Living on the Wrong Side of Nevertheless

by Dennis Michelson
(Painesville, Ohio)

Revelation 2:1-7

Introduction: Does it bother you pastor to think that Christ holds you in his right hand? Do you think the Church has a genuine sense that Christ walks about in the midst of the churches? If this text is any indication, He knows exactly what is going on inside the church and inside those who are in the church.

1. His Commendation (2:1-3)

This was an active and orthodox group of people. They worked hard. They labored tirelessly. They were even patient! They were separated and hated evil and even exposed the pseudo-apostles of their day. What more could the Lord be looking for in a Christian or in a church?

2. His Condemnation (2:4)

There it is - NEVERTHELESS. If you do not love the Lord as much today as you did when you first believed - then guess who moved? All of those fine things mentioned in His commendation pale in comparison to leaving your first love.

3. His Correction (2:5)

• Remember from whence thou art fallen - you have forgotten what He has done for you.



• Repent and do the first works - you have forgotten why you are doing something for Him.

4. His Condition (2:5)

Religion is no substitute for relationship and work is no substitute for worship. The Lord says do these things or I may just "remove thy candlestick." I will let you ponder what that means.

Do you seminary types remember the third-class condition? There it is right at the end of the verse - "except thou repent." The Lord is saying to you and to me - meet my conditions (and it is likely you will) and I will fire up the candlestick brighter than ever before!