0984. The Church at Philadelphia
The Church at Philadelphia
"Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie: behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee" (Rev_3:9)
The word "Philadelphia" means "brotherly love." The steady decline from the church of Apostolic days, as represented by Ephesus, through successive periods of church life, as represented by Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, and Sardis, seem to culminate in the last days under the message to the Church at Laodicea.
It is most refreshing therefore that we have preceding Laodicea the vision of the Church at Philadelphia. This church stands forth in the midst of the growing shadows as a beacon light for God.
The Church at Philadelphia seems to scope that period of time following the days of the Reformation and leading up to the return of the Lord. It doubtless continues during the period of the Apostasy set forth by Laodicea because it is given the promise: "Behold, I come quickly."
1. There is only one distinctive charge against Philadelphia. "I will make them of the synagogue of satan, which say they are Jews, and are not but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet." The charge above suggests the possibility of the same Judaistic legality that began its deadly work at Smyrna., The language is very strong, they are called, "The synagogue of satan."
2. There is not so much said in favor of Philadelphia, and yet there is enough said to rejoice the heart. Let us notice the commendations.
(1) "Thou hast a little strength." The words seem to suggest that the church is numerically depleted. They also remind us of an expression of our Lord, "Fear not, little flock." There is before us a church weak in numbers, but faithful; unrecognized of men, but loved of God.
(2) "Thou hast kept My Words, and hast not denied My Name." The Church must not become discouraged and imagine that there are none left on earth who remain true to the Lord, and who show forth the glories of His name. There are saints who like Enoch of old walk with God, even in the midst of darkening apostasy.
Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR