Vista Community Church

Jesus' letter to the church in Philadelphia contained no criticism, just encouragement. This church was faithfully following Jesus and holding onto the word of God. As a result, the church in Philadelphia lasted longer than all of the other seven churches. This is certainly a church we should look to learn from and imitate.

Apparently, in Thyatira, there was a woman who was actively living in sin and leading others to follow her into sin. Jesus sharply criticizes the church for tolerating this woman. Basically, the church was .turning a blind eye and ignoring what she was doing. This brings up two very important topics for the church... 1. tolerance and 2. discipline. How tolerant should we be and what does discipline look like for those living in unrepentant sin?

Many in the church in Pergamum were faithful in spite of persecution. However, Jesus calls them out because there are some who are being led astray by false teachings. These particular false teachings were teaching people that they could basically live their lives however they wanted (including sexual sin) and be fine. Jesus instructs them to repent. How we live our lives matters to God.

What can we learn from a church that is nothing like us? A church that was small, poor, powerless, and persecuted? We can learn how to live bravely in a scary world.

The church in Ephesus was doing some really great things and they are commended by Jesus for what they are doing well. However, Jesus tells them that they have abandoned their love for Him. Ephesus shows us that it is possible to have a church that looks good on the outside, but has no real love and affection for Jesus.