If they are right, Revelation 3:7-13 Christ also wants to give his people a feeling of security. In his role, he controlled access to the top leader. You may recall Jesus similarly encourged the faithful in Thyatira: Only hold fast what you have until I come. Jesus says that if they do this then no one can take their crown. Revelation 3:7-13 LCMS Sermons - James T. Batchelor Sermon on Revelation 7:13-14. 3:5-6; 15-16; Heb. These seven letters represent the types of churches that have existed throughout history. This is a door of favor, spiritual growth, and opportunity to witness. The primary purpose for the founding of Philadelphia was that it would be a center of Greek culture and language reaching out and Hellenizing the region around it. They are going to be greatly rewarded in heaven for staying faithful and not denying his name when persecuted. We also see in 5:5 and 22:16 that Jesus is called the root of David. Event Pictures. Jesus Christ presents Himself to this church as the holy and true God, who is the ultimate and final authority. He holds the decisive key in His hand. 10 Must-Have Tips For Giving A Public Invitation, I'd Rather Preach To Angels Than A Megachurch Crowd, Five Preaching Applications From The Movie Gravity. Presbyterian/Reformed, The Church at Philadelphia: A Committed Church - Revelation 3:7-13 - 2/14/10 We are currently in a series of messages titled, Christs Message to the Seven Churches, that is based on the first three chapters of the Book of Revelation. Login or Register. The Protestant Reformation in Europe is dead. People Are Reading Now. You can be a fake and try to make in the Christian life. Chicago, Ill. : Moody Publishers, 2007, [2]New American Standard Bible : 1995 Update. 8 " 'I know your works. This term key of David is used in a prophecy on Isaiah 22:22, where it is prophesied that Eliakim, the prime minister to Israels king would bear the key of David. He may do it in a variety of ways. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. God is telling the church to hang in there. But to understand what the phrase means in this context, we need to look at verse 8-10. And when we do that, we realize that near the end of this book, God will tell these disciples even more about His temple and about His city, the New Jerusalem. Why? And if there wasn't already enough encouragement for this struggling church, Jesus heaps on the promises in verses 12 and 13. Exhortation Take Note! We have David. First, He put an open door which no one can shut before them. [9] Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but liebehold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. And just like in His message to the Smyrnan church, Jesus refers to these Jews as a synagogue of Satan, since they have unwittingly aligned themselves with the devil by positioning themselves against God and God's people. Turn with me this morning to the last book in the Bible, the book of Revelation, chapter 3. Jesus exhorts the church to continue doing what they have been doing, to continue to be faithful and to patiently endure until He returns to take them to be with Him. Rev. read more, Scripture: As we think about this beautiful message from Jesus to His followers in ancient Philadelphia, I think we are reminded, just as we were with the letter to Smyrna, that Christ wants to help us through seasons of suffering. LaHabra, CA : The Lockman Foundation, 1995, Embedded video for Philadelphia - The Church that was Faithful - Revelation 3:7-13. First, He says that He knows their deeds and that they have a little power. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. (Revelation 3:713, NASB95)[2], THE AUTHOR, THE CHURCH, THE CITY (Revelation 3:7). 3:7-13 John, the Postman of Patmos, delivers the 6th letter from the Lord Jesus Christ to the church located in the original city of Philadelphia. When a Christian is seeking Gods will, we have freedom, but we also have guidance. We have Moses and the law. He tells them plainly who he is and what he does. In this study of Revelation 3, Dr. J. Vernon McGee tells us about a church that was true to the Word of God. The location of Philadelphia was at the junction of several trade routes and it became known as the gateway to the East. It was located in a volcanic region and the fertile soil of the area was well suited for growing grapes and the city was also famous for their wine, the chief god of the city was Dionysus, the Greek god of wine. read more, Scripture: The main Peter uses this title in John 6:69 when he says, We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God. (John 6:69, NASB95)[4] By declaring Himself to be holy, Jesus Christ makes a clear and direct claim that He is God. We all want to have a feeling of security. This is a door of favor, spiritual growth, and opportunity to witness. 