Apocalipse 3

Charles Spurgeon · Citado em PreceptAustin

Apocalipse 3

Spurgeon - The first charge of general defilement he brings against the church in Sardis was that they had a vast deal of open profession, and but little of sincere religion....In going up and down this land, I am obliged to come to this conclusion, that throughout the churches there are multitudes who have "a name to live, and are dead." Religion has become fashionable. The shopkeeper could scarcely succeed in a respectable business if he were not united with a church....You can scarcely meet with a man who does not call himself a Christian (SOUNDS LIKE AMERICA 2023!), and yet it is equally hard to meet with one who is in the very marrow of his bones thoroughly sanctified to the good work of the kingdom of heaven....The whole nation appears to have been Christianized in an hour. But is this real? Is this sincere? Ah! we fear not. How is it that professors can live like other men? How is it that there is so little distinction between the church and the world? Or, that if there is any difference, you are frequently safer in dealing with an ungodly man than with one who is professedly righteous? How is it that men who make high professions can live in worldly conformity, indulge in the same pleasures, live in the same style, act from the same motives, deal in the same manner as other do?....Take our churches at large—there is no lack of names, but there is a lack of life. Else, how is it that our prayer-meetings are so badly attended? Where is the zeal or the energy shown by the apostles? Where is the Spirit of the living God? Is he not departed? Might not "Ichabod" be written on the walls of many a sanctuary? They have a name to live, but are dead. They have their piety? Where is sincere religion? Where is practical godliness? Where is firm, decisive, puritanical piety? Thank God, there are a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; but charity itself will not allow us to say that the church generally possesses the Spirit of God.....Can I bear to see the laziness, the slothfulness, the indifference of ministers, and of churches, without speaking. No! there must be a protest entered, and we enter it now. Oh! Church of God, thou has a name to live, and art dead; thou art not watchful. Awake! awake! arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. (Feb 24, 1856 - Sermon A Solemn Warning for All Churches) Daniel Akin - (Exalting Jesus in Revelation - BORROW; related sermon Autopsy Of A Dead Church – Revelation 3:1-6) In 2014 Thom Rainer, president of LifeWay Christian Resources, wrote a highly acclaimed book titled Autopsy of a Deceased Church. Its genesis was a popular blog article with the same title. In this book Rainer identifies several fatal causes that put once-alive and vibrant churches in the grave. These include • treating the past as the hero; • refusing to adapt to the needs of the present community; • moving the focus of the budget inward; • allowing the Great Commission to become the Great Omission; (ED: AND WHAT IS THE GREAT COMMISSION? ONLY COMMAND IN Mt 28:19+ is MAKE [aorist imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey] DISCIPLES! - SEE Make Disciples) • letting the church become preference-driven out of selfishness and personal agendas; • seeing the tenure of the pastors decreasing; • failing to have regular, corporate prayer; • having no clear purpose or vision; and • obsessing over the facilities. Here I would like to build on Rainer’s excellent points with a simple observation. Many a church begins with a man, reaches out with a mission, becomes a movement, but ends up a monument or in the mortuary. This is a polite way of saying many a church begins with life but ends in death. It has a glorious past, but a glorious past is all it has. It is now a zombie church, a church of the living dead. There are live bodies walking around with dead souls on the inside. Amazingly, astonishingly, sometimes only God notices. Spiritually there is no pulse, no heartbeat. Spiritually they are flat-lined, a dead church. Another complement to Rainer’s precise analysis might be an article titled “When Does My Church Need Revival?” in which Stevan Manley highlights six tell-tale signs of a church standing at death’s door: 1. The church is plagued with disagreements. 2. The preaching is ineffective. 3. Few can remember when a person was last saved. 4. God’s supernatural power is never seen. 5. God is not praised regularly. 6. No one is being called into God’s work. (Herald) Adam

Apocalipse 3

