Revelation 2:5

KJV

Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

KJV (with Strong's)

Remember {G3421} therefore {G3767} from whence {G4159} thou art fallen {G1601}, and {G2532} repent {G3340}, and {G2532} do {G4160} the first {G4413} works {G2041}; or else {G1490} I will come {G2064} unto thee {G4671} quickly {G5035}, and {G2532} will remove {G2795} thy {G4675} candlestick {G3087} out of {G1537} his {G846} place {G5117}, except {G3362} thou repent {G3340}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore, remember where you were before you fell, turn from this sin, and do what you used to do before. Otherwise, I will come to you and remove your menorah from its place — if you don’t turn from your sin!

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, keep in mind how far you have fallen. Repent and perform the deeds you did at first. But if you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.

American Standard Version

Remember therefore whence thou art fallen, and repent and do the first works; or else I come to thee, and will move thy candlestick out of its place, except thou repent.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 2:5 delivers a solemn divine injunction to the church in Ephesus, urging them to recall the spiritual fervor from which they have declined, to genuinely repent of their departure from "first love," and to recommence the foundational works that once characterized their devotion. This command is coupled with a stark warning that failure to heed this call will result in Christ's swift intervention to remove their lampstand, symbolizing the loss of their spiritual witness and identity, unless they repent.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of the second of seven specific letters dictated by the resurrected Christ to John, addressed to the churches in Asia Minor. Following the introductory vision of Christ's glory and His identification with the churches ([Revelation 1:12-20](/revelation/1-12-20 "Revelation 1:12-20 - Vision of Christ and the Seven Lampstands")), each letter begins with a unique self-description of Christ, followed by commendations, criticisms, exhortations, and promises. For Ephesus, Christ first praises their endurance, discernment, and rejection of evil ([Revelation 2:2-3](/revelation/2-2-3 "Revelation 2:2-3 - Christ's Commendation of Ephesus")). However, a critical flaw is identified in [Revelation 2:4](/revelation/2-4 "Revelation 2:4 - The Charge Against Ephesus"), where they are charged with having "left their first love." Verse 5 then directly follows this charge, providing the urgent remedy and the severe consequence for non-compliance, setting the stage for the subsequent exhortation to hear what the Spirit says ([Revelation 2:7](/revelation/2-7 "Revelation 2:7 - Exhortation and Promise to Ephesus")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ephesus was a prominent and wealthy port city, a major center of trade, culture, and pagan worship, particularly the cult of Artemis (Diana). The church there was founded by Paul ([Acts 18:19-21](/acts/18-19-21 "Acts 18:19-21 - Paul's First Visit to Ephesus")) and nurtured by figures like Apollos and Priscilla and Aquila ([Acts 18:24-28](/acts/18-24-28 "Acts 18:24-28 - Apollos in Ephesus")), and later by Paul for an extended period ([Acts 19:1-41](/acts/19 "Acts 19 - Paul's Ministry in Ephesus")). It was a robust and doctrinally sound church, known for its perseverance against false teaching and its hard work. However, the spiritual challenge was not external persecution or doctrinal error, but an internal cooling of affection—a loss of the initial fervent love for Christ and one another that had characterized their early faith. This internal spiritual decline, rather than external pressures, posed the greatest threat to their vitality and witness within a bustling, idolatrous city.

