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Photo credit Brett Sayles
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In my book God’s Final Call, I unpack the powerful letters Jesus dictated to seven churches in the book of Revelation. These messages were spoken to seven real congregations in Asia Minor—churches facing unique challenges. And although these words were not written to the American Church, the warnings, commendations, and promises they contain are a mirror for us today.
We in the West would do well to listen closely. These are not outdated messages. They are Christ’s urgent, piercing commands to His people across every age—and they are especially urgent for the American Church in this critical hour.
1. Repent and Return to Your First Love.
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first.” — Revelation 2:4-5
Jesus' first word to the church in Ephesus—a church that once burned with love for Christ—is repent. Ephesus had sound doctrine. They could probably sniff out false teachers a mile away. But their love for Jesus had grown cold. And so Jesus commands them not only to turn from their sin but to return to Him.
The American Church has largely confused church activity with intimacy. We’re busy for the Kingdom, but where is our passion for Christ? Do we long for God’s presence? Are we still amazed by His grace?
Jesus is not looking for religious performance. He is looking for hearts that burn with passion for Him. To a church whose devotion has waned, He is calling us to return to our first love.
2. Hold Fast to God’s Word.
“You have kept my word and have not denied my name.” — Revelation 3:8
The church in Philadelphia was small and unimpressive by worldly standards, yet Jesus had nothing negative to say to them. Why? Because they clung to His Word. They remained faithful even when it was costly.
In an age where Scripture is being “redefined” or ignored altogether—even within the Church—Jesus is calling His people back to His Word. We must not be ashamed of the Gospel or bow to cultural pressure. Christ is looking for believers who will say, “Though none go with me, still I will follow.”
Hold fast. Do not deny His name. He sees, and He will reward.
3. Beware of Lukewarm Faith.
“Because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” — Revelation 3:16
The Laodicean Church was materially rich but spiritually bankrupt. They thought they had everything, but Jesus said they were poor, blind, and naked. Their lukewarm faith made Him sick.
How much of the American church fits that description? Comfortable. Self-satisfied. Halfhearted. Are we fervent in prayer, bold in witness, and broken over sin? Or have we become spiritually lazy?
To a lukewarm church, Jesus instructs us to “buy gold refined by fire.” In other words, seek true riches from Christ Himself.
4. Reject Compromise.
“Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam...” — Revelation 2:14
The church in Pergamum lived in the shadow of pagan temples and imperial power. And yet even in that hostile environment, they held on to the faith. Still, Jesus rebuked them for tolerating false teaching.
The devil has tricked many Christians into chasing after comfort, leisure, financial security, and popularity. He tempts us to water down the message just a little bit—to make the Truth more palatable. But when we do that, our pulpits become stages, our churches become theaters, and our congregations become audiences. As the late revivalist Vance Havner said, “We sing ‘Just as I Am’ and leave just as we came.”
Many in the American church today are tolerating sin in the name of inclusion. We’re letting culture redefine morality. But there can be no fellowship between light and darkness. We must stand with Christ, even if it costs us.
5. Stop Confusing Popularity with Power.
“I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die.” — Revelation 3:1–2
Sardis was the “it” church—popular, well-known, and outwardly successful. But Jesus’ assessment was devastating: “You have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead.”
How many churches in America today are just like Sardis? They have large followings, beautiful buildings, strong brands, and full seats. But are they alive in the Spirit? Are they producing true disciples of Christ or simply drawing spectators?
Reputation means nothing if the Spirit of God is not present. But there is hope—even for the spiritually dead. Jesus says, “Strengthen what remains.” For those who wake up and walk in faithfulness, He promises white garments of victory and a name confessed before the Father.
6. Endure Persecution.
“Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Be faithful even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” — Revelation 2:10
Smyrna was a suffering church. Christians there were slandered, imprisoned, and martyred. But Jesus had no rebuke for them—only encouragement. He called them rich, though they were outwardly poor.
In the West, we may not yet suffer physical persecution, but the tide is turning. Faithfulness to Jesus will increasingly cost us our reputations, our careers, and our social standing. Are you ready? Jesus says: Don’t fear. Endure. I see your suffering. I know your pain. And I will crown you with eternal life.
7. Listen to the Spirit.
“Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” — Revelation 2:7
Seven times Jesus repeats this phrase. It’s a refrain that echoes through every letter. The Holy Spirit is speaking—but are we listening?
The Holy Spirit convicts, corrects, comforts, and calls. He speaks through the Word of God and magnifies the Son of God. But many churches have tuned out His voice.
Today, I believe the Holy Spirit is sounding an alarm to the American church. Let us not harden our hearts. Let us humble ourselves and heed His voice. This is not the time to hit the snooze button. It’s time to wake up, listen, and obey.
God’s Final Call
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.” — Revelation 3:20
Jesus is not indifferent to the condition of His Church. He walks among the lampstands. He sees, He knows, He warns—and He invites.
The American Church still has time—but not unlimited time. Now is the moment to repent, to return, to rekindle our love for Christ and our boldness for the Gospel. Our risen Lord is offering us the greatest privilege: to overcome with Him, to reign with Him, and to shine as lights in this dark hour.
It’s not too late for God to hear and answer from heaven. It’s not too late for revival to sweep our land.
Let us not miss God’s final call.
Revival Begins with You and Me
If your heart is burdened for the American Church, I invite you to take the next step and join us in prayer. The AWAKE America Prayer Guide will help you pray strategically and Biblically for a move of God—starting in your own heart and extending to your church, your city, and our nation.
This free resource is designed to equip you with the tools to seek God passionately and intercede for a spiritual awakening across the United States. Download your copy today and join us in crying out to the Lord.
Michael A. Youssef, Ph.D.
Dr. Michael Youssef is a pastor, best-selling author, and the founder of Leading The Way, a global ministry reaching millions with the Gospel through television, radio, and digital outreach. Born in Egypt, educated in Australia and the United States, and holding a Ph.D. in cultural anthropology, Dr. Youssef brings a rare global perspective to Biblical teaching.
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