Faithfulness and Opportunity: The Message to Philadelphia
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone! It's wonderful to have you here today, whether you're joining us in person or online. We're continuing our series called "Seven," where we explore the seven letters from Jesus to the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Today, we focus on the sixth letter, addressed to the church in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia, known as the city of brotherly love, was strategically located at the crossroads of major Roman roads, making it a gateway city for the expansion of the Roman Empire. This city was also a hub for Greek culture and polytheistic worship, which made it a challenging environment for Christians. Despite these challenges, Jesus commends the church in Philadelphia for their faithfulness and perseverance.
Jesus introduces Himself as the one who is holy and true, holding the key of David. This signifies His authority and power to open and shut doors that no one else can. He assures the church that He has placed an open door before them, symbolizing both the opportunity for salvation and the call to evangelism. Despite their limited strength, the church has kept His word and not denied His name.
Jesus promises to protect them from the hour of trial that will come upon the whole world, a reference to the Great Tribulation. This promise underscores the importance of remaining faithful and vigilant, as Jesus' return is imminent. He encourages the church to hold on to what they have so that no one will take their crown, promising that those who overcome will be pillars in the temple of God, signifying strength and permanence.
In conclusion, Jesus emphasizes the urgency of the times and the need for the church to step through the open door of evangelism. He calls us to share the message of His love, grace, and mercy with those around us, as we live in the last days and every moment counts.
### Key Takeaways
1. Jesus' Authority and Power: Jesus introduces Himself as the one who is holy and true, holding the key of David. This signifies His ultimate authority and power to open and shut doors that no one else can. It reminds us that our salvation and opportunities in life are under His control, and we should trust in His divine authority. [49:33]
2. Faithfulness in Adversity: Despite the challenging environment in Philadelphia, the church remained faithful and did not deny Jesus' name. This teaches us the importance of steadfastness and perseverance in our faith, even when faced with societal pressures and adversities. [58:56]
3. Promise of Protection: Jesus promises to protect the faithful from the hour of trial that will come upon the whole world. This assurance encourages us to remain vigilant and faithful, knowing that Jesus will safeguard us from the ultimate trials and tribulations. [01:02:21]
4. Urgency of Evangelism: Jesus sets an open door before the church, symbolizing the call to evangelism. In these last days, we are urged to share the message of Jesus' love, grace, and mercy with those around us, recognizing the urgency and importance of spreading the Gospel. [01:19:02]
5. Eternal Reward: Jesus promises that those who overcome will be pillars in the temple of God, signifying strength and permanence. This eternal reward motivates us to remain faithful and committed, knowing that our perseverance will be honored in God's eternal kingdom. [01:08:56]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[38:46] - Series Introduction
[39:11] - Dream Team Night Announcement
[40:29] - Introduction to the Sixth Letter
[41:06] - Importance of Spiritual Ears
[42:34] - Prayer for Open Ears
[43:17] - Reading Revelation 3:7-8
[44:03] - Background of Philadelphia
[47:03] - Jesus' Description of Himself
[49:31] - The Key of David
[51:31] - Jesus as the Way, Truth, and Life
[54:21] - Open Door of Salvation
[58:08] - Jesus' Commendation to Philadelphia
[01:02:21] - Promise of Protection from Tribulation
[01:07:37] - Jesus' Imminent Return
[01:12:34] - Call to Evangelism
[01:23:36] - Closing Prayer and Challenge
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Revelation 3:7-13 (NIV)
> "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus mean when He says He holds the "key of David"? How does this signify His authority? [49:31]
2. How does Jesus describe the church in Philadelphia's strength and faithfulness despite their challenges? [58:08]
3. What promise does Jesus give to the church in Philadelphia regarding the "hour of trial"? [01:02:21]
4. What does Jesus mean by saying He will make the victorious "a pillar in the temple of my God"? [01:08:56]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is Jesus' introduction as "holy and true" significant for the church in Philadelphia, especially considering their cultural context? [49:31]
2. How does the promise of protection from the "hour of trial" provide comfort and motivation for the believers in Philadelphia? [01:02:21]
3. What is the significance of the "open door" that Jesus has placed before the church, and how does it relate to their mission of evangelism? [01:00:13]
4. How does the imagery of being a "pillar in the temple of God" resonate with the historical context of Philadelphia, a city prone to earthquakes? [01:08:56]
#### Application Questions
1. Jesus holds the "key of David," symbolizing His ultimate authority. How can you trust in Jesus' authority in your own life, especially in areas where you feel powerless? [49:31]
