The Culture Of The 7 Churches of Revelation
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Today’s post is a real treat! I “coincidently” came across this video series (below) on YouTube during my Sabbatical this past May. The 7 Churches of Revelation is presented by Dr. Joe Stowell, President of Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, MI. Even though I live only about an hour away from this University, I’ve never met Dr. Stowell. But, I really enjoyed this seven part series and wanted to share it with you.
What I found most insightful was the perspective given by Dr. Stowell, showing the cultural settings during the time these seven letters were given to John the Revelator. Dr. Stowell pointed out various artifacts, harsh realities, lifestyles, and interesting facts that the young churches had to encounter. What was amazing to me, yet not surprising, is that we are facing some of the same societal issues today as they were facing in their day. However, in some cases they were even more immersed in the debauchery of that time, of course that depends on where you live in the world today.
Nevertheless, learning new things about a topic I’ve studied all my life fascinates and intrigues me. For example, the Church of Laodicea had terrible water, but one close by city had cold water from the mountains, and the other one had hot springs. These tidbits of information flesh out the biblical narrative that can bring a whole new meaning. Jesus said to the Laodiceans, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Rev 3:15-16 Dr. Stowell did a beautiful job describing this example in much more detail, and there are many more examples like this in the series.
Again, as I’ve said many times before, the Bible is the living Word of God. There is always something new and refreshing to experience for, “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Rev 3:22 Are you listening? What is the Holy Spirit saying to you? Which of the seven churches ministers to you the most? God is waiting to talk with you!
That’s why these videos are a great springboard for your homechurch, homeschool, or small group discussions. It’s a wonderful way to refresh your memory of the wonderful truths and guidance that Jesus wanted to teach to all His children for every generation. Be assured that whatever you are going through, others have faced just as bad times or even worse. Find encouragement in the fact that Jesus knows your situation and to hold fast.
May you be renewed as you learn something new of the cultural settings of the early followers of Jesus. As you hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches, you will be blessed and be a blessing In Jesus Name! Go forth with courage by being bold, blessed and brilliant! Thank you for sharing, subscribing, and commenting below!