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Daily Devotions

Revelation

Revelation 
Day 
Day 14

"I know your works"

Text: Revelation 2:2

AN EXAMINATION OF THE WORKS OF THE CHURCH I

The Lord Jesus examined the works of the Church at Ephesus. The works of each and every church would be evaluated by the Lord impartially.

“I know your works, your labour, your patience,
and that you cannot bear those who are evil.
And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not,
and have found them liars.”
Revelation 2:2

1. An impressive list of ministries was found.

a) “Works”

i) This is a reference to good and wholesome activities organised by the Church.

ii) The angel of the church would lead and involve the church.

iii) The Lord takes note of these activities.

b) “Labour”

i) This is a reference to the actual effort put in.

ii) “Labour” suggests being industrious and diligent in ministry.

c) “Patience”

i) This is a reference to “perseverance”.

ii) Patience is certainly a needed companion to perseverance.

d) “You cannot bear those who are evil”

i) Evil cannot be tolerated by the true believer.

ii) The church cannot compromise good with evil.

iii) The church was strong and resolute in its stance against evil.

e) Testing of those who are called apostles.

i) Obviously, the church was quite knowledgeable.

ii) It was able to test those who called themselves apostles.

iii) The pastor and other leaders knew how to keep the church safe from wicked people who posed as apostles.

f) “And have found them liars”

i) This does not mean that the Church was judgmental.

ii) It reflects the skill and gift of discernment.

iii) It also reflects the strength and courage of the church to stand against evil people who creep into the church to prey on weaker brethren.

2. The Church fared very well.

a) The Lord Jesus acknowledged all these good things the angel and the church were doing.

b) The Church at Ephesus with its angel (pastor) had done well on this evaluation.