The Commendation-Revelation 3:8

The Commendation-Revelation 3:8

THE COMMENDATION

“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 (3:8).

Your works – Christ found nothing in their deeds that caused Him concern. They had kept His Word (Revelation 1:3, Matthew 28:20) and had not denied His name.

Open door and no one can shut it – Their entrance into the blessings of salvation by grace and into Christ’s future messianic kingdom was guaranteed. Christ opening the door symbolizes His giving the faithful Philadelphia church opportunities for service. An open door depicts freedom to proclaim the gospel (1 Corinthians 16:8-9; 2 Corinthians 2:12; Colossians 4:2-3).

Little strength – Christ commended them on their strength (Luke 12:32). It was a small church, but it had a powerful impact on the city. Spiritual power flowed in this church, people were being redeemed, lives were being transformed, and the gospel of Jesus Christ was being proclaimed.The church of Philadelphia is characterized by a spirit of revival that promotes evangelism and a missionary-minded church.

Kept my Word and not denied my name – Christ commended them for their obedience (Job 23:12). They proved the genuineness of their love for Christ (John 14:23-24, 15:13-14). Despite the pressures they remained loyal, no matter what it cost them (Revelation 14:12). They would not recant their faith in Jesus Christ. The Christians at Philadelphia persevered faithfully through all of their trials and difficulties (Hebrews 12:2-4). Endurance is an essential aspect of saving faith (Matthew 10:22). Faithful churches with a Bible-teaching, evangelistic, missionary-minded ministry is leading many out of their philosophical desert into the abundant life Christ came to offer all humankind.