Church of Philadelphia - The Open Door

 Revelation 3:7-12

“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens.  

“‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.  Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you.  Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth.  I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.  The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name."

Not in Pennsylvania, but connected nonetheless.  Philadelphia, PA, is known as the city of Brotherly Love, as was the city of Philadelphia in 1st-century Asia Minor, now Turkey.  Philadelphia was built with the intent to spread the Greek culture, language, and way of life.  Theirs was a city commonly called “little Athens” because of the beautiful Greek architecture, statues, temples, and monuments to the Greek gods.  It was situated along the major trade route between the Far East and Rome.  Used as a Greek evangelistic outpost to those passing through.

Jesus addresses the church of Philadelphia as the “holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and shuts and no one opens”.  In this context, He is clearly advising the church of Philadelphia that they had the opportunity to be the evangelistic messengers for the Good news because He had opened the door for them.  With their strategic location, they had the ability to spread His message to the masses, but also to those in their own midst.  

He has given them the opportunity to share the gospel with those in the local temples and even synagogues.  There were people in Philadelphia worshipping Greek gods and claiming to be Jews.  He stressed the importance of reaching this group, and He alone opened the door for them to do so.  As a reward, He promised they would join with Him in the new Jerusalem when He returns.

Again, Jesus speaks of His pending return and His judgment at the end of days.  Those who endure with patience and spread His gospel will receive His name forevermore.  

We are faced with similar opportunities in our daily walk to spread His word.  He has opened the door for His followers to share the gospel and to advance His kingdom message.  But, are we taking up the mantle, the burden, and stepping through the door?  One day this door will shut, and He will come again, with judgment for our eternal destination.  

Jesus has stated time and time again that He will return, and for us to endure patiently, doing His work until that day comes.  How many opportunities have you passed by where you could have influenced and shared the gospel?  Your parents, spouse, children, your co-workers, your friends and peers, extended family members…. Do you know if they have accepted Christ and are living for Him?  If not, do you not see the open door before you to share the gospel with them?  Jesus has opened the door for you just as He did for the Church of Philadelphia.  You have to decide to step through it and share His message.  You are not responsible for their salvation, but you are responsible to share the word with everyone in your circle of influence.  

Love them enough to step through the Open Door.