Revelation 2 Explained: Christ’s Evaluation of the Seven Churches

Kareem Flowers
6 hours ago
13 min read

Jesus with a star in his hand - Revelation 2 explained

Revelation 2: Background

In Revelation Chapter 1, Jesus appeared to John in great glory, standing in the midst of seven golden candlesticks and holding seven stars in His right hand. He explained to the Apostle John that the candlesticks and the stars were symbolic, representing the seven churches throughout Asia Minor and their angels, their pastors.

Jesus then instructed John to write the things he had seen, the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter. John obeyed. In Revelation Chapter 1, John recorded the things he had seen, which entailed: the appearance of Jesus, the candlesticks, and the stars. Now, in Revelation Chapters 2 and Chapter 3, he recorded the things which are, that is, the spiritual condition of the seven churches at that time.

As listed in Revelation 1:11, the seven churches John wrote to were:

Ephesus
Smyrna
Pergamos
Thyatira
Sardis
Philadelphia
Laodicea

Map of the 7 churches of Asia Minor - Revelation 2 explained

It is important to remember that the entire Book of Revelation was written to these seven churches. This was the primary purpose of the visitation. By the will of God, this divine message has also been preserved and made available to us.

Through this revelation, Jesus appeared to John, His apostle, to declare and reveal to these churches:

Their spiritual condition: Character, deeds, and inner state as seen by God
God’s response to their condition: His approval, correction, or rebuke
God’s instruction: how they were to respond and proceed
The outcome: What would happen if they obeyed or disobeyed
Things to come concerning the end times: The events that would unfold, which begin in Revelation Chapter 4

Therefore, Revelation Chapter 2 and Chapter 3 address all of the above, except the final point, focusing entirely on the present spiritual condition of the churches.

The Seven Churches Were Literal, Not Symbolic

It is important to state clearly that these churches are in no way symbolic. They do not represent or point to anything beyond themselves. Some have interpreted these churches as dispensations throughout time, suggesting they reveal how God dealt with man in different eras. Others claim they represent modern churches or denominations. These interpretations are erroneous.

The churches addressed in Revelation Chapters 2 and 3 were literal churches located in Asia Minor. John, as an apostle, a special messenger sent by God, was entrusted with the responsibility of delivering the message he received directly from the Lord to these churches. Through John, God revealed His heart, His mind, and His judgment concerning their spiritual condition.

Ephesus (Revelation 2:1–7)

Revelation 2:1–7 - 1 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; 2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: 3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

Isn’t it striking that although the Lord acknowledged everything this church had done, He still pointed out what was lacking? This passage reveals something precious about the heart of God. He sees everything we offer Him and takes account of it. Yet His desire is that we be entire. Therefore, He lovingly corrects what must be corrected so that we may remain pure in His sight. Oh, what mercy!

5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. 6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate. 7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

Historical Background of the Church at Ephesus

According to Acts Chapters 18 and Chapter 19, the church at Ephesus was founded through the ministry of the Apostle Paul during his second and third missionary journeys, around AD 52–55. Its establishment was marked by powerful ministry, daily teaching, and many miracles, though it also faced intense opposition.

Around AD 57, while continuing his third missionary journey, Paul called the elders of the Ephesian church to meet him at Miletus. There, he delivered a farewell address, warning them that after his departure “grievous wolves” would enter among the flock, and that some would arise from within the church itself, seeking to draw away disciples (Acts 20:28–30).

During Paul’s first Roman imprisonment (AD 60–62), he wrote the Epistle to the Ephesians. This letter reveals the Mystery of Christ and emphasizes unity, love, and divine order within the Body. Notably, it contains no rebuke, indicating that the church was still spiritually grounded at that time.

It is also worth noting that when Paul warned the elders of Ephesus in Acts Chapter 20, he exhorted them to remain watchful, to care for the flock, to guard against false teachers, and to continue faithfully in the work God had entrusted to them. This raises a sobering question: could these have been among the very works that were later abandoned? While Scripture does not specify exactly what the “first love” or “first works” were, it makes one thing unmistakably clear; whatever they were, they had been left behind.

Approximately 30–35 years later, Christ addressed this same church in Revelation Chapter 2, confirming the warnings in Paul’s prophecy. Although the church was commended for rejecting false apostles and hating the deeds of the Nicolaitans, it was rebuked for leaving its first love. Doctrine had been preserved, but true devotion had declined, requiring repentance and a return to their first works.

The Severity of the Warning

It is crucial to emphasize the penalty stated by the Lord:

“…or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.”

This is an extremely severe warning. Remember, the candlestick represents the entire church, yet the message is addressed to the angel, that is, the pastor of the church. This highlights the immense influence leadership has over the body it leads. The spiritual disposition of the pastor was affecting the entire church, and it was determined that if the pastor did not repent, the whole church would be lost.

