Of the Dead and the Glorious

Dear class,

Today's readings are taken from Daniel 7,8 and Revelation 3:1-13

In the account of Rev 3:1-13, we read of 2 contrasting churches, Sardis and Philadelphia - one dead, one a glorious pillar.

As we examine closer we note a few pertinent points:

1) Works
Both have them! But one is described as "dead" and "not...perfect". Certainly reminds us of what Jesus mentioned in Mat 7:21-23.
The other has an interesting comparison to the opening and shutting of a door. Certainly, if God be for us, who can be against us? (Rom 8:31) And verse 8 tells us the key to it all - Keep His Word and deny not His name.
There can only be one way to claim righteous works - by abiding in His Word. And thence, can we claim to uphold God's name and not deny Him. Indeed oftentimes, we deny His name not in our words but through our actions.

2) Hold fast
To both churches, Jesus exhorted them to hold fast that which is good. We think of a lifeline. First of all, it must be the correct one! An unsecure lifeline is as good as death itself. God, through His Word tells us which is the true lifeline. Then having identified so, we hang on for our "dear life" and never let go!

3) There is hope
Even amid the damning proclamation, there remains hope for the repentant. If only we bring to remembrance our first love. Hence it points to the importance of Christians being exhorted and reminded of one another (c.f. 2Pe 1:12,13,15; 3:1; Heb 3:13). There is hope for the faithful in times of trials and tribulations, if only we would trust and hang on to the Word. (v.10)
Tough times don't last but tough Christians do! We need to be constantly reminded that our afflictions are but for a moment, in contrast to eternity. (2Co 4:17,18) Can we afford to let up? Let no man take our crown, yea even ourselves!

Let us continue to hold fast to our profession of faith (Heb 10:23) and look forward to the day of His appearing! (2Ti 4:8)

The Lord bless our day ahead.

in Him
Paul

--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. ~ Acts 8:5
But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. ~ Acts 8:12