 1-7)

The City

The city of Ephesus was the capital of Asia Minor and was one of the most important cities in the Roman world. It had a population of over 250,000. It was the “home” temple of the goddess, Diana. The temple of Diana was one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was 4 times larger than the Parthenon; had 127 marlbe pillars; 36 of then covered with gold and jewels. Diana was (in pagan folklore) the daughter of Jupiter.

The Church

Paul had dome some great work in this area. He taught at the school of Tyrannas. He spent three years here. The church was started in the midst of the riot in the theater. (Acts 19:1-41) John was here before his banishment and returned here when he was released from exile.

Things Commended

Their toil and work

Patience in the midst of persecution

Discipline of false teachers

Dealing with the Nicolaitans (who retained pagan practices)

Faithful to the doctrine, refusal to accept error

They worked for the same of Christ’s name

Nicolaitans were of the branch of teachers teaching antinomianism. This is a big word that simply means, (in the words of a restaurant commercial) “No Rules, Just Right!” Free in Christ, they believed meant no rules, no law, no commands, no moral code. Anything goes, was their motto. They are identified with Baalam because he led Israel into fornication. Christ hated their teaching and so did the Ephesians.

Things Condemned

They left their first love

Left their first love - Think back to the first time you were in love. Can’t eat. Can’t sleep. Excited. Write their name all over your notebook. Can’t stop thinking about them. Talk to them for hours. Spend every moment possible with them. What happens over time? One of two things - the love deepens or you “get over it.” The problem is that the Ephesians were “getting over it.” Jesus was saying, “You no longer love me as you once did.”