This confirms that not only can an individual lose his soul after receiving the Holy Ghost, but entire churches can also become reprobate in the sight of God.

Summary of Christ’s Message to Ephesus

Their spiritual condition: They were diligent labourers for the Kingdom, yet having left their first love.
God’s response: He commended what was good and rebuked for what was lacking.
God’s instruction: They were to return to their first love, expressed through their first works of righteousness.
The outcome of their response: If they refused to repent, the candlestick would be removed; if they obeyed, they would be granted access to the tree of life.

Smyrna (Revelation 2:8–11)

Revelation 2:8-11 - 8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; 9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. 10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

From this address, we learn that the church at Smyrna was fervent in the labor of the Lord, endured much tribulation for Christ’s sake, and was not wealthy in the natural. Yet despite these conditions, they were highly favored by God, with Jesus Himself declaring them to be rich in Spirit.

Take note of how Jesus addresses the pastor of the church in Smyrna. He begins by referencing what He previously declared in Revelation 1:18:

“I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore…”

This is significant in light of what He is about to say. Jesus tells them that they will suffer, that some will be imprisoned, and after 10 days will even be put to death at the hands of those who claim to be Jews but are, in reality, servants of Satan. Nevertheless, they are instructed not to fear, because they will be given life after death.

By first declaring that He Himself was dead and is now alive, Jesus establishes His authority over death and assures them of the same victory. In doing so, He calls them into the same calling He walked in. They are called to martyrdom, and just as Jesus rose from the dead, so will they. Having received eternal life, they will not be harmed by the second death.

The second death is later explained in Revelation 21:8: But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

The church at Smyrna is therefore a church called to great glory and is one of only two churches addressed by the Lord without any rebuke in this divine disclosure.

Summary of Christ’s Message to Smyrna

Their spiritual condition: They were diligent laborers for the Kingdom, faithful in suffering, and rich in the Spirit.
God’s response: He did not rebuke them, but appointed them to suffer faithfully, even unto martyrdom.
God’s instruction: They were not to fear the suffering that was to come, but to remain faithful unto death.
The outcome of their response: Overcomers will receive the crown of life (eternal life) and will not be harmed by the second death.

Pergamos (Revelation 2:12–17)

Revelation 2:12–17 - 12 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; 13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. 14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. 15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. 16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

The church at Pergamos presents an interesting contrast to the church at Ephesus. Both churches were diligent in labor and experienced false teachers and evil influences. However, while the Ephesian church hated the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, the church at Pergamos tolerated and received their doctrine.

The Doctrine of the Nicolaitanes

The word Nicolaitanes is derived from two Greek terms:

nikaō — “to conquer”
laos — “the people”

This points to the idea of “conquering or ruling over the people”, suggesting an early distortion of spiritual authority where leaders dominated the people rather than serving them. The Nicolaitanes sought to conquer God’s people through seduction rather than opposition. They presented themselves as teachers of the faith, but in truth were messengers of Satan.

Jesus directly associates their doctrine with the counsel Balak received from Balaam. Balak was the king of Moab during Israel’s journey to the Promised Land, as recorded in Numbers Chapters 22–25. When Balak saw how Israel had defeated surrounding nations and how numerous they were, he feared them (Numbers 22:2–4). Recognizing that Israel’s strength was spiritual rather than military, he sought spiritual assistance and summoned Balaam to curse Israel (Numbers 22:5–6).

God, however, prevented Balaam from cursing Israel and instead caused him to bless them (Numbers 23–24). When cursing failed, Balaam offered Balak alternative counsel, instructing him to avoid confronting Israel directly, but instead entice them into sin. This led to Israel’s involvement in immorality and idolatry at Peor (Numbers 25:1–3). Scripture later confirms that this strategy came “through the counsel of Balaam” (Numbers 31:16).

Thus, Balak represents a ruler who sought to destroy God’s people not through warfare, but through corruption from within.

In the same way, Jesus identifies this strategy operating within the church at Pergamos. The Nicolaitanes are linked directly with Balaam’s doctrine, revealing that the issue was not ignorance, but intentional instruction in compromise (Revelation 2:14–15).

In the New Testament context, the Nicolaitanes taught believers to separate faith from obedience. They promoted a distorted understanding of Christian liberty that entails tolerating sin under the language of grace. Where open opposition to Christ failed, compromise succeeded. This explains why the church at Ephesus was commended for hating the deeds of the Nicolaitanes (Revelation 2:6), while Pergamos was rebuked for holding their doctrine. What was once resisted had become accepted.

In Summary, the Nicolaitanes Taught:

Grace without obedience (Romans 6:1–2)
Liberty without holiness (Galatians 5:13)
Fellowship with idolatrous practices (1 Corinthians 10:20–21)
Moral compromise, particularly sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18–20)
Authority divorced from righteousness such as ruling over, rather than serving, God’s people (Matthew 20:25-28)

The parallel is unmistakable. Balaam taught Balak how to cause God’s people to fall, and the Nicolaitanes taught the church how to live without restraint while still claiming spiritual standing. In both cases, what could not be destroyed by external attack was corrupted through internal compromise, something Christ declares He hates and will judge (Revelation 2:6, 16).

I pose this question to you: Can you discern the doctrine of Balaam and the Nicolaitanes at work in the Body of Christ today?

The end of those who hold such doctrine is to enter into war with the Lord Jesus Himself. Just as He warned those in Pergamos, He promised that He would fight against them with the sword of His mouth - His Word. This makes His opening declaration to Pergamos especially significant:

“These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges.”

Summary of Christ’s Message to Pergamos

Their spiritual condition: They were faithful in confession and endurance, yet compromised by tolerating corrupt doctrine and moral compromise.
God’s response: He commended them for holding fast to Christ’s name, but rebuked them for allowing the doctrines of Balaam and the Nicolaitanes to remain.
God’s instruction: They were to repent and remove the tolerated compromise, or face Christ’s judgment through the sword of His Word.
The outcome of their response: Overcomers will receive hidden manna and a white stone with a new name, signifying divine approval, provision, and intimate fellowship with Christ.

Thyatira (Revelation 2:18–29)

Revelation 2:18–29 - 18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; 19 I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. 20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. 21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. 22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. 23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. 24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. 25 But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. 26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. 28 And I will give him the morning star. 29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Thyatira presents another serious predicament. This church was faithful in service and abounded in love and faith, with their latter works exceeding their former. Yet despite this growth, a satanic influence had entered the church, the spirit of Jezebel.

A woman within the church claimed to be a prophetess and used that authority to seduce believers, much like the Nicolaitanes. Unlike Pergamos, however, this corruption was not merely doctrinal but personal, involving direct participation in immorality. The issue was not ignorance, but the toleration of known corruption under the guise of spiritual authority.

The Doctrine of Jezebel

The name Jezebel is deliberately used by Christ to invoke the Old Testament pattern of corruption associated with the wife of King Ahab (1 Kings 16–21). In Revelation, Jezebel is not the historical queen, but a spiritual parallel of one who claimed prophetic authority while leading God’s people into compromise.

Jezebel operates from within the church through teaching and seduction rather than persecution. By calling herself a prophetess, she justified immorality and idolatrous fellowship (Revelation 2:20). As with Balaam, her doctrine did not deny God outright, but redefined obedience, separating spiritual identity from holy living.

In Summary, Jezebel Taught:

Spiritual authority without submission to Christ (Revelation 2:20)
Grace without repentance (Revelation 2:21; Romans 2:4)
Liberty that tolerates sexual immorality (Revelation 2:20; 1 Corinthians 6:18–20)
Fellowship with idolatrous practices (Revelation 2:20; 1 Corinthians 10:20–21)
Control and influence masked as prophetic revelation (1 Kings 18:4; Matthew 7:15)

Her judgment was that she would be cast into a bed of tribulation along with those who committed fornication with her. It is important to note here that the spirit of Jezebel is not limited to women. Anyone who entices others into fornication, adultery, or idolatry under the guise of spiritual leadership is operating under the same Jezebelic influence.

God declared that the children (followers) of this false prophetess would die, revealing His severe stance toward this kind of sin. He promised judgment, which was symbolized by His feet of fine brass, a color associated with judgment. This would cause everyone to know that He is the Lord, the One from whom nothing is hidden and who sees all things with His eyes of fire.

A Faithful Remnant

Thankfully, there were those in Thyatira who did not submit to the doctrine of Jezebel. To them, Christ offered encouragement rather than rebuke and promised great reward.

Summary of Christ’s Message to Thyatira

Their spiritual condition: They were growing in love and service, yet compromised by tolerating corrupt teaching and seduction within the church.
God’s response: He commended them for their good works, but rebuked them for allowing Jezebel’s doctrine to remain unjudged.
God’s instruction: They were to hold fast to the truth, reject corrupt doctrine, and repent wherever compromise has been accepted.
The outcome of their response: Overcomers will rule with Christ and receive the Morning Star, signifying shared authority and intimate fellowship with Him.

N.B. These rewards are not exclusive to any one church; rather, they apply collectively to every son of God who is part of the rapture.

Blog Title: Revelation 2 Explained: Christ’s Evaluation of the Seven Churches

Keyword: Revelation 2 explained