In Revelation 2:1-5, our Lord addresses the church of Ephesus with both commendation and warning. These words not only apply to the church of the first century, but to his church throughout time, wherever it meets. Hear the words of the Lord Jesus Himself!
A faithful congregation is one whose members have been redeemed by the Lord Jesus Christ and made alive by His Spirit, v. 1. The churches are characterized as candlesticks placed by the Lord according to His will. A candlestick has no light in itself unless the owner fills it with oil and lights it. So is the church, chosen of God, purchased by Christ, and made alive by God's Spirit. Believers shine forth with the oil of the Spirit and the light of Christ with which God in His grace has enlivened them.
A faithful congregation is one that labors in the service of the Lord by His grace, v. 2. Christ commended the church at Ephesus for their "works and labor." The grace of God makes the redeemed sinner active in service for the master. The Queen of Sheba's remarks concerning Solomon's servants were, " Happy are thy men, and happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and hear thy wisdom," 2 Chron. 9:7. The same is true of Christ's people. They serve God, IN CHRIST and rejoice in hearing His wisdom in the Gospel.
A faithful congregation perseveres in the Truth, v.3. The Lord Jesus commended the Ephesian church for their patience in resisting false preachers and another gospel, Rev. 2:2. The word "patience" means "to abide under," as in remaining hidden in the Rock. Believers remain steadfast, constant, immovable in Christ as their only refuge, their only hope, their only righteousness, and their only sanctification, John 17:19. The Lord's people are not looking for some new doctrine or experience, because CHRIST IS EVERYTHING, Colossians 1 :17
A faithful congregation loves the Truth and rejoices in it, v. 4. Christ warned the Ephesians to beware of having left their "first love." Time, busyness, trials, prosperity, etc. all test the authenticity of our profession. Many are condemned not because of ignorance of the Truth, but because they don't love it, 2 Thess. 2:10. Do you rejoice at the message of a God who is absolutely sovereign? Do you heartily acknowledge God's right to condemn you, apart from Christ as your Substitute? Are you comforted by the Word whose one subject is the Lord Jesus Christ and His sacrificial death for His elect? The evidence that you love it is not just believing it, but living it, supporting it with your attendance and gifts, and never tolerating any other message.