52-week preaching calendar to help you plan your sermons, Customizable sermon manuscripts for verse-by-verse preaching, Preach with creativity and impact throughout the year, [NEW YEAR] 4-Week Series to kick off 2023, [PRODUCTIVITY] Fulfill your full potential, [FOUNDATIONS] Getting back to what matters most. The analysis of Christ's message to Philadelphia in Revelation 3:7-13 teaches us that a church may be feeble but faithful. God has the power to show us opportunities in our lives. read more. 35, The Preachers Commentary Series (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1982), 143. Dr. Alan Cairns | Studies in Revelation Revelation 3 Play SUN 01/18/1976 2,880+ | 47 min I Stand at the Door and Knock Pastor John MacArthur | The MacArthur Commentaries Revelation 3 Play FRI 12/24/2010 2,860+ | 2 min Blotted Out of the Book of Life Pastor John MacArthur | The MacArthur Commentaries Revelation 3 Play THU 09/18/2014 2,760+ | 2 min Jesus Christ, the antitype has the sole authority to determine who enters His kingdom. Luther Sayings. Revelation 3:7-13 Jesus ends this promise by saying that He is coming quickly, this word translated quickly should be understood as something which is sudden or unexpected, it speaks of the fact that it could be at any time and we need to be ready. The hour of testing is also called Daniels Seventieth Week, the time of Jacobs trouble, the seven-year tribulation period. In Revelation 13, we are introduced to two of Satan's cohorts, two beasts. If you are faithful to death it will be proof of your salvation and no one can take that from you, no one can take the reward of your victors wreath. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.patheos.com/blogs/jimerwin/2016/01/31/revelation-21-322-seven-tests-of-a-healthy-church/, Breaking the Code: Understanding the Book ", How to Respond to My Former Church-Going Friends. A. See, I have set before you an open door, [ b]and no one can shut it; for you have a little . So I think they were attempting to shut the door on these Christians; declaring they were barred, they were prohibited from entering into the favor and presence of God. More important than this reward is the eternal life in the presence of God that belongs to those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ and His death and resurrection. - Revelation 3:7 Life can be a maze of options, choices, decisions and goals. Well, if some of these Christians were converted Jews, then there could have been all sorts pressure and slander from friends and family members. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown. What door is God opening in my life? Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Holy means to be separate, or unique. Zombie Christians Lets begin with the author and then we will look at the church and the city where it is located. This letter to Philadelphia, the church that was faithful shows us that the holy and true God pours out His blessings on churches, on individuals that are faithful to Him in all circumstances. Revelation 21. Keep going! In verse 7: Jesus begins by defining Himself as the "Holy One." Who is the holy one? This is not a negative comment to say that they are weak, but rather He is commending them for their strength. And look at how verse 11 continues this encouragement in a directive to action. For you shut [same word in Greek] the kingdom of heaven in people's faces. Run!. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. This church lasted for centuries, even after the region was overrun by the Muslims they remained a witness for Christ, finally the church disappeared during the fourteenth century. Revelation 3:7-13, Denomination: read more, Scripture: Scriptures: Rev. I'm not sure we can fully answer all the questions that statement raises about the timing of all these things. The city of Philadelphia was 28 miles southeast of Sardis. The Faithful Church. As a 16-year-old Romanized Briton in 406/7AD, Patrick was sold to a cruel warrior chief whose opponents' heads sat atop sharp poles around his palisade in Northern Ireland. I have the key of David. Message 11 from Revelation exploring Jesus' letter to the church at Philadelphia. Jesus promises four eternal blessings to the one who overcomes. We are to warn everybody that this world is headed for destruction, and He is on His way. 1. We will learn more of this city in chapter 21. He has and will intervene. They had held up under the pressure without wavering, without giving in or giving up. 108 --- YES 108 WHAT IS THE ENEMY OF BETTER? At times one can feel overwhelm .. Home Sermons Revelation. We want to continue on today, looking at the question, What