It’s fascinating how our experiences shape our perceptions, isn’t it? The diversity of family dynamics and routines is like a patchwork quilt, each square telling a unique story. Maybe you have come to realize that the way you were raised is very different from your friends. Similarly, peering into the lives of early church communities through texts like the book of Revelation offers a glimpse into their struggles and triumphs.
The book of Revelation gives us a peak behind the curtains. It doesn’t just speak of what God is going to do but gives some real insight into how the early churches were living. Jesus says,
“I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and your patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars. You have patiently suffered for me without quitting” (Revelation 2:2-3, NLT).
Jesus’ acknowledgment of the Ephesian church’s diligence in discerning falsehoods and enduring hardships underscores their commitment to truth. In Acts 19, we learn that the city was filled with evil spirits and sorcery but that the church grew and learned to stand for the truth. However, Jesus’ admonition about their waning love highlights a crucial imbalance. It’s a poignant reminder that truth without love can lead to spiritual stagnation.
Jesus goes on to say, “But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first!” (Revelation 2:4, NLT). Yes, they have worked hard. Yes, they have patiently endured. Yes, they have stood against evil people. But somewhere along the way, they stopped loving Jesus and each other like they once did.
Roughly 33-36 years before John wrote the book of Revelation, the apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church in Ephesus that we now call Ephesians. The juxtaposition of Jesus’ words in Revelation with Paul’s letter to the Ephesians amplifies this message. Paul’s emphasis on love as the foundation of the Christian life operates as a timeless charge. Amid the battles against falsehoods, maintaining a fervent love for Christ and one another is essential. Paul ends the letter with these words, “May God’s grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 6:24, NLT).
Incorporating Ephesians into your Bible reading may be just what we all need to point us in the direction of love. It is a practical way to realign priorities and rekindle the flame of love within the heart of the church. Take some time to reset your life in Ephesians.
Looking for more resources to study Ephesians?
The Filament Journaling Collection offers the most portable and interactive study Bible experience available—and it’s available for the book of Ephesians.
It has the following features:
- Flexible softcover
- Thick, opaque cream-colored journaling paper
- Smyth-sewn binding so it lays flat when open
- Journaling space on every other page for reflection, sermon notes, and prayer so you can engage with Scripture
- The Bible study resources of the Filament Bible app
- Text in the clear and accurate New Living Translation
Ephesians is also included in Inspire: 1 Corinthians—2 Thessalonians, a coloring-book style Scripture portion that lets you color and journal your way through these books of the Bible.
Features include:
- 65 line-art illustrations to color, including 18 full-page Scripture designs
- 204 designed verses within the Bible text containing words to color
- 10 creative-journaling embellishments to color, cut, and share
- 2 ½-inch-wide ruled margins for prayers, notes, or creative expression
- High-quality white coloring-book paper
- Large 11-point font
- The clear and accurate text of the New Living Translation
Another great resource is the Streetlights New Testament, a visually compelling, easy-to-understand resource for churches, ministries, and individuals. The pages link to remarkably creative audio and video resources The NLT Streetlights New Testament explains Christian truth in a unique and engaging way, using audio, video, and print to reintroduce a new generation to God’s Word.
The featured content focuses on helping the reader engage with the Word of God such as:
- The Corner Talk feature answers these key questions: Who is God? Who am I? What do I do?
- This New Testament also includes QR codes that link to the entire Streetlights New Testament Audio Bible as well as to visually compelling teaching videos.
