This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Revelation, the 66th book in the Bible. Taught by our pastor, Simeon Forder, at our Sunday morning service on the 11th January 2026.

About this book

The book of Revelation is often neglected, sometimes feared, but God told the apostle John to write these things down to encourage, not discourage believers. In it we not only learn more our about our Saviour, Jesus, and His righteousness, but also what He expects from the believers that make up His church (the bride of Christ). Furthermore, we gain incredible insight as to how God will not only see that justice is done as He deals with a wicked world, but the joys that await those that love Him. And if there was any further encouragement needed to study it, we are promised that there is a blessing for all who read and hear the words of this book!

About this passage

In this specific passage we will find and study two of the seven letters that Jesus dictates to John, that were to be sent to local churches, but recorded here that we might also hear and understand what we read — because Jesus is interested in how healthy His church is.

And it should be no surprise that He is interested in her, or that He wants her to be free from sin, to be faithful. For what groom-to-be wouldn’t care about faithfulness of the one he is going to be married to?!! You see, it is Jesus’ great love for His church which is why He writes both commendations — which are things to praise these churches for — but also correction; giving warning to those churches that are not living and acting as they ought to. So then, let us consider these letters very carefully.

Application questions

• Are you relying on reputation, rather than relationship?
• Will your name remain in the Book of Life?
• Are you holding fast to God’s Word in your own life?