7 Churches

[jamantc]

There are 7 churches in Revelation that Christ spoke of through the angel. Which church do you see America as being? I see America as all but the church of Philadelphia and Smyrna. Yes, I know America has no part in the end times according to many theologians, but man, the similarities between America and 5 of the 7 churches.

(1) Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) - the church that had forsaken its first love (2:4).

(2) Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11) - the church that would suffer persecution (2:10).

(3) Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17) - the church that needed to repent (2:16).

(4) Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29) - the church that had a false prophetess (Oprah Winfrey) (2:20).

(5) Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6) - the church that had fallen asleep (3:2).

(6) Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13) - the church that had endured patiently (3:10).

(7) Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22) - the church with the lukewarm faith (3:16).

 

[Keachian]

The Holy Spirit was mindful of the common challenges that would face Churches over the many centuries that have followed, while all the epistles were written to Churches when we face similar problems we can look to Scripture for guidance and exhortation to fix our eyes on the Author and Perfecter of our faith

 

[jamantc]

Yep, truthful words

 

[JM]

Could/should we read Revelation idealistically? Meaning, the seven letters to the churches are recapitulated for every generation?

 

[jamantc]

If every book can be applied to our lives today many, many years after being written, I don't see why it couldn't apply to the churches?

 

[1watchman]

Yes, the seven churches are useful to understand history and our responsibilities today. I have a comprehensive paper on this if one is interested, which is a bit long to post here. There are some important things to consider in this to understand the harm of denominated sects and various religions.

 

[jamantc]

Thank you!