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Christ's Call to Reform the Church: Timeless Demands From the Lord to His People
What does the church need to hear today? As many have said, the church must always be reforming. It must continually move closer to a truer, more faithful expression of the gospel. The risen Christ’s powerful letters to the seven churches in Revelation are a guide to just that. Based on John MacArthur’s exposition of these letters, Christ’s Call to Reform the Church is a plea to the modern church to heed these divine warnings, to reform before it succumbs to the kinds of compromise and error that invite God’s judgment. Christ’s Call to Reform the Church admonishes the church today to learn from the mistakes God’s people have made in the past, rather than commit them again. The Word of God has many benefits, one of which is that it reveals our blind spots. That's what this book does—it shines a light on problems we didn't know we had. May it be embraced by Christians everywhere, spurring them toward the God-honoring, grace-driven work of continued reformation.
199 pages, Hardcover
Published October 9, 2018
86 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
John F. MacArthur Jr.
1,344 books1,918 followersJohn F. MacArthur, Jr. was a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur was a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California beginning in 1969, as well as President of The Master’s College (and the related Master’s Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 14, 2023
I had an idea about most of this from my own reading, but it was still enlightening. It was a good book for correction and something that I was needing for where I was on my journey. It's a good book for learning where you're at. I don't have much else to say. I might think of more later.
There it is and there you have it.
There it is and there you have it.
October 30, 2018
In this important new book by respected pastor and author John MacArthur, he looks at the risen Christ’s letters to the seven churches in Revelation and applies the message to today’s church. He states that they were not written to City Hall, but to churches. He tells us that there has never been any Christian nation, just Christians. Political and social justice efforts are at best short-term external solutions for society's moral ills. Morality is not the solution on its own. Pushing for cultural morality or even social justice is a distraction from the work of the church. Instead, the world needs the Gospel. They need to know that their sins can be forgiven.
The author tells us that calling the church to repent and reform can be dangerous. He states that the Puritans called the Church of England to repent and tells of the resulting Great Ejection of 1662. He also discusses the Protestant Reformation, which he refers back to near the end of the book.
He reviews the traits of an apostate church, and critiques the current view of some that we need to go back to living like the first century church, using house churches as a model. He tells us that first century churches were engaged in various forms of sinful behavior.
Jesus’ message to the church through John was to repent. There were consequences if they failed to reform. The author takes each letter and explains them in detail. He gives historical background on the cities and churches, and also the biblical background of the churches. He applies what was written to each church to the today’s church. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear”.
Below are a few items I want to highlight about each of the seven churches:
The Loveless Church – Ephesus
• Ephesus may have had the strongest lineage of leaders as any church. But even they could not keep them from falling into sin.
• They had lost their first love and turned into mechanical piety. They had not yet compromised with the world however. They still had time to repent.
• Were told to turn back and not abandon God.
• Sadly, today there is no church in Ephesus. Their lampstand was removed.
The Persecuted Church - Smyrna
• They were purified by persecution.
• Christians should expect persecution, but we don’t suffer in vain.
• Persecution makes the church stronger. More persecution was coming. Polycarp’s martyrdom.
• They were poor but were spiritually rich.
• No rebukes or condemnation from the Lord in this letter. They are an example to all churches.
• God will preserve the believer so that we can overcome.
The Compromised Church – Pergamum
• The Lord demands pure worship. But today some of our most influential and largest megachurches tend toward pragmatism, relevance, sinner-friendliness and worldliness. Rather than the word of God, they emphasize culture (movies, music).
• A church that’s just like the world has nothing to offer the world.
• The letter starts out with a threat.
• Pergamum had emperor worship and the preeminence of Satan, but the church did not deny their faith.
• Persecution resulted in the death of Antipas who was faithful. But some compromised and led believers back to sin.
• Paul’s warning to separate and not to be joined with unbelievers.
• The church had stayed true on doctrine, but not on holiness. They had become friends with the world.
The Corrupt Church – Thyatira
• Today, many churches ignore sin in the name of tolerance, unity and love. But we cannot tolerate sin in our midst.
• Thyatira had not kept the church pure. False believers dominated the church. The precious few believers in the church remained faithful.
• It was a church spiraling to Hell. Jezebel was leading God’s people into idolatry (Gnosticism, antinomianism).
• There was adultery in the church.
• God will kill those who bring a corrupting influence into the church.
• God was giving his judgement of Thyatira as an example to the church.
• Gave comfort to the few faithful believers. Told them to hold fast.
The Dead Church – Sardis
• From a distance Sardis, like many churches today, looked fine. But inside it was dead. It was only going through the spiritual motions.
• There was spiritual decay, the church was a spiritual graveyard.
• Churches need the Holy Spirit and faithful shepherds. Sardis had neither.
• They tolerated sin, and had no desire for holiness.
• Were told to repent and reform, or face judgment.
• The letter ends with hope for the saints.
• There is some evidence that the church did wake up and revival came.
The Faithful Church - Philadelphia
• What matters to God is faithfulness
• Was a letter of commendation and praise. There were no words of rebuke from the Lord.
• They displayed signs of a faithful church - true worshippers, kept His word, loyalty to Christ and endurance despite persecution.
• There was a call to persevere.
• A list of blessings and promises the Lord will grant them.
The Lukewarm Church – Laodicea
• Was the only one of the seven churches that Christ did not say something positive to.
• Were self-deceived, pious hypocrites. They had a warped view of Christ.
