Msg#2537 An Ear to Hear
The Revelation of Jesus Christ reveals as “the things which are” a prophetic history of his church. F. W. Grant’s 1902 book “The Prophetic History of the Church”, aptly defends that theses and meticulously aligns the revelation with church history in eight lectures. “Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; these things saith he that holdeth the seven Stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks” (Rev.2:1). Each church address has such a distinct author’s title assigned. Here, the ‘stars’ speak of the ministry given to the saints, as responsible to shine by his light and for him in his world. “They that turn many to righteousness shall shine as the stars forever and ever” (Dan.12:3). Also, as Jehovah God was “in the midst of ” the Garden, of Israel, of the camp, and of the promised land, now is Jesus “in the midst of” the churches, of disciples gathered, of two or three gathered, and of the twenty-four Elders. This church “of” Ephesus was able to discern truth and lies, had labored for Christ’s namesake, but had “left there first love.” Think of that deplorable condition; my familiar friends have forgotten me, my name, my words, that they were purged from their old sins, … Left there first love! Peter forgot thrice, Paul not once. It is the danger in all church ages and Jesus gives the solution “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen and repent.”
The church “in” Smyrna was thrust into severe persecution. Only “The first and the last, which was dead, and is alive” knows of that anguish. He gives them high commendation, and no condemnation. Each church is implored, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches” (Rev.2:7,11,17,29,3:6,13,22).
An Essay for week #37, Sep 14, 25
See F.W. Grant in Vol 09 www.GSBaptistChurch.com/theology
Msg in audio at www.GSBaptistChurch.com/audio/gs250914.mp3
