Not many people are aware that the seven churches of revelation, also known as the apocalypse, were located in what is now Asia Minor in Turkey. St John the Apostle's vision of the apocalypse, written in Revelations and subsequently influenced - and frightened - generations, covers seven sites in Turkey’s Aegean western region. Revelations included a message from God sent to seven churches - the Apocalypse churches. They were also the names of cities. Indeed, Turkey has an extensive Christian history, which surprises many younger people because it is a predominately Muslim country.
St John's vision told him the world's future and revealed he should send messages to seven churches at Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. These early Christian churches formed a natural postal route: from Ephesus, up the coast to Smyrna and Pergamum, and from there inland to Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. St John's undoubtedly considered this - the ancient churches could quickly disseminate and pass along the information. These days, many are ancient sites that can all be toured in three to four days.
About the Seven Churches of Revelation
1: Ephesus and Christian Living
Starting the second chapter of revelation, the first message for the key site of Ephesus said: "The one who holds the seven stars in his right and walks amid the seven gold lampstands says this: ‘I know your works, your labour, and your endurance, and that you cannot tolerate the wicked; you have tested those who call themselves apostles but are not, and discovered that they are impostors."
The Ephesian church had much opposition from the worshippers of Greek deities, who resisted the Christian message. St. Paul had visited decades before, telling the Christian elders that after his departure, “savage wolves” would sweep in, and even Christian leaders would stir doubt in followers.
The Revelation told the Christians at the major commercial centre they were doing a good job, vigilantly watching for the “wolves” - i.e., heretical movements. The lampstands represent the apostolic churches, and the stars represent the people waiting to be “ignited.” This former bustling city is now one of Turkey's top tourist attractions, near the Turkish town of Kusadasi.
2: Smyrna (Now Modern Day Izmir)
Smyrna was the second Christian site. “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
The port of Smyrna, the modern city of Izmir, was about 70km from Ephesus. The beautiful and prosperous city was rivalled only by Pergamum and Ephesus for power. Still, it had not been a happy place for Christian communities, who had endured poverty in their Christian lives. St John's vision urges the faithful believers to face the new trial about to befall them with Christian faith and courage.
3: Pergamum and the Commercial Arenas
The heavenly watcher declared…
"I know where you live: where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city, where Satan lives."
Pergamum, once the centre of a kingdom, does not come out very well. It's asserted that “Satan” lived here. Scholars believe that this was because Pergamum indulged in pagan practices and had a temple to Asclepius, the Greek god of healing, represented by a snake, which, to a Christian, is rather powerful imagery.
Antipas, mentioned in Revelations and called his faithful martyr, is another possible reason for Pergamum's satanic references. Philip Schaff, the church historian, says Pergamum received much materialism and foreign material from heathen rites that became Christian usages. However, Revelation praises the faith of those in Pergamum who remained steadfast in the chief religion during persecution and were told to persevere in good works.
4: Philadelphia and Faith
“Because you have kept my command to persevere. I will keep you from the hour of trial that shall come upon the whole world to test those who dwell on the earth."
The book of Revelations only has good church prophecies about the Christian citizens of Philadelphia. Modern-day Alasehir is the location of latter-day Philadelphia, one of the first ancient cities. According to Revelations, local Christians were suffering greatly at the hands of local Jews - and earthquakes. However, they receive praise from God, who tells Philadelphians to persevere in faith. This message is reflected in the word “Philadelphia” by modern-day Protestant church names to emphasise faith.
5: Thyatira and False Teachers
“Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan's so-called deep secrets (I will not impose any other burden on you): Only hold on to what you have until I come.”
Thyatira was a small city inland from the coast near the Lycus River valley. Not much is known about Thyatira, part of Pergamum, and little trace has ever been found. But discovered coins did reveal they were bakers, potters, and linen weavers. However, the message to Thyatira is the longest. The message refers to “that woman Jezebel”, which probably refers to a self-styled prophetess preaching in Thyatira as a false apostle, encouraging immorality and saying she refused repentance. A plague will hit anyone who follows Jezebel down. As for the believers, they are encouraged to hold on and wait for glory.
6: Laodicea and Economic Wealth
"Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and need nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white garments, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye salve, that thou mayest see."
The ruins on the Lycus River are near Denizli. Laodicea, a key city, was an early Christian centre. God's message criticised the Laodiceans for lukewarm faith and a lack of zeal. The letter drew upon the city's spiritual bankruptcy from economic prosperity, drawing parallels between its lack of trust and its divine riches- Laodicia was a wealthy capital. It even funded its rebuilding after a devastating earthquake in 60, refusing help from the Roman Empire. The reference to “white raiment” might refer to the city's cloth trade and eye salve to the medical school where a famous ophthalmologist practised.
7: Sardis and the Promise of Eternal Life
“You are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die. Wake: remember, obey, and repent. I have not found your deeds complete in the sight of my God.”
Sardis was located in Sart, in the Manisa Province. When St John received his message from God, Sardis was known as a once great commercial city that fell from prosperity. Once considered impregnable because of its mountain location surrounded by cliffs, surprise attacks occurred because of a lack of watchfulness.
The city also worshipped the goddess Cybele, a serious blasphemy. The message warns citizens that no good will come if they continue their blasphemy. These days, people visit remains of the Byzantine Church and Roman life. It was a similar warning to Matthew 23 - "Falling prey to a similar sin as the Pharisees, they were like whitewashed tombs: clean and white on the outside, but dead on the inside."
Who Wrote the Seven Churches in Revelation?