• Were non-believers called to repent and reform.
• Still, the Lord had a tender affection for the people of Laodicea. Come to Him and avoid His wrath. He shows them the path to a right relationship with Him.
• Reminds them of the cost of heresy and hypocrisy.
The author ends the book stating that there is a need for a new Reformation, using the five Sola’s of the Protestant Reformation:
• Sola Scriptura – Scripture alone
• Sola Fide – Faith alone
• Sola Gratia – Grace alone
• Solus Christus – Christ alone
• Soli Deo Gloria – To the glory of God alone
The author tells us that calling the church to repent and reform can be dangerous. He states that the Puritans called the Church of England to repent and tells of the resulting Great Ejection of 1662. He also discusses the Protestant Reformation, which he refers back to near the end of the book.
He reviews the traits of an apostate church, and critiques the current view of some that we need to go back to living like the first century church, using house churches as a model. He tells us that first century churches were engaged in various forms of sinful behavior.
Jesus’ message to the church through John was to repent. There were consequences if they failed to reform. The author takes each letter and explains them in detail. He gives historical background on the cities and churches, and also the biblical background of the churches. He applies what was written to each church to the today’s church. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear”.
Below are a few items I want to highlight about each of the seven churches:
The Loveless Church – Ephesus
• Ephesus may have had the strongest lineage of leaders as any church. But even they could not keep them from falling into sin.
• They had lost their first love and turned into mechanical piety. They had not yet compromised with the world however. They still had time to repent.
• Were told to turn back and not abandon God.
• Sadly, today there is no church in Ephesus. Their lampstand was removed.
The Persecuted Church - Smyrna
• They were purified by persecution.
• Christians should expect persecution, but we don’t suffer in vain.
• Persecution makes the church stronger. More persecution was coming. Polycarp’s martyrdom.
• They were poor but were spiritually rich.
• No rebukes or condemnation from the Lord in this letter. They are an example to all churches.
• God will preserve the believer so that we can overcome.
The Compromised Church – Pergamum
• The Lord demands pure worship. But today some of our most influential and largest megachurches tend toward pragmatism, relevance, sinner-friendliness and worldliness. Rather than the word of God, they emphasize culture (movies, music).
• A church that’s just like the world has nothing to offer the world.
• The letter starts out with a threat.
• Pergamum had emperor worship and the preeminence of Satan, but the church did not deny their faith.
• Persecution resulted in the death of Antipas who was faithful. But some compromised and led believers back to sin.
• Paul’s warning to separate and not to be joined with unbelievers.
• The church had stayed true on doctrine, but not on holiness. They had become friends with the world.
The Corrupt Church – Thyatira
• Today, many churches ignore sin in the name of tolerance, unity and love. But we cannot tolerate sin in our midst.
• Thyatira had not kept the church pure. False believers dominated the church. The precious few believers in the church remained faithful.
• It was a church spiraling to Hell. Jezebel was leading God’s people into idolatry (Gnosticism, antinomianism).
• There was adultery in the church.
• God will kill those who bring a corrupting influence into the church.
• God was giving his judgement of Thyatira as an example to the church.
• Gave comfort to the few faithful believers. Told them to hold fast.
The Dead Church – Sardis
• From a distance Sardis, like many churches today, looked fine. But inside it was dead. It was only going through the spiritual motions.
• There was spiritual decay, the church was a spiritual graveyard.
• Churches need the Holy Spirit and faithful shepherds. Sardis had neither.
• They tolerated sin, and had no desire for holiness.
• Were told to repent and reform, or face judgment.
• The letter ends with hope for the saints.
• There is some evidence that the church did wake up and revival came.
The Faithful Church - Philadelphia
• What matters to God is faithfulness
• Was a letter of commendation and praise. There were no words of rebuke from the Lord.
• They displayed signs of a faithful church - true worshippers, kept His word, loyalty to Christ and endurance despite persecution.
• There was a call to persevere.
• A list of blessings and promises the Lord will grant them.
The Lukewarm Church – Laodicea
• Was the only one of the seven churches that Christ did not say something positive to.
• Were self-deceived, pious hypocrites. They had a warped view of Christ.
• Were non-believers called to repent and reform.
• Still, the Lord had a tender affection for the people of Laodicea. Come to Him and avoid His wrath. He shows them the path to a right relationship with Him.
• Reminds them of the cost of heresy and hypocrisy.
The author ends the book stating that there is a need for a new Reformation, using the five Sola’s of the Protestant Reformation:
• Sola Scriptura – Scripture alone
• Sola Fide – Faith alone
• Sola Gratia – Grace alone
• Solus Christus – Christ alone
• Soli Deo Gloria – To the glory of God alone
May 5, 2019
Vraiment bon!!!
October 28, 2018
I read this book as part of my research for a class I'm taking. I thought MacArthur might bring some balance to the books on racial reconciliation that I am reading. Though the focus of this book is not on that topic per say, in typical MacArthur fashion, he is pretty blunt about what he thinks about the social justice movement.
Early on he writes, "The church today – and particularly the church in America – needs to understand that God has not called His people out of the world simply to wage a culture war with the world. We’re not meant to gain temporal ground, like some invading force working to superficially 'turn this country back to God.' We need to shed the illusion that our ancestors' morality once made America a 'Christian nation.' There have never been any Christian nations – just Christians." He gets even more specific when he writes, "The push for cultural morality or even social justice is a dangerous distraction from the work of the church. It wastes immense amounts of precious resources, including time, money, and energy."
