Week of September 29, 2024
We’ve divided the seven churches of Revelation into 3 groups: churches that were called to bear fruit (Ephesus, Sardis, and Laodicea), churches called to stop compromising (Pergamum and Thyatira), and churches who were commended for their faithfulness (Smyrna and Philadelphia). This week, we consider churches that were failing to do the works (produce the fruit) that Jesus desired for various reasons. The personal question becomes, what is getting in the way of your bearing more fruit?
Monday | John 15:1-17
According to Jesus, what is necessary if we are going to live fruitful lives? (v.5) What does it mean for you to abide or remain in Jesus like a branch in the vine? What does fruit-bearing demonstrate? (v.8) What is at the core of a life that bears fruit? (vs.10-11) What is fruit that will last? (v.16) What fruit is Jesus calling you especially to bring forth at this time in your life?
Tuesday | Revelation 2:1-7
What is the meaning of the seven lampstands? (see 1:20) What does this symbol tell us about the mission of God’s people? What is the church in Laodicea’s problem? (v.4) How would a lack of love for Jesus, for other Christians, and for those outside the church get in the way of their being a fruitful witness of Jesus and his love? What is your biggest struggle in loving God and loving others? Lift that area up to God in prayer.
Wednesday | Revelation 3:1-6
The “seven spirits of God” (v.1) speak to the fullness of the Holy Spirit in keeping the seven lamps burning. What was the problem leading to the church in Sardis’ lack of fruit for Jesus? Why might Jesus call them “dead” and how does that connect with their need for the Holy Spirit’s presence? What might it mean that Jesus judged their works to be incomplete? (v.2) In what areas of your life do you need a fresh infusion of the Spirit’s revitalizing power? React to this quote from the sermon: Works therefore will be judged by their maturity. When Jesus judges work, he asks not only “What have you done?” but “Did you finish?”
Thursday | Revelation 3:14-22
In contrast to their neighboring communities (one with therapeutic hot springs and the other with cold water from a mountain stream), Laodicea had lukewarm water. For Jesus, the works of the Laodicean church was like their water, not drinkable and not life-giving to their community! What might their works have been that were so distasteful (even disgusting)? What activities of today’s church in America might Jesus want to spit out? What was necessary for those Christians to recognize? (vs.17-18) How does having fellowship with Jesus (v.20) lead to a more fruitful life? How do you humble yourself before God and recognize your need for him?
Friday | Galatians 5:19-25
Here, the Apostle Paul contrasts a life dominated by the sinful nature with a life transformed by the Holy Spirit. What inner character fruits lead to outer fruitful works? Which of these fruits of the Spirit do you consider strengths? Which fruits would you especially like to develop? Pray about the fruits of the Spirit in your life.