Spurgeon - “But what shall be done with such persons as live in the church, but are not of it, having a name to live, but are dead? What shall be done with mere professors who are not possessors? What shall become of those who are only outwardly religious but inwardly are in the gall of bitterness? We answer, as good Calvin did once: ‘They shall walk in black, for they are unworthy.’ They shall walk in black—the blackness of God’s destruction. They shall walk in black—the blackness of hopeless despair. They shall walk in black—the blackness of incomparable anguish. They shall walk in black—the blackness of damnation. They shall walk in black for ever, because they were found unworthy.” Depiction of Axios For (term of explanation) they are worthy (axios - see all uses in Revelation) - Jesus explains why they can walk with Him in Heaven throughout eternity! It is because they are in an unbreakable, intimate covenant with Him by grace through faith. They are clothed with His perfect righteousness. They are worthy not because of what they do (with one exception - they believed in Christ) but because of Who He is, what He has accomplished (Jn 19:30+) and because they are in an immutable covenant with Him. The adjective axios means having the same weight as another. What does this imply? Jesus is saying that all who are born again "MEASURE UP" so to speak, but those in Sardis who are still the "walking dead" are coming up short and are not worthy. To say it another way, the idea of axios is depicted by a set of balance scale (see picture above) in which one puts weight on each side of the scale so that the scale is perfectly balanced. So Jesus is saying of those who are born again, who have Christ in them the hope of glory and His indwelling Spirit, it is these who "measure up," who balance the scale with Jesus on the other side of the scale. The only way a sinful soul could balance the scale with Jesus is to have Jesus within! Unbelieving professors cannot be worthy or walk worthy, but they attempt to be "worthy" by doing deeds which they think are righteous, godly, holy, etc, but all of their efforts to gain enough "weight" to balance Jesus on the other side of the scale are futile and ultimately will fail to gain them Jesus' words of affirmation that "This one is worthy to enter into the Kingdom of My God and Father." Look at how our Lord further defines "worthy (axios)" in Mt 10:37-38+ He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 “And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy (axios) of Me. John the Baptist has the first use of axios in the New Testament and gives an excellent picture of the meaning of axios for he declares to those who were coming to him for baptism "Therefore bear fruit (aorist imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) in keeping (axios) with repentance." (Mt 3:8+) In other words, the "repentance" brings forth works/deeds as a result of the person's changed mind/heart and demonstrate that their repentance is genuine. Picture repentance on one side of a pair of scales, and the works/deeds on the other side of the scale. The scales are perfectly balanced, because the fruit is in keeping with or worthy (axios) of the repentance. Soiled (defiled)(3435) moluno literally meant to cause something to become dirty as when smeared with dirt, mud, filth. It was used of used of "moral soil" ("smut") that defouls and besmirches the soul. All three uses are figurative - 1 Cor 8:7+ a "befouled" conscience, Rev 3:4+ of garments not soiled, become spiritually besmirched (by sin), and Rev 14:4++ of the 144,000 who have not been defiled with women. In Rev 3:4+, Revelation 14:4+ the reference is not just to sexual continence in the strict sense but to the faithfulness of the community (cf.Rev 14:1+) as the bride of Christ (cf. 2Co 11:2+)The picture of moluno is of sin smearing a person with its spiritual filth. White (3022) leukos is an adjective which means (1) bright, shining, gleaming Mt 17:2+; Lk 9:29+ or (2). white (Mt 5:36+; Mk 9:3+; Mark 16:5+; Lk 9:29+; J 4:35; Ac 1:10+; Rev 1:14+; Revelation 2:17+; Revelation 6:2+; Revelation 7:9, 13+; Revelation 19:11, 14+; Revelation 20:11+). In the Septuagint leukos was used to describe manna (Ex 16:31+), a sign of skin disease (Lev 13:3, 4+, et al), the Ancient of Days (Da 7:9+), horses (Zech 1:8, Zechariah 6:3, 6). Compare our English words leukocyte (white blood cell), etc. The adjective leukos comes from a root that means “bright” or “radiant” and is the general term for the color white. Gilbrant - In classical Greek leukos describes, among other things, the color of snow, hair, stones, clothing, and dust. Like the opposite color melas (“black”), leukos assumes a figurative meaning, with