2. The church in Philadelphia remained faithful despite their limited strength. Reflect on a time when you felt weak but remained faithful. How did that experience strengthen your faith? [58:08]
3. Jesus promises to protect the faithful from the hour of trial. How does this promise affect your perspective on current global challenges and personal trials? [01:02:21]
4. Jesus emphasizes the urgency of evangelism. Identify one person in your life who needs to hear the message of Jesus' love, grace, and mercy. What steps can you take this week to share your faith with them? [01:19:02]
5. Jesus promises an eternal reward for those who overcome. How does this promise motivate you to remain steadfast in your faith and commitments? [01:08:56]
6. The church in Philadelphia was strategically positioned for evangelism. How can you use your current position—whether at work, school, or in your community—to spread the Gospel? [01:00:13]
7. Reflect on the idea of being a "pillar in the temple of God." What steps can you take to ensure that your faith remains strong and unshaken, even in the face of life's "earthquakes"? [01:08:56]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting in Jesus' Authority and Power
Jesus introduces Himself as the one who is holy and true, holding the key of David. This signifies His ultimate authority and power to open and shut doors that no one else can. It reminds us that our salvation and opportunities in life are under His control, and we should trust in His divine authority. When we face uncertainties and challenges, we can find comfort in knowing that Jesus has the power to guide us and provide for us in ways that no one else can.
In our daily lives, we often encounter situations where we feel powerless or unsure of the next step. During these times, it is crucial to remember that Jesus holds the key to our future. By placing our trust in Him, we acknowledge His sovereignty and allow Him to lead us through the doors He opens for us. This trust is not passive but active, requiring us to seek His guidance and follow His direction faithfully. [49:33]
Isaiah 22:22 (ESV): "And I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David. He shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel uncertain or powerless? How can you actively trust Jesus' authority and seek His guidance in this situation today?
Day 2: Faithfulness in Adversity
Despite the challenging environment in Philadelphia, the church remained faithful and did not deny Jesus' name. This teaches us the importance of steadfastness and perseverance in our faith, even when faced with societal pressures and adversities. In a world that often opposes Christian values, maintaining our faith can be difficult, but it is essential for our spiritual growth and witness.
Faithfulness in adversity means standing firm in our beliefs and actions, even when it is inconvenient or unpopular. It involves daily decisions to honor God in our words, thoughts, and deeds. By doing so, we become a testimony to others of God's sustaining power and grace. Our perseverance can inspire and encourage those around us to also remain steadfast in their faith. [58:56]
James 1:12 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."
Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you faced pressure to compromise your faith. How did you respond, and what can you do to remain steadfast in similar situations in the future?
Day 3: Assurance of Protection
Jesus promises to protect the faithful from the hour of trial that will come upon the whole world. This assurance encourages us to remain vigilant and faithful, knowing that Jesus will safeguard us from the ultimate trials and tribulations. This promise is a source of comfort and hope, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles and that God is our protector.
In times of global or personal crises, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and fearful. However, Jesus' promise of protection reassures us that He is in control and that He will shield us from the worst. This does not mean we will be free from all difficulties, but it does mean that we can trust in His presence and provision through them. Our role is to stay faithful and vigilant, keeping our eyes on Him and His promises. [01:02:21]
Psalm 91:14-15 (ESV): "Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him."
Reflection: In what ways can you remind yourself of Jesus' promise of protection during times of fear and uncertainty? How can this assurance change the way you face your current challenges?
Day 4: Urgency of Evangelism
Jesus sets an open door before the church, symbolizing the call to evangelism. In these last days, we are urged to share the message of Jesus' love, grace, and mercy with those around us, recognizing the urgency and importance of spreading the Gospel. The open door represents opportunities for us to reach out to others and invite them into a relationship with Christ.
Evangelism is not just for pastors or missionaries; it is a call for every believer. We are all given unique opportunities and relationships through which we can share the Gospel. Understanding the urgency of this task helps us to prioritize it in our daily lives. Every moment counts, and we should be intentional about using our time and resources to spread the message of Jesus' love. [01:19:02]
Colossians 4:3-4 (ESV): "At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus' love and grace? What specific steps can you take this week to share the Gospel with them?
