Revelation Ch. 2

Revelation 2:1 (NIV)

1 “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands.

1 To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:

The word for angel is ἌΓΓΕΛΟΣ- (pronounced angelos)

It can mean what you would think, and angel. But it can also mean a messenger. A person in the church, or who is supposed to take the message to the church, maybe a preacher or teacher.

The first letter is written to the church of Ephesus.

This city, is the most well-known city in the province of Asia.

The trade route from the Euphrates civilizations terminated at Ephesus.

It was a beautiful city with great temples, the most notable being the temple to Artemis, which was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

The famous amphitheater which could seat 45,000 people was also a grand monument in the city.

The city was well known for its Greek-Roman mystery cult religions, and in fact “Ephesus charms” were sold widely as ensurers of good luck.

Paul had been in this city, as had been Timothy, Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos.

According to the tradition of the early church, the apostle John himself also lived in Ephesus in his old age

These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands.”

Reminder of what the seven stars are the seven angels, or messengers. and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. We are told that in Ch. 1 V. 20

Revelation 2:2 NIV

2 I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false.