The Unshakable Faith of the Church in Philadelphia
This is the sixth installment of the letters to the seven churches in Revelations 2 and 3.
While John was exiled on the island of Patmos, Jesus told him to write letters to seven early Christian churches. These letters offered spiritual feedback — encouragement, corrections, and promises based on their situations.
These timeless messages still apply to today’s church. They are relevant to the entire community of believers and individuals who belong to God (1 Cor. 6:19–20, 3:16–17; Rom. 12:1; Rom. 8:9; Rom. 14:8).
This article focuses on the letter to the Church in Philadelphia.
As I have done in previous articles, I will begin with an overview of the city. Then, I’ll explore the church’s spiritual state and the specific message Jesus had for them. Next, I will discuss how this letter is relevant to today’s church. Finally, I will end the article with an opportunity to examine ourselves and make the necessary changes for our salvation and witness.
The Seven Churches
The seven main early churches that John wrote the letters to were located in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey): Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. These churches reflected many of the problems and characteristics associated with the greater Christian community of that time.
This article focuses on the Church in Philadelphia. But first, let’s discuss the group of letters.
The Letters
Jesus, the head of the church (Col. 1:8), dictated the letters to John. He addressed each letter to the angels of each church. In Greek and Hebrew, “angel” means “messenger.” This may have referred to the pastors, spiritual angels, or messengers communicating for the churches (Got Questions Ministries).
It’s also important to note that each of these letters followed a specific flow. The Lord describes himself in such a way that highlights the church’s situation. Then, Jesus shares unique insights about the church. He challenges or corrects them and ends with a promise. It is believed that this method was done to establish that John is writing each letter under the full dictation of Jesus.
After providing a brief background about the city of Philadelphia, I will follow the same format as the letter. Then, I will explain how this letter applies to today’s church.
The Church of Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7–13)
Background of the City
Philadelphia was built in the 2nd century BCE by King Attalus II of Pergamon. The king of Pergamum founded the city in in 189 BC and named it Philadelphia because of his brother’s loyalty to him. His brother was the king of Lydia.
The city was strategically positioned on a major trade route, boosting its economy. Agriculture (wine and grapes) was a major source of income, and Philadelphia also had a thriving textile industry (producing leather goods and red-dyed silk). Famous for its vineyards, the people began worshipping Dionysius, the god of wine. The city also had temples dedicated to a number of other gods and goddesses. By the fifth century, it was known as “little Athens” due to its numerous temples and religious festivals. The city also housed an imperial cult. However, Philadelphia was also an important Christian center.
Despite periods of prosperity under Roman and Byzantine rule, Philadelphia faced many challenges. Invasions and earthquakes contributed to its final demise. Today, the town of Alashehir stands on the site of ancient Philadelphia, where relics can still be found.
Letter to the Church of Philadelphia
Jesus identifies himself as “He who is holy, who is true, who has the key of David, who opens doors and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens,” (Rev. 3:7 ESV). Because Jesus is holy, he cannot lie.
Having the key of David refers to the lineage of royalty exercising his authority to allow those who are saved to enter his earthly kingdom, which he will rule from his throne in Israel, while locking out all unbelievers (Isa 22:22). These doors includes opportunity for the church in Philadelphia to spread the gospel while shutting out the church’s enemies (GotQuestions.org, 2022)
Praise (Rev. 3:8)
Jesus acknowledges and commends their deeds. From his mercy and grace, Jesus put before them an open door which no one can shut because you have little power but kept his word and have not denied his name.
The Lord provided opportunities for the church to serve him—opportunities that neither man nor the devil can take away. The church did not depend on their own abilities but was faithful to the Word of God. They professed their faith in the midst of persecution.
Rebuke (Rev. 3:9)
Jesus’ rebuke was not directed to the church in Philadelphia, but those who persecuted the church. Like those of Smyrna, militant Jews in Philadelphia made life hard for the church. The Lord called them liars, and said they actually belonged and served satan. Jesus promised that he will compel the false Jews to acknowledge the believer’s valid faith in Jesus and recognize that Jesus loves the believers.
The day is coming when we all will have to bow down and declare that Jesus is Lord. (Rom. 14:11; Phil. 2:10–11; Psa. 72:11; Heb. 6:13).
Promise (Rev. 3:10–12)
“Because you have kept my word of perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of the testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who live on the earth.” (Rev. 3:10 ESV).
Jesus makes it clear that the church will not go through the hour of testing, referring to the “tribulation”. The tribulation is a seven-year period of intense hardship throughout the “whole world”. Known as the rapture, Jesus will take Christians out of the world before the tribulation begins. (Rev. 3:10; 1 Thess. 4:13–18).