MacArthur then spends the rest of the book working through Christ's messages of reform/encouragement to the seven churches in the beginning of Revelation. If you've ever wanted to study these letters, this book goes phrase by phrase through the text in a very easy to understand study of the history and strengths/weaknesses of these churches and Christ's words to them through John. MacArthur's point in teaching about this portion of Scripture is that God is more concerned about his church's purity and faithfulness than he is about whether or not the church is changing the culture in which it lives or creating an environment which is "seeker sensitive." He writes that "once the church determines its purpose is to engage and attract the culture rather than edify and equip the saints, it sets out on a path that will always lead to worldliness and apostasy."
The final chapter of the book is an exhortation to hold fast to the original five "solas" of the reformation, highlighting the importance and impact of each one. At the end he writes, "If there is any hope for a new reformation and revival today, it is that the church will submit to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, that it will faithfully proclaim the message of justification by grace alone through faith alone, that God’s people will devote themselves to glorifying Him in all things, and that they hold fast to the gospel of Jesus Christ in loving devotion to their Savior."
This book was adapted from sermon transcripts so each chapter/subject follows a pretty formulaic course and each is about the same length. The writing is very readable and I thought it lends itself very well to this format, even if it is a bit stiff, repetitive and kind of basic. I learned a lot about the churches and about the symbolism contained in this portion of Scripture. I also feel like I gained a better understanding of Christ's heart for these churches (and the churches that will read these words in the future).
I was torn on whether or not to rate this 3 or 4 stars. My 5-star ratings are reserved for books that I can't wait to tell someone about (even if the topic doesn't come up naturally). I typically give 4 stars to books that are at my top of my list to recommend if the topic comes up, or if a book is mostly excellent but gives me some cause for reservation. A 3-star book, for me, is a book that is pretty good but that doesn't do a lot for me at the time, or would be lower on the list of books to recommend about any given topic.
That being said, there's nothing wrong with this book even though, for me, it's a 3-star book. It's got solid teaching, it's easy to read, it covers a helpful topic, it's great for reference and it provides pushback to a subject that is potentially throwing a lot of churches off course. I guess my problem with the book (and kind of with MacArthur in general) is that his tone and perspective just don't motivate me the way other authors do (not that that's necessarily the goal of the book). The back cover of the book says something about Christ's message to his church and then in big bold letters says, "Are you ready to listen?" I just feel like MacArthur is condescending and heavy handed when he doesn't need to be. I'm feeling a little biased lately because my husband just read a different book of his that was shockingly condescending and unhelpful so I'm probably dealing with some residual timidity with his writing, but his authoritarian style just rubs me the wrong way. I respect his strong commitment to God's word and am challenged by what he has to say, but sometimes I feel like he comes off as more duty-driven than love-driven. Of course, part of this perception is likely due to listening to and reading a lot of Piper who communicates so very differently about God.
I feel hesitant to criticize MacArthur (especially because I consider myself to be pretty theologically conservative), but, as much as he writes about grace and the gospel of Christ, the hope and joy of His work in our lives just doesn't come across in this book as much as I would hope it would. It's solid but, while it teaches truth, it misfires on some level for me.
Early on he writes, "The church today – and particularly the church in America – needs to understand that God has not called His people out of the world simply to wage a culture war with the world. We’re not meant to gain temporal ground, like some invading force working to superficially 'turn this country back to God.' We need to shed the illusion that our ancestors' morality once made America a 'Christian nation.' There have never been any Christian nations – just Christians." He gets even more specific when he writes, "The push for cultural morality or even social justice is a dangerous distraction from the work of the church. It wastes immense amounts of precious resources, including time, money, and energy."
MacArthur then spends the rest of the book working through Christ's messages of reform/encouragement to the seven churches in the beginning of Revelation. If you've ever wanted to study these letters, this book goes phrase by phrase through the text in a very easy to understand study of the history and strengths/weaknesses of these churches and Christ's words to them through John. MacArthur's point in teaching about this portion of Scripture is that God is more concerned about his church's purity and faithfulness than he is about whether or not the church is changing the culture in which it lives or creating an environment which is "seeker sensitive." He writes that "once the church determines its purpose is to engage and attract the culture rather than edify and equip the saints, it sets out on a path that will always lead to worldliness and apostasy."
The final chapter of the book is an exhortation to hold fast to the original five "solas" of the reformation, highlighting the importance and impact of each one. At the end he writes, "If there is any hope for a new reformation and revival today, it is that the church will submit to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, that it will faithfully proclaim the message of justification by grace alone through faith alone, that God’s people will devote themselves to glorifying Him in all things, and that they hold fast to the gospel of Jesus Christ in loving devotion to their Savior."
This book was adapted from sermon transcripts so each chapter/subject follows a pretty formulaic course and each is about the same length. The writing is very readable and I thought it lends itself very well to this format, even if it is a bit stiff, repetitive and kind of basic. I learned a lot about the churches and about the symbolism contained in this portion of Scripture. I also feel like I gained a better understanding of Christ's heart for these churches (and the churches that will read these words in the future).
I was torn on whether or not to rate this 3 or 4 stars. My 5-star ratings are reserved for books that I can't wait to tell someone about (even if the topic doesn't come up naturally). I typically give 4 stars to books that are at my top of my list to recommend if the topic comes up, or if a book is mostly excellent but gives me some cause for reservation. A 3-star book, for me, is a book that is pretty good but that doesn't do a lot for me at the time, or would be lower on the list of books to recommend about any given topic.
