Quote:
Originally Posted by Ohio
Has no church in the present age ever lost their first love? Do we no longer need to try the apostles? Has the church stopped suffering? Has no church ever become worldly? Not according to Nee, who taught that the prophetic fulfillment of the first three churches no longer no longer exists on earth.
Biblical "common sense" tells us that the warnings and the blessings of all seven churches are urgently needed today.
|
Yes, it seems to me to be far more valuable to look at this as a typical experience of a Christian gathering as it matures. Initially they come together because they have tried those who call themselves apostles and are not, and they are following their first love. This could lead directly to Philadelphia, but that is not typical, rather you leave your first love and become legalistic. Suffering persecution helps you to be empathetic and more mature in viewing "right and wrong". As you grow you get the attention of the wolves, false prophets, and Jezebel.