Monday 16 November 2009

Background

The city of Ephesus in eastern Turkey was a very significantcentre for trade, learning, religion and culture. Students camefrom around the world to use its libraries and it was the principalmedical centre for the region. The Church that had grown thereseemed to share in this high reputation. They exercised soundjudgement and were prepared to weigh the ministries and callings ofother leaders according to teaching of Scripture. They were adeptin spiritual discernment and tested the truth of statements maderegarding the ways and intentions of God. The Church in Ephesus wasas significant as the city itself and the events that occurredthere led many to turn to God and "the name of the Lord Jesus waspraised" (Acts 19:17).

An important city and a significant Church, this could be one ofmany large and often evangelical churches in our cities today. Sofar, so good. Yet Jesus found one fault with them: they had losttheir first love for him. Jesus was, it seems, not prepared to justbe content with outward good results. The relationship of mutuallove was non-negotiable and there would be a serious and terribleresult if things did not change. This initially seems most unfair.The Church have got it mainly right, but the missing aspect ,itseems, cannot be missing!

One can only speculate, but pride would seem to be a likely causeof Ephesus' problem. Tremendous Church growth, miracles, great work- it was probably all there. Then the Church leaders might havereflected on their 'success' and concentrated on what they had todo to maintain it. However, Jesus calls them to maintain theirrelationship on the author of the success and what they will becalled to do next.

To Ponder

When can success lead to spiritual problems inthe lives of individuals and churches?

Jesus said, "Strive first for the kingdom of God,and his righteousness" (ie way of doing things) (Matthew 6:33).What are you doing to follow these words?