That being said, there's nothing wrong with this book even though, for me, it's a 3-star book. It's got solid teaching, it's easy to read, it covers a helpful topic, it's great for reference and it provides pushback to a subject that is potentially throwing a lot of churches off course. I guess my problem with the book (and kind of with MacArthur in general) is that his tone and perspective just don't motivate me the way other authors do (not that that's necessarily the goal of the book). The back cover of the book says something about Christ's message to his church and then in big bold letters says, "Are you ready to listen?" I just feel like MacArthur is condescending and heavy handed when he doesn't need to be. I'm feeling a little biased lately because my husband just read a different book of his that was shockingly condescending and unhelpful so I'm probably dealing with some residual timidity with his writing, but his authoritarian style just rubs me the wrong way. I respect his strong commitment to God's word and am challenged by what he has to say, but sometimes I feel like he comes off as more duty-driven than love-driven. Of course, part of this perception is likely due to listening to and reading a lot of Piper who communicates so very differently about God.
I feel hesitant to criticize MacArthur (especially because I consider myself to be pretty theologically conservative), but, as much as he writes about grace and the gospel of Christ, the hope and joy of His work in our lives just doesn't come across in this book as much as I would hope it would. It's solid but, while it teaches truth, it misfires on some level for me.
April 19, 2019
First sentence (from the introduction): In the book of Revelation, Jesus wrote seven letters to cities in Asia Minor. He didn't write them to city hall; He wrote them to the church. Let that sink in moment.
First sentence from chapter one: Have you ever heard of a church that repented? Not individuals, but an entire church that collectively recognized its congregational transgressions and openly, genuinely repented, with biblical sorrow and brokenness? Sadly, you probably have not. For that matter, have you ever heard of a pastor who called his church to repent and threatened his congregation with divine judgment if they failed to do so? It's not likely. Pastors today seem to have a hard enough time calling individuals to repent, let alone calling the whole church to account for their corporate sins.
MacArthur's sermon text--if you will--is Revelation 2 and 3. In these seven letters to seven different churches, Jesus is calling for--in fact demanding--that the churches repent. Repentance hasn't grown in popularity through the centuries, but its need has not lessened either. What can believers--what can churches--learn from studying these letters? How are our churches like the ancient ones? Do we face the same struggles? the same temptations? the same judgement if we do not repent? Have we forgotten that the Bible was written with authority and should be read as such?
In the introduction, MacArthur points out that the church has never been commanded to go to war with the culture, or to legislate morality. He writes, "The will of God is not that we become so politicized that we turn our mission field into our enemy...It's futile to think the solution to our culture's moral bankruptcy is a legislative remedy. There is no law that can make fallen sinners righteous" (12).
In the first chapter, MacArthur introduces key topics that will be discussed throughout the book: worldliness, sin, compromise, tolerance, repentance, judgment. He examines what happens when churches compromise with the truth--with the revealed Word of God--and choose tolerance, peace, and unity instead. He briefly mentions the Reformation and Puritan movements before addressing contemporary issues facing the church. Did the ancient church have it easier? Or did they face the same temptations and struggles? Has Satan used the same tactics against the church since day one? Are our "new problems" really ancient ones?
In the second chapter, MacArthur takes a closer look at Revelation 1. Since the majority of the book is focusing on Revelation 2 and 3, this chapter is providing orientation and context for understanding and appreciating the book as a whole.
In chapters three through nine, MacArthur discusses the seven churches--Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea--and closely examines the Lord's messages to them. This is the heart of the book. Readers will learn more about these ancient churches and their problems. Readers will be reminded of the relevance of these urgent, passionate messages. Jesus is still calling his church to repent.
In the tenth and final chapter, MacArthur revisits the five solas of the Reformation and discusses the church's need to reform or return to reform. The Reformation should not be thought of "as over."
This was a great read.
First sentence from chapter one: Have you ever heard of a church that repented? Not individuals, but an entire church that collectively recognized its congregational transgressions and openly, genuinely repented, with biblical sorrow and brokenness? Sadly, you probably have not. For that matter, have you ever heard of a pastor who called his church to repent and threatened his congregation with divine judgment if they failed to do so? It's not likely. Pastors today seem to have a hard enough time calling individuals to repent, let alone calling the whole church to account for their corporate sins.
MacArthur's sermon text--if you will--is Revelation 2 and 3. In these seven letters to seven different churches, Jesus is calling for--in fact demanding--that the churches repent. Repentance hasn't grown in popularity through the centuries, but its need has not lessened either. What can believers--what can churches--learn from studying these letters? How are our churches like the ancient ones? Do we face the same struggles? the same temptations? the same judgement if we do not repent? Have we forgotten that the Bible was written with authority and should be read as such?
In the introduction, MacArthur points out that the church has never been commanded to go to war with the culture, or to legislate morality. He writes, "The will of God is not that we become so politicized that we turn our mission field into our enemy...It's futile to think the solution to our culture's moral bankruptcy is a legislative remedy. There is no law that can make fallen sinners righteous" (12).
In the first chapter, MacArthur introduces key topics that will be discussed throughout the book: worldliness, sin, compromise, tolerance, repentance, judgment. He examines what happens when churches compromise with the truth--with the revealed Word of God--and choose tolerance, peace, and unity instead. He briefly mentions the Reformation and Puritan movements before addressing contemporary issues facing the church. Did the ancient church have it easier? Or did they face the same temptations and struggles? Has Satan used the same tactics against the church since day one? Are our "new problems" really ancient ones?
