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What Kind of Church are We? (Part 2 of 2) Marcus Boone
Last week we looked at the instructions given to the seven churches listed in Revelation. The churches at Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea all were told of their strong sides and their shortcomings. However, these instructions were not meant for these churches alone. Probably the most important phrase found in this text is “He who has an ear, let him hear.” The things that are being said about these churches could easily be said about the church here at Traders Point. Just as the Old Testament was written for our learning, we can look to the example of these seven churches to help us know what God accepts and what is an abomination to him. Where do we want to stand as a church? What kind of church are we? It is up to us to look to the good examples and heed the warnings we find in the second and third chapters of Revelation. If we want to be found acceptable in God’s eyes and set the example to the world around us, we will pattern ourselves after the good works found in these churches. We must be sure to test those who say they have the truth. We must persevere during the trials and tribulations that beset us. We must not compromise. We must have love, patience, faith and good service. We must not stand on our reputation alone, and we cannot drive down the middle of the road. The church at Philadelphia had an open door set before them that no one could close. The synagogue of Satan would be made to worship at their feet. If we have a little strength and do not deny the name of Christ , this door will remain open for us as well. If we keep God’s commandment to persevere, God will keep us from the hour of trial. This is going to take hard work and stamina. “He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and I will write on him My new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ~ Marcus Boone
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