the former symbolizing that which is morally evil and the latter symbolizing purity, holiness, and divinity. In classical texts leukos is the color of sacrificial animals and priestly clothing. Indeed, Plato suggests that the color white is pleasing to the gods (cf. Liddell-Scott). Septuagint Usage = The religious practices of the Hebrews indicate that they held white in similar esteem. In addition to its ordinary literal usages, leukos appears in the Septuagint as the color of priestly garments. Figuratively leukos symbolizes purification from sin (Psalm 51:7+; Isaiah 1:18+), and a vision of God is dominated by the color leukos (Daniel 7:9+). Apart from the four instances mentioned in the previous paragraph, the New Testament uses leukos as the color associated with heaven. Most references are to white clothing, as in the descriptions of the transfiguration of Jesus, the post-Resurrection appearances of angels, or the heavenly citizens in the Book of Revelation. (See, for example, Matthew 17:2+; Matthew 28:3+; Acts 1:10+; Revelation 3:4,5+.) Even the throne of God is white (Revelation 20:11+). Revelation 1:14+ portrays the victorious Christ in terms reminiscent of the Ancient of Days in Daniel 7:9+; both of these scenes are dominated by white. (Complete Biblical Library) Leukos - 14 of 23 uses are in the Revelation - Matt. 5:36+; Matt. 17:2+; Matt. 28:3+; Mk. 9:3+; Mk. 16:5+; Lk. 9:29+; Jn. 4:35+; Jn. 20:12+; Acts 1:10+; Rev. 1:14+; Rev. 2:17+; Rev. 3:4+; Rev. 3:5+; Rev. 3:18+; Rev. 4:4+; Rev. 6:2+; Rev. 6:11+; Rev. 7:9+; Rev. 7:13+; Rev. 14:14+; Rev. 19:11+; Rev. 19:14+; Rev. 20:11+ Revelation 1:14+ His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire. Revelation 2:17+ ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.’ Revelation 3:4+ ‘But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. Revelation 3:5+ ‘He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. Revelation 3:18+ I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. Revelation 4:4+ Around the throne were twenty-four thrones; and upon the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white garments, and golden crowns on their heads. Revelation 6:2+ I looked, and behold, a white horse, and he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer. Revelation 6:11+ And there was given to each of them a white robe; and they were told that they should rest for a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brethren who were to be killed even as they had been, would be completed also. Revelation 7:9+ After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; Revelation 7:13+ Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, “These who are clothed in the white robes, who are they, and where have they come from?” 14 I said to him, “My lord, you know.” And he said to me, “These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white (leukaino - only other use = Mk 9:3+) in the blood of the Lamb. (Note the paradox - garments washed in red blood of Jesus made white forever!) Revelation 14:14+ Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud was one like a son of man, having a golden crown on His head and a sharp sickle in His hand. Revelation 19:11+ And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. Revelation 19:14+ And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. Revelation 20:11+ Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. Worthy (adjective) (514) áxios from ágō = to weigh) strictly speaking means bringing up the other beam of the scales. Having the weight of another thing of like value, worth as much. Counterbalancing - weighing as much (of like value, worth as much). Bringing into balance and hence equivalent or equal value/similar worth (Ro 8:18+, see use in Lxx of Pr 3:15+, Proverbs 8:11). Other nuances of axios include describing that which is fitting or appropriate (1Cor 16:2+), that which is deserving (Mt 10:10+), that which "deserves" to be considered or accepted (1Ti 1:15+), that which is worthy of praise (Rev 4:11+), that which corresponds to or is congruent with something else (Mt 3:8+, Luke 3:8+, Luke 23:41+, 26:20). Worthy or deserving of evil (Rev 16:6+). Friberg - literally, as causing something to be dirty soil, smear, stain; metaphorically, as keeping the life spotless literally they did not soil their garments, i.e. they have lived in the right way (Rev 3.4+); figuratively, of religious and moral unfaithfulness defile, make impure (1Co 8.7+) Axios - 41x/39v - appropriate(1), deserve(2), deserving(4), fitting(2), keeping(2), unworthy*(1), worthy(29). Matt. 3:8+; Matt. 10:10+; Matt. 10:11+; Matt. 10:13+; Matt. 10:37+; Matt. 10:38+; Matt. 22:8+; Lk. 3:8+; Lk. 7:4+; Lk. 10:7+; Lk. 12:48+; Lk. 15:19+; Lk. 15:21+; Lk. 23:15+; Lk. 23:41+; Jn. 1:27+; Acts 13:25+; Acts 13:46+; Acts 23:29+; Acts 25:11+; Acts 25:25+; Acts 26:20+; Acts 26:31+; Rom. 1:32+; Rom. 8:18+; 1 Co. 16:4+; 2 Thess. 