Smyrna and Philadelphia had only commendations from Jesus.
Both, though severely persecuted, persevered, and God blessed.
To little Philadelphia He said:
“I have placed before you an open door which no man can shut.”
When Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amiridadeh were put in prison in Iran for their Christian faith, God gave them strength to endure their suffering and opened a door with the other prisoners that no man could shut. Iran had been trying to silence them, but instead, God broadened their influence. As Tim Keller says, “God only gives Satan enough rope to hang himself.”
The phrase “Opened a Door,” as Dr. Campbell explains, refers to the liberty to bear witness for Christ.
Christians who suffer well have an impact, I believe, even when their suffering is not a result of persecution.
My own husband, as a freshman medical student, nearly died of infection around the lining of his heart. We were not believers at the time. (I was more concerned about getting home for Christmas until they told me my husband probably would not live.) Steve was put in intensive care with two other men who were close to death. On one side of Steve was an unbeliever who was loudly cursing God. On the other side was a young man, who was radiant with his love for Christ and praising God. Though that young man’s body perished, God kept his spirit strong, and Steve never forgot him. Ten months later, when my sister visited to tell us about her new relationship with Jesus, Steve hung on her every word. Shortly after, we both put our trust in Christ. God had opened a door no man could shut.
When we suffer well, trusting God, in trials or persecution, God may open a door. But it is vital we respond as God tells us to respond. When persecuted, especially, it is easy to become angry and even hateful, which works right into our real enemy’s hands. We are often considered bigots even by those who claim to be Christians because we hold to God’s view of marriage. And I know this is all soft persecution compared to what is happening in so many countries where martyrdom has increased dramatically.
How we need to take Jesus’ words to heart:
On Tuesday, please prepare your hearts with this:
And this is the last of the 4 minute messages from the Vancouver church — please listen:
Nearly every week the way we interpret Revelation comes back to which view of Revelation we take, and often the view Dr. Campbell is taking is quite different than the futuristic view which believes Revelation is about the very end times and takes pictures and numbers literally more than symbolically.
I have appreciated those, like Sharon, who see merit in the futuristic view, but still, are open to study other views. I don’t want you to miss what she shared as her evidence for the futurist view, for it does show how challenging these passages are and why there are godly believers who hold different views.
I responded to Sharon last week, but I wanted to be sure you saw her thoughtful views, so am posting them here.
These are scriptures I was taught in regards to the teaching of the rapture.
John 14:1-3. “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.” There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”
This passage doesn’t describe Christ coming to earth with His saints to establish His kingdom (Rev. 19:11-15) but taking believers from earth to live in heaven. There is no judgement of the unsaved described here. He’s coming to gather His own who are alive and raising bodies of those who have died as described in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-54. According to 1Thessalonians 4:16 The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. This is not a trumpet of judgement but rather like a trumpet in Exodus 19:16-19 which called the people out of the camp to meet God. In verse 17, Those that are alive will be “caught up” together with the raised bodies in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and will always be with the Lord. The word “caught up” (harpzo) means to seize, carry off by force.to snatch out or away. It’s the same word used in Acts 8:39 when Philip was snatched away by the Spirit of the Lord. Also in 2 Corinthians 12:2 when Paul was caught up to the 3rd heaven. In 1 Corinthians 15:51 & 52 it says “we shall not all sleep but we’ll be changed in a moment, in a twinkling of an eye (indicating how quickly it will happen) at the last trumpet.” This refers to the Thessalonians passage as it continues on to say, “for the trumpet will sound and the dead will be raised incorruptible and we shall be changed. I’ll leave verses 53 & 54 for you to read.
Please know that this is a non-essential issue in regards to our salvation.
We will be looking at the “snatching away” when we get to Revelation 11, and perhaps before, and I’ll share the idealist view. A friend of mine asked me this week: “Have you come out of the closet as an amillenial?” I told her I had but I reserve my right to change my opinion in the air.” (Not original with me!)
Homework-Questions-for-Church-at-Philadelphia
Sunday: Getting Started
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- Read aloud to yourself Revelation 3:7-13 and share anything that jumps out at you and why.
Monday: Responding Well to Persecution
3. Read Revelation 3:7-13 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
B. How is Jesus described and how might this be especially relevant to Philadelphia?
C. For what are they commended?
D. There is no rebuke. What is the only other church that receives no rebuke? What else did they have in common?
E. List the promises they are given.
4. How have you responded to persecution — soft or hard? Be as honest as possible!
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
A. Matthew 5:10-12.
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17.
6. Pray in confession, repentance, or petition as His Spirit leads you.
Tuesday: O Come Thou Key of David Come
So many great hymns come from Isaiah 9 — prepare your heart with Handel’s from the introduction.
We also love the haunting lyrics of O Come O Come Emmanuel! This stanza is so relevant to our passage today. Sing it if you can to prepare your heart.
O come, Thou Key of David, come
And open wide our heavenly home
Make safe the way that leads on high
And close the path to misery
It is Jesus who opens the door that no man can shut. This refers not only to opening a door to hearts on earth but opening the door to heaven. In this passage Jesus is referred to as “the Key of David,” and in Isaiah 22, we are told that God gave Eliakim the key of David, so he is a foreshadowing of Jesus. The Bible is one great love story, as our own Laura has said. Every prophet, priest, slain lamb, suffering servant…foreshadows Jesus, the ultimate prophet, priest, slain lamb, suffering servant… I think your heart will be moved to see the parallels in Isaiah between the earthly Eliakim and our Lord Jesus.
7. Again, how is Jesus described in Revelation 3:7 and how is this relevant to the church at Philadelphia?
8. In Isaiah 22, the prophet says God is deposing Shebna and replacing him with Eliakim. What is God going to do for Eliakim according to Isaiah 22:20-23?
9. How can you see that Eliakim is a dim foreshadowing of how Christ is described in Isaiah 9:6-7? How is Christ greater?
Wednesday: Synagogue of Satan versus Temple of God
10. Read Revelation 3:8-9
A. What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church? Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why?
B. G. K. Beales and David Campbell write: The Christian community at Philadelphia was small. In its own eyes, as well as the eyes of others, it may have seemed insignificant….Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? What do you think?
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9, and what will God make them do one day?
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response?
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11 Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it.
Thursday: I Will Keep You From The Hour of Trial
This is a hard passage that I pray will not divide us. Futurists would interpret this as the rapture, and Idealists would interpret this as being kept spiritually safe during tribulation, which they would see as the whole period between Christ’s ascension and return. We need to give grace here, for these are hard passages. I have come to agree with the Idealist view, but as one theologian said, “I reserve my right to change my mind in the air.”
14. Read the two paragraphs beginning with “Because of their faithfulness in tribulation” from Dr. Campbell and answer:
A. Why does he think this does not refer to a secret coming when Christ takes believers out of this world?
B. Whom does Scripture usually refer to by “those who dwell on the earth?”
15. How does it impact you to realize you will be kept spiritually in the hour of trial but not necessarily physically?
16. What are your beliefs about a secret coming of Christ for believers (the rapture) and why?
Friday: Hope and Encouragement for Those Who Persevere
17. Read Revelation 3:11-12. What are we told to do and what are we promised?
18. Read Dr. Campbell’s last paragraph and answer:
A. What comfort do you find?
B. What warning?
Saturday:
19. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
147 comments
Dee, I am not sure if it is just from my end, but somehow some sections were repeated? I see 2 pictures of the 3 hospital beds?
Thanks, Bing — I appreciate early birds who catch things before it mails out at 10 Central time!
Sunday: Getting Started
What stands out to you from the above and why?
“I have placed before you an open door which no man can shut.”It stood out to me that God is the one who has the power, I can’t force an opportunity to help someone’s heart to be ready, my work is to trust him and be ready to do what he says when opportunity arises.
Also the gracious discussion with Sharon, how different from the norm these days when people hold different views.
It is difficult, seeing a new take on things you have understood to mean something different. I am praying for wisdom and discernment for all of us.
What Bill Hogg said about the church seeing relevance as our primary call rather than faithfulness stood out to me.
Also -after watching these videos, I wish that J.I. Packer was my neighbor
Read aloud to yourself Revelation 3:7-13 and share anything that jumps out at you and why.
“I know you have but little power’- that made me tear up, I feel so weak sometimes
“10 Because you have kept my word about patient endurance”
I worry always that I have not really suffered well, I have had deep deep times of doubt.
Great start to our week, Chris!
Chris, I just thought of one of our favorite songs again. “He will hold me fast.” This one is from Shane and Shane. Such an encouragement when we are at our weakest.
Sorry, I forgot to attach the link to the Youtube video, Chris. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkRiOMJNuTU
Bing,Thank you, This brought tears this morning as usual.
My friend and I were talking about this song. She said described that it works on her as a heart tenderizer, sometimes a gentle sort of working over sometimes more like a meat mallet with spikes but always effective ❤️
Beautiful.
1. What stood out in the introduction and why?
Speaking of the women in prison in Iran, “God gave them strength to endure and opened doors with others that no man could shut.” And that an open door means the liberty to witness for Jesus. That when we suffer well, whether it is from persecution or sickness, it helps us to have an impact, but for that to happen we have to respond as Jesus tells us to.
All of us have seen these truths. People are more willing to listen to someone who has suffered, provided they point to Jesus correctly. And honestly, people aren’t as interested when a life has been charmed. Probably because the truth is, all of us suffer and we look for hope and significance in that suffering.
Suffering well does speak so loudly — I think of many — like Joni, Bonhoeffer, and people here like Rebecca, Lizzy, Chris, and actually nearly every one.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The meaning of when God opens a door that no man can shut – it means the liberty to bear witness for Christ. I see it as like taking part in a carefully orchestrated song, or play, because there are so many other pieces and parts that God is at work in, tilling up the soil of people’s hearts, working through their circumstances that they find themselves in, like when Steve was in the ICU. When I saw the photo of the ICU, I thought how fortunate that Steve was in a larger room with those other two, as our ICU beds are now in single rooms with glass doors, at least in our hospital.
The second thing that stood out was also convicting to me, personally, in that in persecution we may become angry, even hateful, thereby working right into the enemy’s hands. That happened to me at various times in my own marriage, when I felt ‘persecuted’ for my faith, or had deep resentment because of unmet expectations and needs, or in reaction to his anger and verbal attacks. I could be passive aggressive, too. There were many years that I did not even sleep in the same bed with my husband. (I am being real honest here) I remember one day, eating dinner with two of my kids, and my son who was in college at the time said to me, “You and dad aren’t going to make it, are you?” Those were difficult years. We’ve now been married for 31 years and things are better, though not perfect.
