Door Is Open

Revelation 3:9-11 “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.”
 
JESUS, the Door, protects the Philadelphia church. He locks out the synagogue of Satan (false teachers). And he opens the door for the church to do his work in the world. What work might he have planned for this church?
   Although it was a small city, Philadelphia was a center for Rome’s postal route. Travelers and traders moved through here from Europe to Asia. Faithful disciples would use the mail and trade routes as a means to communicate the gospel. God had opened doors of commerce to open people’s hearts to him. The church was in a prime evangelism position.
   Jesus encourages the church to continue its stand against unbelief. His promise, “I will also keep you from the hour of trial.” is the same language as the Lord’s prayer: “Deliver us from evil (or Evil One).” He will keep spiritual and physical opposition from the Philadelphia church for this work he has prepared for them. “I am coming soon” likely means he would come soon in the Holy Spirit’s power to strengthen the church into its mission.
   What would your church do if it received such a letter? Or wait. Isn’t the Bible God’s letter to form, direct, protect and strengthen the church into his purpose? Does your church expect the Holy Spirit to come to empower its work?
   Jesus is the Door. He will not let unbelievers steal away his church’s faith. He protects his church to minister the good news. Yes, martyrdom occurs under the Lord’s watch. Christians die for Christ. But even this is a means to protect the church from evil. Martyrs do not abandon their faith and deny Jesus. They stay strong and true. They know they are protected with God’s eternal life. Their testimonies glorify Jesus, and the church grows.
   How is the Lord pointing you as a church and as an individual to open gospel doors? Regardless of your church’s size and our own limitations, we all have a Kingdom purpose. Seek God’s wisdom. Understand his gifts. Awaken to the circumstances around you. True disciples believe Jesus’ promises that he will open the doors for their work.
    
Prayer: Open my eyes, Lord, to see the doors you have opened for me to evangelize your gospel. Amen.