Revelation 2:1–11
Key Verse 2:10b
1.Skim the seven messages to the seven churches (2:1–3:22). Note the similarities and differences. Why do you think the phrases “These are the words of…” and “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says” are repeated to all seven churches? (cf. Matthew 13:9)
2.How does Jesus introduce himself to the Ephesian church? (1)How does Jesus commend them? (2,3) Why do we need these qualities especially during difficult times?
3.What does it mean to “forsake” their first love? (4) How can we renew our first love? (5; cf. 1John 4:10–12) If we do not repent, what warning is here? (5b)
4.What does it mean to “hate the practices” of the Nicolaitans? (6; cf. 2:14,15) To be “victorious”? (7; 17:14) What does Jesus promise those who are? (7b; cf. 22:2)
5.How does Jesus introduce himself to the church in Smyrna, and why? (8) How does he describe what they are suffering there, and why does he say “yet you are rich!”? (9; James 2:5) What is he referring to in verse 9b?
6.Why should they not be afraid of suffering? (10a; 1:18) What does it mean to be “faithful, even to the point of death,” and how can we be? (12:11) What does Jesus promise those who are? (10c; James 1:12)