2. Read aloud to yourself Revelation 3:7-13 and share anything that jumps out at you and why.
One key verse stood out: “I know that you have little strength….” Jesus then goes on to tell them how He will be their defender, by making the false Jews see how much He loves this little church, and He will also spare them from severe trials. I find this very tender, caring, protective. Jesus knows each one of us, and what we are able, or not able, to bear.. He just sounds like a protective parent here.
Oh, Susan — thanks for being so vulnerably honest about your marriage and your responses — and how that makes us fall into the hands of our enemy. I think we forget about the spiritual battle and this is such a good reminder to all of us — for our natural response to persecution is anger, and supernatural is forgiveness and love. THANK YOU!
Dee, you are so right that it is, at heart, a spiritual battle, and that our/my natural response to persecution is anger. It is so easy to begin to see the other person as the enemy. I lived for so many years seeing my husband as my enemy, and then I treated him as an enemy. Being spiritually unequally yoked made it all the harder. I find that with increasing age, and hopefully wisdom, too, I have a new perspective as I look back on those years and a hopefully more mature approach to current trials and differences in our marriage now. We just got home from spending a week at the beach with all of our grown kids, daughter-in-law, one son’s fiance, and our baby grandson. I am finding that I can make myself more vulnerable to my oldest son, and I shared something with him while there. He can be impatient and abrupt like his dad, yet I see also a softness….he’s the one who is married and he was rather callous last year about his wife’s birthday…he was gone for six weeks in CA (military) and so was not at home for her birthday, but we got to celebrate with her this year as her birthday was while we were at the beach. I saw him make a real effort to do special things for her….going for two walks on the beach with her while we watched the baby, going and buying two cards for her; one from him and one from their little son, and taking her out for dinner while we babysat. It’s painful to see repeated patterns of my husband and my own unhealthy behaviors in his marriage, but I am hoping we are modeling something different now, and that I can speak into and encourage both he and his wife when I have the opportunity to do so.
Oh Susan — God may be using you to help your son “break the chain.” I do pray for you, dear friend.
Susan, I am really touched by what you shared here about your relationship with your husband and the changes that you are seeing between him and you. And also the story about your son. My husband and I had a disagreement yesterday, before church, and I was hurt by a comment he made. I struggled with my emotions when we went inside the church. There was a tug of war inside of me and I wish I could say, I made the first move to reconcile. My husband knows me well when I am bothered and he came and apologized to me. I am thankful the Spirit moved in me to accept the apology instead of lashing back at him for being insensitive. Growing up where I learned to stuff my feelings is still an auto-reply. God is working in me and has not given up on me!
I often think of the missed opportunities I have to show love to my husband and to others. Joel 3 is a good reminder for me that God will restore that which the locusts have eaten. Every day is a new day and I just keep moving forward, repenting as often as I am prompted and trusting Him to turn ashes into beauty. Thanks for sharing from your heart-it made me feel that it is okay for me to share also. Praying for both of us.
Thank you for openly sharing your heart dear Susan. Relationships are so hard and we have some of that chain of anger in our family. It can cause so much pain and division. Over the years my husband and I have, thankfully, learned to wait before we speak anger to one another (most of the time). We have a grown daughter who has a very difficult time with this ~ and with apologies. I try to explain that this is an issue of pride and we all need to learn how to say we are sorry and mean it. Hardened hearts and pride grow into stones. She and he daughter are here right now. Hannah (my granddaughter) has a pure heart and loves the Lord. My daughter is a Christian too, but extremely strong willed….. Hannah is struggling with her relationship with her mom, but we are close and so we can talk about it together. It is one of my daily prayers…that the Lord will give us godly relationships with one another….my husband and me…..our children and grandchildren with us and with one another….
Susan, your experiences and growth can be such an example and encouragement for younger couples.
Susan, I am so very grateful to read that things are better between you and your husband than they had been in the past. I pray that you can be a help to your children, helping them see a better way and for an increasing softness in your marriage, and for your husband to be drawn to Christ.
I wanted to share that what you have shared helped me this week too. I have a co-worker who, when there is a difference of ideas, can react in a way that feels abrupt and harsh. She recently admitted she comes off as mean.
I have been struggling! I have been praying, and decided I will endeavor to do everything without grumbling or complaining. I need to come against my pride and that little part of me that just wants my idea to be deemed the best one. So I am praying for wisdom about when to speak and when to keep silent and for the right kind of humility. Yesterday I felt the fruit of this shift in my spirit. Thanks for your example 🙂
Your co-worker was being very honest and vulnerable to admit that she comes off as mean….perhaps that will open a door for future conversations with her. I admire your wisdom too, Chris, in praying about when to speak and when to keep silent, and for humility. I also struggle with that same pride that wants my idea or way to be thought of as best.
Susan, I so appreciate your vulnerability. I believe that many of us experience the same things (your story sounding similar to mine in some ways). Sadly, our culture even in church, does not encourage sharing vulnerably. We ask, how are you, and respond, fine. We are encouraging people to wear a mask. I have one friend who cleverly responded, ‘taking one day at a time.’ It gave opportunity for me to ask if I could pray and she could be more open or not. I also see patterns showing up in our kids marriages. I’m currently babysitting one night a week while my oldest attend marriage counseling. I am glad they could be open about it and get some help. Marriage is hard work and it’s so easy to fall into unhealthy behaviors. Many times I have not suffered well and instead justified my anger. We are learning to accept our personalities yet hold one another accountable for behaviors and respond in more healthy ways. Such hard work.
Oh I so agree about how we can learn to wear a mask, especially in church. We pretend we are fine when we are not. It seems very positive that your oldest child and spouse are going to counseling, that they are willing to be open to outside help. “We are learning to accept our personalities and yet hold one another accountable for behaviors” – that is huge. The acceptance part! Yes – after 30 some years of marriage, we are who we are!
3. Read Revelation 3:7-13 and answer:
To whom is the letter addressed? The angel of the church in Philadelphia
B. How is Jesus described and how might this be especially relevant to Philadelphia?
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.Maybe because they need to know that the power needed isn’t something they can generate, their work is to hold fast to truth, whatever their circumstances.
C. For what are they commended?
They have kept Christ’s word and not denied him, they have endured patiently
D. There is no rebuke. What is the only other church that receives no rebuke? What else did they have in common?
Smyrna also receives no rebuke, they had in common tribulation and suffering
E. List the promises they are given.
“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”
“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”
“ 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.”
3. Read Revelation 3:7-13 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
To the angel of the church in Philadelphia.
B. How is Jesus described and how might this be especially relevant to Philadelphia?
He is described as the One who holds the key of David, and says of Himself, “What He opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open.” This “key” of David, I looked up the cross-reference in Isaiah 22:22, where God is going to replace Shebna, a steward in charge of the palace, with Eliakim, and God says that He will place on Eliakim’s shoulder the key to the house of David; what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. Also in Matthew 16:19, Jesus tells Peter He will give him the keys to the kingdom of heaven. So this key is a significant symbol, perhaps of the promise made to David that his throne would endure forever, and one from his own line would sit on the throne forever, this one being, of course, Jesus, who holds all authority, power, and the “keys”. Perhaps this was meant to encourage this church with “little strength”, so that they could know that though they were “little” and not strong, and perhaps felt they were not as effective as they might be, Jesus reminds them that He has the “key” – the true power, and He is going to wield it on their behalf.
C. For what are they commended?
They have kept His word and have not denied Jesus’ name. They have followed His command to endure patiently.
D. There is no rebuke. What is the only other church that receives no rebuke? What else did they have in common?
The church at Smyrna did not get rebuked by Jesus. They, too, were persecuted by the false Jews who Jesus called a synagogue of Satan.
E. List the promises they are given.
To the believer who is an overcomer, Jesus says that He will make him a pillar in the temple of God, and that He will write on him the name of God and the name of the city of God, which is the new Jerusalem. He will also write on him His new name.
4. How have you responded to persecution – soft or hard? Be as honest as possible.
I kind of answered this in part above….I have found that I have to get out of my own head, so to speak, in order to not respond hard, because if I hold onto, brood over, rehearse the offense over and over in my mind, dwell on how unfairly, unjustly, or harshly I was treated, then it’s hard to respond in a soft way. I have learned not to retaliate in kind with harsh words as it only escalates the situation. It’s a fine line, though. I don’t believe we are called to be a doormat or to suffer under verbal or emotional abuse. We cannot enable another to sin against us by being soft.
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
A. Matthew 5:10-12
This passage is talking about being persecuted because of your faith in Jesus. Likely many of those churches in Revelation were enduring these things: (Blessed are you when) people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.” Jesus tells them to rejoice and be glad because you will have a great reward in heaven. You are being persecuted like the prophets of old. I can’t say I have been persecuted for my faith at this level….the “jabs” by certain family members at one time were not on the level of someone saying evil things about me.
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17
We must focus on setting apart Christ as Lord in our hearts, and making sure that our behavior is above reproach. It’s better to suffer for doing good and to have a clear conscience, so that those who do speak evil against us will end up being ashamed of themselves.
6. Pray in confession, repentance, or petition as His Spirit leads you.
I didn’t get to finish posting all my answers last week but I am quietly following along. It’s an extremely busy time for me right now but this study is so important and powerful. The story of Steve in the hospital and the man praising God, just such a powerful example. I am deeply moved by the thought of suffering well. I think of our Mary E., her example will stay with me forever, giving thanks in every circumstance.
Her example will stay with you forever, Lizzy. And one day you two will be re-united.
Lizzy, you love much. Mary E was indeed a beautiful example of suffering well.
♥️
You have such a beautiful heart, Lizzy. Mary sounds like a wonderful woman of God. What a precious friendship.
2. Read aloud to yourself Revelation 3:7-13 and share anything that jumps out at you and why.
What stands out first to me is the same in all His address, but the 2 places in verse 8 where He says “I know…”. It just comforts me to remember how He sees, He knows what we are going through.
3. Read Revelation 3:7-13 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
The angel in Philadelphia.
B. How is Jesus described and how might this be especially relevant to Philadelphia?
The holy one, the true one, who has the Key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one will open.
C. For what are they commended?
They have remained faithful to His Word and not denied Jesus’ name.
