A forest fire can start small and is often easily contained or put out if it’s just a fire. But when wind becomes part of it, it spreads quickly. Firefighters are no match for the wind that’s fueling the fire. A fire fueled by wind can devour whole areas, consuming houses, buildings, large pieces of land, and cause many deaths. A forest fire does not need the wind for sure. But for the Christian, that’s a different story. In fact, Christians need a fuel in order to be an unquenchable fire. But I think that many Christians are fueled by the wrong thing, just like the church at Ephesus. So Jesus addresses this problem in the revelation given to John.
The church at Ephesus had started off strong and vibrant. They were a bright light shining on a hillside. They were making disciples, bringing people to faith in Jesus, and making a great impact in their communities. Jesus commended them for their hard work, calling out false teachers, and not quitting even when they suffered (Revelation 2:2-3). Then Jesus speaks some startling words, “But you don’t love me or each other as you did at first.” Hence, all these things are good, but you are using the wrong fuel.” In other words, their works were lacking the right fuel… therefore, their fire was in jeopardy of being snuffed out. I’m guessing that you and I would cringe if we heard Jesus say this to us.
These words surely stung. The passion for Jesus had at one time been there and they were doing things for the right reason. Oh, how they loved Jesus. And this love fueled their work, their witness, and kept them united in the gospel. People looked up to this church. People who came for a visit felt at home in this place. Christians in this church were thriving spiritually. And multitudes of people were being saved through this church’s witness. But over time, things changed. The love for Jesus and His people grew cold, but their hard work continued. And Jesus tells them that they must repent and turn back to Him if they want to be an integral part of God’s Kingdom work.
This word to the church at Ephesus is for 21st century Christians as well. I believe that many Christians are working hard, serving in the church, getting involved in Bible study, doing community work, etc… but they’re doing things for the wrong reason. Maybe their Christian work is fueled by their need for affirmation, their desire to learn, their need to Christian community, or their desire to please others. Maybe they just need a place to belong. But are these the things the right fuel? No. Jesus says is clearly, “You need to love Me and My People!” It’s a dual love. Therefore, our service, our worship, our witness needs to be fueled by a deep love and affection for Jesus and His people. So, we need to make sure that this dual love has not grown cold.
Here’s the thing… if you feel like your Christian life and ministry is being fueled by the wrong thing, then maybe taking a break and reconnecting with Jesus is the answer. Maybe we need to ask Jesus to help us find that first love again… a deep and abiding love for Jesus and His people. Hope this encourages you today.