Lesson 3 - Pardon My Speaking the Truth Revelation 2:1-29

What can we do to help a fellow Christian who is ready to cave in under pressure? Usually we wouldn't say that things are going to get worse before they get better! But that's what Christ does in the seven letters to churches in Asia (Rev. 2-3). He confronts believers who have compromised morally and spiritually. But he also encourages them. This kind of tough love is essential for spiritual health.

1. What might be the results of confronting-or failing to confront-those who have seriously compromised themselves spiritually?

2. Ephesus: Read Rev. 2:1-7. Why would "forsaking your first love" (Rev. 2:4) be so tragic for this church?

3. Why do you think Christ's judgment would be so severe if they did not repent (Rev. 2:5)?

4. Why is there a tendency for most of us to lose the initial enthusiasm and excitement we had when we first came to know Christ?

5. If we have lost our first love, what steps can we take to renew our commitment to Jesus?

6. Smyrna: Read Rev. 2:8-11. Smyrna was noted for emperor worship. Refusal to worship the emperor brought martyrdom to some Christians. What does Jesus know about the believers in Smyrna?

7. How might Jesus' statements about himself, as well as his promises, solidify their faithfulness and ours?

8. The letter to Smyrna is the only one of the seven that mentions no problem and gives no warning. What role does affirmation play in helping Christians who are under spiritual pressure?

9. Pergamum: Read Rev. 2:12-17. Pergamum was also a center of emperor worship. This may be why it is called the place "where Satan has his throne." In addition, temple prostitution was prevalent. How had the church responded to the lure of these temptations?

10. What temptations lure the church today?

11. How have we responded to them?

12. The proconsul of this provincial capital was granted the "right of the sword," the power to execute at will. In light of this, how is Rev. 2:16 a contrast to the way we often think of Jesus' coming?

13. Thyatira: Read Rev. 2:18-29. Jezebel (Rev. 2:20) is an Old Testament character who symbolizes spiritual adultery (1 Kings 16:31). How was the so-called prophetess in Thyatira like her namesake?

14. Jesus charges this godly and loving church with being too tolerant of evil in their midst. In what areas are Christians today too tolerant?

15. Each of the letters (except the one to Smyrna) contains an affirmation, a problem, a warning and a promise. How might Jesus' example guide us as we care for a brother or sister ready to cave in under pressure?