D. There is no rebuke. What is the only other church that receives no rebuke? What else did they have in common?
Smyrna also had no rebuke. Both were commended for steadfast faith under trial and resistance against the church of Satan.
E. List the promises they are given.
Their enemies will bow down at their feet. He will keep them safe in the hour of trial, of final judgment. He will make them a pillar in God’s temple, “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.”
4. How have you responded to persecution — soft or hard? Be as honest as possible!
I realize my persecution has been soft in comparison to true persecution. There are 2 main situations in my life that are ongoing, but here I am thinking of one in particular. My response is that it has at times crushed me. Yet, it has brought me ever closer to Him. It has affected my children and is ongoing, it has been very painful and I have had many moments of crying out to Him, but I have not felt angry with Him. I have felt some anger with those who are doing this to me, but mostly because I don’t want this for them either. I have to be careful against envying others when I see their extended family or support for their adopted children. I battle sometimes a victim mentality the enemy tries to lure me to. Mostly I have felt deeply hurt. It has broken me, brought a deep sadness, but I have known His assurance, His love for me in it. I know it breaks His heart too. I used to replay events and try to see what I could have done differently or what I did wrong, but He has been merciful to free me of that. Still, it is very painful and yet I have comfort in knowing it grieves Him too, He sees, He understands, He loves me. It sounds strange but in some ways I feel thankful for it–I feel set apart by it, hard to explain. He has been nearer to me I have I have relied more on Him than I think I would have if I had the support of family, and I am thankful for His closeness, for the way He is using it to deepen my faith.
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
A. Matthew 5:10-12- “Rejoice and be glad”, remember your eternal reward.
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17- Do not be afraid of the evildoers, honor Christ as holy, be prepared to give a defense for your hope, with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience.
Lizzy — you have come forth like gold.
Sunday: Getting Started
1.What stands out to you from the above and why?
a. “I reserve my right to change my opinion in the air.” Most of you who may know me by now would not be surprised for me to pick a “funny” as what stood out for me. A friend used to tell me jokingly I have low entertainment value lol because I can get tickled by little things or would laugh at the corniest joke.
Joking aside, I find this as gracious as any response to differing opinions to the book of Revelation. And am so glad that Sharon brought this up- this is non-essential to our salvation. Praise the Lord!
2.Read aloud to yourself Revelation 3:7-13 and share anything that jumps out at you and why.
This is what jumps out at me and please forgive me for being “funny” nowadays. For some reason, the tickles lately are many.
“I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name…”
The last time I was talking to one of my favorite students, she asked me what I thought of her having a tattoo in honor of her mom who I know is just a wonderful person. She showed me the design she would like and we discussed where the best place would be for it.
I was told that permanent tattoos can now be removed, though costly and would take quite a while and only to a faded condition.
On the other hand, I would like to think that whatever is “written” on us will never be erased. Oh, joy! Not sure if we will really have something written on us or this is just a figure of speech and that somehow our appearance would be reflective of God, our heavenly city, and Jesus’ new name.
Bing–love this-“whatever is “written” on us will never be erased.” yes, what JOY!
Bing — are you saying my joke was corny? 🙂
LOL. No, Dee. After I sent that, I go to thinking, oh, no! I hope Dee doesn’t think I thought her joke was corny. I meant to refer to jokes in the past, not this one. I actually like this joke and can just see you being lifted upwards and laughing and shouting, “yahoo! Lord, Jesus, at last!” I think I will start saying that line, too.
🙂
Bing, I love the ‘low entertainment value”!!I too find humor in odd things, I like to laugh, sometimes I snort 😉
3. A. The letter is addressed to the angel, which could mean messenger or leader, of the church in Philadelphia.
B. How Jesus is described, and how that is significant for this church.
He is holy and true, holding the key of David. He has all authority over what is open and shut. I watched Joe Stowell on this, feeling like I needed help (which is pretty much true all the time!), and it was very good. The people of Philadelphia had suffered great natural disaster and while Rome said they would help, their help fell short and they didn’t stay true to their promise. Rome even forced them to tear out their world famous vineyards so that Rome could have more prominence. But Jesus isn’t like that. He is totally dependable, always keeping His word. For Christians in the city, as long as the door to the synagogue was open to them, they were protected from having to say Caesar is lord, as all Jews listed in the synagogue were exempt from that law. But once the Jews barred the door and blotted out their names, they had no protection. Jesus, however, has His arms open to them and will never turn them away.
C. Commendation.
He knows their deeds and how they have not compromised. He knows they have little strength, but have kept His word and not denied Him.
D. What other church has no rebuke? What else do they have in common?
Smyrna. In both cities, Jesus talks about those who claim to be Jews, but who He recognizes as followers of Satan, and how they slander true believers. Jesus says He will make them come and fall at the feet of believers and acknowledge Jesus loves them. Stowell said this was an echo of Joseph’s brothers coming and bowing down to him after they had betrayed and mocked him.
E. Promises given them.
In verse 10, He promises to keep them from the hour of trial the rest of the world will have to go through. In verse 12, He says overcomers will be a pillar in God’s temple. Stowell pointed out that pillars are stable and firm. I can’t help but contrast that with what I so often feel and James describes as being tossed by the wind and waves. I look forward to no longer vacillating in my devotion to God! Then Jesus talks about writing the names of God, Jerusalem, and Jesus’s new name on them. Maybe an illustration of having the positive character traits of each of these attributed to them.
4. How have you responded to persecution, soft or hard?
Soft persecution is all I have ever faced. I’m afraid I have interpreted it and internalized it personally. I’ve concluded that I’ve done witnessing, or even living out my life, in a way that turns people away from God instead of toward Him. It isn’t like I’ve sworn off trying, but my experiences keep validating my perception and it really discourages me.
5. How should we respond to persecution?
A. Matthew 5:10-12. I should be rejoicing, comparing myself to believers through the ages, and looking forward to the same reward they receive.
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17. I should not fear or give up doing good, which I take to mean keep witnessing. I should reaffirm inside myself Jesus’s supremacy. I should prepare for possible scenarios, praying for the right words and attitudes. The next verse goes on to remind us of how Jesus suffered. So we need to reconcile ourselves to suffering and model ourselves after Him.
Lord Jesus, today You’ve opened my eyes to things I’ve never seen in myself before. These are things I’ve unknowingly accepted and believed for probably 50 years about witnessing. I want to change and line up with You, Your standards and Your plans for me. But I know it isn’t something I can do in my strength, so would You please do a huge work within me of rooting out all this falsehood and replacing it with a greater love and commitment to You?
Wow, Mary, if you ever feel like sharing, I’m interested –but you don’t need to do so!
Mary, I love this! I have not been able to do my lessons consistently this week, as we have had lots of company. It is wonderful and it is interesting how much of this lesson applies to all of our lives. I want to continually change and line up more with Jesus! You ladies are all so amazing!! I am so blessed to be part of this group!! xoxo
Dee, I was referring to my answer to #4 just previously. It wasn’t news to me that I shy away from witnessing, but until I wrote out my answer to 4, I didn’t see how the puzzle pieces fit together and the picture they made. How do you suddenly say, I’m going to have a different knee jerk? I will no longer think it all my responsibility or fault for how people respond. I will no longer feel the pain of it as against me, personally. I need Jesus to do a really big surgery in me!
I’m on vacation this week with long periods of no internet. I’ll do my best 😉
May He restore you, Dawn!
Have so much fun Dawn!!!
3. Read Revelation 3:7-13 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
To the angel of the church in Philadelphia.
B. How is Jesus described and how might this be especially relevant to Philadelphia?
He is described as the One who is Holy and true and has the key of David.
C. For what are they commended?
For having little strength but still obeying and not denying Him.
D. There is no rebuke. What is the only other church that receives no rebuke? What else did they have in common?
Smyrna was the other church. They were both being persecuted.
4. How have you responded to persecution — soft or hard? Be as honest as possible!
I cannot say that I have been ‘persecuted’ really. The area of the country I live in still for the most part esteems Christian ideals.
I did think of one instance, I had shared it here some time ago. I am still not sure it falls in the range of persecution, but it was a place where my faith led to pain. I had a holiday gathering of Daniel’s friends with a wacky gift exchange. One of the gifts was a picture of the manger scene, it was opened by a girl whose is openly a lesbian. The jokes they made were offensive. I was confused, embarrassed and hurt. They all know my husband and I are Christ followers, I would have thought out of respect they would have behaved differently in our home. It was an ugly moment, the girl who opened the picture was obviously uncomfortable.How I reacted in that moment was to say nothing. I prayed that God would forgive them and lead them to repentance. They don’t know Jesus. I haven’t tried to do anything like that since.
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
Matthew 5:10-12.
We are to rejoice and realize our treasure is in heaven
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17.
We are to be fearless and untroubled, honoring Christ in our hearts as holy, prepared to give a defense of our reason for hope. With a clean conscience, so that our accusers will be brought to shame.
6. Pray in confession, repentance, or petition as His Spirit leads you.
Father, I am convicted that I haven’t let my light shine as much as I can. I am afraid of giving offense or of being a hypocrite. Help me see with your eyes and value the people around me rightly. Not as people to please but as souls who need either to know you or to be re oriented towards you. I want to have what you think of me be the most important thing to me.Thank you for your grace, I don’t want to minimize the cost at which it is mine. Iam weak but you are strong- provide the power, I want this study, this time of beholding you to change me, I want to be a servant who would say ‘here am I Lord, send me”.
That’s a sad story about the Nativity. I think you responded admirably. In a 1 Peter 3:14-16 way
Chris, your gift of a Nativity picture sounds thoughtful. My heart is saddened when I see people mocking our Lord. Amen to Dee’s comment. You responded admirably.
Patti, I actually didn’t give the gift, another of the young adults brought it. Which added to our feeling perplexed. I am not sure what her intent was in choosing that as an item for the exchange, the one who brought it was one of the people making crude jokes.
I felt so hurt.
7. Again, how is Jesus described in Revelation 3:7
“who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens”
and how is this relevant to the church at Philadelphia?
Christ is over all and in control, their persecutors may appear to be in control, but that isn’t what’s actually, ultimately, true.
8. In Isaiah 22, the prophet says God is deposing Shebna and replacing him with Eliakim. What is God going to do for Eliakim according to Isaiah 22:20-23?
