Read Revelation 3
Highlights:
The Holy Spirit speaks to us through His Word. Commendation to some in Sardis because they have not defiled their garments (Rev. 3:4). The church in Philadelphia is rewarded (3:8-12). The lukewarm church in Laodicea is rebuked (3:15-19). The Lord knocks at the door of our heart. Worship (4:1-11). The Lamb is worthy! The chorus resounds (5:4-14)!
The church in Sardis could boast that there were no false doctrines being taught; but there was an equally serious sin. Unto . . . the church in Sardis write . . . I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die. . . . repent (Rev. 3:1-3).
A few names . . . in Sardis . . . have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh . . . I will not blot out his name out of the Book of Life (3:4-5). During His earthly ministry, Jesus also had said: If ye keep (obey from the heart) My Commandments, ye shall abide in My love (John 15:10; see 15:6).
The church in Philadelphia probably seemed weak and insignificant as far as the world was concerned; their number was small and they had only a little strength (Rev. 3:8). But notice! That small group of Christians in Philadelphia was not dependent upon their little strength; their faith was in Christ, who had opened a door that no one — not even those of the synagogue of Satan (3:9) — was able to close. Jesus commended the church, saying: Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou . . . hast kept My Word. . . . I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation (testing), which shall come upon all the world (3:8,10). God works through those who realize their own insufficiency to accomplish His work.
The majority of church members in Laodicea probably congratulated themselves on being broad-minded. They probably pitied the narrow-minded Christians in Philadelphia. The Laodicean believers prided themselves on their ability to compromise. But Jesus severely condemned Laodicea: So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue (vomit) thee out of My mouth (3:16). Still, He urged them: Be zealous (diligent) therefore, and repent (3:19).
Today God still has an open door to evangelize the world. It is one which God in His grace has entrusted to all of us.
Jesus is still saying: I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne (Rev. 3:20-21).
Thought for Today:
Jesus said: Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matt. 11:28).
Cross Reference:
For Rev. 3:5: See Ex. 32:32. Rev. 3:12: See Is. 62:2. Rev. 4:2-3: See Ezek. 1:28. Rev. 4:5: See Zech. 4:2. Rev. 4:6: See Ezek. 1:22. Rev. 4:7: See Ezek. 1:10. Rev. 4:8: See Is. 6:2-3.
Word Studies:
3:20 sup, feast, share spiritual food and fellowship; 4:6 beasts, living ones.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Randy Neugebauer (TX) and Sen. Jeff Sessions (AL) • Country: Lebanon (4.3 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Arabic and French • Limited religious freedom • 55% Muslim (Shi'a, Sunni); 41% Christian (Maronite, Orthodox, Melchite, Protestant, Chaldean, Assyrian, Syriac); 3% Druze; 1% Others (Jewish, Baha'i, Alawi, Jehovah's Witness) • Prayer Suggestion: Don't try to impress others with your prayers; pray about whatever is on your heart (Matt. 6:7-8).
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Corinthians 13:3
