In today’s world, it’s easy to become distracted. Our lives are filled with responsibilities, distractions, and an ever-growing list of things that demand our attention. As Christians, however, we are called to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus Christ—the One who is our Savior, our Redeemer, and our First Love. In a world that constantly pulls us in every direction, the question remains: Have we, as Christians, lost sight of our first love—Jesus Christ?

The words of the Apostle John, recorded in the Book of Revelation, serve as a powerful reminder to us all. In Revelation chapters 2 and 3, Jesus speaks to the seven churches in Asia, calling them to repentance, to return to their first love, and to be faithful until the end. These messages, though addressed to ancient churches, speak directly to Christians of today.

Let us examine what Christ’s words to these churches can teach us and how they urge us to renew our commitment to Him.

1. The Church of Ephesus: The Call to Return to Your First Love

In Revelation 2:1-7, Jesus commends the church of Ephesus for their hard work, perseverance, and rejection of false teachings. They were a doctrinally sound church, but there was a critical issue—they had lost their first love (Revelation 2:4). Jesus doesn’t just leave them in condemnation but lovingly calls them to repent and return to the love they once had for Him.

For many of us, this can be a moment of reflection. Are we so focused on doing the work of the Lord—serving, helping, and building—that we forget the why behind it all? Christ desires our hearts to be passionately in love with Him. Without this love, even the most faithful works can become empty rituals.

2. The Church of Smyrna: Faithful Amid Suffering

Jesus writes to the church of Smyrna in Revelation 2:8-11, acknowledging their suffering and persecution but assuring them of His presence. Despite their tribulations, He encourages them to be faithful, even to the point of death, and promises them the crown of life.

Today, Christians around the world face increasing hostility. In some parts of the world, believers are persecuted, ostracized, and even martyred for their faith. Smyrna’s message is clear: perseverance in love for Christ is the ultimate reward. In the face of adversity, we must hold fast to our love for Jesus.

3. The Church of Pergamum: Repent of Compromise

The church of Pergamum in Revelation 2:12-17 is commended for holding fast to the name of Christ, yet they were warned against compromising with false teachings and sin. The church tolerated teachings that led them away from purity and devotion to God.

In our modern world, it’s easy to become complacent, allowing the culture around us to influence our beliefs and actions. Repentance is needed when we allow compromise to creep into our lives, whether through false teachings or sinful habits. True love for Christ requires unwavering devotion and holiness.

4. The Church of Thyatira: Love without Truth is Not Enough

In Revelation 2:18-29, Jesus addresses the church of Thyatira, acknowledging their love and service but condemning their tolerance of the false prophetess, Jezebel, who led people into immorality and idolatry. The church was commended for their deeds, but their failure to confront sin in their midst led to their downfall.

Christ calls us to love, but also to stand firm in truth. Love without truth can become misguided, leading us to condone things that are contrary to the Word of God. In the name of grace, we must not overlook holiness and righteousness.

5. The Church of Sardis: Wake Up!

In Revelation 3:1-6, Jesus warns the church of Sardis, saying, “I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.” Sardis was a church that appeared vibrant and active but was spiritually dead inside.

For many of us, this is a sobering reminder that appearance does not equal spiritual health. We can go through the motions of church attendance, ministry, and religious activities while our hearts remain far from God. It is time for us to wake up, to examine our hearts, and to repent of any spiritual complacency.

6. The Church of Philadelphia: The Faithful Church

In Revelation 3:7-13, Jesus speaks to the church of Philadelphia, commending them for their faithfulness and perseverance. Though they had little strength, they kept God’s Word and did not deny His name.

Philadelphia is a model for Christians today. Even in our weakness, we must remain faithful to the call of God. When we keep God’s Word and refuse to deny Jesus’ name, we will receive the promise of God’s protection and blessing.

7. The Church of Laodicea: The Lukewarm Church

Finally, in Revelation 3:14-22, we come to the church of Laodicea—perhaps the most well-known of the seven. Jesus describes them as lukewarm, neither hot nor cold. They were self-sufficient, thinking they had everything they needed, yet they were spiritually bankrupt.

This is a cautionary tale for Christians today. Lukewarmness in our relationship with Jesus is a dangerous state. It can be easy to fall into a routine where our devotion to Christ becomes more about religion than about a relationship with Him. Jesus calls us to be either hot or cold—to be passionate and zealous in our love for Him.

A Call to Repentance and Return to Christ’s First Love

The messages to the seven churches in the Book of Revelation are just as relevant today as they were 2,000 years ago. Jesus is still calling us to return to our first love, to repent of our spiritual complacency, and to faithfully endure in the face of trials.

As we reflect on these messages, let us ask ourselves: Are we living in a way that reflects a deep, passionate love for Jesus Christ? Have we allowed distractions, sin, or complacency to cause our hearts to grow cold?

Jesus offers forgiveness and renewal to all who will repent and return to Him. He stands at the door and knocks (Revelation 3:20). Let us open the door and allow Him to rekindle the fire of His love in our hearts.