Revelation 3:7-13

To The Enduring Church

Verse 7 Twenty-eight miles southeast of Sardis was the town of Philadelphia. It was located in a very fertile but dangerously volcanic area. The city was founded by Attalus II who was nicknamed the brother-lover. He was reported to be dead in a battle so his brother was persuaded to assume the throne. When the king returned, his brother stepped down so he could rule again. The region was known for its earthquakes and this city was almost totally destroyed by one in 17 A. D. Isaiah 22:22 describes Eliakim, the faithful steward of Hezekiah the king. He was given the key to the palace so that no man could enter into the royal palace or presence without him saying it was allowable. Thus, there was only one way to the throne. How appropriate that Jesus should be described as the one having the key of David. (John 14:1-6; Acts 4:12; 1 Corinthians 3:11) As an indication of Jesus' authority, he says, "he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth." Matthew 28:18; Ephesians 1:22-23; Revelation 1:18)

Verse 8 The city of Philadelphia was established to spread the Greek culture to the region round about it. The language that had once been native to this area was dropped by this city and the Greek language adopted. Now, Jesus wants the church to be as mission minded as the city had been. A door of opportunity was before them in spreading the gospel. (1 Corinthians 16:8-9; 2 Corinthians 2:12; Colossians 4:3-4) The Lord tells the church she has a little strength, which may indicate her need to grow. Growth is possible and victory can be ours. (Romans 8:31; 1 Peter 4:13) If we keep the word, we can use the door to teach others of God's saving message. (Romans 1:16-17) They had not denied the name of Jesus.

Verse 9 The true Jews, God's nation, in the Christian age are members of the Lord's church. (Romans 2:28-29; 1 Peter 2:9; 1 Peter 3:3) When the Jews rejected Jesus as God's Son, they ceased being God's people. Thus, they "say they are Jews, and are not." Instead of their synagogue being devoted to God, it was now dedicated to Satan, God's adversary who encourages people to rebel against God and commit sin. We know Jesus has all authority and all will have to yield to it in worship one day. (1 Peter 2:9-11) This may be what Christ refers to as worship of the church as God's true Israel by the so-called Jews.

Verse 10 They had patiently endured, just as Christ had endured. (2 Thessalonians 3:5 marginal reading) Because of their endurance, Jesus promised to keep, or protect, in the hour of trial soon to come upon all the earth, which must describe world-wide persecution. They had held to them and he would hold to them.

Verse 11 The word "quickly" can be translated suddenly or unexpectedly. If the end of time is in view, this is the meaning here. However, this verse could be talking about one of the Lord's providential comings to protect his people and judge their enemies.

Verse 12 In a city that had known devastating earthquakes, how reassuring to think the one who overcomes will be a pillar that, once in place, would to out no more, or always stand. To identify the owner and the one honor is given to be this dwelling place of God, there are names written on its pillars. God's name will be on them because they are his people, children. Also, the name of heaven, or new Jerusalem, will be on them because they are citizens of it. Finally, the Savior's new name because we are saved by his blood.

Verse 13 Again, the importance of heeding the words of the letter is used to close it out.