He also promises that he is coming quickly and to hold firmly to what you have (Opportunity to spread the gospel, the Word of God and loyalty to him), so that no one will take your crown (of righteousness). (Rev. 3:11).
“To the one who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and 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 new name.” (Rev. 3:12).
Philadelphia experienced many earthquakes, and it was the pillars that withstood the quake. Jesus used this analogy to illustrate that he will make his people a pillar (foundation) in heaven, remaining safe forever. Jesus promised stability, where these Christians will have a permanent home in and with him.
Jesus also promised to inscribe on these overcomers the names of God, the city of My God, the new Jerusalem described in Rev. 21 & 22, and Jesus new name (Revelation 19:12). Pillars were pictures of strength, stability, and dignified beauty. In those days, to have your name inscribed on a pillar was an honor, so to have these names inscribed on these overcomers was a high honor (Guzik, n.d.).
He concludes the letter with “The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Rev. 3:13). This is important, so listen and heed to these words. Each letter to the 7 churches ended with this instruction.
Today’s Significance
In the midst of intense challenges, the church in Philadelphia remained faithful to Christ. Despite being surrounded by heavy idolatry and persecution, the church remained loyal to God. They sought the Lord for answers. They chose not to take matters into their own hands or relying on man’s opinion for solutions.
In their weakness, the church in Philadelphia stayed focused on serving the Lord and spreading the gospel throughout Asia Minor.
Key Takeaways
I would like to take a moment to highlight key points that speak directly to today’s church:
1. The church kept the word of Christ and did not deny his name.
The church in Philadelphia were not only hearers of the word but also doers of the Word (Jas. 1:22; Lk. 11:28; Jn. 14:15; 1 Jn. 5:2–3; Jn 14:23–24; Matt 7:21–27). They did not deny the name of Christ through their actions.
Today, there is beautiful architecture, charismatic preachers, prophets, and teachers, and angelic-sounding voices singing award-winning, loosely Christian songs. They can recite scriptures like Shakespeare and “lay hands” with the best of them. But their hearts could not be further from the truth. They not only deny the name of Jesus, but they are mocking him!
This was not the case for the church in Philadelphia. They loved the Lord and practiced his teachings. They did not deny Jesus’ name.
2. The church did not depend on their own strength, but they leaned on God.
Throughout scripture, we are instructed to trust in the Lord and to lean on his guidance (Prov. 3:5; Psa. 1:1–3; Jer. 33:3; Rom. 8:6; Ps. 37:5–7). The church in Philadelphia did just that. They understood that they could not do anything without Christ (Jn. 15:5; Phil. 4:12–13) and sought his wisdom to help them through their situations (Jas. 1:5; Prov. 8:10–11; Jas. 3:17). They could not go wrong depending on Jesus (Psa. 111:10; Prov. 19:23; Matt. 11:28–30).
Today, knowledge is more abundant and easily accessible. AI has changed the game for knowledge on just about everything. We obtain all kinds of degrees and certifications to appear wise, but that knowledge can take us only so far (Rom. 8:6; 2 Cor. 5:7). There is a path that leads to destruction — the wisdom of man is fleeting and will fail you (Prov. 14:12).
3. The church focused on seizing the opportunities Jesus provided for them: Advancing the gospel of Christ.
The church did not allow the distractions of the threat of persecution, lack and other obstacles stop them from achieving their purpose of advancing the gospel (Matt. 28:16–20).
The Apostle Paul likens the Christian journey to a race. He states, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” (1 Cor. 9:24 ESV).
He states, “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24 ESV).
Later, as he knew death was near, Paul says that he completed his race. “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith. Henceforth, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Tim. 4:6–8).
We are constantly bombarded with distractions: the busyness of life, school, work, and family responsibilities. We appear busy but not productive at the right things. We must become intentional with caring for the things of God and make it a point to do them (1 Cor. 7:35; Lk 10:38–42; Matt. 6:33; Gal. 5:16–17).
Paul shared that he forgets those things which are behind and reaches for the things before him. “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phillipians 3:14 ESV).
We must be like the church in Philadelphia, and Paul: Stay alert and focused on the opportunities to spread the gospel. (Matt. 28;19–20; Acts 1:8; Rom. 10:14; 1 Pet. 3:15; 1 Cor. 9:22–23; 2 Tim 4;2; Eph. 6:19–20).
4. They persevered through persecution.
The church in Philadelphia endured all kinds of persecution. They stood on the Word of God to make it through.
Jesus warned that there will be persecution (Matt. 10:16–33; Lk. 21:12–19; Jn. 15:20; Matt. 5:10–12). This just comes with the territory, so expect it. But he assures us to be unafraid, for he’s with us (Matt. 10:26–33; 28:30).
