Day 32

I KNOW your works, . . . I KNOW your affliction and your poverty, . . . I KNOW where you live, . . . I KNOW your works, . . . I KNOW your works, . . . I KNOW your works, . . . I KNOW your works. Rev 2:2, 9, 13, 19; 3:1, 8, 15. 

A side-by-side comparison of these messages shows that they follow the same six-fold structure. Each opens with Jesus addressing the specific church by name. The second part begins with the phrase, “These things say…” in which Jesus introduces Himself to each church using descriptions and symbols found in chapter 1. Those descriptions of Jesus were suited to the specific needs of each church. Thus, Jesus was pointing to His ability to meet the needs of their different struggles and situations. Next, Jesus gives an appraisal, and then He counsels the church on how to get out of the predicaments. Finally, each message concludes with an appeal to hear the Spirit’s message and with promises to overcome. In each of the messages, Jesus offers hope and answers the needs of each church in each situation. Hence, surely, He can meet our needs today, as well. 

A common message to each of the seven churches is the clear assertion that Jesus knows all there is to know about each of the churches. Early in each “letter” is a statement like, “I know your works.” Jesus not only knows everything we do; He knows what we can become. He wants each church to become all that it can be. He wants each church to live according to His design. 

Jesus knew all about John as well. He had a plan and a purpose for his life. Jesus knew John could handle the powerful visions that form the core of the message of Revelation (Rev 1:1). In writing out Revelation John was acting out Jesus’ design for his life (1:11, 19). Part 2 follows.