Philadelphia - The Faithful Church

Recognize Christ’s Dominion

The keys represent his authority - “I have the key of David”

; ;

He is the way of access.

- Eliakim was granted the right to keep the way of access to the king because of his faithfulness.

Christ is the Door - John 10:1-11

Rely on Christ’s Direction

For guidance in life decisions - Paul was led by the Holy Spirit closing and then opening doors of ministry and directed in where to go.

For ministry - ; - An open door, but many adversaries. An open door does not mean that there will be no opposition.

Rejoice in Christ’s Deliverance

Jesus gave three promises for this church along with exhortations.

1. Serve Faithfully

They were a small church, but were faithful in the midst of pressure to conform to their surroundings.

In the harvest field now ripened There's a work for all to do; Hark! the Master's voice is calling, To the harvest calling you.

Does the place you're called to labor Seem so small and little known? It is great if God is in it, And He'll not forget His own.

Little is much when God is in it! Labor not for wealth or fame; There's a crown, and you can win it, If you go in Jesus' name.

Promise: Christ will deal with their enemies.

Satan is the adversary, we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, spiritual wickedness in high places.

Our victor is Christ, who has crushed the head of the serpent and will return to complete the work.

2. Watch Patiently

Patiently - they kept the word of His patience. Waiting for his return. He did not promise that we would avoid tribulation and trial, but that we would not see the hour of testing - the time of his wrath poured out on the earth.

Watch - have an expectation for Christ’s return. He come’s quickly.

They were promised

Watch as if he is coming today, plan as if it will be 10 generations. Thessalonians were encouraged to work while waiting.

Promise: Christ will deliver them from the hour of global trial.

3. Hold Firmly

Hold to the word.

Hold to their profession of faith in Christ.

My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness I dare not trust the sweetest frame But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

His oath, His covenant, His blood Support me in the whelming flood When all around my soul gives way He then is all my hope and stay

On Christ the Solid Rock I stand all other ground is sinking sand.

Promise: Christ will set them as pillars.

Philadelphia had experienced earthquakes that nearly destroyed the city.

Application

Is your life built upon Christ? Are you waiting with anticipation for His return? Are you serving faithfully in the opportunities he has given you?