1. When Love Grows Cold Revelation 2:1-5

2. "To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, 'These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent.’”

3. Introduction… The closer we are to God…the better But, times for each of us when love grows cold…begins to fade This isn’t good…but not new phenomenon Mystery: What to do about it…which is what our lesson today focuses upon

4. Wavering love no minor issue Love is greatest obligation—Matt.22:36-40 Love can exist one-directionly—but peace and fellowship can not When love grows cold—we experience unrest, unhappiness, perhaps misery

5. Cooling of love always possible Ephesian church left its first love by near the end of the first century But, earlier, things far different—Ephesians 1:15-16; 3:17

6. Initially, change not perceived Look again at Revelation 2:2-3 Duties continue to be performed Right things must be done—but also must be done for the right reasons Love needed to keep proper values, and to maintain righteousness Individuals and congregations effected

7. If love seems to be fading, what should we do? Love isn’t that mysterious Love like a plant…take it away from its proper environment…failure to thrive Thus, we need to know proper environment Also must keep love focused in right direction Must keep your love ACTIVE

8. If our love already is cold, faded, what should we do? Answer in Revelation 2:1-5, again Fan the flames Remember the way it was… After LOOKING back…now you must GO back

9. Final thoughts… Today’s lesson can be applied to earthly marriage or heavenly relationships Ideally, we’ll apply it to both Some here today may be suffering from “love problems” If so…don’t wait around to “fall in love” again…TAKE ACTION now

10. “We love Him because He first loved us.” –1 John 4:19