In the second chapter, MacArthur takes a closer look at Revelation 1. Since the majority of the book is focusing on Revelation 2 and 3, this chapter is providing orientation and context for understanding and appreciating the book as a whole.
In chapters three through nine, MacArthur discusses the seven churches--Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea--and closely examines the Lord's messages to them. This is the heart of the book. Readers will learn more about these ancient churches and their problems. Readers will be reminded of the relevance of these urgent, passionate messages. Jesus is still calling his church to repent.
In the tenth and final chapter, MacArthur revisits the five solas of the Reformation and discusses the church's need to reform or return to reform. The Reformation should not be thought of "as over."
This was a great read.
November 2, 2018
The message of the book Christ’s Call to Reform the Church is, as the subtitle says, timeless. The exhortations and warnings to the 7 churches (Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea) in the book of Revelation were as relevant then as they are today.
MacArthur summarizes the background, problem, condition, and the Lord’s admonition and offer of hope for each church. I especially appreciated the background of each church that explained further the Lord’s specific address to it. He concludes the book by explaining the five Solas of the Reformation and how we “need to recover and reaffirm the historical, theological principles behind the life transformations that invite true Reformation.”
I personally sat through Pastor John’s sermons on the book of Revelation in the late 1990’s. I was profoundly changed by them. Now 20+ years later, it is good to be reminded again through this book of this excellent introduction to the book of Revelation. The church now needs to hear this message over and over again, so it does not fall into the same condition as these seven churches. For this reason, I highly recommend this book to everyone in the church.
MacArthur summarizes the background, problem, condition, and the Lord’s admonition and offer of hope for each church. I especially appreciated the background of each church that explained further the Lord’s specific address to it. He concludes the book by explaining the five Solas of the Reformation and how we “need to recover and reaffirm the historical, theological principles behind the life transformations that invite true Reformation.”
I personally sat through Pastor John’s sermons on the book of Revelation in the late 1990’s. I was profoundly changed by them. Now 20+ years later, it is good to be reminded again through this book of this excellent introduction to the book of Revelation. The church now needs to hear this message over and over again, so it does not fall into the same condition as these seven churches. For this reason, I highly recommend this book to everyone in the church.
September 1, 2021
This book is all about what the contemporary church, living in the postmodern or post Christian era, needs to do to reform itself and remain true to the Gospel. John MacArthur is an extraordinary pastor, teacher, and writer, having written extensive Bible notes, published in a single reference book which I keep on my desk. His writings are easy to understand yet very thorough in covering all of the nuances from the original Hebrew and Greek scriptures translated into English. This gives him the ability to explain language that does not “relate” to our time but clearly would have been understood by readers of Paul, John, and Peter. The text is firmly grounded in scripture, consistent, and most informative. There is much to learn about basic biblical principles, which so many people miss, just by reading this book.
I have read several of John’s books and heard him quoted many times by pastors in my church, however, this book was made available through Franklin Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Society.
I have read several of John’s books and heard him quoted many times by pastors in my church, however, this book was made available through Franklin Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Society.
July 9, 2019
MacArthur is one of the best known expositors of the Word, alive today. Arguably one of the best known in Church history. You’re never left wondering where he lands on a matter. He’s very straight forward and does not apologize for what the Bible plainly speaks. This book is no different. The focus is on the seven letters to the seven churches from the book of the Revelation to John. Bookended by a historical look at the Protestant Reformation and a call for a modern day reforming of the Church. Christ has spoken. He’s given us His Word. I wish every Christian would read or listen to this message, as it could not be more relevant for our seemingly desolate times.
November 20, 2018
Excellent and helpful background information on the seven churches and related early church history. This is probably what I enjoyed the most about the book. There were plenty of solid truths clearly laid out as direct implications from the text that apply very much to 21st century churches. Some of this was helpful and prophetic and worth pondering.
And as I've come to expect, MacArthur at times communicates in such a way that I find unnecessarily harsh and blunt, to the point of not being winsome. This is perhaps related to a difference of personality and temperament. I'm OK with that.
And as I've come to expect, MacArthur at times communicates in such a way that I find unnecessarily harsh and blunt, to the point of not being winsome. This is perhaps related to a difference of personality and temperament. I'm OK with that.
April 12, 2019
This book is an excellent commentary on the second and third chapters of Revelation, the letters to the seven churches. The title, first chapter, and last chapter make the book seem more like a historical survey or revivals and reformation. The rest of the book seems to be sermons or commentary on those chapters. The commentary can be boiled down to a one word recipe for successful churches: Repent! The common theme to all of the churches was that they needed to repent. Macarthur urges churches to turn away from seeker friendly ways and get back to Scripture. He urges pastors to abandon the feelings or postmodern sermons and get back to expository preaching. Though is seems like 2 different books, it is an excellent read.
April 1, 2020
Sometimes reading material that I heard when it was first preached makes it difficult to fully enjoy. There’s much here that is great. For me chapter 10 capped the book beautifully. It’s these moments that Pastor John wraps his thoughts on a subject and just lets his 50 yrs of pastoral wisdom shine.
May 14, 2021
This is the third book I have read by John MacArthur. It was really good. His exegesis of Scripture was good, as always. The only reason it didn’t get a 5 was I thought the last chapter which addressed the question could have been fleshed out a bit. All in all, a good read though.
June 29, 2021
Christ will build his church. He is head of the church and his church must lovingly submit to him. The problems the 7 churches had in Revelation are incredibly relevant to today's church
July 25, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This was a short, but wonderful, read. Based on the letters to the seven churches in Revelation, John MacArthur did a great job explaining how we can best apply them to our lives today. MacArthur always does a great job of exegeting the truth of God’s Word for us.
January 7, 2022
Is the Bible right or is personal interpretation? Just as I believe the Bible to be inerrant and to be the actual word of God, MacArthur takes the messages to the 7 churches in Revelation, and points out that Jesus' call to repent and to reform is just as true today as it was then.
Jesus didn't have a speech impediment, and his message to the churches of asia-minor are as relevant today as they were then.
Jesus didn't have a speech impediment, and his message to the churches of asia-minor are as relevant today as they were then.
December 31, 2023
what an awesome and needed book!!! we had a great sunday school teacher go through the 7 churches of Rev with us a few years back.... and after struggling to find sound doctrine in a local church (after moving)... this book really reminded me of all that truth.... a must read for all believers... let us take heed, walk circumspectly... individually and alongside others as a pure bride that waits for Her Groom.
May 16, 2019
Repentance is not often touched upon in churches today, yet we are called to do so. Discussed in this book are the 7 churches of Revelation, Christ's indictment of them, followed by the end result. What can be appreciated in this book is the relevancy of biblical principles that still apply today! Each church is a case all on it's own and Jesus deals with them all. That should speak volumes to churches today. Wherever they are at, Christ holds them accountable. It is His church, after all. It is His bride in which He will come back for and judgment begins at the house of God (1 Peter 4:17).
The historical detail in the book is well appreciated as brings these churches to life. It showed that these churches were indeed places in history and how each church operated in its surrounding society. That should also speak volumes as it should make us question: are we being salt & light in our location? Scripture also plays a big part here as a crucial element to the church. A church that does not live by the word of God is susceptible to corruption.
In closing, I thoroughly enjoyed this book as a sober reminder to the church. It is in dire need of reformation. That of course is not easy as many have deviated away from God's Word, settling for outside sources instead. This book is also to the complacent Christian whom like the church Ephesus, lost their first love. Yet God shows mercy and calls us to run back to Him. It is time for a renewed commitment to Christ. It is time to reform the church. Don't delay!
Notable Quotes
"This climatic reality of the church: God redeems sinners to build His church and uses their transformed lives to reflect the majesty of His glory, whereby He draws more sinners to Himself. That awesome, blazing glory of the Lord shines through the church, illuminating a lost and dark world."
"Fading love for Christ the forerunner of spiritual apathy."
"Consider this: for Christians there is no such thing as meaningless suffering. The Lord is always refining us, always sharpening us for the building His church"
"If there is any hope for a new reformation and revival today, it is that the church will submit to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, that it will faithfully proclaim the message of justification by grace alone through faith alone, that God's people will devote themselves to glorifying Him in all things, and that they hold fast to the gospel of Jesus Christ in loving devotion to their Savior".
The historical detail in the book is well appreciated as brings these churches to life. It showed that these churches were indeed places in history and how each church operated in its surrounding society. That should also speak volumes as it should make us question: are we being salt & light in our location? Scripture also plays a big part here as a crucial element to the church. A church that does not live by the word of God is susceptible to corruption.
In closing, I thoroughly enjoyed this book as a sober reminder to the church. It is in dire need of reformation. That of course is not easy as many have deviated away from God's Word, settling for outside sources instead. This book is also to the complacent Christian whom like the church Ephesus, lost their first love. Yet God shows mercy and calls us to run back to Him. It is time for a renewed commitment to Christ. It is time to reform the church. Don't delay!
Notable Quotes
"This climatic reality of the church: God redeems sinners to build His church and uses their transformed lives to reflect the majesty of His glory, whereby He draws more sinners to Himself. That awesome, blazing glory of the Lord shines through the church, illuminating a lost and dark world."
"Fading love for Christ the forerunner of spiritual apathy."
"Consider this: for Christians there is no such thing as meaningless suffering. The Lord is always refining us, always sharpening us for the building His church"
"If there is any hope for a new reformation and revival today, it is that the church will submit to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, that it will faithfully proclaim the message of justification by grace alone through faith alone, that God's people will devote themselves to glorifying Him in all things, and that they hold fast to the gospel of Jesus Christ in loving devotion to their Savior".
January 25, 2019
In Christ’s Call to Reform the Church, John MacArthur highlights what God’s Word says about Christ’s desire to change the body of Christ to His glory. As is characteristic of most of MacArthur’s writing and teaching, this book is soundly Biblical, direct, and convicting.
Early in the book, MacArthur writes about what comes at the start of true reform: repentance. Next, he showcases Christ’s work in His church as described in the Bible. Seven chapters about the seven churches addressed in Revelation follow. Finally, MacArthur wraps up a call for a new reformation.
Each of the chapters on the seven churches addressed in Revelation includes:
• History and context of the church
• Insight into what was going on that Christ addressed- whether as praise or correction
• Application for churches and believers today who fall into the same patterns
Quotes from Christ’s Call to Reform the Church include:
• “You won’t have time to indulge your selfish desires if you’re submitting every aspect of your life to the praise and honor of the Lord.”
