Revelation 3:7-13
It’s fascinating how Jesus used the lower story in Philadelphia, Turkey to drive home His upper story commendation: earthquakes. Even today Turkey is listed in the top five nations as having the most earthquakes on the planet.
The character trait given by Christ is also interesting; He declared Himself The Holy One, The True One, and the One who has the Key of David. To a Gentile that means little but to a Jewish believer it meant everything. He was the promised Messiah they were waiting for with all authority and power to rule the kingdom but He had to be the Suffering Servant (Is. 53) before He would be the final King and Keeper of the Keys.
The promise to these believers, Jew and Gentile alike, was His sovereign authority to open and close doors at His discretion (Is. 22:22) and the earthquakes played into this church scenario. Everyone moved out of the city to avoid the collapsing walls and pillars, therefore, they lived closer to the border of Asia. This was an open door of opportunity to share the gospel with neighboring communities. Where is the ‘open door’ for your church?
Even though they were small, poor, and with little earthly power Jesus gave them an assignment to preach the gospel in Asia and commended them for their perseverance in the midst of persecution from unbelieving Jews. He isn’t vindictive or revengeful but vindicating or defending His Body, The Church.
Judgment Day, the ‘hour of trial’ is coming upon the whole world (vs. 10) and it will separate believers from unbelievers; the crown of victory will not be seized from those following Christ and fulfilling His assignments. Church leaders, you have work to accomplish; what’s your specific assignment from God? What has the Holy Spirit directed you to do; where should you go? Jesus is coming soon (vs. 11), there is a sense of urgency; have you done what He asked of you?
Look, I am coming soon, bringing My reward with Me to repay all people according to their deeds. He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon!” Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!” Revelation 22:12, 20
Nike believers are seen by Christ as pillars of strength: unshakeable, immovable, and steady unlike the falling pillars of Philadelphia. They will have a permanent residency in the New Jerusalem promised to descend from heaven with His new name. That’s our final destiny.
But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for Him to return as our Savior. Philippians 3:20
Names indicate character and this church, Philadelphia, receiving no correction, showed itself to be one of true ‘brotherly love’. Taking the gospel to Asia, laying down all worldly rewards, possibly their lives, was their assignment which was commended by Christ. What about your church? Seek the Lord and ask Him for ways you can fulfill your destiny in your community and the world.
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