James encourages us to “count it all joy when we meet trials of various kinds.” He reminds the church that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness, and letting steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (Jas. 1:2–4; 12). The church in Philadelphia practiced this in that they demonstrated their faith and trust in God as they were going through diverse challenges. They did not know how it would work out, but they knew that God was in control, that it would work out for their good, and that God would get the ultimate glory from it.
5. Jesus promised blessings for those who endured and overcame.
Another key takeaway was of Jesus’ promise of open doors that God sets before us. He invites us to step into new opportunities for growth and spread the gospel. The Lord also reminds us that his love and faithfulness to the body of Christ are unwavering. He’s with us through the storms of life (Isa. 43:2, 54:11–12; Psa. 16:8; Psa. 91:15; Job 37:9–13; Matt. 28:20; 1 Pet. 1:6–7).
Is This You?
Please consider these questions when examining your own relationship with the Lord. I’ve included scriptures for your edification. This list of scriptures is not exhaustive.
- Have you met anyone who talked a good talk, but did not walk the walk? (Jas. 1:22–25). There are many who say they love the Lord, but their actions show something totally different (Titus 1:16; 1 Jn. 2:4). Or is it you?
- Do you actively strive to live out the love of Christ in your relationships and interactions with others at work (Eph. 5:2; 2 Jn. 1:6; Jn. 13:34)?
- Jesus said that he liberally gives wisdom to those who ask (Jas. 1:5; Prov. 2:6; 1 Jn. 2:27). Have you asked God for wisdom in your struggles and insight when making decisions? God wants to be involved in every aspect of your life (Jer. 29:11–13; Eph. 1:3–14). He loves you like that. In what areas do you depend on your wisdom instead of God (Prov. 3:5–6)?
- Jesus called his followers to spread the gospel of Christ (Matt. 28:16–20; Mark 16:15). This means we will have to step out of our comfort zone, and we will face opposition (Matt. 10:39, 14:29; Jos. 1:9; Isa. 41:10, 42:16; Phil. 4:13; Prov. 3:5–6; Deut. 1:6–8). Are you willing to remain loyal and obedient to God’s call? In what areas do you need help?
- What has God told you to do that you have been putting off, or does some new distraction keep you from doing it (1 Cor. 14:40; Eccl. 9:10, 11:4; Gal 6:9; Heb 12:11; Eph 5:15–17; Prov. 12:24, 14:23; 18:9, 5:23, 10:5; Jas 4:17; John 9:4; Ps. 119:60)? What processes can you put into place to ensure you focus on making Christ a priority in your life (Psa. 119:15; Phil. 4:8; Matt. 6:33)?
- Is maintaining a strong and authentic relationship with God a priority (Rom. 5:8, 8:15; Jn. 3:16; Jn. 14:6; Rom. 6:23; 1 Pet. 5:6–7; Jn. 1:10–13)? Do you invest time to pray, study the word, and worship God (2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 4:12; Phil. 4:6; 1 Thess. 5:17; Rom. 8:26; Jn. 4:24; Ps. 95:6; Rom. 12:1)? Are you known for your dedication to serving others in your faith community, demonstrating love of Christ?
The letter to the Church of Philadelphia has valuable lessons that speak directly to today’s church. The key takeaways are that the church kept the word of Christ, leaned on God, focused on advancing the gospel, persevered through persecution, and offered blessings for those who endured and overcame.
You may be going through a situation where you’re wondering where God is because you feel alone. My brother, my sister, Jesus promised that he will never leave you or forsake you (Heb. 13:5; Matt. 28:20; Deut. 31:6; Jos. 1:5). The letter to the church in Philadelphia is a love letter from Jesus, letting you know that he sees you and that he is working on your behalf. So don’t get weary of doing the right thing, for you will reap if you don’t give up.
I pray that this article helps you in your Christian walk. It’s not too late to repent and allow God to use you for his glory.
But please do not procrastinate on this. The next moment is not promised to any of us (Isa. 55:6; Prov. 27:1; Jas. 4:14; Psa. 90:12; Lk. 12:20).
Please note: This article addresses the church (followers of Christ). If you would like to know more about Jesus and how you can have a relationship with him and become a follower of Christ, I would be honored to introduce you.
References
Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers (n.d.). Revelations, Chapter 3. ESV.org. Retrieved June 16, 2024, from https://www.esv.org/Revelation+3/
Free Text Bible Commentaries — Blue Letter Bible. Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/
GotQuestions.org. (2022, January 4). GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/church-in-Philadelphia.html
Got Questions Ministries. (n.d.). Revelations, Chapter 3. BibleRef. Retrieved March 23, 2024, from https://www.bibleref.com/Revelation/3/Revelation-chapter-3 .html
Guzik, D. (n.d.). Study Guide for Revelation 3. Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/revelation/revelation-3.cfm?a=1170007
