Revelation 2:2 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.
Reflection: We see that there are instances where in the church there will be competing authorities and it was necessary to see if someone was teaching the true apostolic message that once handed down to us. What are measures that we use to see if someone is teaching us God’s truth? How can we not be led astray by persuasive words or outwardly appearances?
Revelation 2:3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
Reflection: Each of the seven letters begins with “I know” after the description about Jesus. This comforting verse repeats what he says earlier in verse 2, that he knows their had work and perseverance. How can this verse comfort you? Even when no one else sees your hard work, God does.