Issue 828 – No Fault – Seven Churched Part 10 – August 17, 2022
Moving down the ancient postal route in the Roman province of Asia Minor, we come to Philadelphia, the next of the seven churches.
The ancient city of Philadelphia was located about 130 km (80) east of Sardis, near the modern town of Alasehir, Turkiye, little remains of the old city. A series of earthquakes devastated the city, and little can be seen of the remains besides a few partial columns.
“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens. “‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth. I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown. The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and he name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ Revelation 3:7-13
Unlike the church in Sardis, the Lord brings no charges against the Philadelphian church. The Philadelphian church is holding fast despite strong opposition. Jesus says, “I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.”
That is an impressive report card, one that most churches would envy. It is a goal we can all strive to attain.
That little church was under persecution, and there was more to come, but they refused to compromise on the truth. Much of the modern “church” compromises the truth under mild social pressure; how will we manage if times really get tough? Will we stand or fold?
The church in Philadelphia is praised for its faithfulness, a quality loved by Jesus. None of us can control the results of what we do for God, but He calls us to remain faithful to Him.
Obedience and faithfulness are virtues that Christ values highly. How are we doing in those areas?
Until next time, may you be found faithful and obedient in the Lord’s eyes.
Hallelu Yah (Praise God)
Be blessed.
Kevin.
Gleanings From The Word.
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (for the glory of God alone.)
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