Christ in the Midst of His Churches
2,000 years after Jesus Christ sent messages to 7 first-century churches, these letters continue to help us and our churches as well.
A Bible Teaching Series by Chris Reighley
From the Sunday Night Bible Study at Rolling Hills Community Church in Lago Vista, Texas
In the opening chapters of Revelation, Jesus Christ sends seven personal letters—not to kings or empires, but to churches. Real churches. In real cities. Facing real challenges.
These messages, dictated by Christ and recorded by the apostle John while exiled on Patmos, speak directly into the life and health of the Church—then and now. Though nearly 2,000 years have passed, the spiritual conditions described in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea remain hauntingly familiar. Each church receives a divine audit: commendation, correction, and a call to conquer.
In this series taught by Chris Reighley, we explore each letter through three interpretive lenses:
- Primary – what the letter meant to the original church,
- Personal – what it means for individual believers today, and
- Prophetic – how each church models a stage in Church history.
This series challenges us to examine our own walk with Christ and the condition of the Church in our generation. Are we faithful like Philadelphia—or lukewarm like Laodicea? What would Jesus say if He wrote a letter to us?
Join us as we open the mail from the risen Lord to His Church—and let the Word do its work in us.
Series
Session 1: Christ in the Midst of His Churches
John’s vision of Jesus in Revelation 1 reminds us that Christ is present, powerful, and central to His Church. Before He speaks to the churches, He shows who He is. This session sets the foundation for the entire series.
Revelation 1:9–20
Session 2: Losing Your First Love: The Letter to the Church in Ephesus
The church in Ephesus had truth and discernment—but lost its love for Christ. Jesus commends their doctrine but calls them to repent and return to their first love. Learn how love must remain at the center of true discipleship.
Revelation 2:1–7
Session 3: The Suffering Church: The Letter to the Church in Smyrna
Smyrna was poor and persecuted, yet Jesus called them rich. This letter offers comfort and courage to any believer facing trials. Christ’s words remind us that faithfulness is rewarded—even in suffering.
Revelation 2:8–11
Session 4: The Church of Satan’s City: The Letter to the Church in Pergamos
Pergamos held fast to the faith but compromised with false teaching. In a city dominated by pagan worship, Jesus calls them to reject corruption and cling to truth. This message challenges us to stay pure in a culture of compromise.
Revelation 2:12–17
Session 5: The Adulterous Church: The Letter to the Church in Thyatira
The church in Thyatira tolerated immorality and false prophecy. Jesus exposes their spiritual adultery and calls for repentance. Yet even here, a faithful remnant remains. Learn how Christ deals with sin—and honors endurance.
Revelation 2:18–29
Session 6: The Dead Church: The Letter to the Church in Sardis
Sardis had a reputation for life, but Jesus said they were dead. This session explores the danger of spiritual complacency and the urgent call to wake up. Real life comes not from appearances—but from Christ Himself.
Revelation 3:1–6
Session 7: The Faithful Church: The Letter to the Church in Philadelphia
Philadelphia receives no rebuke—only praise. Despite little strength, they held fast. Jesus promises open doors, protection, and eternal identity to those who endure. A model for every church that wants to remain faithful.
Revelation 3:7–13
Session 8: The Disgusting Church: The Letter to the Church of Laodicea
Neither hot nor cold, Laodicea made Christ sick. But even in disgust, He offers love and restoration. This session explores how self-sufficiency blinds us—and how Jesus lovingly invites us to open the door.
Revelation 3:14–22
John is invited to see heaven’s throne—and what he sees changes everything. This vision marks a transition in Revelation and reveals God’s sovereignty, holiness, and majesty. A powerful reminder of who’s really on the throne.
Revelation 4
Series | Session 1 | Session 2 | Session 3 | Session 4
Session 5 | Session 6 | Session 7 | Session 8 | Session 9