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Evidence for Eras
Evidence for
Eras
He that hath an ear, let him hear
what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
Revelation 3:22
Throughout the religious community, the book of Revelation is arguably one of the most mysterious and misunderstood books in the Bible. In it, the apostle John was taken in spirit to the very throne of God. There, he witnessed a series of awesome apocalyptic visions. As these dramatic prophecies began to unfold, the apostle was presented with seven distinct letters and instructed to send them to seven churches located in specific cities in Asia Minor.
These seven messages were similar to other epistles in the Bible in that they contained both praise and correction to the Church. Yet, they were unlike any epistle ever written. While other letters penned by John, Peter, and Paul were inspired by the Holy Spirit, these seven came directly from God the Father, through Jesus Christ, and were dictated to John by an angel.
What was God’s purpose in recording these unique messages? Were they only intended for Christians meeting in these seven cities? Or, were they included in the entire book of Revelation for a greater purpose? Is it possible that the churches are symbolic and prophetic like the other imagery in this unique book? Could these seven represent the entire Church existing around the world and throughout time? Is it possible that these letters were written to convey a vital message of hope and warning for us today?
Three Views
Currently, believers hold one of three views regarding these churches and their letters. The most fundamental of these considers the message to each congregation to be literal. Those who hold this opinion believe that every epistle was written solely for the purpose of addressing the circumstances, strengths, and weaknesses of God’s people living during the first century.
A second view suggests that the churches represent seven attitudes that would exist within God’s Church at any one time. Those holding this conviction believe that our attitude is a reflection of our spiritual state which is always subject to change. Therefore, there may be points in our lives when we find ourselves reflecting the moods, standards, or spiritual condition of any one of these churches. For this reason, Jesus tells each congregation, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” According to this view, no matter what age we may live in, we should always heed the exhortation given to all seven congregations.
A third perspective views each Church as primarily symbolic and prophetic. The letters are seen as messages describing the circumstances and spiritual state of God’s people during unique times in History. Advocates of this teaching generally consider the first two interpretations to have validity, but they believe that the primary purpose of these letters is to encourage, warn, and correct the Church living during one of seven eras throughout time.
We Need to Know
Could this third view be correct? Is it possible that God’s purpose for recording these admonitions was to send an important message to His people during specific times in history?
Those who oppose this belief often claim that there is no proof that these letters were written for a later time. Some even declare that believing in Church eras can be harmful. They charge that this teaching may cause believers to identify themselves with the Philadelphian era. By this they may elevate themselves and the result is division within the Church.
Other opponents argue that the issue is irrelevant because it has little or no effect on our salvation. However, this doctrine is of enormous importance! In fact, it may be one of the most crucial issues facing the Church today.
Consider the immense value to modern Christians if these letters were actually written as warnings and reproof to a people living at different times. If that is true, then this subject is not only important, it is of great significance! If these letters are written to eras of God’s Church, then there is a message among them for us!
Imagine reading a letter of admonishment from Jesus Christ to you. Such a message would make an enormous difference. However, what if we mistakenly believe that His message does not apply to us, and ignore the warning? Such a judgment might affect our eternal destiny—yes, even our salvation! But, if we take heed to God’s correction, it could be a factor that determines whether we are saved from the great tribulation. It can arm us with a profound conviction that might make a difference in the reward we will ultimately receive.
The truth about Church eras is invaluable. The action we decide to take as a result of Christ’s warning, and instruction, could determine our future position in the Kingdom of God! As the spirit of our age permeates deeper into the hearts and minds of God’s people, the advantage of knowing the truth about eras becomes absolutely monumental!
We are cascading into the time the Bible calls “the last days.” We should be picking up the pace in our zeal for God’s way of life! Instead, paradoxically, many of us are bogging down. We are slowing down spiritually, and some of our spiritual lethargy is due to the fact that the doctrine of Church eras is not clearly understood and powerfully taught. As a result, many do not realize what spirit is affecting the Church today. Vast numbers of God’s people do not know what they must resist in order to overcome during this age.
While some may accept that these seven messages are written to eras of God’s Church, a growing number are unsure. Today, some actually believe that this teaching should be abolished. Because of these varied opinions, the doctrine of Church eras is on trial. We need to wake up! We need to be sure!
At this historic juncture, this issue is so important, and the consequences so great, that God’s people must understand the truth! For this reason, Evidence for Eras presents seven exhibits, each of which substantiates this doctrine. As each exhibit is presented, the conclusion will become more obvious, more profound, and more convincing. The facts presented will convict us without a doubt that the letters to the seven churches were written to God’s people living during specific times in history. In fact, when all the evidence is considered, it will be absolutely clear which era predominates now, and what we must do to overcome in our age.