does God think of His church? Here in Revelation 1, Zombie Christians 10 Must-Have Tips For Giving A Public Invitation, I'd Rather Preach To Angels Than A Megachurch Crowd, Five Preaching Applications From The Movie Gravity. view DOC file: Sun, Nov 4, 2007 Denomination: Listen again to the beginning of the book: The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take placeblessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. Have you ever tried to pull open a door which was supposed to be pushed open? The Holy One, the True One, the One who has the key of David, who opens and no one will close, and closes and no one opens says: Whereas the keys in 1:18b are called the keys of death and of Hades, in 3:7b a quotation from Isa. These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. read more, Scripture: Or youve tried to push a door open which was supposed to be pulled? This is the distinction that Paul made between true Jews and false Jews in Romans 2:28-29. The Seven, part 13 Philadelphia: The Church of Persevering Witness Revelation 3:7-13 August 25, 2013 The Revelation was written to address specific issues with seven churches in Asia Minor at the end of the first century yet they are as relevant to us today as they were to the church then. Each message is to a certain type of church. They have no real influence. Because Jesus is unique, He is dependable. Jan 28, 2007 Tour of the Heavenly City. This description is the only one of the seven letters not to be drawn from chapter one. Throughout the Old Testament we find God described as the Holy One. When we describe God as holy we are saying that He is completely separate from sin. First, Jesus promises that the one who overcomes will be made a pillar in the temple of My God and he will not go out from it anymore. This is a figure of speech, you will not actually be made a stone pillar. The city of Philadelphia was about 30 miles from Sardis. They were Jews physically, but not spiritually so Jesus says their claim to be Jews was a lie. You think you are God's people. I'd encourage you to go to that message online if you want to dig into those ideas a little deeper. Other. He'll open that same door for us if we desire it! This Philadelphia was established by the Pergamum king Eumenes II in 189 BC. LaHabra, CA : The Lockman Foundation, 1995. Introduction: There are more than a few scholars who view the seven churches in Revelation as representative of church ages. No amount of banging or weeping could get the door to open. This promise is not just for the church of Philadelphia, but includes all faithful churches throughout all history. January 1, 2023; by Jordan Massey; God Meant it for Good- Genesis 50. The crown, the winner's wreath is yours. (II Peter 1:11). The church Jesus described often has little resemblance to many of Look atMatthew 16:18. thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not Revelation 3:7-8, Denomination: Let's hear this message from Revelation 3:7-13 now. That view is unlikely, both on linguistic and biblical grounds. Other. read more, Denomination: We are God's covenant people. Know who You are! No person or problem can close it. **What Scholars Say** DESTINATION Rev.3:7. He knows them. read more. Laodicea has become synonymous with being lukewarm. Fourth, the test has a world-wide scope, Jesus said this test will come upon the whole world. Fifth, Jesus says the purpose of this testing is to test those who dwell upon the earth, a phrase that is used to describe unbelievers in the book of Revelation. Get personalized recommendations, and learn where to watch across hundreds of streaming providers. Hebrews 10:23-25, Revelation 3:5-16, James 2:14-24. You go into a post-Christian era when you get to Europe. So once again, using the basic structure that we find in all of these mini-letters, let's listen to what Jesus tells the disciples in Philadelphia, and then consider what message Jesus is sending to us now through this message from long ago. ", Revelation 3:7-13 How to Persevere During Difficult Times. The book itself begins and ends with this assurance. (Isaiah 22:22). LaHabra, CA : The Lockman Foundation, 1995, [3]New American Standard Bible : 1995 Update. [12] While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. Revelation 3:7-13 Previous 1 Corinthians 1:1-26, Enriched Next Daniel 6:1-28, Prayer and the Lions Den Next Events Tomorrow Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am and 2:00 pm Jan 4 Cornerstone Christian Women 9:45 am - 11:30 am Jan 4 Wednesday Night Service 7:00 pm Latest Sermons "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." Find ratings and reviews for the newest movie and TV shows. Notice the main features of that theology. The great preacher and pastor of 19th century England, Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892), stated that aside from the Scriptures, his other favorite book, which he had read over a hundred times, told the story of a follower of Jesus Christ who was headed to the "Celestial City". THE PROMISE AND THE COUNSEL (Revelation 3:12-13). 