Topical Encyclopedia Philadelphia in the New TestamentPhiladelphia, one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation, holds a significant place in early Christian history. Located in the region of Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey, Philadelphia was a city known for its strategic location and fertile lands. The church in Philadelphia is mentioned specifically in Revelation 3:7-13, where it receives a message from the risen Christ through the Apostle John. Biblical Reference In Revelation 3:7-13 , the message to the church in Philadelphia is one of commendation and encouragement. The passage reads: "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of the One who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What He opens, no one will shut; and what He shuts, no one will open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door, which no one can shut. For you have only a little strength, yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name. Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews but are liars, come and bow down at your feet, and they will know that I love you. Because you have kept My command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of testing that is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. I am coming soon. Hold fast to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. The one who overcomes, I will make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will never again leave it. Upon him I will write the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God (the new Jerusalem that comes down out of heaven from My God), and My new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." Characteristics of the Church in Philadelphia 1. Faithfulness and Perseverance: The church in Philadelphia is praised for its steadfastness despite having "little strength." This suggests a congregation that, while perhaps small or lacking in worldly power, remains faithful to the teachings of Christ and does not deny His name. 2. Open Door: The reference to an "open door" symbolizes opportunities for ministry and evangelism. The church is assured that this door, opened by Christ Himself, cannot be shut by any adversary. 3. Protection and Vindication: The promise of protection from the "hour of testing" indicates divine safeguarding during times of trial. Additionally, the church is assured that those who oppose them will ultimately recognize Christ's love for them. 4. Eternal Reward: The promise of becoming a "pillar in the temple of My God" signifies stability, honor, and permanence in God's presence. The writing of God's name and the name of the new Jerusalem on the overcomer underscores a deep, personal relationship with God and a secure place in His eternal kingdom. Historical Context Philadelphia was founded in the 2nd century BC by King Attalus II of Pergamon, known for his loyalty to his brother, earning the city its name, which means "brotherly love." The city's location on a major trade route contributed to its prosperity and cultural exchange, making it a fertile ground for the spread of Christianity. Theological Significance The message to the church in Philadelphia highlights themes of perseverance, divine opportunity, and ultimate vindication. It serves as an encouragement to believers to remain faithful amidst trials, trusting in Christ's sovereignty and promises. The church's commendation without rebuke is unique among the seven churches, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and endurance in the Christian walk. Legacy The church in Philadelphia stands as a model of faithfulness and resilience. Its legacy is a testament to the power of steadfast faith and the assurance of Christ's promises to His followers. The message to Philadelphia continues to inspire and challenge Christians to hold fast to their faith, trusting in the open doors provided by God and the eternal rewards that await those who overcome. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 3:7And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things said he that is holy, he that is true, he that has the key of David, he that opens, and no man shuts; and shuts, and no man opens; Nave's Topical Index Library The Church in Theology and Literature. Conflicts of the Church with Public Wrongs. The Lutheran and Reformed Confessions. Book Four. The Modern Moravians, 1857-1907. The Middle Colonies: the Jerseys, Delaware, and Pennsylvania --The ... Chatter xviii. The Great Immigration. Organized Beneficence. The General Conference of 1836 Appendix The Great Awakening. Resources Is the Church of Christ a good biblical church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the difference between the visible and invisible church? | GotQuestions.org What items should be included in a church constitution? | GotQuestions.org Church: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Church and State: Attempted Usurpation of Ecclesiastical Functions by Civil Authorities, Reproved Church and State: Ecclesiastical Power Superior to Civil: Appoints Kings Church and State: Ecclesiastical Power Superior to Civil: Directs Administration Church and State: Ecclesiastical Power Superior to Civil: Reproves Rulers Church and State: Ecclesiastical Power Superior to Civil: Withdraws Support and Anoints a Successor Church and State: Manasseh, in Subverting, and Afterward Restoring, the True Religion Church and State: State Superior to Religion: Ahaz, in Transforming the Altars Church and State: State Superior to Religion: Hezekiah, in Reorganizing Temple Service Church and State: State Superior to Religion: Jehoash, in Supervising the Repairs of the Temple Church and State: State Superior to Religion: Jeroboam, in Subverting the Jewish Religion Church is Clothed in Righteousness Church of Israel in Covenant With God Church of Israel was Relatively Holy Church of Israel: A Type of the Church of Christ Church of Israel: Admission Into, by Circumcision Church of Israel: All Israelites Members of Church of Israel: Attachment of the Jews To Church of Israel: Called The: Congregation of Israel Church of Israel: Called The: Congregation of the Lord Church of Israel: Established by God Church of Israel: Had: A Spiritual Church Within It Church of Israel: Had: An Appointed Place of Worship Church of Israel: Had: An Ordained Ministry Church of Israel: Had: Appointed Feasts Church of Israel: Had: Appointed Ordinances Church of Israel: Had: The Divine Presence Manifested in It Church of Israel: Members of Excommunicated for Heavy Offenses Church of Israel: Members of Required to Attend Its Worship Church of Israel: Members of Required to Keeps Its Statutes Church of Israel: Members of Required to Know Its Statutes Church of Israel: Members of Separated From, While Unclean Church of Israel: Persons Excluded From Church of Israel: Privileges of Church of Israel: Proselytes Admitted Into Church of Israel: Supported by the People Church of Israel: The Depository of Holy Writ Church of Israel: Worship of, Consisted in Praise Church of Israel: Worship of, Consisted in Prayer Church of Israel: Worship of, Consisted in Preaching Church of Israel: Worship of, Consisted in Reading God's Word Church of Israel: Worship of, Consisted in Sacrifice Church: Assembly of the Saints Church: Assembly of the Upright Church: Baptized (Immersed) Into by One Spirit Church: Believers Continually Added To, by the Lord Church: Branch of God's Planting Church: Called the Congregation in the O. 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