Clothe him, give him authority, give him family, give him the key to David’s house and the power to open what no one can shut and shut what no one can open. God will establish him, he will bring honor to his father.
9. How can you see that Eliakim is a dim foreshadowing of how Christ is described in Isaiah 9:6-7? How is Christ greater?
I feel like Eliakim points to the gospel the way a great story does, it sparks something in us that understands and longs for Jesus.
Christ is clothed but not in someone else’s robes but in his own glory and righteousness. Christ is given authority, but not just over a people but over all things. Christ is given the keys to death and hell, he has all authority and power. God has established Christ at his right hand, his Kingdom will be forever and he has honored the Father in every way.
E. List the promises they are given.
Philadelphia – the people persecuting (Satan’s synagogue) will bow at their feet. God will make sure they know He loves the church in Philadelphia. He will protect them from the great time of testing.
Smyrna – They will be thrown into suffering. They will receive the crown of life. Those who are victorious will not be harmed by the “second death.”
4. How have you responded to persecution — soft or hard? Be as honest as possible!
First of all, I haven’t ever really been persecuted…Depending on the topic of persecution…if it has been my Christianity,
I usually withdraw into myself. I’m at heart a coward 😔. But, I will say there have been times I have fought too. I am becoming braver as I get older!
I think I have told this story here before, so forgive me. A friend (and colleague) has a daughter who decided she wanted to change her gender. I had a very hard time understanding that my friend would actually go along with her kid on this idea! She is not a believer. I fought hard, explaining that God made her daughter who she is and it wasn’t her job to change herself. I told her God loves her daughter. My friend retorted that “He loves anyone who isn’t different.” She sort of made fun of me. It was Easter week and I came back with no, in fact that is what this week is all about, LOVE. He hung with the lowest in society. We even talked about suicide. Her kid threatened it. I told her that info my kid threatened I would still stand firm and I was glad he knew Christ in case it actually happened.
The conversation went on until I realized I wasn’t going to ever change her mind. They went all out too, drugs and everything. Ugh. I have never acknowledged her as a him. I also have been polite and kind to them both, as I should be. We just disagree on this situation (and others like it).
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
A. Matthew 5:10-12.
Be happy, be glad! We will be blessed.
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17.
If you suffer for God (and good) you will be rewarded. Be gentle and kind to these people who persecute you.
Very hard situation — and sad.
3. Read Revelation 3:7-13 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
The letter is addressed to the angel of the church in Philadelphia.
B. How is Jesus described and how might this be especially relevant to Philadelphia?
Jesus is described as the one who is holy and true and who holds the keys of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.
This is relevant to Philadelphia because they do not need to be afraid of anything as Jesus holds the authority to open and close any circumstance that they may be in. What a comfort to see this as God’s sovereignty over our lives in the midst of hardships or weakness.
C. For what are they commended?
They were commended for enduring patiently and not denying His name.
D. There is no rebuke. What is the only other church that receives no rebuke? What else did they have in common?
Smyrna. Both of these churches have people among them who are of the synagogue of Satan. These churches are also considered small, poor, and afflicted.
E. List the promises they are given.
They both will receive a crown.
They will suffer but will be able to endure.
4. How have you responded to persecution — soft or hard? Be as honest as possible!
I have a tendency to withdraw when I am being persecuted and to get hurt and confused.
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
A. Matthew 5:10-12.
To rejoice and be glad because we have a reward in Heaven and sharing in the suffering of Christ.
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17.
To not be afraid, but be ready to respond with gentleness and respect.
6. Pray in confession, repentance, or petition as His Spirit leads you.
Holy Spirit, help me not to withdraw when I am persecuted but to stand for Jesus and the truth. Forgive me for the many times when I have withdrawn, stayed quiet about my faith for fear of man. Let me trust you to give me the words to say and not rely on my own understanding. Take my fear away and help me see the other person as Jesus would-in need of Him for salvation and freedom.
Bing — that 1 Peter passage is so good.
Dee, I so agree. And I do want to let you know that 5 of my Christian women friends and I are doing your Fisherman Bible Study on Peter and Jude! I do not know how to do a blog yet so we are Emailing our answers back and forth by replying all. I am waiting for my daughter to come home to help me with a simple blog. Thank you, Lord! All of you here have given me encouragement in many quiet ways to step out in faith.
The format, Dee is so easy to follow and very similar here. We all love how you have taken a verse by verse approach. Right now we are in the glow of the hope we have in Christ based on I Peter 1:1-12 (Study 2). Thank you so much!
Tuesday:
7. Again, how is Jesus described in Revelation 3:7 and how is this relevant to the church at Philadelphia?
He holds the key of David. I missed the fact that the phrase is “the key” not “keys”. There is only one key and Jesus holds it. The church of Philadelphia is small and weak therefore they may be asking themselves-what can we do in our smallness? They needed to be reminded that Jesus is the one who can open anything for them-opportunities for the gospel, strength for their labor, etc.
I think of the story of Gideon in Judges and his words, “But Lord, ” Gideon asked, “how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.”
8. In Isaiah 22, the prophet says God is deposing Shebna and replacing him with Eliakim. What is God going to do for Eliakim according to Isaiah 22:20-23?
Eliakim will have authority and dressed in robe and sash. He will have the key of David on his shoulder. He will have a seat of honor in his father’s house.
9. How can you see that Eliakim is a dim foreshadowing of how Christ is described in Isaiah 9:6-7? How is Christ greater?
Eliakim foreshadows Christ’s description in his earthly authority and honor accorded him by God. Jesus’ authority and honor continue to eternity, therefore, are much greater.
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
“God opened a door” always reminds me of a story from my African childhood (please forgive all these stories). My parents took care of 20-3o kids of missionaries in the Congo. It was a school where kids were sent to by their parents. Because of the political climate in the Congo the school had to be moved 3 times to other countries for our safety. It never failed that other non-missionary kids were sent as well while the school was in these other countries, but one family sent their 2 Muslim children to the school while it was in Uganda. I think their father was some kind of diplomat in the Congo and wanted his children to be safe. The two children, a boy and a girl both became Christians while under my parents care and in turn shared with their parents. Once we were allowed to return to the Congo their parents invited us to dinner wanting to know more about this Jesus their kids were talking about. I will tell you that the boy died of leukemia in his teen years and the girl was killed in London in her early 20’s. I never knew if the parents became Christians but God definitely opened a door that would of otherwise never been opened!
2. Read aloud to yourself Revelation 3:7-13 and share anything that jumps out at you and why.
”He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God; he will most certainly never be put out of it…” The word pillar (styl0s) “figuratively indicates a firm and permanent position in the spiritual, heavenly and eternal temple of God (Vines).” What a hope to cling to in remaining faithful through suffering…”The one thing I ask of the Lord – the thing I seek most – is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord’s perfections and meditating in His temple.” Ps. 27:4
Your stories are amazing — how good of God to bring them in…
🙂. You’re so kind!
Sharon, that story gave me goosebumps. I feel a kindred spirit with you and your stories as they are similar to my stories in the Philippines. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you Bing…😊
Sharon, I love your stories. You could write a book on these. What a beautiful story. So sad that both children were lost, but to know they are with Jesus is so comforting. I pray that their parents came to know Jesus.
Thank you Patti, yes, I pray they did too.
Me too, my heart hurts for those parents- I though of this from CS Lewis ‘But pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”
I pray their pain led them to Jesus.
I love your stories too Sharon
Thank you Chris..you have such a tender heart and love the CS Lewis quote❤️
yes, your stories are wonderful, Sharon.What an open door!
Yes! And thank you Shirley 😊
Sharon your stories are amazing. Please don’t apologize!
Laura, you’re so sweet, thank you😊
Monday
3. Read Revelation 3:7-13 and answer:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? To the angel of the church in Philadelphia.
B. How is Jesus described and how might this be especially relevant to Philadelphia? The One who is holy and true, has the key of David, what He opens, no one can close and what He closes no one can open. Jesus being holy and being true (the real deal) is in total control of all situations and this would be a comfort through their times of testing.
C. For what are they commended? Even in their weakness obeyed the word and did not deny Him.
D. There is no rebuke. What is the only other church that receives no rebuke? Smyrna What else did they have in common? They’d both got through testing. Receive the crown of life. They’re both dealing with those who say they are Jews, but are not because their synagogue belongs to Satan,
E. List the promises they are given. He’ll force those who belong to Satan’s synagogue-those liars who say they are Jews but are not-to come and bow down at their feet and be acknowledged as the ones He loves. They will be protected from the great time of testing. He is coming soon. No one will take their crown away if they hold on. Will become pillars in the temple of God and never leave it. The name of God will be written on them, citizen’s in the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven and write on them His new name
Is there significance in the key of David being placed on Eliakim’s shoulder rather than in his hand. Would that indicate that it may have been more of a burden than a privilege?
?? Was this comment meant for me?
No. I thought that I put it in the regular comments, but thanks for looking into it.😁
I did find this quote from a commentary… “In that day, the chief royal steward would have the large master key of the palace fastened to the shoulder of his tunic. The key was a picture and demonstration of the authority of the chief steward. Here, the LORD gives Eliakim the authority to open and shut as the LORD’s representative, which no man can oppose.” Guzik
Sharon, sure love what you found about the master key of the palace worn by the chief royal steward.
Sharon, thanks so much for doing that research and sharing it with all of us!
I guess that I am millennial neutral at this point. There seems to be compelling arguments for all 3 views. Up until this study, I didn’t even know that there are differing views of this. I knew that the tribulation is an area that people have differing views on, but not this. I’ll keep looking into it, but if it is a non-essential I’m not going to worry about it.
Good plan, Dawn!
I agree with you, Dawn. It is non-essential to salvation so no need to worry about it. I need to focus more on knowing Jesus, His Word, and being salt and light for Him.
Amen to you, Dawn, Dee and Bing! I love “It is non-essential to salvation”! I, too, need to focus more on knowing Jesus, His Word and being salt and light for Him!! Love love love this!!
This is such a rich study and I am loving all of the wonderful sharing you all are doing and the great research. So thankful to be part of this blog! Thank you again, Dee!!
SOOOO GLAD YOU ARE HERE, PATTI!
Monday
4. How have you responded to persecution — soft or hard? Be as honest as possible! Sadly, the persecution I have dealt with has been from Christians in regards to my stance on same sex marriage. I am considered unloving and bigoted. My response has always been defensive but the older I get I realize the importance of asking them questions, which I haven’t done yet. I am a scaredy-cat when it comes to sharing my faith. I do pray for boldness…kind of, when I’m ready Lord, please not now…oh these questions Dee! God is working!
