We are familiar with the Seven Churches as found in Revelation 2 and 3; however I’d like to look into why each church was either alive or dead, and what can be learned about each one.

Now a church is a group of people attending together worshiping God, so the churches themselves fall into these groups when the members themselves do the same.

Seventh warning: Remain steadfast so no one can take your crown

This warning comes from the church of Philadelphia in Revelation 3: 10-11

 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.

Whether we are in trials or in times of ease, perseverance is key. A church that resists dangers and endures temptation is one that is rich. A church that continues to grow even in  times of ease is one that is healthy- whether big or small, rich or poor, a faithful church is not only rich and healthy, but also one that will bear much fruit, and the same is true for us as Christians.

Wasn't that the point of the parable of the talents in Matthew 25? That while our faithfulness may seem to small to us, compared to God's love, it is everything. Again and again in the parable "enter into the joy of your Lord" is heard. The same will be true for us. A crown and the joy of our Lord awaits us, and not only us, but all faithful.

Out of the 7 churches there are 5 who are dying and 2 who are striving for victory. We must look into ourselves and ask if we, too, are on the path of victory, and if we are, then we must persevere.

Congregations would accomplish nothing if godly men and women surrendered their faith in the face of hardship, or even in times of peace. In these times we must continue growing and maturing or else we too can become lukewarm. Our crown is at stake.

Victory and life are only available for those who are baptized and live faithfully until death, so that's the final warning I'll leave each of you with. 

Thank you for reading.