It Starts Small

Author: Kimberlee Smith

  • Philadelphia: the Invitation and Promise.

    This scripture from Jesus to the church in Philadelphia promises that the conquerors will be like pillars in God’s temple, marked with a new name reflecting God’s character. The new name signifies a changed character, and believers will have a permanent place in the New Jerusalem. This symbolizes eternal honor…

  • Philadelphia: the Good.

    The church of Philadelphia, the second of the seven churches, receives praise from Jesus for its faithful works and perseverance. Jesus highlights the open doors of service that He provides as gifts of grace, as well as the protection He gives against adversaries. Despite facing opposition from the “synagogue of…

  • Jesus: the Holy One, The True One, Has the Key of David.

    In the letter to the church in Philadelphia, Jesus identifies Himself as Holy and True, asserting His authority over the church. His character gives Him the right to judge and deal with church issues. Described as the “true” one, He guards the church against false doctrine. Jesus also holds the…

  • Sardis: the Invitation and Promise.

    Jesus commended the few faithful believers in Sardis for avoiding corruption and staying pure. He urged all believers to be watchful and promised white garments symbolizing righteousness. He also assured that their names would remain in the book of life and he would acknowledge them before his Father and the…

  • Jesus: Seven Stars, Seven Spirits of God

    The seven Spirits and seven stars are significant symbols in Revelation, representing spiritual authority and the messengers of the seven churches. The seven candlesticks also symbolize the churches. These images may symbolize the complete span of the church age and the Holy Trinity. Jesus, as the one who has the…

  • Sardis: the Rebuke.

    The Church of Sardis had a reputation for being spiritually alive but was actually spiritually dead. Jesus warned them to wake up and repent. Complacency was their enemy. They were challenged to remember, recapture, and repent, or face consequences. Christians who are complacent risk losing their rewards at Jesus’ Judgment…

  • The Church at Sardis.

    Sardis, an ancient city in Lydia, was known for its wealth, natural defenses, and historical significance. The city’s notable features included the large temple of Artemis, a sprawling ancient synagogue, and the bishop Melito’s presence. The city experienced religious tolerance under Roman rule, but also faced Christian persecutions. Bishop Melito…

  • The Church at Philadelphia

    The city of Philadelphia, located southeast of Sardis, was a key commercial hub guarding a passage through the mountains. Built by Attalus Philadelphus, it thrived on winemaking and worshiped Dionysus. Despite frequent earthquakes and destruction, the resilient city persevered. With ties to the Decapolis, Philadelphia held an influential role in…

  • Thyatira: the Invitation and the Promise.

    The content discusses the promise of Jesus to reward those who honor Him, sharing details about his future reign on earth and the privilege believers will have to rule with Him. It references various biblical verses to emphasize the message of enduring persecution and the hope of being with Christ.…

  • Thyatira: the Rebuke.

    The church in Thyatira tolerated a false teacher named Jezebel, promoting idol worship and sexual immorality. Despite warnings, she did not repent, leading to spiritual discipline. The lesson emphasizes the dangers of false teachings and the importance of repentance. The combination of paganism and Christianity led to a grave indictment…