• “Our love for the Lord is the truest measure of our commitment to Him.”
• “There is a fullness of grace even in God’s judgement, and rich mercy in His call to repent.”
• “Worldliness does not make the gospel look attractive; it makes it look impotent.”
This book is an excellent exposition of Revelation in understandable language, with plenty of practical application. I believe Christ’s Call to Reform the Church is worth reading –and the topics worth considering in prayer- for pastors, church leaders, and believers.
We make up the body of Christ, by His grace. May we wake up to His call and correction by His grace, too.
Early in the book, MacArthur writes about what comes at the start of true reform: repentance. Next, he showcases Christ’s work in His church as described in the Bible. Seven chapters about the seven churches addressed in Revelation follow. Finally, MacArthur wraps up a call for a new reformation.
Each of the chapters on the seven churches addressed in Revelation includes:
• History and context of the church
• Insight into what was going on that Christ addressed- whether as praise or correction
• Application for churches and believers today who fall into the same patterns
Quotes from Christ’s Call to Reform the Church include:
• “You won’t have time to indulge your selfish desires if you’re submitting every aspect of your life to the praise and honor of the Lord.”
• “Our love for the Lord is the truest measure of our commitment to Him.”
• “There is a fullness of grace even in God’s judgement, and rich mercy in His call to repent.”
• “Worldliness does not make the gospel look attractive; it makes it look impotent.”
This book is an excellent exposition of Revelation in understandable language, with plenty of practical application. I believe Christ’s Call to Reform the Church is worth reading –and the topics worth considering in prayer- for pastors, church leaders, and believers.
We make up the body of Christ, by His grace. May we wake up to His call and correction by His grace, too.
December 23, 2022
Does the church need a Reformation? If Jesus was speaking to the church, what would He say? Would it be similar to what He had the Apostle John write to the seven churches of Asia Minor (Revelation 2-3)?
John MacArthur has been a solid voice encouraging believers to return to the sound teaching of Scripture and speaking out against modern trends that do not have Biblical grounding. This book is written to encourage today's church to do what Jesus commanded of the seven churches of Asia Minor: Repent!
This book starts off with how unpopular reforming the church is for the status quo. Chapters 2-9 are basically a commentary on Revelation 1-3, reading like a print version of a sermon series.
The final chapter is titled "The Need for a New Reformation," and looks at the five solas of the Reformation: Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone), Sola Fide (Faith Alone), Sola Gratia (Grace Alone), Sola Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone), and Sola Christus (Christ Alone). MacArthur points out most lists end with Sola Deo Gloria, but he chose to end his book with what he focused on: Christ and the Church.
I recommend this book. This is a much needed reminder (and for some a rebuke) to a church that needs to regain their first love and to repent.
John MacArthur has been a solid voice encouraging believers to return to the sound teaching of Scripture and speaking out against modern trends that do not have Biblical grounding. This book is written to encourage today's church to do what Jesus commanded of the seven churches of Asia Minor: Repent!
This book starts off with how unpopular reforming the church is for the status quo. Chapters 2-9 are basically a commentary on Revelation 1-3, reading like a print version of a sermon series.
The final chapter is titled "The Need for a New Reformation," and looks at the five solas of the Reformation: Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone), Sola Fide (Faith Alone), Sola Gratia (Grace Alone), Sola Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone), and Sola Christus (Christ Alone). MacArthur points out most lists end with Sola Deo Gloria, but he chose to end his book with what he focused on: Christ and the Church.
I recommend this book. This is a much needed reminder (and for some a rebuke) to a church that needs to regain their first love and to repent.
March 26, 2019
An examination of the letters to the 7 churches in the book of Revelation.
An eye opener for sure.
Christ wrote 7 letters to 7 individual churches:
Ephesus - The Loveless Church
Smyrna - The Persecuted Church
Pergamum - The Compromising Church
Thatira - The Corrupt Church
Sardis - The Dead Church
Philadelphia - The Faithful Church
Laodicea - The Lukewarm Church
The Lord writes (through John): "I know your deeds..."
At the beginning of the letters He begins by letting each church know that He knows their deeds by outlining their strengths and failings.
The individual chapters listed above consists of an examination of the letter to that individual church. Pastor MacArthurs’ writing style is easily readable and he delves into the history of the individual church to expand on the meaning behind the words chosen for each. In order to reach the people, Christ saw to it that the circumstance of the church was outlined in a manner of which would be immediately understood. Pastor MacArthur then explains how the circumstance of that church is one that is also being portrayed in the current time.
The end of the letters states: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God.” It is a word of counsel to all who read these letters.
“Salvation is in Christ alone.”
An eye opener for sure.
Christ wrote 7 letters to 7 individual churches:
Ephesus - The Loveless Church
Smyrna - The Persecuted Church
Pergamum - The Compromising Church
Thatira - The Corrupt Church
Sardis - The Dead Church
Philadelphia - The Faithful Church
Laodicea - The Lukewarm Church
The Lord writes (through John): "I know your deeds..."
At the beginning of the letters He begins by letting each church know that He knows their deeds by outlining their strengths and failings.
The individual chapters listed above consists of an examination of the letter to that individual church. Pastor MacArthurs’ writing style is easily readable and he delves into the history of the individual church to expand on the meaning behind the words chosen for each. In order to reach the people, Christ saw to it that the circumstance of the church was outlined in a manner of which would be immediately understood. Pastor MacArthur then explains how the circumstance of that church is one that is also being portrayed in the current time.
