Such is the tremendous scene depicted by Ezekiel. It will be seen at once what a striking parallel it presents to the scene in this Revelation book with the new light-bearer to the nations of the earth. One would never dare make such an arraignment of his own accord. It is humbling and heart-breaking to the last degree simply to repeat what is spoken here by our Lord Himself.
Clearly the Patmos picture is not only of the Church then, but ever since, and now. And the simple law of momentum in sliding down hill will make it an accurate picture of the Church at the end, the future Church.
The colouring changes at different times in different places, the black getting intenser, pot black, and the light shining out more brightly by contrast. But the picture remains essentially as painted on Patmos.
[67] Rev. ii. 5.
The warnings so faithfully given run a sliding scale outward and downward in five degrees. If the Church continue as it is, it is told here that it will be rejected as a light-holder. Its privilege and opportunity as God's messenger will be taken away.[67]
[68] Rev. ii. 12-16.
[69] Rev. ii. 22, 23.
[70] Rev. iii. 3.
[71] Rev. iii. 16.
Then Christ will fight against it as an enemy,[68] it will be given over to a time of terrible tribulation,[69] it will be treated as prey to be robbed and plundered,[70] and it will be rejected, spewed out of the mouth, as personally disgusting.[71]