The seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3 were real churches that existed in John’s day. Jesus told John the Apostle, the author of Revelation to write down messages for each of these churches. The congregations of these churches were also the first readers of the rest of Revelation to encourage them to patiently endure the persecution they were facing and to remember that God would bring justice and the New Heavens and New Earth.

Here is some reliable information about the seven churches of Revelation:

Map of the Seven Churches in Revelation

Here is a map of where the seven churches in Revelation were or are. They are located in modern day Turkey. They were also located along a well-traveled road in the Roman Empire.

Archeological Ruins of the Seven Churches of Revelation

This list has videos or pictures of the archeological ruins of the seven churches. It’s so striking to have a visual for what these cities looked like.

Details about Laodicea

The most fascinating church to me is Laodicea. Jesus’ words are full of rebukes about lukewarm water and eye salve. This academic paper explains how these words and phrases point to facts about the ancient city including the lukewarm drinking water that was piped into the city by an aqueduct.

A Comment on the Public Nature of the Churches’ Rebukes

This helpful info and 2 minute video from theologian and professor Craig Keener (who wrote my favorite Revelation commentary) gives a brief overview of where each church is located and also comments on the public nature of the message to each church. Wouldn’t it be embarrasing for these evaluations to be read by others?

Dr. Keener says, yes, it would, but the messages were intended for other churches to read just like we read them in our churches today. Notice that each church is called to hear “what the spirit says to the churches” and churches is plural. Craig Keener points out how to apply these passages today: “If the shoe fits, wear it.”

Chart of the Seven Churches of Revelation

If you are the kind of person who loves charts, here is a blank chart you can fill out so you can make your own chart of the seven churches of Revelation. The chart looks at Jesus’ evaluation and the phrases Jesus’ uses to describe himself and those who overcome or conquer. There is also room to prayerfully consider what Jesus would say to evaluate your church.

The people of these seven churches are the original audience of the book of Revelation which reminds us that Revelation is very practical and pastoral. John is writing from his pastoral and poetic heart to the churches so they are encouraged to patiently endure persecution in their time period and trust that God is still in control.

Have you found any helpful resources about the seven churches of Revelation? Comment below!