Today’s passage: Revelation 3:7-13
Helpful thoughts:
- Because the city of Philadelphia aided in reconstruction after an earthquake early in the first century AD, Rome had given the city a temporary and honorary new name (“Neocaesarea” or “Caesar’s New City”). Christ’s promise to the Christians who hold fast is infinitely greater, to be part of the temple in the “New Jerusalem.”
- Jesus is the one who holds the keys to the kingdom.
- The church may face hardship and persecution from the hands of the world (Even from those who claim to be following God but are not). But, God’s people will never face the wrath of God against their sin. In the end, we win in Christ!
Questions to consider:
- What does Jesus call those who proclaim they are Jews (followers of God) and are not? What is a true Christian and what do true Christians do? What is true of those who say they are Christians and churches in our culture today but do not submit to the Word of God, preach the Gospel or call people to follow Christ in spirit and truth?
- When we do suffer in this world, what kinds of things cause our suffering? What will bring about the end of our suffering? To what do we look forward once our suffering has ended? How does this outlook differ/contrast with what the realities of the rest of the world? Who has gifted us with these promises and how?
- How does faith in the promises of God help us to hold fast in the midst of this life in this world? Why is it right to consider our successful perseverance a result of faith and a gift of God’s grace?