October 13, 2024
Pastor Ricky Smith

Sermon Notes

I. Rest in the One who Holds us Together

Revelation 2:1-3
“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands. “ ‘I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary.

II. Repent of Losing Focus

Revelation 2:4-6
But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. Yet this you have: you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

1. Failing to separate from what displeases God. 2. Refusing to give to meet the needs of others. 3. Seeking the approval of men rather than God. 4. Being unwilling to forgive another who has hurt or offended me.

III. Remember the Promise that Waits

Revelation 2:7
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.’

The way back to the cross is the same way the sinner first came. Repent.

Next Steps

• I confess my sin and turn to Jesus as King for the first time.
• I repent of neglecting my walk with Jesus and make Him first priority.
• I commit to walk in unity with this local church. Contact me about membership.

Deep Dive

1. Reflect and share on the place and time you first fell in love with Jesus.
2. How did the intensity of your faith in action change from then til now? Growing or weakening?
3. Read Revelation 2:4-6 and discuss how repentance can strengthen your faith.

Springboards

1. R