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
A. Matthew 5:10-12. We should do right. When people mock, persecute, lie and say all sorts of evil things about us because we’re His followers…be happy about it! Be very glad!
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17. Do what is right in suffering, not worry about threats. Worship Christ as Lord of your life. Be ready to explain if someone asks about your hope, in gentleness and respectfully. Keep a clear conscience, then if people speak against you they’ll be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. It’s better to suffer for doing good if that’s what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong.
6. Pray in confession, repentance, or petition as His Spirit leads you.
I do think our world and Christians also, are so used to thinking about what they are going to say, that we’ve lost the art of really listening. I think it’s such a wonderful witness and I’m guessing you could be very good at it, Sharon.
2. Read aloud to yourself Revelation 3:7-13 and share anything that jumps out at you and why.
“Behold, I have set before you an open door” – If this means liberty to bear witness for Christ, then we need to ask ourselves if we are walking through that open door. Are we witnessing? I listened to the video Dee put on FB yesterday of the Benham Brothers and how they lost their reality show on HGTV because of refusing to be silent about their Christian faith. It was both encouraging and convicting. I ponder all the Christians who worked for that network and who said they agreed with the Benham Brothers but who kept silent because speaking up would mean losing their jobs. So many of us are keeping silent. This is essentially denying Christ.
I have a younger friend who came out on FB last week as a bisexual and then announced that she and her husband have decided to have a polyamourous marriage so that she can have a girlfriend and so can he. Of course, I see ruin ahead for her. I have not responded yet, but I have written (and revised several times) a letter to her that I am planning to mail today. Please pray with me that I might respond in a godly way– gentle, loving but truth-telling.
So sad, Diane. I pray for your writing and for favor.
I will pray for you as you write a letter to your friend. Such a difficult and sad situation.
I also love your prayer in your response to question 6 below.
Oh Diane, I pray for the impact of your words that you write to your friend. How sad. I’m afraid that I agree with you in that you see ruin ahead for her.
4. How have you responded to persecution — soft or hard? Be as honest as possible!
Generally, in the past, I have kept silent to my soft persecution, believing that my life will speak. I am quite non-confrontational, usually. On the spot, words do not come to me. But I truly believe the hour has come to speak up in this world that is, in the words of the Benham brothers, “militantly pagan.” There is a verse that says that the Holy Spirit will give us the words to speak in the hour that we need them.
5. How should we respond to persecution according to the following:
A. Matthew 5:10-12
We are supposed to rejoice and be glad.
B. 1 Peter 3:13-17
Have no fear of them. Do not be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy. Always be prepared to make a defense.
6. Pray in confession, repentance, or petition as His Spirit leads you.
Lord help me to honor you as Lord in my heart, mind, words and actions. Lord, I have not rejoiced when even the softest persecution has been directed at me. Help me to remember that you and your people have suffered and this is part of being a disciple. Help me to not give in to fear or the feeling that I do not have the words to speak. Help me to be brave and to be ready to defend you, knowing you are with me and will give me the words, if I pray and remember that you are my right hand.
Diane, Amen to your prayer!
10. Read Revelation 3:8-9
What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church?
He knows they have but little power, and that they have kept his word and not denied his name.
Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why?
I think it is meant to encourage, I feel encouraged that the opening of doors is in Christs power, that my weaknesses don’t disqualify me. I thought of Psalm 103:14 “For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.”
Not denying him is my part.
Hebrews 10:23
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful”
B. G. K. Beales and David Campbell write: The Christian community at Philadelphia was small. In its own eyes, as well as the eyes of others, it may have seemed insignificant….Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? What do you think?
Yes, most of the time I think it does. Pastors often are beset with issues of pride, I read that pride is the weakness that often accompanies the gift of prophecy. It seems from my limited experience to be accurate. People want to see the number of attenders and the number of givers to be always on the rise
Makes me long for heaven, when all of our service will really be about Him and not us.
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9
They are described as the synagogue of Satan, and as liars
and what will God make them do one day?
Bow down before the church, learning and acknowledging that Christ has loved them.I wondered and imagined that the church would also be learning even more of just how much Christ has loved them.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?
That this further indicates Christs divinity, and that the prophecy was reversed from what it had been in Isaiah where gentiles bowed down before Jews, here Jews bow down before the church, and surprise becoming worshippers!
There is such grace in this.
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response?
Prayer that Jesus would make their error plain to them, I often pray that the Lord will help me think rightly about confusing situations and people. He has been gracious in answering that prayer many times.
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11 Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it.
They are not irretrievable, they rejected Christ but they door is open for them to see their error and change their mind, I thought of the older brother in the prodigal son parable, the Father wants ALL his children to come to the party.
Chris — that’s interesting about the gift of prophesy and pride. I have been realizing my approval idol is as dangerous as my control idol. I’ve been playing Words with Friends with Carol Kent and she is usually beating me so it makes me tempted to cheat! Oh help me God to want Your approval more than the fleeting praise of man!
Tuesday
7. Again, how is Jesus described in Revelation 3:7 and how is this relevant to the church at Philadelphia? The one who is holy and true, the one who has the key of David. What He opens no one can close; and what He closes, no one can open. That in their little strength, He is still in control, He is everlasting.
8. In Isaiah 22, the prophet says God is deposing Shebna and replacing him with Eliakim. What is God going to do for Eliakim according to Isaiah 22:20-23? Give him the key to the house of David – the highest position in the royal court.
9. How can you see that Eliakim is a dim foreshadowing of how Christ is described in Isaiah 9:6-7? Like Christ he’s given the key and the highest position. How is Christ greater? He is everlasting, His government and its peace will never end. He will rule for all eternity..
A. What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church? Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why? That they are weak. He isn’t pointing out to them that they are weak, he is agreeing with them about their weakness so that when those who are larger and stronger than them ultimately bow down to them they will know it was God who did it.
B. G. K. Beales and David Campbell write: The Christian community at Philadelphia was small. In its own eyes, as well as the eyes of others, it may have seemed insignificant….Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? What do you think? Yes! One thing I dislike about most of the churches that I have attended is when they focus on how to “grow” the church when what they really mean is how do we entertain people. They seem to think the more bodies they have in the building the more successful the church is. The most people that I’ve seen in some of our churches in the city, that have people lined up outside to get in, is when they sell the building and it’s turned into a nightclub. That’s about as gospel focused as some of our churches.
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9, and what will God make them do one day? Liars and members of the synagogue of Satan. They will worship the true church.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?That there is a reversal to the way that things were. Jews realizing the truth of the gospel will bow down to the Gentiles. God saved the chosen people in the Old Testament and Jesus is the one who brings it about in the new testament. That shows Jesus’ equality with God.
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response? Perseverance! Christ will overcome.
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11 Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it. It says that they did not stumble beyond recovery. It’s like they hit rock bottom. They see the Gentiles blessed and the truth of the gospel of Christ becomes clear to them
Dawn – did you ever read the classic Entertaining Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman? He wrote it when Reagan was President saying, “Even our current President is a movie star.” (Though I liked Reagan!) Obviously, I’m rabbit trailing.
I loved that book! I read it when it was the Midday Connection book club selection, I thought it totally remarkable how accurate his predictions were about where we were headed as a society.
The clip from the Messiah was so fun! The singers were obviously enjoying themselves greatly. Not just the singing, I want to think, but the message. Reminds me that my worship is best from a heart of joy.
8. What will God do for Eliakim in Isaiah 22?
God will call him, I assume from relative obscurity, and give him the trappings, authority, and status of the chief steward of the palace. He will get respect from the people, and since he is called God’s servant, respect from God also? He will not only have great opportunities, but will be able to give the same to others.
9. How does this foreshadow Jesus? Isaiah 9:6-7. How is Jesus greater?
Eliakim took over for one who feathered his own nest instead of taking care of his responsibilities. I see that Jesus took over for the law, which was beating us up instead of saving us. Eliakim has these few verses about him in the Bible, which is a huge honor. But the whole book, and indeed the whole story of humanity, is about Jesus. Jesus is prophesied as being the One who has the ultimate Key on His shoulder. He has many names because one name isn’t enough to begin to describe how fantastic He is. We will be going on forever and ever in eternity, recounting the ways He is greater.
10. Revelation 3:8-9.
A. In verse eight, what does Jesus know about this church? What does this mean?
He lists out that He knows: their deeds, their limited strength, that they have kept His word, and have not denied the name of Jesus. I think it means that He not only sees the outward things anyone else can see, but He is completely aware and sympathetic to where they are on the inside. Sometimes, we commend a person for having done a good job, but we have no idea what it really took for them to make that happen. We don’t know their sacrifices or struggles or conflicts. But Jesus does, for all of us. Which means He has sympathy for us, but it also means we can’t hide when we could have done more or better. We are naked before Him. But I think He has more compassion for us than we do for ourselves.
B. Can church culture have too much pride in size?
For sure. Anything we can point to and say, I had a hand in making that happen, becomes pride in us. Or maybe it just exposes the pride we tolerate in ourselves on a daily basis. I think that is why He often does ‘pruning’ on us, removing from us the fruit that belongs to Him we would like to take pride in.
C. What happens to the false Jews?
I loved the take on this from Joe Stowell, how it mirrors what happened with Joseph’s brothers. They bowed down before him. Initially, it was not knowing he was Joseph, but eventually they had to acknowledge that God had always loved Joseph and done for him more than the brothers could have ever imagined. So maybe it isn’t too much of a stretch to think that the people who reject our witness now may someday humble themselves before us and acknowledge that our testimony of Jesus was true.
I love this Mary:
” Sometimes, we commend a person for having done a good job, but we have no idea what it really took for them to make that happen. We don’t know their sacrifices or struggles or conflicts. But Jesus does, for all of us. Which means He has sympathy for us, but it also means we can’t hide when we could have done more or better. We are naked before Him. But I think He has more compassion for us than we do for ourselves. “
Loved your comments on the Messiah and Joseph Stowell, Mary.
7. Again, how is Jesus described in Revelation 3:7 and how is this relevant to the church at Philadelphia?
He is the holy One and true. He holds the key of David. He has the ability to open or shut a door and no one can close or open them.
Philadelphia has been firm, but weak, in their faith. They have been holding on for dear life. He assured them they will be remembered and reside in heaven because of Him.
