Be The Faithful Church

“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name. Indeed, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out 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 I will write on him My new name.” (Revelation 3:8-12, NKJV)

The first three chapters of the Book of Revelation listed and identified the Seven Churches. They were classified according to their attributes described and declared by the Lord Jesus Christ. Among these seven churches, the Church in Philadelphia was recognized as faithful. The Lord, who was watching from heaven, declared, “I see what you’ve done. Now see what I’ve done. I’ve opened a door before you that no one can slam shut. You don’t have much strength, I know that; you used what you had to keep my Word. You didn’t deny me when times were rough.” (Revelation 3:8, The Message) 

What an encouraging word from the Lord! God’s promise of deliverance is for those who keep His Word and have not denied His name.

As God looks upon the earth, may we be found faithful as a Church. Let us not step back but hold on to our faith amid this crisis, hardships, and whatever difficulties or tribulations will come. Let us continue to pursue God wholeheartedly. Let us be faithful like the Church in Philadelphia. Let us grow in His words and keep His commandments with perseverance with the help of the Holy Spirit. Let us hold fast together as a Church. By His grace, we will experience the deliverance the Lord Jesus promised that He would spare us from the trial that will come upon the earth and cause us to overcome the test. Praise and glory be to His name!

– Contributed by Ptr. Neil Marlon Crisostomo