The end of the letters states: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God.” It is a word of counsel to all who read these letters.
“Salvation is in Christ alone.”
June 18, 2018
I am grateful to netgalley.com and Moody Publishers for a review copy of this book. This is a great little book short and concise and yet full of deep theology. One of the highlights was probably the introduction which spoke about the work of the church and who the church was to look too. MacArthur highlights that the church is not here for social reform but here to share the gospel.
Each of the seven letters in Revelation 2-3 gets a chapter and each chapter follows a fairly simple outline where there is some context given as to who and what the church was. Then the letter itself is exegetes and throughout there is some helpful application for the modern day church.
MacArthur does at times get himself tied in knots over the millennium and the suffering which some churches in Revelation face, however this is my own theological view coming across and I fully accept and realise that others may disagree with my interpretation of the millennium.
This minor critique should not stop people reading this book you will be richly blessed by doing so.
Each of the seven letters in Revelation 2-3 gets a chapter and each chapter follows a fairly simple outline where there is some context given as to who and what the church was. Then the letter itself is exegetes and throughout there is some helpful application for the modern day church.
MacArthur does at times get himself tied in knots over the millennium and the suffering which some churches in Revelation face, however this is my own theological view coming across and I fully accept and realise that others may disagree with my interpretation of the millennium.
This minor critique should not stop people reading this book you will be richly blessed by doing so.
September 6, 2018
I thank Moody Publishers for the opportunity their read this book before it's publication date and the opportunity to give my appraisal.
I very much appreciate John MacArthur's call for the Church to Biblical purity. Especially I insightful was his call, not just to call I individuals to repent, but the call for whole churches to repent. How easy it is to forget that Paul called out the whole Corinthian church, not just the man caught in sin, or the seven churches in Revelation which as MacArthur points out Jesus was going to hold accountable for the sins of groups of members. How different the community guilt, and thus need for repentance, is than our I individualistic society's individualistic view of guilt.
I very much appreciate John MacArthur's call for the Church to Biblical purity. Especially I insightful was his call, not just to call I individuals to repent, but the call for whole churches to repent. How easy it is to forget that Paul called out the whole Corinthian church, not just the man caught in sin, or the seven churches in Revelation which as MacArthur points out Jesus was going to hold accountable for the sins of groups of members. How different the community guilt, and thus need for repentance, is than our I individualistic society's individualistic view of guilt.
February 18, 2021
John MacArthur is this generation's premier New Testament Bible teacher. So it makes sense that a book covering the letters to the churches in the early chapters of the book of Revelation would be solid, as we've come to expect from MacArthur. This book is. The text is very likely reworked only as much as necessary from a set of sermon transcripts, but that's fine. That's almost certainly how most of MacArthur's books come into being.
This would be worth five stars if it weren't for some wholly unnecessary bashing of differing worship expressions. MacArthur in the past decade has ridden on this hobby horse quite a few times. This, coupled with an astonishing lack of humility, is troubling. But it's apparently what we can expect from this author these days. Forgive him and move on.
This would be worth five stars if it weren't for some wholly unnecessary bashing of differing worship expressions. MacArthur in the past decade has ridden on this hobby horse quite a few times. This, coupled with an astonishing lack of humility, is troubling. But it's apparently what we can expect from this author these days. Forgive him and move on.
January 11, 2025
I found this to be a very good book. While I appreciated the sound theology, much of the material felt familiar to me. This doesn't diminish the value of the book, as these concepts certainly benefit from repeated exposure. However, I recognize that this may not be the case for all readers. For instance, had I encountered this book twenty years ago, I likely would have been deeply impressed. Considering the book's strengths and its intended purpose, I believe it deserves a five-star rating.
October 14, 2019
Very thought provoking in today's modern Western church, cultural Christianity that is running amuck in the United States.
I highly recommend and enjoyed this read of MacArthur's biblical, and expositional approach to the churches in Revelation 2-3. Very informative and inspiring to reform today's cultural, comfortable church, and Go back to the 5 Solas!
I highly recommend and enjoyed this read of MacArthur's biblical, and expositional approach to the churches in Revelation 2-3. Very informative and inspiring to reform today's cultural, comfortable church, and Go back to the 5 Solas!
November 19, 2018
I rarely read a book or hear a sermon by John MacArthur that I do not enjoy! This one is no exception. A wonderful study on the churches of Revelation and a sober reminder to the church to stay committed to the five Solas.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2018
This is a fantastic book. It deals with Jesus' letters to the seven churches in the second and third chapters of Revelation. the final chapter "The need for a new reformation" is worth the price of the book. I highly recommend it!
December 21, 2019
A handy read about the early church, it's problems and good qualities, as well as what we can do on this age to combat said problems. Could have used more examples and historical details about those churches, but other than that a great read.
October 18, 2020
This is a beautiful book with a powerful message. For anyone interested in it who does not subscribe to dispensational pre-millennial theology, not to worry. His views on this only come through on two pages. If it weren't for that little bit, I would happily give this book five stars.
April 12, 2021
Powerful Admonition to the Churcg
As he so often does, Dr. MacArthur provides a strong challenge to the church with faithful exposition of scripture. Christians would do well do well to take seriously what Dr. MacArthur says.
As he so often does, Dr. MacArthur provides a strong challenge to the church with faithful exposition of scripture. Christians would do well do well to take seriously what Dr. MacArthur says.
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