8. In Isaiah 22, the prophet says God is deposing Shebna and replacing him with Eliakim. What is God going to do for Eliakim according to Isaiah 22:20-23?
God will give Eliakim the royal robes, title, and authority over all. He will be Father to Jerusalem and Judah. He will receive the key to David, the highest court. He will open and shut doors that no one can close or open themselves.
9. How can you see that Eliakim is a dim foreshadowing of how Christ is described in Isaiah 9:6-7? How is Christ greater?
Absolutely! A Son is born! He will save us!
11. What do you learn from the first three paragraphs under the church of Philadelphia?
The sentence, Christianity is at its healthiest and best when it is countercultural. When Jesus prayed for us not to be taken out of the world, but to be protected from it, He set it up for us to live like this. It seems He always intended for us to be ‘different’. How else can people see who He is? Jesus never wanted to be part of the easy flow. God has always wanted us to choose Him; to desire Him. Not for getting things from Him, but because we genuinely want Him, loving Him and enjoying Him.
12. People with nominal faith persecute those with real faith. Why? What should our response be?
Real faith shines a light on the lies, errors, and hypocrisy of nominal belief. Not because real believers are trying to, but because we carry the Light within us. I think of the false prophets in the Old Testament. One came up and slapped the true prophet in the face, deeply offended that the true prophet said he wasn’t speaking for God. He said, ‘where did the Spirit of the Lord go when it left me to go to you?’ The true prophet said the time would come that he would find out.
Our response needs to be standing firm in the Lord, but also holding out to them the truth that God wants them. In other words, our response needs to be loving.
13. Romans 11:11-12. Find the hope for Israel’s restoration.
Paul states their restoration as a fact in verse 12b, how much greater riches will their fullness bring! He makes it clear that their distance from God is temporary, and done by God to allow Gentiles to come into the kingdom.
I’m always intrigued by how God deals with us on multiple levels. We come to Him individually, or at least as westerners we think we do. But sometimes He talks of us as a group of believers, and sometimes He refers to specific nations, such as Israel. We think everything is individual, but other cultures see everything as families or ethnic groups.
14. Starting at ‘because of their faithfulness in tribulation.
A. Why does Campbell say there is no rapture?
His interpretation is that you shouldn’t take ‘the whole world’ literally, and that if Jesus is referring to the end times, then this wouldn’t be relevant to the people in Philadelphia then.
B. Who does scripture refer to by ‘those who dwell on earth’?
Campbell says this is referring to the lost, who will experience bitterness and further hardening against God.
15. What is the impact on you that He will keep you spiritually but not necessarily physically safe?
I’ve never thought He guaranteed me any physical safety or comfortableness in this life. Jesus, as God in flesh, lived without earthly comforts, and as His followers we certainly can’t expect better treatment in this world than He got. When you read about saints before us and all they went through, you get a strong picture confirming that this world is not our home. But it absolutely terrifies me to consider not having His protection over my spirit, so His promises to be with me and bring me through are very precious.
10. Read Revelation 3:8-9
A. What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church? Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why?
He knows all the things they do. He knows they are weak but still obeying His Word. They haven’t denied Him.
He tells them He is the One who has opened a door for them that no one will close.
I think it means He has their place in heaven with Him. However, you now have me thinking it might mean protection of them as they are here on Earth too. Or perhaps that they have been given more opportunities to evangelize in their community without being persecuted? Otherwise how would the “JINOs” “Jews in name only,” bow at their feet? Presumably they won’t be in heaven to do that, right? Or, would they perform this action right before they are released from heaven to hell?
B. G. K. Beales and David Campbell write: The Christian community at Philadelphia was small. In its own eyes, as well as the eyes of others, it may have seemed insignificant….Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? What do you think?
No I don’t believe we place too much emphasis on size. I thought we were to spread the Word of God and bring people to Christ. If that is happening, then there will be many people in our Christian communities, right? I think we should have a Christian culture that believes this idea, of many in the fold. I bet Philadelphia was a small community to start with, right?
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9, and what will God make them do one day?
They are worshiping in the “satanic synagogues.” They will bow at the Christians’ feet and know who God loves.
Your questions can send me spinning, Laura!
But, my thoughts: I think the open door means chances to witness — not necessarily though that they will be free of physical persecution.
JINOS (clever) will bow down and acknowledge, but not necessarily believe — that’s the way I take Philippians 2 as well — every knee shall bow.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?
I learned that to “bow down” means to worship. In the OT, the Gentiles were those who would bow down to the Jews. In the NT, the Jews would bow down to Christ.
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response?
L-O-V-E, #lovehasnolimits, #lovepeopleonestepclosertoJesus
Where did you learn that bow down means worship?
From his book:
“This describes a genuine repentance and turning to God, for to bow down is the Biblical word for “worship.””
I noticed that, too.
14. Read the two paragraphs beginning with “Because of their faithfulness in tribulation” from Dr. Campbell and answer:
A. Why does he think this does not refer to a secret coming when Christ takes believers out of this world?He said it was unlikely because it would then not have had relevance to whom it was first written.
B. Whom does Scripture usually refer to by “those who dwell on the earth?”People who don’t seek God?
15. How does it impact you to realize you will be kept spiritually in the hour of trial but not necessarily physically?
It is scary, I don’t want more suffering. I know I am weak. I want to rely more on my Lord and to trust, him but ya, it scares me.
16. What are your beliefs about a secret coming of Christ for believers (the rapture) and why?I am like Dawn I suppose, unsure. This study’s take on it seems more plausible to me than what I had learned before, but it still feels like we might be trying to figure out and know for sure things that are really beyond our comprehension.
I agree on 16, Chris — yet the deeper I go into Revelation with Reformed scholars, the more convinced I get. For me the most convincing element is that belief in the rapture didn’t begin until the 1800’s with dispensationalism. And I certainly can see how the Scriptures that were supposed to describe the Rapture sound more like the 2nd coming. And that the numbers of Revelation, including a thousand (seems to be aligned with forever) are meant to be symbolic. But it is very mysterious, I agree.
TUESDAY
7. Again, how is Jesus described in Revelation 3:7 and how is this relevant to the church in Philadelphia?
Jesus is the One who is holy, true, and who holds the key of David. What He opens, no man can shut, and what He shuts, no one can open. I believe this is relevant to this church that is described as having little strength. Jesus is going to make a way for them.
8. In Isaiah 22, the prophet says God is deposing Shebna and replacing him with Eliakim. What is God going to do for Eliakim according to Isaiah 22:20-23?
God is going to hand over Shebna’s authority to Eliakim, who will become like a father to the Jews living in Jerusalem and to the house of Judah. God will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David.
9. How can you see that Eliakim is a dim foreshadowing of how Christ is described in Isaiah 9:6-7? How is Christ greater?
Christ will have the government upon His shoulders, and be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. He will reign on David’s throne, establishing justice and righteousness that will endure forever. Eliakim, a mere human, of course, is a shadow of Jesus as God handed over authority to him and to be like a father to the people (while Jesus is Everlasting Father). Jesus fulfills and does all of these things perfectly, and is the supreme authority over all.
10. Read Revelation 3:8-9
A. What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church? Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why?
Verse 8 says that Jesus knows their deeds and that they have little strength, yet they have kept His word and have not denied Him. I’m not sure if this means that the size of the church is small, or if it means that this church has been marginalized by the city or culture surrounding it; ignored, perhaps. The believers may have felt that they were insignificant or not impacting their city the way that they would’ve wanted to.
Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? What do you think?
I’m not sure….personally I don’t care for huge churches, or mega-churches. It’s so easy to feel lost in the crowd and like you don’t matter. It seems that many churches, very large ones, adopt almost a business model for how they are organized. In these big churches, you don’t know your pastor personally and he doesn’t know you. It’s impossible. I do think that growth is seen as good, though – how can you turn away new people? You wouldn’t want to do that.
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9, and what will God make them do one day?
They are described as a synagogue of Satan and as liars, and one day, God will make them acknowledge His love for the believers in the church at Philadelphia, and to fall at their feet.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?
The Jews who are currently of the synagogue of Satan and who are persecuting the believers at Philadelphia will one day turn and repent, bowing down and worshiping the true God. I had thought that them having to acknowledge that God loved the believers there and falling at their feet was a sort of punishment for them; I didn’t know it meant that they would join the believers in worship.
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response?
Prayer. Not retaliating in anger and hurting them in return. Holding fast to God’s Word. Perhaps, if they are willing, having a conversation about what we believe and why we believe it.
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11, Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it.
“Did they (the Jews) stumble so as to fall beyond recovery?” Hmm….not sure if Paul means their (the Jews) recovery, or that God “recovered” their stumbling (refusal to believe in Christ) in that He made a way for the Gentiles to be saved. Or, at the end of verse 12, it says “….how much greater riches will their fullness bring?” Does “their fullness” mean the day the Jews, or some of them, turn to Jesus?
Here’s a question: what if the Jews, as a whole, had embraced Christ? Would salvation then have not been opened up to the Gentiles?
I need to go back and read Campbell again! I must have missed what he said about the Jews joining in worship!
7. Again, how is Jesus described in Revelation 3:7 and how is this relevant to the church at Philadelphia?
“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.”
This was especially relevant to the Philadelphians because of the persecution they faced in the community.
8. In Isaiah 22, the prophet says God is deposing Shebna and replacing him with Eliakim. What is God going to do for Eliakim according to Isaiah 22:20-23?
” I will call my servant Eliakim… and I will clothe him with your robe, and will bind your sash on him, and will commit your authority to his hand. .. And I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David. He shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open…I will fasten him like a peg in a secure place, and he will become a throne of honor to his father’s house.”
9. How can you see that Eliakim is a dim foreshadowing of how Christ is described in Isaiah 9:6-7? How is Christ greater?
Eliakim receives authority from God, to open, to shut, to hold the key of David. But Christ is the everlasting Father, whose reign will have no end. He is the Eternal King.
10. Read Revelation 3:8-9
A. What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church? Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why?
He knows their works. He knows they are small and without much power, but they are faithful. He has set before them a door-an opportunity to share the Gospel. He has made them powerful even though they feel weak in their own strength and number.
B. G. K. Beales and David Campbell write: The Christian community at Philadelphia was small. In its own eyes, as well as the eyes of others, it may have seemed insignificant….Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? What do you think?
