Jumpstarter 9 of 10

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Question 9

Bercot asks whether Jesus would address today’s church like Smyrna (“you are rich” despite poverty) or Laodicea (“wretched…poor, blind, naked” despite wealth); what indicators would you use to discern God’s evaluation of a church—especially when modern measures (numbers, budgets, experiences, influence) can be misleading?

Another way to ask: Would Jesus describe today’s church more like Smyrna or Laodicea? What signs would you use to tell what God thinks of a church when numbers, money, and influence can fool us?

Direct Answer Based on Bercot’s teaching, modern indicators like rapid growth, wealth, and impressive “experiences” can be misleading; they don’t necessarily show God’s approval. The transcript points toward evaluating churches by holiness, genuine love, cross-bearing faithfulness, and obedience—qualities emphasized in the early church more than material success.

Support from Transcript:

Bercot asks whether Jesus would speak like Smyrna (“you are rich”) or Laodicea (“wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked”), highlighting that outward condition can mislead.
He questions claims of a “new era” of material prosperity and miracles, calling it “highly unlikely” God is doing that now in a special way.
He argues it’s more likely “we are simply deceiving ourselves,” asking why God would bless today with “fleshly gratifications” while early Christians suffered.
He clarifies miracles occurred early, but were “unusual” and “weren't the primary emphasis.”
He warns that growth isn’t proof: after Constantine, the church grew fast, but “did not grow in holiness, only in numbers.”
He quotes Jesus’ warning about wonders alongside “lawlessness” (Matthew 7).

Discussion Follow-ups If a church is growing quickly, what questions should be asked to test whether it is also growing in holiness and obedience?

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Jumpstarter 9 of 10