* **Key Themes:** Revelation 2:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Revelation and biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Scrutiny and Accountability**, where Christ, as the head of the Church, intimately knows the spiritual condition of each congregation and holds them responsible for their faithfulness. This verse highlights the theme of **Spiritual Decline and the Necessity of Repentance**, emphasizing that even doctrinally sound and hardworking churches can lose their spiritual vitality, necessitating a radical change of heart and direction. The concept of **"First Love"** underscores the primacy of fervent devotion to Christ as the driving force behind all Christian activity, a theme echoed in the greatest commandment to love God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength ([Matthew 22:37-38](/matthew/22-37-38 "Matthew 22:37-38 - The Greatest Commandment")). Finally, the warning concerning the "candlestick" introduces the theme of **Consequences for Unfaithfulness**, illustrating that a church's privilege of being a light-bearer in the world is conditional upon its spiritual health and adherence to its primary calling.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Remember (Greek, _mnēmoneúō'_):** This verb, G3421, means "to exercise memory, i.e., recollect; by implication, to punish; also to rehearse." In this context, it is a command to actively recall, to bring to mind, the former state of spiritual vitality and love from which they have fallen. It's not a passive remembrance but an intentional act of introspection, comparing their current lukewarm state with their initial fervent devotion.
* **Repent (Greek, _metanoéō'_):** G3340 signifies "to think differently or afterwards, i.e., reconsider (morally, feel compunction)." This is a profound call for a fundamental reorientation of mind, will, and affection. It implies a turning away from their spiritual apathy and a decisive turning back to God, leading to a change in behavior and priorities. It is more than mere sorrow for sin; it is a transformative change of direction.
* **Candlestick (Greek, _lychnía'_):** G3087 refers to "a lamp-stand (literally or figuratively)." In Revelation, the lampstands symbolize the churches themselves, as explicitly stated in [Revelation 1:20](/revelation/1-20 "Revelation 1:20 - The Mystery of the Seven Stars and Lampstands"). The removal of the lampstand signifies the loss of the church's function as a light-bearer in the world, potentially implying the loss of its spiritual authority, its witness, or even its very existence as a recognized assembly of believers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen":** This clause initiates the divine command, urging the Ephesian church to engage in self-reflection. The phrase "from whence thou art fallen" (G1601 _ekpíptō_) indicates a definite decline or departure from a previous, higher spiritual state. It implies a loss of position or effectiveness, specifically referring to their abandonment of "first love" mentioned in the preceding verse.
* **"and repent":** This is the central command, directly following the call to remembrance. It emphasizes the urgent need for a decisive change of mind and direction, a turning away from their spiritual apathy and a return to God. This repentance is the necessary prerequisite for spiritual restoration.
* **"and do the first works":** This command specifies the tangible outcome of genuine repentance. "First works" (G4413 _prōtos_ and G2041 _érgon_) refers to the initial, fervent, and often sacrificial actions, deeds, and expressions of love that characterized their early faith and devotion to Christ. True repentance is not merely internal but manifests in renewed obedience and active love.
* **"or else I will come unto thee quickly":** This phrase introduces a severe warning and the consequence of non-compliance. "Or else" (G1490 _ei dè mḗ(ge)_) highlights the conditional nature of the warning. Christ's "coming quickly" (G2064 _érchomai_ and G5035 _tachý_) signifies His swift and decisive intervention, not necessarily His final return, but a judgment specific to the church's spiritual state.
* **"and will remove thy candlestick out of his place":** This is the specific judgment threatened. The "candlestick" (G3087 _lychnía_) symbolizes the church's role as a light-bearer and witness in the world. Its removal (G2795 _kinéō_ from G1537 _ek_ G5117 _tópos_) implies the cessation of their effectiveness, the loss of their spiritual authority, or even their demise as a recognized church in that location, due to their failure to maintain their spiritual vitality.
* **"except thou repent":** This final clause reiterates the conditional nature of the warning and underscores God's mercy and desire for restoration. The consequence is not inevitable; it can be averted if the church responds to the call for repentance. It emphasizes that the ball is in their court.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 2:5 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its urgent message. **Symbolism** is prominent, most notably with the "candlestick" (or lampstand), which, as clarified in [Revelation 1:20](/revelation/1-20 "Revelation 1:20 - The Mystery of the Seven Stars and Lampstands"), represents the church itself and its mission to bear the light of Christ in the world. Its threatened removal is a powerful symbolic act of divine judgment. The passage also utilizes a clear **Conditional Statement** ("or else... except thou repent"), which highlights the direct cause-and-effect relationship between the church's actions (or inaction) and Christ's response, emphasizing the urgency of their choice. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** present; while the Ephesian church is commended for its hard work and doctrinal purity, the most severe warning is issued for the seemingly intangible loss of "first love," underscoring that spiritual fervor and genuine affection for Christ are paramount, even above diligent service. The language is also **Imperative**, with direct commands ("Remember," "repent," "do"), conveying the authority and urgency of Christ's message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 2:5 profoundly emphasizes that genuine Christian living and effective church ministry are not merely about doctrinal correctness, tireless labor, or resistance to evil, but fundamentally about maintaining a fervent, passionate love for Christ and for one another. The "first love" is the wellspring from which all true service flows. When this love wanes, even commendable activities become hollow, and the church risks losing its spiritual vitality and its very purpose as a light in the world. This passage underscores the critical biblical principle that God desires heartfelt devotion above mere duty, and that true repentance involves not just ceasing from wrong actions but actively returning to the right ones, motivated by renewed love. It serves as a timeless reminder that spiritual health is paramount for a church's continued existence and effectiveness in bearing witness to Christ.

* [Acts 3:19](/acts/3-19 "Acts 3:19 - Repentance and Times of Refreshing"): "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord."
* [Matthew 22:37-38](/matthew/22-37-38 "Matthew 22:37-38 - The Greatest Commandment"): "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment."
* [Galatians 5:7](/galatians/5-7 "Galatians 5:7 - Hindered from Obedience"): "Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?"

