Revelation 2:4-5 – Make A Decision to Discern Part 2

Daily Devotional Bible Verses

But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. (Revelation 2:4-5, ESV)

Discerning and understanding proper doctrine and the Bible isn’t the only thing we are called to do as Christians. While the church in Ephesus was praised for this as we read in our previous devotion, they were also admonished for failing to live out the right discernment of the teachers and scripture. It is easy to go through a checklist, or to compare teachings and say they are inline with the Bible. It is a whole different ball game when it comes to living out these teachings.

The church in Ephesus had “abandoned” the love they had at first. Scholars differ on what exactly this is. Most agree though that it comes down to either their love for Jesus and/or for each other. They knew right from wrong, but weren’t showing any love. Jesus even said that those around us will know we are followers of Him because of our love for one another (John 13:35). The Apostle Paul writes to the church in Corinth that they can do mighty things for God, but without love it is useless (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

Don’t fall into a theology trap. Don’t think that because you can discern proper theology you are living the Christian life as Jesus would have you. This isn’t something to be taken lightly. The church in Ephesus is commanded to repent of this or they will have their lampstand removed. Take the advice of Jesus and look back on your Christian journey to when you first loved Him and your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. The Christian life is more than understanding right from wrong. The Christian life is about loving Jesus and those around us.

Have you abandoned the love you had at first?