Commendation
Criticism
Instruction
Promise
Ephesus
(2:1–7)
Rejects evil, perseveres, has patience
Love for Christ no longer fervent
Do the works you did at first
The tree of life
Smyrna
(2:8–11)
Gracefully bears suffering
None
Be faithful until death
The crown of life
Pergamos
(2:12–17)
Keeps the faith of Christ
Tolerated immorality, idolatry, and heresies
Repent
Hidden manna and a stone with a new name
Thyatira
(2:18–29)
Love, service, faith, patience is greater than at first
Tolerates cult of idolatry and immorality
Judgment coming; keep the faith
Rule over nations and receive morning star
Sardis
(3:1–6)
Some have kept the faith
A dead church
Repent; strengthen what remains
Faithful honored and clothed in white
Philadelphia
(3:7–13)
Perseveres in the faith
None
Keep the faith
A place in God’s presence, a new name, and the New Jerusalem
Laodicea
(3:14–22)
None
Indifferent
Be zealous and repent
Share Christ’s throne
Spirit filled life study Bible. 1997, c1991 (electronic ed.) (Re 2:1). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.