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 2:5 offers a powerful and enduring call to self-examination and spiritual renewal for both individual believers and local churches. It challenges us to honestly assess the depth and fervor of our love for Christ. Have we, like the Ephesians, allowed the busyness of ministry, the pursuit of doctrinal purity, or the fight against sin to overshadow the simple, passionate devotion that first drew us to Him? The command to "remember from whence thou art fallen" invites a humble introspection, prompting us to recall the initial joy, zeal, and sacrificial love that marked our early walk with God. This remembrance should not lead to despair but to genuine repentance—a decisive turning away from spiritual apathy and a deliberate return to the "first works" of faith, which are actions born out of a renewed love for God and others. This might involve rekindling a consistent prayer life, re-engaging in selfless service, prioritizing fellowship, or sharing the Gospel with fresh urgency. The stern warning about the removal of the lampstand serves as a sober reminder that our spiritual vitality and effectiveness as Christ's witnesses are not guaranteed but are conditional upon our ongoing love and obedience. It compels us to ask if our lives and our churches are truly shining the light of Christ as brightly as they could, or if our light has dimmed due to a neglected first love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What was my "first love" like when I initially encountered Christ, and how does my current spiritual state compare to that initial fervor?**
* **In what specific ways might I, or my church, have "fallen" from that first love, even while remaining active in good works?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "repent" and "do the first works," thereby rekindling my passion for Christ and His mission?**
* **How does the warning about the "candlestick" challenge my understanding of spiritual complacency within the church?**

### FAQ

**What does "first love" mean, and why is it so important?**

Answer: "First love" refers to the initial, fervent, and passionate devotion that believers experience when they first encounter Christ and are transformed by His grace. It's characterized by an overwhelming sense of gratitude, joy, and a deep desire to please Him, often leading to eager obedience, sacrificial service, and a vibrant spiritual life. It is the spontaneous, uncalculating love that drives a new convert. Its importance is paramount because it is the wellspring of all genuine Christian living. As seen in [Matthew 22:37-38](/matthew/22-37-38 "Matthew 22:37-38 - The Greatest Commandment"), loving God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength is the greatest commandment. When this foundational love diminishes, even good works can become mere duty, lacking the spiritual power and authenticity that flow from a heart fully devoted to Christ. The Ephesian church's example shows that even commendable diligence and doctrinal purity cannot compensate for its loss.

**What is the "candlestick" that Christ threatens to remove?**

Answer: In the book of Revelation, the "candlestick" (or lampstand) is a powerful symbol. [Revelation 1:20](/revelation/1-20 "Revelation 1:20 - The Mystery of the Seven Stars and Lampstands") explicitly states that "the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches." Therefore, the candlestick represents the church itself and its primary function as a bearer of God's light and truth in the world. To "remove thy candlestick out of his place" means that Christ will take away the church's privilege and ability to function as His witness in that particular location. This could manifest as a loss of spiritual authority, a decline in evangelistic effectiveness, a cessation of its influence, or even the complete dissolution of the church as a recognized assembly of believers. It signifies divine judgment on a church that has become spiritually ineffective due to its departure from its "first love."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 2:5, while a direct warning to a specific church, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The call to "remember," "repent," and "do the first works" is fundamentally a call to return to Christ Himself, who is the object and source of that "first love." He is the one who "holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks" ([Revelation 2:1](/revelation/2-1 "Revelation 2:1 - Christ's Message to Ephesus")), signifying His intimate knowledge of and authority over His churches. The very ability to repent and return to "first works" is a grace enabled by Christ's atoning sacrifice, which cleanses us from all unrighteousness and empowers us to live a life of renewed devotion ([1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession and Forgiveness")). He is the "Lamb of God" who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), making repentance not just a human effort but a response to divine mercy. Moreover, Christ Himself is the true "light of the world" ([John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")), and the church's role as a "candlestick" is merely to reflect His glory. When a church loses its "first love," it ceases to adequately reflect His light. Thus, the warning to remove the candlestick is a Christ-centered warning, for it is His glory and His mission that are at stake. The ultimate hope for restoration lies not in human effort alone, but in turning back to Him, the faithful and true witness ([Revelation 3:14](/revelation/3-14 "Revelation 3:14 - Christ's Message to Laodicea")), who continually calls His people to renewed fellowship and fervent love.

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.

Cross-References

Revelation 3:2

Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.

Revelation 3:3

Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

Revelation 3:19

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

Revelation 2:16

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

Hosea 14:1

¶ O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.

Revelation 2:19

I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last [to be] more than the first.

Acts 17:30

And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: