Perhaps the most personal thing about an individual is his or her name. A name carries with it reputation and identity. Traditionally, in many cultures, when a woman gets married, her surname is changed to her husband’s family name. This name change indicates her new identity.
God’s name holds great significance. The Ten Commandments prohibit taking His name in vain (Ex. 20:7). Throughout Scripture, warnings and instructions are given in reference to the use of His name. God’s name is a means of identification for His people. The church of Philadelphia receives a high commendation when Jesus states that they have not denied His name.
His promises to the church in Philadelphia include the precious reward of receiving His inscribed names in the future kingdom. Imagine the significance of such a personal identifying mark from God being placed on His children. What a beautiful picture of the concepts of spiritual adoption, belonging, and ownership! This personal expression of God’s love should be cause for great rejoicing for every child of God.
MAKING IT PERSONAL:
Consider the significance of Jesus’ description of Himself to this church. Refer to these Scriptures that highlight Jesus as the true Messiah:
- The “holy one” (Luke 1:35; Mark 1:23–24; John 6:69)
- The “true one” (John 1:9; 6:32; 15:1; 1 John 2:8)
- “Who has the key of David” (Isa. 22:19–22)
- “Who opens and no one will shut” (Luke 13:24–28; John 10:7–9; 1 Cor. 16:8–9; Col. 4:3)
What doors of service has Christ opened to your church? To you personally? How are you responding to open doors of ministry?
Although this church was small, their faithfulness and reliance on the power on God allowed them to be used in supernatural ways (Rev. 3:9). In what ways is your church being used to undermine the kingdom of darkness? Are you asking God to use you to accomplish works that are impossible with man, but possible with God—that He might get the glory (2 Cor. 12:9–10; 1 Cor. 1:26–29)?
Many commentators view Revelation 3:10 as referring to Christians being “kept” from going through the tribulation. Others see this as a reference to being “kept” in the sense of having His spiritual protection through the hour of trial. Regardless, we can be assured that He is faithful to shelter and keep His own (Isa. 43:2; Ps. 34:19; John 17:15; 2 Pet. 2:9; Jude 24).
Does the promise of Jesus’ “soon” return (Rev. 19:11) excite you? Would you be ready if it were today? Why or why not? Conclude your meditation on this letter by worshiping as you read Revelation 19:11–16.
Adapted from Learning From the Churches of Revelations Based on the Teachings of Nancy Leigh DeMoss
