Bible Pathways 12/24/04

December 24

Read Revelation 3 - 5

In Today's Reading:

Our Lord's messages to the churches at Sardis and Philadelphia; disapproval of the church at Laodicea; the sealed book

The church in Sardis could boast that there were no false doctrines being taught; but there was an equally serious sin. To . . . the church in Sardis write . . . I know your works, that you have a name that you live, but are dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die. . . . repent (Revelation 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 overcomes . . I will not blot out his name out of the Book of Life (3:4-5). During His earthly ministry, Jesus had also said: If you keep (obey) My Commandments, you shall abide (remain) in My love (John 15:10).

Jesus commended the church in Philadelphia for their faithfulness, saying: Behold, I have set before you an open door, and no man can shut it: for you have . . . kept My Word. . . . I will also keep you from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world (Revelation 3:8,10).

The majority of church members in Laodicea probably congratulated themselves on being moderate and broad-minded. They could pity the narrow-minded Christians in other churches. The Laodicean believers prided themselves on their ability to compromise. But Jesus severely condemned this church: So then because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew (vomit) you out of My mouth (3:16). He appealed to them: Be zealous therefore, and repent (3:19).

Jesus, the Lord of His Church, is still knocking on doors of men's hearts with the same words of encouragement: 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 overcomes will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne (Revelation 3:20-21).

Cross Reference:

For Revelation 3:5: See Exodus 32:32. Revelation 3:12: See Isaiah 62:2. Revelation: 4:2-3: See Ezekiel 1:28. Revelation 4:5: See Zechariah 4:2. Revelation 4:6: See Exodus 24:10; Ezekiel 1:22. Revelation 4:7: See Ezekiel 1:10. Revelation 4:8: See Isaiah 6:2-3.

Word Studies:

3:20 sup = dine, to share spiritual food and fellowship.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Sen. Jeff Sessions (AL) · Country: El Salvador (6 million) in Central America · Major language: Spanish · Some intolerance of Protestants by government officials · 96% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be sensitive to give God the praise for everything you do (Psalm 40:16).

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 9:8