2:1 2:1

Revelation 2:2

2:3 2:3

Bible Versions

I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:
I know {G1492} thy {G4675} works {G2041}, and {G2532} thy {G4675} labour {G2873}, and {G2532} thy {G4675} patience {G5281}, and {G2532} how {G3754} thou canst {G1410} not {G3756} bear {G941} them which are evil {G2556}: and {G2532} thou hast tried {G3985} them which say {G5335} they are {G1511} apostles {G652}, and {G2532} are {G1526} not {G3756}, and {G2532} hast found {G2147} them {G846} liars {G5571}:
“I know what you have been doing, how hard you have worked, how you have persevered, and how you can’t stand wicked people; so you tested those who call themselves emissaries but aren’t — and you found them to be liars.
I know your deeds, your labor, and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate those who are evil, and you have tested and exposed as liars those who falsely claim to be apostles.
I know thy works, and thy toil and patience, and that thou canst not bear evil men, and didst try them that call themselves apostles, and they are not, and didst find them false;

Introduction to Revelation 2:2

Revelation 2:2 opens the Lord Jesus Christ's direct message to the church in Ephesus, the first of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation. This verse details their commendable qualities and actions, setting a high standard for faithfulness and diligence in the early Christian community.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is part of the specific message dictated by Jesus to the apostle John for the church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7). Ephesus was a major city in the Roman province of Asia Minor, known for its significant port, wealth, and the grand Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The church in Ephesus had a rich history, having been profoundly influenced by the ministry of the Apostle Paul (Acts 19:1-20) and later by figures like Timothy and John himself. Jesus, identifying Himself as the one who "holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks," demonstrates His intimate and authoritative knowledge of their spiritual condition.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Commendation for Diligence and Endurance: Jesus acknowledges their "works," "labour," and "patience." This highlights a church actively engaged in ministry, enduring hardship, and demonstrating steadfast perseverance in their faith and service.
  • Intolerance of Evil: The Ephesian church maintained a strong moral compass, refusing to tolerate wickedness within its fellowship. This commitment to purity and righteousness was a significant positive characteristic.
  • Discernment Against False Teaching: A particularly strong commendation is their ability to identify and expose false apostles. In the early church, many individuals claimed spiritual authority, often spreading deceptive doctrines. The Ephesians rigorously "tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars." This vigilance protected the church from doctrinal corruption and manipulative leadership, reflecting their commitment to truth.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "works" (erga) denotes active deeds and accomplishments, emphasizing the practical expression of their faith. "Labour" (kopos) suggests strenuous effort to the point of weariness, indicating their tireless dedication. "Patience" (hypomonē) signifies steadfast endurance, not passive resignation, but active perseverance under trials. The phrase "thou hast tried them" (edokimasas) comes from a verb meaning to test, prove, or assay, often used in the context of purifying metals. This implies a thorough and discerning examination of those claiming spiritual authority, revealing their true nature.

Significance and Application

Revelation 2:2 offers timeless lessons for believers and churches today. It underscores the importance of:

  • Active and Enduring Faith: True faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through diligent works and patient perseverance. Believers are called to a faith that is active and living, producing fruit in service and enduring through challenges.
  • Moral Purity and Holiness: Maintaining a strong stance against evil and sin within the Christian community is crucial for a healthy spiritual environment.
  • Spiritual Discernment: In an era of abundant information and diverse spiritual claims, the ability to "test the spirits" and discern truth from error is paramount. This involves prayerful and careful examination of teachings and leaders against the unchangeable standard of God's Word. The Ephesian church's example encourages us to be vigilant and not easily swayed by deceptive doctrines or individuals who masquerade as servants of Christ.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 John 4:1

    ¶ Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

  • 2 Peter 2:1

    ¶ But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

  • 2 Peter 2:3

    ¶ And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:21

    Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

  • Revelation 3:8

    I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:13

    For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:15

    Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
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