Faithful on Fridays Blog

Rev. 3:7-13

Sometimes we fall into the trap of thinking that big is better, however, Jesus knew what was going on in this small, poor church in Philadelphia and He gave no correction. Their heart was to do good works leading people to the gospel without programs, curriculum, paid staff, campuses, or even a great reputation, and Jesus commended them. 

Our Lord wanted them to know He sees what they’re doing, they preach the gospel, they care for the poor, they love their church family, and they walk through doors He opens for them. Even under pressure from the outside world they have remained faithful to their calling. Naysayers from the outside will see that God loves this church and will empower them to be Nike believers, overcomers, like crowned royalty and conquerors. 

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, Ephesians 2:4

The believers in this church understood God’s love for them and therefore showed love to others. The name Philadelphia means family-like affection (philos) for the brothers in Christ (adelphos) and causes me to wonder if we’re driven to good works like this church who deeply cared about each other. Look around on Sunday morning; what do you see? Friendliness for those you don’t know? Kind words for those outside your ‘circle’? Are the designated greeters the only ones who welcome people, or do you step outside your comfort zone and greet those standing alone? Are your antennae’s alert to someone who needs a word of encouragement?

This church was seen as having pillar-like strength, holding up their church with God’s love and care for others, but also their patient endurance. They never gave up, even during the hard times, and Jesus intends on opening a new door for them in ministry. Let’s anticipate any new doors for our churches and pray we’ll step through them proclaiming His Name.

I pray to the Holy and True One who holds the Key of David: Jesus. I pray that my church will be known as a loving family in the Kingdom of God in my city. I pray for friendliness, caring spirits, and strength to walk through any doors You open. May we have the same mindset as the church in Philadelphia to personally love people because we understand Your love for us. Whether that door is to our community, our nation, or other nations may we stand strong like pillars for the gospel as we wait for Your Second Coming. You are Keeper of the Keys and You alone will lock or unlock, open or shut doors for my church as we seek Your Face for direction. Satan has no power over us and we delight in proclaiming every aspect of Your character that’s revealed in Your Name. Give us attentive ears to hear what the Holy Spirit is saying to us as time draws to a close and we experience the New Kingdom at Your return. Amen