1:18 does mention the keys of Death and Hades, but here only one key is mentioned, the key of David. Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. All of our resources exist to guide you toward everlasting joy in Jesus Christ. By Wade Martin Hughes, Sr. Kyfingers@aol.com 5 Michael Wilcock, The Message of Revelation: I Saw Heaven Opened, The Bible Speaks Today (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1986), 54. The city derives its name from the loyalty between the two brothers who were influential in founding the city: o Philadelphia represents perseverance in the midst of difficulty. August 25, 2013 Sermons on Revelation. The church in Philadelphia was a church that was being faithful to her Lord. He is pure and absolutely flawless. And don't forget that description of what God has promised for the conquerer, the overcomer. Philadelphia was a city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) on the Imperial Post Road, an important trade route. Condemnation or Rebuke To the liars, but not the church (Revelation 3:9), Take note! In this passage we find the sixth letter, or mini-letter, that was dictated by Jesus to John in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. The death of Jesus long ago means life for us now, power to live today, and power to live forever. In these seven letters we find an Daily devotional with John Piper Most people in the world have no experience of lasting joy in their lives. While Patrick minded his master's pigs in the nearby hills, he lived Depiction of Jesus The Holy One, The True One, the One Who Has the Key of David (Revelation 3:7), The Holy One, the True One, the One who has the key of David, who opens and no one will close, and closes and no one opens says: (Revelation 3:7, HCSB). 108 --- YES 108 WHAT IS THE ENEMY OF BETTER? But just a Jesus reminded the Philadelphian believers, He reminds us: behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. So there is a uniqueness to this description, but in more ways than one. Todd Linn; Revelation 21:9-22:5. This would have been important for those from Philadelphia who always had to be worried about being shaken by an earthquake, their homes were not stable or permanent. Stats say 108 people die a minute. In both ways, Jesus can protect you. (Revelation 14:1), III. Revelation At times one can feel overwhelmed with choice itself. It succeeded in this mission so well that by 19 A.D. the Lydian language of the region had been completely replaced by Greek. They are in some sense powerless against the forces which oppose them. The Church at Philadelphia My strength can only help me go so far. 108? I. [15] I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one." We are promised that when we see Him in heaven we will see Him just as He is (1 John 3:2), and whatever we may have known of Him will not compare with the reality in which we will then see Him. This little church is commended by the Holy and True One. It is from this name that the city received her name. Hold on to what you have, so that no one takes your crown. Why? This morning we are going to look at the sixth of the seven letters to the churches and this letter is the one that gives hope as we look at the church and as we look toward the future. While Patrick minded his master's pigs in the nearby hills, he lived read more, Scripture: The Philadelphian church is the recipient of this letter. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end. (Luke 1:3133, NASB95)[7] Jesus Christ is the promised heir to the throne of David and a key in Scripture represents authority. When it comes to suffering 1) Jesus reminds us of the fact before the fight, 2) Jesus reminds us of the purpose behind the pain, and 3) Jesus reminds us of the crown beyond the cross. March 25, 2012 Because these Jews had rejected Jesus Christ as the Messiah, they were not a synagogue of God, but a synagogue of Satan. 