The Church at Ephesus
Introduction
Ephesus was the capital of Western Asia Minor. It was most famous for
its magnificent temple of Diana. Ephesus was safe haven for criminals. No one could be arrested within bowshot
of the walls of the temple. Despite all of the immorality going on, and the
obvious influence that it carried, Paul saw potential in the area and taught in
the Jewish synagogue. Perhaps a place where other people would have never
tried. He did - amazing results
from there.
I. The Positives.
A.
2:2-3 – Jesus’ statements are
based upon fact!
1.
Note the affirmation: I know.
a.
When God praises or rebukes, He does so
on the basis of fact. - not speculation. Heb. 4:13
B.
Ephesian brethren are praised for their
labor.
1. Christians have been
instructed to abound in the Lord.
a.
1 Cor. 15:58 – our labor is not in vain.
C.
2:2 – Did not tolerate evil men.
1.
Stood up for what is right. No
compromise.
2.
Ephesus was different from other
congregations: Corinth
D. 2:2 - Tried false
teachers. (1 Jhn. 4:1)
E. 2:3 - Endured for the
sake of Christ.
II. 2:4-5 – Needed Area of Improvement.
A.
2:4 - Left their first love
1.
Love for the spiritual now less intense & soul stirring then when
they became Christians.
2.
They were encouraged to go back to the way they once were.
B.
What are some ways we can lose our
first love?
1.
Letting our success of the past lull us to into coasting.
2.
Romans 1:16 - Lose boldness to share gospel with others.
3.
Lose attention during worship.
4.
1 John 2:15 - Loving the
world
III. 2:5, 7 - The Warning
A.
The Ephesians had to recognize they had
room for improvement.
B.
No repentance? Christ would come and remove their lamp
stand.
C.
How about us? Individually, am I in
danger of losing my first love?
1.
What about our congregation? Can we do better?
D.
2:7 - He that hath an ear - let him
hear
1.
James 1:22 - Be doers of the Word and not hearers only.
Conclusion.
A.
How intense is your love for Christ?
B.
Do you have a relationship with the Lord?