Quote:
Originally Posted by JJ
Here is a simple list of the positive differences between the seven churches according to the Lord’s own words about them (from Berean Literal Bible):
Ephesus: you are not able to tolerate evil ones. And you have tested those claiming to be apostles and are not, and you have found them false, and you have perseverance, and have endured for the sake of My name, and have not grown weary. But you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
Smyrna: I know your tribulation and poverty—but you are rich
Pergamos: I know where you dwell, where the throne of Satan is; and you hold fast to My name, and you have not denied My faith, even in the days of Antipas My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.
Thyatira: I know your works, and your love and faith and service and perseverance; and your latter works are greater than the first.
Sardis: But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with Me in white, because they are worthy.
Philadelphia: you have little power, and yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name. You have kept the word of My patient endurance.
Laodicea: nothing
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The Irish Catholics have a place at the table. The Roman Catholics have a place, as do the French. The Greek Orthodox have a place at the table. And the Russian, Syrian, and Ethiopian Orthodox. The German Protestants, Dutch Reformed, Southern Baptists have a place, too, along with Jewish Messianists. (Not equating all these with the 7 churches above, but stretching to a larger, but related, point)
All of these can trace their lineage back to Jesus and the Twelve. As such they have a place at the banquet table. But those who insist on primacy at the table will be sent down lower - the Lord made this clear. With what you judge, you will be judged. And those who insist their church is unaffected by human culture, whilst others are Babylon, remain most infected. And so forth.
I say that Baptists, Orthodox, Messianics etc are opportunity for us to find and exercise the first love. Angry and disaffected atheists and anti-theists even more so.