Revelation churches - part 6

Next, we see the message to the church of Philadelphia. This city was built by, and named after, a king with the same name. It was demolished by the same earthquake that hit Sardis, but had vineyards, and probably a wine-making industry to keep it going.

"To the angel of the assembly in Philadelphia write: He who is holy, he who is true, he who has the key of David, he who opens and no one can shut, and that shuts and no one opens, says these things: I know your works (behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one can shut), that you have a little power, and kept my word, and didn't deny my name. Behold, I give of the synagogue of Satan, of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but lie. Behold, I will make them to come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. Because you kept the word of my patience, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that which is to come on the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. I come quickly. Hold firmly that which you have, so that no one takes your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will go out from there no more. 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 out of heaven from my God, and my own new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies." (Rev 3:7-13)web

Jesus makes them a promise here that blows peoples' minds. He tells them they will be kept out of the hour of testing that is to come! In other words, when the Tribulation begins, these people will be safe from the harsh times that will come upon all who live on the earth! This refers to the coming Rapture. Jesus makes it plain that those who are truly Christian will escape this horrible time.

Notice that Jesus warns them to "Hold firmly that which you have, so that no one takes your crown." Do not go soft, and assume your work is done!

Be a pillar in God's temple. Wear His name proudly!

And... Keep those ears working!