We know about some of the early Christian churches. Much of what we know is described in Revelation 2-3 which explores seven churches in Asia Minor that existed at the time that John the apostle was writing Revelation. Though they were literal churches in that time, there is also spiritual significance for churches and believers today. The first purpose of the letters was to communicate with the literal churches and meet their needs at that time. The second purpose was to reveal seven different types of individuals/churches throughout history and instruct them in God’s truth. John relayed to these churches messages that he received from Jesus.
Today we explore the letters to the church in Sardis and the church in Philadelphia. The majority of Christians in the Sardis church were out of harmony with the gospel, while Philadelphia represented the faithful few. Additional scriptures referenced include Matthew 13:24-30;Ephesians 4:1; Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:1; 1 John 5:4; Luke 12:8; Isaiah 22:22; Revelation 21:22; Galatians. 2:9; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 2 Corinthians. 6:16; Ephesians 2:19-22; and 1 Peter 2:4-10.
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