The Church in Prophecy and History is the first volume of a thorough commentary on the Book of Revelation. It explains the messages to the Seven Churches of Asia. In addition to being actual 1st Century Christian assemblies, these seven churches are examples of the various kinds of Christian assemblies that still exist today, comprising the largest religion on earth. Of greater importance, the seven churches prefigure seven eras of church history--The Apostolic Period (Ephesus), the Era of Persecution (Smyrna), the Compromised Church after the time of Constantine (Pergamum), the Middle Ages (Thyatira), the Reformation (Sardis), the Missionary Era (Philadelphia), and the present Worldly Phase of Christianity (Laodicea). The history of the church is utterly fascinating-full of opportunities, challenges and amazing victories. However, these successes were punctuated by trials, persecutions and temporary setbacks in the ongoing spiritual battle. In every age the Lord Jesus Christ achieves victory through His church because He promised that "the gates of Hades will not prevail against it " In every phase of church history true believers are seen as "overcomers," and are granted special privileges for their faithfulness. Reviewing the history of the church builds our faith and sharpens our defenses in order that we can make the best use of our own participation in this all-important last phase of church history.