Monday, November 9, 2009

The Church in Philadelphia

Revelation 3:17-13

We’ve examined Ephesus and Smyrna too, learned what was good and what was askew.
Saw Pergamum there where Satan’s enthroned, glad this city was not my home.
Saw Thyatira where Jezebel’s strong, then on to Sardis where much was wrong.
But here in Philly we finally see the kind of church we ought to be.

Philadelphia exhibited a special love that only comes from heaven above.
They heeded Him who is holy and true, found that their love just grew and grew.
Because they endured through testing and pain never denying our Lord’s great name,
God opened before them an open door to win more lost souls than ever before.

This is a record with a happy ending, for it speaks of rewards eternal, unending.
Because they were true, their service worthwhile; they will be kept from the coming trial.
Trouble will come to this vile world as judgment upon the wicked is hurled.
But this faithful church is raptured away, caught up to heaven where sin holds no sway.

If pleasing Jesus is your concern, here is a lesson for all to learn:
Draw near to Him with all your heart; from His precepts never depart.
Live fully for Him; love evermore. Be willing to walk through His open door.
Just imagine heaven’s joyous sound when we receive our heavenly crown.

Revelation 3:7-13
7 "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. 8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars-I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. 10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth.
11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name. 13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. (NIV)

© Copyright 2009 George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved

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