Day 5: Eternal Reward
Jesus promises that those who overcome will be pillars in the temple of God, signifying strength and permanence. This eternal reward motivates us to remain faithful and committed, knowing that our perseverance will be honored in God's eternal kingdom. The imagery of being a pillar suggests stability, honor, and a lasting place in God's presence.
Our journey of faith is filled with challenges, but the promise of an eternal reward gives us hope and encouragement. Knowing that our efforts and struggles are not in vain helps us to stay committed to our faith. This promise also reminds us of the eternal perspective we should have, focusing not just on our present circumstances but on the everlasting life that awaits us with God. [01:08:56]
Revelation 3:12 (ESV): "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 the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name."
Reflection: How does the promise of an eternal reward influence your daily decisions and actions? What can you do today to stay focused on your eternal hope in Christ?
Quotes
1. "There is a phrase that is consistent in every one of them and it's this: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit of God is saying to the church. And so the idea is we need to have our ears tuned in to what the Holy Spirit is saying because these letters are not just for those specific and individual churches. They were in that moment, but on a bigger picture, these letters are for all of us." [41:06] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I think that God is always speaking. It's just that we're not always listening. He wants to speak to us and so we've got to be praying on a regular basis, God help me to be tuned in, help me to have my mind focused in on you. I know I'm busy, I've got a lot of stuff going, but I want my spiritual ear to be in tune with you, with your voice so that whenever you speak to me, I'm ready to listen and respond to what you're asking me to do." [42:10] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus answered, I am the way, the truth, and the life. And no one comes to the Father except through me. What's he saying? Listen, you want to get to God, you want to come and be a part of the kingdom of God, it goes through me because I am the Messiah. I have the keys. I have all authority. I'm the only one that has been willing and able to give my life as a sacrifice for your sin." [51:31] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Instead of trying to point fingers and say, well, you're trying to be exclusive, you're trying to say that you're the only... No, I'm trying to say there is a way. You ought to be glad that there is a way because the bottom line is every one of us has sinned and we're separated from God because of that sin. And we're lost and we're hopeless because of our sin." [52:52] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Listen, if you're picking and you're choosing and you're making it up, ultimately what you're saying is, I'm God. I'm going to do what I want to do. I'm making this up as I go. You must be God then. You're making yourself out to be your own God. That's self-religion. And there's this idea that, you know, we can just chase after whatever we want to and ultimately all truth's going to lead to God. But that's not how it works." [57:13] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Jesus said, I am the way, I am the truth, and I am the life. And you don't get to the Father unless you go through me because I'm the door. Come through me. That's not exclusive though because everybody's welcome. Everybody's invited. His grace and his mercy is for everyone, right? And so he says, what I've opened, no one can shut and what I shut, no one can open." [57:44] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "I know that you have little strength. You're tired. It's been hard. It's been a hard fight. He says, but you've kept my word. You've kept my word. You haven't denied me. You haven't turned your back on your faith. You haven't given up even though it's been hard. It's been difficult living in Philadelphia. He says, and you've not denied my name in the midst of all these other gods." [01:01:03] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "I believe that we are still living in the last days. I heard someone this past week put it this way: we are not just living in the last days, but we are living in the last seconds of the last days. If you study the word of God, you study the book of Revelation, you study the Old Testament prophetic words about the end times, the time is close. Jesus himself said, I'm coming soon." [01:20:38] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "I think he's saying it's time. It's time. I'm stirring their hearts. I'm getting them ready. It's time. They're searching. They're hungry. They want to know. It's time. It's time. I want to pray for all of us. Lord, I ask that you'd speak to us very clearly today. God help us to see in our hearts, in our spirits, what you're doing, how you're working. God, I pray that we'd be so aware." [01:22:15] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "I've set before you an open door. The first door, I believe there are two, the open door of salvation. I've made a way. I want you to know I've made a way. It's not all these gods that you see all over everywhere else. It's not all these ideas and it's confusing, all these confusing philosophies. I've made a way. It's me. That's why I came. That's why I left the splendor of heaven." [01:13:02] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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