I think it’s very easy to place too much emphasis on number. I have been a part of a small church that expanded to almost “mega church” size in Texas and I remember fearing that we had lost some focus. I’ve also been a member of churches who believe in planting a new church when we reached a certain size and I appreciate that theology. I guess it’s all a matter of the heart and what you do with the growth, not allowing it to sway the preaching of the Gospel, the focus, but being used for His glory and purpose.
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9, and what will God make them do one day?
He will make them come and bow down before the feet of the Believers and they will know who God has given His favor to.
I love the plant a new church theology — they say that is the main way people come to Christ — and it is a natural barrier against wrong motives.
Wednesday
10. Read Revelation 3:8-9
A. What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church? All the things they do, they have an open door before them that no one could close, they have little strength, yet obeyed His word and did not deny Him. Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why? They had opportunities to witness and minister and I think they had little strength in themselves but great strength in the Lord because of their dependence upon Him…obeyed His Word and didn’t deny Him.
B. G. K. Beales and David Campbell write: The Christian community at Philadelphia was small. In its own eyes, as well as the eyes of others, it may have seemed insignificant….Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? Yes. What do you think? I think size registers as success and I know in our denomination it comes from the top. Pastors are recognized for the amount of new converts, baptisms, ministries happening within the church and money being given. I remember when my father-in-law pastored a church in Washington sharing with his son, my husband, that he was becoming discouraged because it wasn’t growing. His son pointed out all the people in his church who had left to go into the ministry in some capacity and didn’t think he had anything to be discouraged about. Christ was using Don’s ministry to open doors for others to minister or be missionaries. Personally, my husband and I always thought that was his gift.
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9, and what will God make them do one day? They belong to Satan’s synagogue, are described as liars and not Jews at all. God will force them to come and bow down at their feet. They will acknowledge that they are the ones He loves.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response? Love of course but for me it’s also, in gentleness and kindness getting behind the root cause. I’m learning as I get older there are reasons why people are the way they are. Everyone wants to be loved and heard…as you said in a response to me Dee, listening is so important.
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11 Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it. They didn’t stumble and fall beyond recovery but because they were disobedient God made salvation available to the Gentiles. Because the people of Israel turned down God’s offer of salvation which enriched the Gentiles, the world will share a much greater blessing when they finally accept it.
14. Read the two paragraphs beginning with “Because of their faithfulness in tribulation” from Dr. Campbell and answer:
A. Why does he think this does not refer to a secret coming when Christ takes believers out of this world? Because it wouldn’t really be relevant to the church of Philadelphia at the time if it is talking about events that won’t happen until a distant future time.
B. Whom does Scripture usually refer to by “those who dwell on the earth?” Possibly Asia Minor or the Roman Empire. Is this the same word that is translated world in John 3:16? Why wouldn’t it just say in your land if it only meant a limited area?
15. How does it impact you to realize you will be kept spiritually in the hour of trial but not necessarily physically? That has been something that I known for decades from reading books about people like Bonhoeffer, Corrie Tenboom, Fox’s Book of Martyrs. It isn’t pleasant to think about, but it is a possibility. The enemy can only kill the body not the soul.
16. What are your beliefs about a secret coming of Christ for believers (the rapture) and why? My view is that the time is going to be unknown, not necessarily secret in the sense that the rest of the earth won’t know about it. This is based on 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17. Until this study, I didn’t know that there was any question about whether there will be a literal rapture, only about when.
I don’t know how I read 14B wrong. I was thinking it asked what the word world referred to. I still have questions about that.
The phrase those who dwell on the earth usually refers to the lost.
16. My views on the rapture.
I’ve never heard nor thought of the rapture being ‘secret’. It occurs to me that as you write about it, Dee, the two words seem to be in tandem for you. I’m not sure if I’m seeing something that is there, or isn’t there. The sudden taking away of believers is something I’ve been taught essentially my whole Christian life. I am not ready to discard it because someone has a plausible explanation for the same verses I would go to for back up. But I wholeheartedly agree that this is not a salvation issue!! One of the truths of prophecy, meaning future events we’ve already been told about, is that we don’t see clearly all the details until after it takes place. That was certainly true for Christ’s first coming. People couldn’t reconcile that He would come from Bethlehem, be called a Nazarene, but no one would know where He came from. It is easy for us to look back and see how each of those things was true despite seeming contradictory. My bet is the same is true for how we see the Scriptures that haven’t yet been totally fulfilled. I am good with letting God bring things about the way He has planned, whether it happens as I had thought or not.
17. Revelation 3:11-12. What are we told to do? What are we promised?
We are told to hold on to what we have, so that no one will take our crown. I don’t know what that last part is all about, but holding on, to me means not letting this world, Satan, or even my flesh, take me away from the intimate relationship I have with Jesus. It is easy to drift, and suddenly realize we aren’t where we were with God and we aren’t even sure where He is. That is what I need to guard against.
We are promised, evidently, to keep our crown, to be a pillar in the heavenly temple, never again have a distance between us and God, and to have God’s three fold name written on us. All things that sound incredibly good to me!
18. Last paragraph from Campbell.
A. What comfort? “Whatever reality throughout history is represented by .. Satan’s synagogue, even institutions professing the name of Christ, will always be in opposition to genuine believers who love God and seek His presence.” Life is hard, and we often wonder if we’ve gotten off track. But we can be reassured that this is normal, expected, and in no way the final word. Jesus is worth it.
B. What warning?
Don’t fall into religious legalism or institutionalism. Keep your focus on God.
19. Take away.
I have questioned several times whether it was wise for me to commit to this study. I have several other things that need my attention, and a husband who doesn’t like when I spend what he considers to be too much time on the computer. Read that, he would rather I be available to him whenever for whatever. But my thought is that Satan doesn’t want me thinking about these things or interacting with all of you. He’d rather I get distracted and not wrestle with scripture in this way. I am in awe of women who can dig deep and find so much that brings light and life here. You all are precious to me. Someday we will have a wonderful group hug and have all the time we need to hear each other’s stories in depth!
Mary, I so agree that just as His first coming was so different than expected, so will be His second! It helps me live better just to be alert He’s coming.
As far as the secret rapture, that probably comes far more than the books and the movies than from Scripture!
I’m glad you are here!
Mary, I am so glad you are here and you are precious to me. Praying for you and that God will give us both wisdom and grace.
Mary, I love this- “I am good with letting God bring things about the way He has planned, whether it happens as I had thought or not. ” I feel the same way and will be hospitable to anybody who would have differing views. I often tell my Christian friends-let us agree on the essentials. And ask the Spirit to guide for the non-essentials.
Bing, absolutely!!
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11 Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it.
The question is posed asking if God’s people had fallen so much that there would be no recovery. The answer is no. The scripture basically says that God’s people turned down His offer of salvation, so He offered it to the Gentiles. His hope was that His people would become jealous and want it for themselves. The blessing would be great for the world when they finally accepted the offer.
Well put, Laura.
17. Read Revelation 3:11-12. What are we told to do and what are we promised?
We are to hold fast what we have and to overcome, we will have a home forever, and names of belonging written on us, even Christ’s own new name.
18. Read Dr. Campbell’s last paragraph and answer:
A. What comfort do you find?We will be protected spiritually and brought safely home, to a place of honor and belonging.
B. What warning?
We must seek to be basing everything in Christ, in step with the Spirit to avoid the traps os the enemy.
Thursday
14. Read the two paragraphs beginning with “Because of their faithfulness in tribulation” from Dr. Campbell and answer:
A. Why does he think this does not refer to a secret coming when Christ takes believers out of this world?
It wouldn’t have the relevance to the historical church in Philadelphia it appears to have. The protection is primarily spiritual, for Revelation does not promise protection from physical suffering, but believers will be kept safe in the midst of it. The Philadelphia church serves as a pattern for faithful churches throughout the church age to face seasons of trial.
B. Whom does Scripture usually refer to by “those who dwell on the earth?” The lost
15. How does it impact you to realize you will be kept spiritually in the hour of trial but not necessarily physically? It is a comfort.
16. What are your beliefs about a secret coming of Christ for believers (the rapture) and why? I believe in the rapture but it’s surely not something I’ll be dogmatic about. It’s interesting, cause this passage in Revelation is not a passage I correlate with the rapture. I know others have but I just didn’t agree. I think with the trumpets that will take place there will be no secret about it, but it will be quick.
Interesting on 16!
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?
The physical Israel (ethnic Jews) will come to true faith and bow down before the church, through Christ.
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response?
We can remind ourselves the truth that God promises to spiritually protect us against these attacks.
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11 Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it.
” through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their full inclusion mean!”
14. Read the two paragraphs beginning with “Because of their faithfulness in tribulation” from Dr. Campbell and answer:
A. Why does he think this does not refer to a secret coming when Christ takes believers out of this world?
Campbell says the phrase “whole world” is not literal, does not refer to the whole physical world; and it is unlikely that it refers to a rapture because then it would have no relevance to the Philadelphians.
B. Whom does Scripture usually refer to by “those who dwell on the earth?”
The lost., who will experience further hardening against God.
15. How does it impact you to realize you will be kept spiritually in the hour of trial but not necessarily physically?
Mostly, that gives me great peace. No one can snatch me out of His hand. My trials are tiny compared to some in the world, and yet that have shaped me and I have known suffering to an extent. I am thankful to know that He promises to keep me His spiritually. And yet it’s also sobering to remember there is no promise of physical protection. Reminds me of an old Twila Paris song I always loved “Do I trust You Lord?…I would rather die than lose my faith in the One I love…” It is a comfort to know He keeps us.
16. What are your beliefs about a secret coming of Christ for believers (the rapture) and why?
The idea of a rapture has always sounded strange to me but I admit I have not studied these things enough. My simple child-like faith has just always trusted that whenever He comes, I will be safe and it wouldn’t be scary or upsetting to me, but joy-filled and peaceful, but I know that’s a simple faith not based on intellectual knowledge.
17. Read Revelation 3:11-12. What are we told to do and what are we promised?
Promises: I am coming soon. To those who conquer, He will make him a pillar and write on him God’s name, and the name of the city of God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from God out of heaven, and His own new name.
Instruction to us: Hold fast what you have, keep faithful.
18. Read Dr. Campbell’s last paragraph and answer:
A. What comfort do you find?
We are promised eternal union with God and fellowship with Him. Those who are faithful will be a pillar in God’s temple with 3 names upon him.