So the story goes, just before the fall of Jerusalem in 70AD, St John the Apostle moved to Ephesus in 65AD, taking with him Palestinian Christians. Christian persecution was happening in Rome, and St John's fellow disciples, St Peter and St Paul, were martyred in Rome. Targeted by Roman authorities, St John was reportedly plunged into boiling olive oil (which didn't affect him, instantly converting all who witnessed the act) and banished to the penal colony of Patmos, just off the coast of Ephesus.
On Patmos, he wrote the three epistles attributed to him and the Book of Revelation. St John's famous Revelations were born of an apocalyptic vision from God of frightening anger, rivers of blood, plagues of locusts, giant hailstones, and judgement galore that kills many unfaithful. All the faithful Christians are conveyed to a beautiful city in the sky, destined for eternal happiness with God.
Why Did These Seven Churches Receive the Apocalyptic Message?
Church history reveals they were chosen for historical, spiritual, and symbolic significance. The cities belonged to trade routes, and could spread messages across regions widely and effectively. Each represents different spiritual conditions and challenges faced by Christian communities, as well as lessons and warnings applicable to believers throughout history.
- Ephesus: The church and cultural centre that lost its first love (Revelation 2:1–7).
- Smyrna: The persecuted that remained faithful (Revelation 2:8–11).
- Pergamum: The compromising church influenced by false teachings (Revelation 2:12–17).
- Thyatira: The corrupt tolerating immorality (Revelation 2:18–29).
- Sardis: With Christianity developing from the previous Jewish population, Sardis was spiritually dead (Revelation 3:1–6).
- Philadelphia: The faithful with an open door (Revelation 3:7–13).
- Laodicea: The lukewarm church (Revelation 3:14–22).
The number seven is significant in biblical literature, symbolising completeness, and perfection. By addressing seven churches, the message is complete and universal, meant for the entire body of Christ across all times and places. Some believe they represent church ages. Also known as church periods, these seven eras start with the Apostolic Church from 30 - 300 A.D. and go right up to the rapture.
The commendations provide lessons for today's Christians. They warn against complacency, compromise, and sin and encourage perseverance and faithfulness. Each letter finishes with the phrase, "Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says," emphasising the relevance for all Christians. The apocalyptic message was written during the growing persecution under Roman rule, and the letters prepared people for the trials and assure them of ultimate victory in Christ.
Angels and Stars of the Churches
The stars in the Book of Revelation represent the "angels" addressed in the text. This interpretation is given explicitly in Revelation 1:20, which says:
"The mystery of the seven stars you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches."
The angels could be heavenly beings, human leaders, or messengers delivering God's message. The stars in Jesus' right hand signify authority, protection, and intimate relationships with believers. This imagery reinforces God's sovereignty and Jesus' central role as Lord and ruler of all.
What was the Worst Church in Revelation?
Laodicea is the worst. As described in Revelation 3:14–22, unlike others, Christ harshly rebuked them without commendation. He criticised their lukewarmness and lack of passion and commitment, symbolising spiritual complacency and apathy. The Laodiceans believed they were wealthy and self-sufficient, but Jesus exposed their actual spiritual state as wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. Despite their material prosperity, they failed to recognise their spiritual poverty and blindness.
Laodicea was known for its wealth, medical advancements (especially an eye salve), and fine clothing, but Jesus used these strengths to highlight their spiritual weaknesses. Despite their grave condition, Jesus offers hope and counsel to seek spiritual wealth, righteousness, and enlightenment found only in Christ. Jesus urges them to turn from their complacency and seek renewed zeal. "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me" (Revelation 3:20).
How to Visit the Churches of Revelation
Each site offers historical ruins and insights into early Christian history and ancient life. The best place to fly into is Izmir airport, and book hotels nearby to use as a base for visiting Smyrna, Ephesus, and Pergamum. The others are slightly further afield. However, you can rent a car and enjoy pleasant drives.
Alternatively, many tour operators run guided tours, arranging transport, accommodation, entrance fees, and the services of a qualified guide with impeccable knowledge. Read the letters or speak with a church historian before visiting. This will enhance your experience and provide deeper insights. The churches are relatively close to each other, in a circular or linear route, and can be visited in this order due to their geographical proximity.
- Ephesus: As the best-preserved ancient city, the Celsius Library, Great Theatre, and the Virgin Mary’s house are a short drive away. The ruins are near Selcuk town or Kusadasi, which is a bit further away. Avoid visiting when cruise ships dock because thousands of passengers descend on Ephesus.
- Smyrna: Visit the ancient agora (marketplace) in modern-day İzmir, which provides insights into the city's rich history. The ruins and agora historical structure are in a city block a short walk from Konak Square.
- Pergamum: Located in modern-day Bergama, it is known for its hilltop acropolis, altar of Zeus, and the remains of its ancient library.
- Thyatira: Few remain, but the site includes basilica ruins and other minor artefacts. It is located in modern Akhisar, one of Turkey's largest tobacco producers.
- Sardis: Highlights of ruins in Sart include the Temple of Artemis and a restored synagogue.
- Philadelphia: Visit remnants of the beautiful church building in modern Alaşehir.
- Laodicea: Ongoing archaeological work revealed extensive ruins including theatres, intricate mosaics, and stadiums. Laodicea is in Turkey’s Denizli province and near the famous Pamukkale and ancient city of Hierapolis.
More Churches in Turkey: Following this guide, you can explore the rich history, culture, and biblical legacy of the Seven Churches of Revelation. However, you might also be interested in learning that there are many more churches in Turkey, some of which still practice services. Indeed, the Cappadocia region was an early centre of Christianity, and there are many more modern ancient churches throughout Turkey.
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