The History of Philadelphia:
1 John 4:7 Dear friends, let us love one another, because love is from God, and everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." (HCSB)
Philadelphia: means "city of brotherly love."
1) Jesus presents Philadelphia with an opportunity! Vs. 7b-8a "What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut." (NIV)
Doors that are Sought!
Colossians 4:3
Doors that are Shut!
Galatians 6:10
Doors that are Sent!
1 Corinthians 16:8-9 "But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, because a wide door for effective ministry has opened for me yet many oppose me." (HCSB)
2) Jesus Commends Philadelphia! Vs. 8 "I know your deeds... I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name." (NIV)
Their Obedience was being all Ears.
2 John 1:6 "And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love." (NIV)
Their Obedience was Enlarging!
Luke 19:17 "Well done, my good servant!' his master replied. 'Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities." (NIV)
Question: Will you do whatever God asks of you?
3) Jesus Commands Philadelphia! Vs. 11-12 "I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God." (NIV)
Hold on in the Face of Opposition of Persecution!
Your Prayer: "Dear Lord, I want to obey you in all things. By your power keep me faithful."
