Jesus’s promises to the assembly in Philadelphia included crowns and a throne, rewards that may seem anachronistic to those of us who never grew up with kings and queens in our governments. So, how do we understand what Jesus is saying to people like us, today?
Revelation 2: Smyrna
The only surviving city of the seven represented in these letters, Smyrna—now Izmir, Turkey—was the second largest city of the region. And reportedly, the most beautiful.
Hebrews: Failure to Thrive
The Hebrew Christians were not growing. Filled with feelings of doubt, tempted to go back to their old familiar ways instead of forward in faith, they were failing to thrive.
James: Ten Wise Traits
I find it hard to let go of reading this book. There's good strong teaching here, and a love for the religious elite who had come to faith. Religious leaders need this book as much today as ever.