B. What warning?
We will face opposition. We must always seek to base our life (Individually and as the church) on the eternal church and life in the Spirit, or we will fall into legalism, institutionalism, and death.
I like this a lot:
My simple child-like faith has just always trusted that whenever He comes, I will be safe and it wouldn’t be scary or upsetting to me, but joy-filled and peaceful…
Lizzy, you encourage me so with you child-like faith!
I am so far behind this week, but I am reading all of the answers and thought from all of you amazing ladies! What a blessing to be in this group. I love your answer to the rapture, Lizzy. I do believe that we will never totally understand the second coming or the rapture with our earthly minds, but the Bible does gives us the comfort and knowledge that Christ will return; we shall meet Him face to face, as we arrive in heaven or at the second coming. So many of the Bible verses on this are so beautiful and visual. I cling to that. I don’t feel that I need to understand the details. Even when I pray, I sometimes imagine the way the prayer will be answered…so far, my prayers have been answered in ways I have never imagined ~and far beyond what I could imagine! I believe in my simple faith that when I meet Jesus it will be a day that is filled with joy and love beyond anything I can imagine on this earth! I love I Corinthians 13:12: For now we see in a mirror [fn]dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I also have been fully known
So well put, my dear friend Patti.
Wonderful statements, Lizzy
Thursday
17. Read Revelation 3:11-12. What are we told to do and what are we promised? To “hold fast” to what we have, which I think refers back to verse 8…dependence upon God, relying upon Him for strength, obedience to the word and not denying Him. It goes on to say “so that no one will take away your crown.” I believe this is the crown of victory (Philippians 3:14, “I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.”)
We are promised to become pillars in the Temple of our God, will never have to leave it, the name of God written on us and a new name written on us.
18. Read Dr. Campbell’s last paragraph and answer:
A. What comfort do you find? That Christ comes throughout the church age to strengthen Christians in distress. The above 4 promises.
B. What warning? The church on earth must always seek to base its life and existence in the eternal temple and in life in the Spirit, or it will fall into religious legalism, institutionalism and death.
Wednesday: Synagogue of Satan versus Temple of God
10. Read Revelation 3:8-9
A. What does verse 8 tell us that Jesus knows about this church? Based on this verse, what do you think this means and why?
They are of little strength-maybe just a small group of believers who are dedicated to the Lord.
Small in number, maybe not popular, maybe poor with no clout in their community, living quiet and noble lives.
B. G. K. Beales and David Campbell write: The Christian community at Philadelphia was small. In its own eyes, as well as the eyes of others, it may have seemed insignificant….Does our Christian culture place too much significance on size? What do you think?
Yes. We often think bigger is better. And if a church offers a lot of “activities, then it is a great church. Bill Hogg, I think, is the one who said that churches nowadays want relevance and not necessarily, the gospel.
C. How are those who claim to be Jews described in verse 9, and what will God make them do one day?
They are liars and not true Jews-one of these days, they will acknowledge that what “small” Philadelphia” is saying is true. They will bow down before the true Jews.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s third paragraph under Philadelphia. What do you learn?
Physical Jews will bow before the church-will become part of the worshipping community of the church
12. Just as there were nominal Jews (in name only) there are nominal Christians. And just as nominal Jews persecuted true Jews, nominal Christians persecute true Christians. What should be our response?
To respond with gentleness and respect as God will always be with us to strengthen us spiritually.
13. In Romans 9, 10, and 11 Paul has a lengthy discussion about the Jews, answering the question, “Has God forgotten them?” Though this is too much to go into, there seems to be a hope of restoration in Romans 11:11-12. Find it.
God has allowed non-Jews (Gentiles) to become His children so that Jews will see God’s love for the Gentiles and will be “envious” of them to the point of wanting to be included in the family of God in the true sense of the word. Not a nominal Jew but a true Jew.
Thursday: I Will Keep You From The Hour of Trial
This is a hard passage that I pray will not divide us. Futurists would interpret this as the rapture, and Idealists would interpret this as being kept spiritually safe during tribulation, which they would see as the whole period between Christ’s ascension and return. We need to give grace here, for these are hard passages. I have come to agree with the Idealist view, but as one theologian said, “I reserve my right to change my mind in the air.”
14. Read the two paragraphs beginning with “Because of their faithfulness in tribulation” from Dr. Campbell and answer:
A. Why does he think this does not refer to a secret coming when Christ takes believers out of this world?
The protection that God gives is primarily spiritual, not physical protection, as suffering will be expected, but we will be kept safe through it all. So the entire church age (which I think is NT times to now and until Jesus comes again) is cast as the great tribulation.
B. Whom does Scripture usually refer to by “those who dwell on the earth?”
It refers to describe the lost who will “experience bitterness and further hardening against God”.
“Soon” means he will be helping the Philadelphian church and in the same way He comes to us when we are in distress.
15. How does it impact you to realize you will be kept spiritually in the hour of trial but not necessarily physically?
I feel a sense of hope and blessedness that He will be there with me always.
16. What are your beliefs about a secret coming of Christ for believers (the rapture) and why?
I am not sure about the secret part. I know that He will come again. When? I do not know. The only thing I know is that I should be ready for His coming. And that will be the end of it; well, wait! the end of earthly life and the beginning of eternal life?
From Bing:
I am not sure about the secret part. I know that He will come again. When? I do not know. The only thing I know is that I should be ready for His coming. And that will be the end of it; well, wait! the end of earthly life and the beginning of eternal life?
REPLY
14. Read the two paragraphs beginning with “Because of their faithfulness in tribulation” from Dr. Campbell and answer:
A. Why does he think this does not refer to a secret coming when Christ takes believers out of this world?
I’m not really sure other than he says the scripture is talking specifically about Palestine (the whole world)?
B. Whom does Scripture usually refer to by “those who dwell on the earth?”
These are the lost.
15. How does it impact you to realize you will be kept spiritually in the hour of trial but not necessarily physically?
I would have to admit that it scares me. To have my body be destroyed is a frightful thing. I am happy that spiritually I will be safe though.
16. What are your beliefs about a secret coming of Christ for believers (the rapture) and why?
I don’t know enough to make a statement other than I believe God will come, He will judge, and I (hope) will be taken away with Him to heaven. I don’t think it would be secret though, but what I base this on I’m not sure? I thought that Christ would come and we need to be ready. I picture it as a huge event, however that’s how the Israelites thought it would happen too. They didn’t expect a little baby and love as the impetus for their salvation!
We had an interesting discussion in our in person study on this Laura — one young woman referred to stories that implied martyrs didn’t feel physical pain. Steven didn’t seem to — I hope that’s true!
Friday: Hope and Encouragement for Those Who Persevere
17. Read Revelation 3:11-12. What are we told to do and what are we promised?
To do: Hold on to what we have so we will not lost our crown.
18. Read Dr. Campbell’s last paragraph and answer:
A. What comfort do you find?
I will be made a pillar in the temple of God.
Wow- a pillar to me is something permanent. Nothing can remove or separate me from God physically. And even now, the promise of “nothing can separate me from the love of God…” is just a faint picture of the permanence of my presence with Him.
I will be marked with the name of God, the city of my God…
Tattoos! LOL Joking aside, when I have traveled abroad, my passport needed to be stamped before entry to that country. Likewise, I will be “stamped/marked” and I can enter into the fullness of His presence and of the feast table.
… and I will have a new name
I like my name, first given to me being borne of my parents; then, my last name got changed when I get married. In Heaven, my new name will speak of God’s ownership of me and will never need to change!
B. What warning?
We need to listen or we may fall into religious legalism, institutionalism and death.
Bing, such good comments on being stamped and that giving you access, and then the identification of new names!
17. Read Revelation 3:11-12. What are we told to do and what are we promised?
We are told to hang on. We are promised that we will be pillars (?) in the temple of God. We will never have to leave it. We will have God’s name on us and be citizens of heaven (the new Jerusalem).
18. Read Dr. Campbell’s last paragraph and answer:
A. What comfort do you find?
The bit about eternal union with Christ is comforting.
B. What warning?
The warning is to always be seeking the Spirit or fall into legalism, institutionalism, or death.
Saturday
19. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
In reading commentaries I came across some quotes from Barclay…”Philadelphia had been built with the deliberate intention that it might become a missionary city. Beyond Philadelphia lay the wilds of Phrygia and the barbarous tribes; and it was intended that the function of Philadelphia should be to spread the Greek way of life, the Greek civilization, throughout the regions beyond.”
Another quote, “Philadelphia (because it was prosperous) commanded one of the greatest highways in the world, the highway which led from Europe to the East. Philadelphia was the gateway from one continent to another.”
This helps me understand why Jesus introduced Himself as “He who has the key…”. They understood that their little church was an opportunity to spread the gospel. The hard part is, they didn’t know the beyond but through perseverance, keeping the word and His comforting words, “I will keep you safe” (not take them out) “from the hour of trial” they could trust in Him to open doors or close them, even if that meant losing their lives. I think that whenever and wherever we have an opportunity to share the gospel God is in control of that situation and being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading is so important. Going back to the illustration of my father-in-law being discouraged that his church wasn’t growing because people were leaving to go into ministry and become missionaries is one of the reasons why I think Philadelphia was so small…they were being equipped to go out and spread the gospel. Just my thoughts.
This week really encouraged me in reading all your responses and the love and grace that exudes from y’all…thank you!
That’s a really interesting thought on why they were small!
My takeaway:
I watch a little bit of the movie “Case for Christ” about Lee Strobel’s journey from atheism to Christianity. In one scene, Lee was interviewing a scholar in Israel and he was asking pointed questions to the man. This went for a few minutes and the man was being very patient with him. Finally, the man asked Lee what the point of the interview because he sounded like he already made up his mind about Christianity. Lee was on a search to disprove Christianity; he has no intention of finding the truth.
I am glad that when it comes to the interpretation of Revelation it is not about the essence of Christianity, salvation by grace through faith in the one and the only way to God. I am grateful for the views that have been shared here as well as from Dr. Campbell’s book. My intellectual muscle has been exercised much here, forming convictions that I never had before. I pray that I would continually seek the Spirit for understanding.
Our church has a “Philadelphia” attribute-we are a small congregation. May we not allow our smallness to be an excuse for hiding our light under a bushel or doing our part to share the gospel wherever we go. We have taken a hit from Covid in terms of number but I believe it only has strengthened the ones who have remained faithful.
What I’m finding, Bing, is that there is so much that is applicable no matter your view.