Read: Revelation 3:7-11
Behold, I have set before you an open door. (v. 8)
Of all the churches, this one seems to have been the Lord’s favorite. It’s the only church of which he has no words of either criticism or warning. The same formula (“I know your works”) that introduces Christ’s judgment on churches like Ephesus or Sardis is used in Philadelphia as a prelude to comfort.
In human terms the Philadelphian church was small and weak. But it was faithful. It held fast to Christ’s word and kept proclaiming his name in the face of opposition. It was displaying that most important fruit of the Spirit: patient endurance. So Jesus blessed his church in Philadelphia.
He reminded them of the open door he had set before them. No one could shut out those whom Jesus had invited into the kingdom of God, because he held the only key. In fact, Jesus himself was the open door—the door of the sheep (John 10:7), the narrow gate that led to life (Matt. 7:14). By trusting in him, the Christians of Philadelphia had entered the kingdom, and the Lord promised that their faith would be vindicated. One day their enemies would be made to bow down before them, “and they will learn that I have loved you” (Rev. 3:9). When I read these words, I think of all those who have been harassed or arrested or beaten or forced to flee their homelands because they turned from the majority religion to follow Jesus. Eventually everyone—especially their persecutors—will know they were right. —David Bast
As you pray, give thanks for Jesus, the open door.
About the Author
Rev. Dave Bast retired as the President and Broadcast Minister of Words of Hope in January 2017, after 23 years with the ministry. Prior to his ministry and work at Words of Hope, Dave served as a pastor for 18 years in congregations in the Reformed Church in America. He is the author of several devotional books. A graduate of Hope College and Western Theological Seminary, he has also studied at both the Fuller and Calvin seminaries. Dave and his wife, Betty Jo, have four children and four grandchildren. Dave enjoys reading, growing tomatoes, and avidly follows the Detroit Tigers.
