Results 1 - 2 of 2
|
|
|||||
Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Ordered by Verse | ||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | A New Reformation? | Revelation | Mommapbs | 95695 | ||
Greetings New Creature - I was taught that the "churches" of Revelation represented literal church "ages" over time, yet I also believe that these characteristics are ALL present in varying forms today, I am inclinded to even extend this affirmation/criticism from the Lord to individual believers as well. Having just returned from visiting Ephesus, Pergamom, Sardis, Laodicea, Smyrna and Phidelphia, I can tell you that what the Lord said to the believers in those places is STILL relevant. Except for Smyrna (present day Izmir) and Philadelphia, all the other "churches" or cities are desolate. (To me Laodicea was the worst, but then the temperature that day was 112 at least, so that might have colored my perceptions somewhat!) However, the ancient remains of the two churches that received NO criticism, are still inhabited. It was interesting to walk among the ruins of Smyrna, the persecuted church and gaze up at a mulit-storied parking ramp! The site of Philadelphia is in the middle of town, across the street from a mosque; it was like being in a place of refuge for us believers present. Where there is a lampstand, there is the possibilility of light to dispell the darkness. Indeed Turkey is so in need of the Gospel and although many have come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ in recent years, Christians are more often persecuted than tolerated. The party line, although very nationalistic and "westernized", is heavily laced with Islamic thought and rhetoric. Guides debunk and discredit Christianity where ever possible. (Sounds a bit like "home" too? I guess they are really westernized!) An interesting side bar for you to consider is about the "lukewarmness" of Laodicea. Not too far away are hot mineral springs in the mountains. (People still travel there to experience the "theraputic" properties of this water.) By the time that that water from these springs reached Laodicea, they would be "lukewarm." (good for nothing!) mommapbs |
||||||
2 | A New Reformation? | Revelation | New Creature | 95778 | ||
mommapbs I agree with you that what was spoken to each of the 7 churches in Revelation, is relevant to the churches in our day as well. I believe that is why it is mentioned 7 times in Rev. 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22 "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" The Spirit is still speaking to the church today, and expressly to those who are discerning, and willing to hear. I found your post very interesting and want to thank you for giving me some detail about the interesting aspects of your trip to the land of the 7 churches Grace be to you New Creature |
||||||