December 24, 2005
Read Revelation 3
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. Unto . . . the church in Sardis write . . . I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead (destined to eternal hell). Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die. . . . and repent (Revelation 3:1-3). It could soon be too late. Apparently their doctrine was acceptable, but it seems that other activities had replaced the old fashioned prayer meeting with emphasis on soul winning. However, there were a few . . . in Sardis which 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 had also said: If ye keep (obey) My Commandments, ye shall abide (remain) in My love (John 15:10).
Jesus commended the church in Philadelphia for its faithfulness, 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, 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 may have looked down on the Christians in Philadelphia because they were so narrow-minded. The Laodicean believers prided themselves on their ability to compromise. But Jesus severely condemned this church: So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue (vomit) thee 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 (of his heart), 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, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne (Revelation 3:20-21).
Cross References:
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 The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in honor of Chase, Clar & Chad Turner· Government Officials: Rep. Randy Neugebauer (TX) and Sen. Jeff Sessions (AL) · Country: Burundi (6 million) in east-central Africa · Major languages: Kirundi and French · Losing religious freedom · 51% Roman Catholic; 12% animist; 11% Protestant; 1% Muslim · Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice that He has promised to sustain us at all times (Psalm 55:22).
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Peter 2:22
