Paragraph 2:4–6

2:4a

But I have this against you: This clause indicates that Jesus was displeased with the believers about something. He explained what he was displeased about in 2:4b. Other ways to translate this clause are:

But I have this complaint against you. (New Living Translation (2004))
-or-
However, I find fault with you in this way:
-or-
But I do have this ⌊one⌋ criticism of you.

2:4b

You have abandoned your first love: The word abandoned means “left” or “forsook.” It indicates that the believers love much less now than they did earlier. Other ways to translate this clause are:

you have abandoned the love you had at first (Revised Standard Version)
-or-
you love little compared to how you loved at first
-or-
you have less love now than formerly (New Jerusalem Bible)

John did not explicitly say whom the Ephesian believers now loved less. He was probably referring to their love in general, including love for God, for Jesus, and for fellow believers. If possible, do not say explicitly whom they loved less. However, some languages must say who was loved. If this is true in your language, you should add a general word or phrase. For example:

you love everyone less
-or-
You don’t love me or each other as you did at first! (New Living Translation (2004))

first: This word refers to the first time that the Ephesian believers began to follow Jesus. At that time they loved Jesus and one another very much, and they acted in ways that showed it.

love: The word love refers to a strong feeling of affection and concern for someone.

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