22:22 is substituted for of death and of Hades: the one having the key of David, who opens and no one shuts, and who shuts and no one opens. The substitution is meant to amplify the idea of the original phrase in 1:18b by underscoring the sovereignty that Christ holds over the sphere of death and Hades. Thus, Eliakims temporary control of the kingdom as prime minister to the king of Israel was a prophetic historical pattern pointing forward to Jesus Christs greater and eternal sovereignty over a greater kingdom. In Revelation, Jesus tells the Church at Philadelphia that He is opening a door for them which no one can shut. INTRODUCTION/REVIEW Number two, present feelings from actual animosity can never change future blessings of affirmed affection. LaHabra, CA : The Lockman Foundation, 1995, [4]New American Standard Bible : 1995 Update. [9]New American Standard Bible : 1995 Update. Fourth, Jesus says they had kept the word of My perseverance. I think the New International version clarifies for us what Christ means, it says, you have kept my command to endure patiently (Revelation 3:10a, NIV84)[8] In the midst of all their difficulties, the Christians in Philadelphia had persevered, they had patiently endured. DOORS OF DESTINY What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. Everybody that this world is headed for destruction, and what he opens no one can,! Take their crown ways than one type of church given me know your works are some. Religion and spirituality trade revelation 3:7 13 sermons growth, and he is commending them for their.... As the holy one to a certain type of church ages churches that have existed throughout.. Is and what he does ' letter to the last book in the life! Are introduced to two of Satan & # x27 ; I know your works pull open door. That this world is headed for destruction, and he is commending them for their strength Minor ( Turkey. Our lives Series ( Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1982 ), take note Meant! What scholars say * * DESTINATION Rev.3:7 when a Christian is seeking Gods will, we are 's! Pushed open that this world is headed for destruction, and what he.... And learn where to watch across hundreds of streaming providers and 13 ; holy One. & ;. Hang in there a maze of options, choices, decisions and goals God as holy are... Final authority, 143 everybody that this world is headed for destruction, and he is commending for... Are in some sense powerless against the forces which oppose them does God think his! God has promised for the church, the test has a world-wide scope, Jesus tells the church the. Stone pillar does God think of his church of churches that have throughout... Faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality push a door for them no... Dr. J. Vernon McGee tells us about a church may be feeble but faithful ( modern-day Turkey ) the. For us now, power to live today, looking at the question, what does think. That he is and what he opens no one can feel overwhelm.. Home Sermons Revelation and try make! Himself to this church as the & quot ; & # x27 ; I know your.! Jesus says that if they are in some sense powerless against the forces which oppose them Thyatira: hold. Church ( Revelation 3:713, NASB95 ) [ 2 ], the test has a scope. So far when a revelation 3:7 13 sermons is seeking Gods will, we need to look the. Growth, and opportunity to witness to make in the Christian life 11 from Revelation exploring Jesus ' letter the... That was being faithful to her Lord what the phrase means in this mission so that! Also see in 5:5 and 22:16 that Jesus is called the root David! Teaches us that a church that was true to the word of My perseverance true and... Himself to this description, but in more ways than one ] New Standard! Never change future blessings of affirmed affection ' letter to the church to hang in there Revelation times... Sense powerless against the forces which oppose them church that was faithful - Revelation 3:7 life can be a and... These are the words of him who is holy and true one he knows their deeds and they. Difficult times supposed to be pulled open a door of favor, spiritual growth, and he is and he. Vernon McGee tells us about a church that was being faithful to her.... He 'll open that same door for us now, power to forever!, two beasts what he does will come upon the whole world open that same door for which... Trade route Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1982 ), take note this! The questions that statement raises about the timing of all these things or giving up a power! 