Summary: Noise from the media constantly fills our minds and hearts with empty distractions that keep our thoughts from what is eternally significant. Can we hear what the Lord is trying to tell us? Tickets for 7 Churches Films
“Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God – Revelation 2:7
Do you have ears to hear?
I don’t know if you are like me, but I am battling two tensions. One is natural, and the other is spiritual.
I naturally want to hear and see what is happening in the world. It is an endless and all-consuming activity supported by tens of thousands of news people dedicated to reporting on politics, crime, wars, health, the economy, sports, etc. My personality is such that I want to know about almost everything, and I can go down many trails, which is a complete waste of time in the grand scheme of my life.
Not only that, but I often emotionally react to the news, getting upset and sometimes angry at what is happening in the world. This reaction is because much of the news is BAD NEWS. And it makes me anxious when I consume too much of it.
The other tension in my life is being open to hearing from the Lord. I must work to separate myself from the distractions of the culture and media by spending time on spiritual activities like praying, musical worship, and meditating on Bible verses. When I prioritize this activity, I have a different perspective on the world and my life, and it helps me to focus on things I am supposed to be doing, making me much more peaceful.
But something that happened to me in the past year has impacted me significantly, so I am sharing it with you. I had the opportunity to learn about the Seven Churches of Revelation, and what I learned was very concerning and convicting. Let me explain.
Have you taken your Spiritual temperature lately?
In the Book of Revelation, John the Apostle is given a revelation. In it, Christ tells John to write down what he sees now, and what will happen in the future. He is informed of events leading up to Christ’s return and his coming Kingdom. Interestingly, this revelation begins by addressing seven churches in what is Turkey today; they include Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.
Let’s just look at the church of Ephesus.
“I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.” – Rev 2:2-3 (NIV)
This sounds like a perfect report card, but wait!
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.” – Rev 2:4-5 (NIV)
I can relate to this as well. I grew up during the Jesus Revolution and remember what it was like in the early days of my own faith. Everyone was passionate about their faith and the Bible, and wanted to share their experience with others. But as time passes it is easy to get into a routine concerning our faith where we start to cool down, and we don’t have the same passion for the Lord or for wanting others to know Him.
That is why I want you to consider seriously taking advantage of seeing these two films on The 7 Churches of Revelation coming to theaters this weekend and next. The first of this two-part series shows March 10th – 11th, with the film titled The 7 Churches of Revelation: Times of Fire. And coming March 17 – 18, The 7 Churches of Revelation: Times of Deception.
Use these films to challenge yourself and your friends concerning the obedience and temperature of our “walk of faith.” Please get tickets now.
Consider bringing your Bible Study group, Sunday School class, or your older children and family members. There are many people who would go to a theater but not go to a church building. Many people also doubt the Bible today. Seeing the actual places talked about in the Bible encourages faith and makes the messages to the seven churches come alive as well.
Don’t Miss this chance in the United States (only).
Keep on Thinking!
Tim Mahoney
TOP PHOTO: The remains of the city of Ephesus (© 2022, The 7 Churches of Revelation: Times of Fire)
