February 19, 2022
And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, ‘These things says He who is holy, He who is true, “He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens. I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.”’ Revelation 3:7-8
To the faithful church in Philadelphia Jesus identifies Himself as holy, for they sincerely desire to be like Him.
But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:15-16
To them, He also identifies as true, for they are wholeheartedly submitted to the Holy Spirit in the pursuit of truth. Jesus had said:
“When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13a
It is fascinating that Jesus begins to quote Isaiah next in His identification as He who has the key of David, comparing Himself to a trusted servant during the reign of Hezekiah:
“The key to the house of David I will lay on his shoulder; So he shall open, and no one shall shut; And he shall shut, and no one shall open.” Isaiah 22:22
King Hezekiah’s trusted steward was given possession of the key to the royal palace, signifying full authority of the king. Jesus authoritatively holds the key to His Father’s palace which is an entire city: the heavenly Jerusalem!
This highly commended church with little strength is provided an open door by our Lord. Twice, He says that no one can shut it! This refers to the open door of opportunity to share the everlasting gospel message on earth, followed by an open door to heaven.
To keep His word is the equivalent of not denying His name, a vivid contrast with church goers who elevate traditions and man-made doctrines above the Bible. See Matthew 15:9 & Mark 7:7.
The message of Jesus to the church in Philadelphia is indeed a glowing report of encouragement to a faithful church who clearly loves Him supremely. His answer to the Pharisee attempting to test Him certainly describes the church members at Philadelphia:
“You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40