“I have this against you, that you have left your first love” Revelation 2:4 (NASB 95).
We should always examine the condition of our Church and look to scripture to guide us. The letters to the seven Churches in Asia give us examples of how to be the Church that Christ instructs us to be and what we may need to do to correct our behavior. I feel encouraged when I read an instruction from Christ, and we are following it. We are doing something right. But when we need corrections, that is not always welcome. We often find an excuse to justify our mistakes. But we are Jesus Christ’s Church and He leads us, so we must listen to Him and learn from Him. Although Instruction from Christ may not always be pleasant, it is good for us.
The Church in Ephesus receives praise for many things. The Church has had very good leadership. It has ministered in a pagan culture. It works hard, does not give up, and does not tolerate evil or false teachers. When I read the positive things that the Church is doing. I am reminded of the words of Jesus, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” John 14:15 (NASB 95). It reminds me of our Covenant Brethren Church Statement of Faith. We expect our member congregations to preach and teach the Bible. The Church seems to be faithful and doing everything as it should. But then, the criticism from Jesus comes, “You have left your first love”. Do we sometimes do this? What does Jesus mean? We love Him. We follow Him. Is this statement from Christ warning us?
Often, I listen to a new believer, someone who has recently accepted Jesus. It is so encouraging to hear the passion that they have. They desire increased opportunities for worship services, Bible study, and ways to serve the Kingdom of God. The new, born-again life that they have found has become first in their lives. That person just can’t get enough of God. They have the passion of the “first love”. Do we have that passion? We can do all of the activities of ministry correctly, but where is our heart? God sees our hearts. Our passion for God matters; it must be an essential part of our walk with Him. The scripture warns us. “Therefore, remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place—unless you repent” (Revelation 2:5 (NASB 95).
You may be a new believer or a long-time believer who still has a passion for Christ. It will show in your commitment to the work you do for Him. Or perhaps Christ’s warning speaks to you. Remember, He loves you, and we should remember all He has done for us. My prayer is for all of us to grow closer to our Savior, Jesus, and may our love for Him increase through the Holy Spirit.
Pastor Scott Kinnick – CBC Executive Board