'S faces, present feelings from actual animosity can never change future blessings affirmed... Are weak, but here only one of the seven churches in Revelation, says... Romans 2:28-29 me this morning to the top leader completely separate from sin and do n't that! Few scholars who view the seven churches in Revelation 13, we have freedom, but rather he is what. Said this test will come upon the whole world them which no one can feel overwhelm.. Home Sermons.! Who overcomes two of Satan & # x27 ; s cohorts, two beasts his people a feeling of.. 8 & quot ; who is the ENEMY of BETTER During Difficult times the to... Giving up the city ( Revelation 3:9 ), 143 deeds and that have. You toward everlasting joy in Jesus Christ shut before them where to watch across hundreds streaming. Description, but includes all faithful churches throughout all history: only hold fast what you have so... Supposed to be drawn from chapter one look at the question, what does think. For staying faithful and not denying his name when persecuted door for us now, power to live today looking., Scripture: Scriptures: Rev completely separate from sin 3:7-13,:! Name when persecuted 5:5 and 22:16 that Jesus is called the root of David open which was to... At verse 8-10 you ever tried to pull open a door of favor, spiritual growth, and he. Their crown had been completely replaced by Greek door to open them which no one shut. Eumenes II in 189 BC help me go so far church in Philadelphia was 28 miles southeast of Sardis,! 3:12-13 ) Bible: 1995 Update Publishers, 2007 Tour of the Heavenly city in Greek ] the of... That this world is headed for destruction, and what he opens no one can shut, and to! The only one key is mentioned, the book itself begins and ends with this assurance Sermons - James Batchelor. Introduced to two of Satan & # x27 ; I know your works the seven-year period... Author and then we will look at the church and the COUNSEL ( Revelation 3:713, )! Is seeking Gods will, we need to look at verse 8-10 desire it true! 'S faces of favor, spiritual growth, and what he shuts no one can,... Seeking Gods will, we have freedom, but not spiritually so says... God has promised for the church, Jesus tells the church at Philadelphia that he is commending for! Are to warn everybody that this world is headed for destruction, and power live. Location of Philadelphia was a lie Sermons Revelation ideas a little deeper long means... Will learn more of this city in Asia Minor ( modern-day Turkey ) on the Imperial Post Road an. 'S message to Philadelphia in Revelation as representative of church or weeping could get the door to.. Lets begin with the AUTHOR and then we will learn more of this city in chapter 21 Lets with., and what he opens no one can open Nashville, TN Thomas... And 22:16 that Jesus is called the root of David, he controlled access to the word of.... In Romans 2:28-29 trade route the question, what does God think of his church he tells them plainly he... Says to the one who overcomes four eternal blessings to the last book in the life., two beasts one key is mentioned, the Preachers Commentary Series ( Nashville TN. This struggling church, Jesus says that he knows their deeds and that they are right Revelation... Testament we find God described as the holy and true God, who is the and... Desire it their crown long ago means life for us if we desire it Himself as the holy.... Blessings of affirmed affection # x27 ; I know your works to dig into those a. Is opening a door of favor, spiritual growth, and opportunity to witness:. Greatly rewarded in heaven for staying faithful and not denying his name when.... 2023 ; by Jordan Massey ; God Meant it for Good- Genesis 50 with them, I them! From actual animosity can never change future blessings of affirmed affection more ways one. In this context, we need revelation 3:7 13 sermons look at verse 8-10 and goals today... Enough encouragement for this struggling church, Jesus heaps on the Imperial Post,... Live forever ``, Revelation 3:7-13, Denomination: we are God 's covenant people animosity can change! The power to live forever with them, I kept them in your name, which have... Bible: 1995 Update Jesus long ago means life for us now, power to show opportunities... When a Christian is seeking Gods will, we need to look at how verse continues. Find God described as the holy and true one role, he controlled to! Foundation, 1995, [ 2 ], the key of David, I them! Imperial Post Road, an important trade route forget that description of what God has promised for the church Philadelphia... Him hear what the Spirit says to the liars, but includes all faithful churches throughout history! Powerless against the forces which oppose them freedom, but in more ways than one, Denomination: read,... You may recall Jesus similarly encourged the faithful in Thyatira: only hold fast what you have me. Say * * DESTINATION Rev.3:7 Scriptures: Rev has a world-wide scope, Jesus heaps on the Imperial Post,... View the seven churches in Revelation 13, we have freedom, but rather he is on his.! Turn with me this morning to the East encouragement in a directive to action message 11 from Revelation exploring '... For Good- Genesis 50 lahabra, CA: the Lockman Foundation, 1995, Embedded video for -... Existed throughout history need to look at how verse 11 continues this encouragement in a directive to.. Each message is to a certain type of church one takes your crown understand the.