CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA - PART 2

Revelation 3:7 “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.”

When we meditate on the churches specified in the book of revelation, we can clearly understand the church pattern which the Lord has in his mind. The Lord highlights the drawbacks of these churches and also he perfects them. Just like how parents want their children to meet their expectations, we also need to fulfil the expectation of the Lord. We see Philadelphia was a small city with great potential for influence. The church there was commended by Jesus for its faithfulness, endurance, and obedience. Unlike other churches in Revelation, Philadelphia received no rebuke, only encouragement and promises. God honors a faithful and obedient church, opening doors for his purposes. Today as a part of meditation, let us learn lessons from the church in Philadelphia.

1. God's zeal for the Church in Philadelphia

Revelation 3:9 '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.'

This verse has deeper meanings to it where we read “I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan... come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you.” We can understand the zeal of God concerning the church in Philadelphia. The Lord knew the deeds of this church and takes control of this church. We can only imagine how zealous this church would have been for Christ. Jesus promises to vindicate His faithful followers before their enemies, demonstrating His love for them. Even in our lives, no matter how great and powerful our enemies are, the Lord will exalt us and those people will witness it. They will also understand the amount of love that Lord has on his people. The eyes of the Lord keeps watching over his children. The Lord will enquire and visit us. The Lord is watching what our opponents are doing against us. We will see the zeal of the Lord for our sake.

Lesson: Trust God to defend and honor us in his time. He is aware of every opposition and injustice we face.

2. God's Protection On the Church in Philadelphia

Revelation 3:10 '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.'

This is a verse spoken as a prophetic verse. This verse is also a powerful promise from the Lord. We can see the blessing that comes from doing the work according to the verse and giving it the respect it deserves. “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, says the Lord.” The Lord expected the church to listen, obeserve and give honour to his words. The church fulfilled the expectations by keeping his command faithfully and endured everything patiently. EVen in our lives, we need to give all due respect to the word of God. When we follow the words of God, the Lord will teach patience. The Lord will preserve us from all spiritual weariness and tests.
Jesus assures the church that they will be protected during times of tribulation. This could refer to spiritual preservation, deliverance from specific trials.

Lesson: God is faithful to protect and sustain His people during difficult times.

3. The Church grasped what it had Received

Revelation 3:11 'I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.'

The Lord asks the church to continue to do what they are doing. The Lord asks the church to hold on to what they have in their lives. If we are not holding it firmly, it will be taken away by someone. Jesus encourages perseverance, reminding them that their reward is secure if they remain faithful. We need to hold fast to the crown that has been given to us. All the things we received from the Lord, the Ministry , oue talents, our responsibilities, the visions, the revelations - we need hold them fast until the coming of the Lord. We need to be very careful in guarding all these things. We need to use all our talents for the Lord. Many families are losing the responsibilites. We need to faithfully carry out all the responsibilites. Let us protect the crown given to us. Are we running in the path that called us? Or do we run according to our will? Let us hold on to what He has called us to do and fight to the end.

Lesson: Stay focused on Christ, guarding your faith and obedience against distractions or temptations.

Finally some Counselling

-Be Faithful in All Circumstances.
-Like the church in Philadelphia, remain obedient to God even when resources or opportunities seem limited. Faithfulness is what God honors.
-Trust in Jesus’ Authority.
-Jesus holds the key to open and close doors in your life. Trust Him to guide your steps and provide opportunities according to His will.
-Endure Opposition with Patience.
-Opposition and challenges will come, but God will vindicate and protect those who remain steadfast.
-Stay Focused on Eternity.
-Keep your eyes on the eternal rewards promised to overcomers, including a secure place in God’s Kingdom.
-Share the Gospel Boldly.
-The “open door” given to Philadelphia can also symbolize opportunities for evangelism. Use every chance to share Christ with others.