1:3+; 1 Tim. 1:15+; 1 Tim. 4:9+; 1 Tim. 5:18+; 1 Tim. 6:1+; Heb. 11:38+; AXIOS in the Revelation. Revelation 4:11+ “Worthy (axios) are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.” Revelation 5:2+ And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy (axios) to open the book and to break its seals?” Revelation 5:4+ Then I began to weep greatly because no one was found worthy (axios) to open the book or to look into it; Revelation 5:9+ And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy (axios) are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. Revelation 5:12+ saying with a loud voice, “Worthy (axios) is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing.” Revelation 16:6+ for they poured out the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. They deserve (axios) it.” John

Apocalipse 3

Spurgeon - Faith's Checkbook - WARRIOR of the cross, fight on! Never rest till thy victory is complete, for thine eternal reward will prove worthy of a life of warfare. See, here is perfect purity for thee! A few in Sardis kept their garments undefiled, and their recompense is to be spotless. Perfect holiness is the prize of our high calling; let us not miss it. See, here is joy! Thou shalt wear holiday robes, such as men put on at wedding feasts; thou shalt be clothed with gladness, and be made bright with rejoicing. Painful struggles shall end in peace of conscience, and joy in the Lord. See, here is victory! Thou shalt have thy triumph. Palm, and crown, and white robe shall be thy guerdon; thou shalt be treated as a conqueror, and owned as such by the Lord himself. See, here is priestly array! Thou shalt stand before the Lord in such raiment as the sons of Aaron wore; thou shalt offer the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and draw near unto the Lord with the incense of praise. Who would not fight for a Lord who gives such large honours to the very least of his faithful servants? Who would not be clothed in a fool’s coat for Christ’s sake, seeing he will robe us with glory? No Mistakes I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life. — Revelation 3:5+ Today's Scripture: Revelation 20:11-15+ The name of David F. Kies is listed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. A small diamond is etched beside it to indicate that he died in battle. But it is a mistake, for Kies is very much alive. He’s living in Wisconsin with his wife and five children. David F. Kies did fight in Vietnam and was seriously injured in combat near Saigon. He and his partner were on night patrol when they stepped on a mine. His buddy died immediately; Kies lost both of his legs but survived. He was reported as dead because of an error in some paperwork. Mistakes like that can happen on military records, but in the most important record, the Lamb’s Book of Life (Revelation 21:27+), there are no errors. The names of those who put their trust in Jesus Christ as Savior from sin are written in that book, and they are secure forever (John 10:28+; Revelation 3:5+). There is another side to this fact, however—a very sobering reality. The day is coming when those whose names are not found in that eternal record book will be “cast into the lake of fire” (Revelation 20:15+). Is your name in the Lamb’s Book of Life? Have you trusted in Jesus? If you have, you can be sure that you’ll never be condemned. God makes no mistakes. — David C. Egner Christ, who gave Himself to save me, Now will keep me to the end; In His care securely resting, On His promise I depend. —Bosch Our salvation is secure because God's Word is sure. J J Knap - Loins Girded - White Raiment Rev. 3:5+ The garments that we wear show more or less the condition of our innermost being. To the connoisseur someone’s character can to some extent be read from the choice of his clothes. Garment and personality are related and therefore it is that Christ promised those that would keep themselves undefiled and that would overcome the struggle, would eventually be clothed in white raiment,—so, with clothes that were in harmony with their inner being. White raiment,—a glorious prophecy of what we once shall be. White is the colour that denotes holiness. This makes us spontaneously think of the Psalmist that is ours also in the sense of guilt: “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow,” a prayer to which the Lord Himself gives the comforting answer: “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Presently the garment of our life is still completely spoiled. Even the most eminent amongst us are oppressed to their own sorrow by sin day by day. However, by God’s grace a time shall come when no unholy thought, no impure desire shall stain us, in which we shall stand before God’s eye in the white of holiness. White is also the colour of joy in distinction of the garment of mourning made of black goats’ hair, common in the East. We think of the words of the Preacher: “Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.” As long as we are on this earth, we are constantly placed in sorrow and forced to wear sombre colours,—there is hardly a home without mourning. Above there is no mourning nor wailing but all eternal joy. There we find a skipping in the joy of the soul. Our joy shall then unbounded be, by the light that shines forth from God’s countenance, reaching to the highest climax. No black is found there as in the kingdom of the eternal night, but only the shining white of the marriage of the Lamb. Finally, white is the colour of glory. Think of Jesus on the mount of transfiguration, when his garments shone like light, which no fuller on earth could make so white. On Patmos John saw Him in a vision, riding upon the white horse as Conqueror. We shall not only be justified and sanctified, but afterwards we shall also be glorified and dressed with long, white garments! That be our expectation, our share in eternity, oh, not because in ourselves we merit any of that holiness, joy and glory, but only because our present spoiled garment of sin has been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Sam Storms - Eternal Security - Revelation 3:5+ The reward promised to those who persevere is four-fold. First, in Rev 3:4+, they will walk with Jesus in white. Some see a reference here to the resurrection body, but this is more likely a promise of victory and purity in the messianic kingdom when those who have remained faithful will experience the consummation of fellowship with Jesus. The reference to “white” may allude to the righteousness imputed to us in the act of justification. That is why they are regarded as “worthy”. Second, the overcomer will be “clothed in white garments” (Rev 3:5+a; cf. Rev 3:18+; Revelation 6:11+; Revelation 7:9–14+;; 19:13). Third, the overcomer will not have his/her name erased from the book of life. There are at least five possibilities for this “book”. (1) Hemer refers to one particular custom in Athens according to which the names of condemned criminals were erased from civic registers before their execution. The Greek word translated “to erase,” exaleiphein, “was the technical term for such degradation” (148). However, it is more likely that we should look for a biblical background to this imagery. (2) In the OT the “book of life” (or its equivalents) was a register of the citizens of the theocratic community of Israel. To have one’s name written in the book of life implied the privilege of participation in the temporal blessings of the theocracy, while to be erased or blotted out of this book meant exclusion from those blessings. In other words, this book had reference to the rights of citizenship for the Jewish people (cf. Ex. 32:32+; Ps. 69:28; Isa. 4:3+). (3) The concept of a “book” was also used to portray God’s all-inclusive decree (Ps. 139:16); i.e., the very days of one’s life are ordained and written in God’s “book” before one of them occurs. (4) There is also the notion of “books” of judgment in which are recorded men’s deeds. They serve as that by which or from which one shall be judged (Da. 7:10+; Rev. 20:12+). (5) The most vivid usage, however, is the concept of the book as the register of those who have been chosen for salvation from eternity past. It is not temporal or earthly blessings that are in view, but participation in the eternal kingdom of God as recipients of eternal life (see Luke 10:20+; Phil. 4:3+; Heb. 12:23+; Rev. 13:8+; Revelation 17:8+). It would appear from these texts that not all (ED: souls ever born) are written in this book, but only the elect. If it is the latter which Jesus has in view, there are three possible interpretations. First, he may be saying that it is possible for a sinning, unrepentant Christian (such as were many at Sardis) to fail to overcome and thereby to forfeit their place in the book of life. Their names will be erased from that book and they will lose their salvation. Second, others suggest that to have one’s name blotted out refers to something other than salvation. In Rev. 3:1+ Jesus referred to the people at Sardis as having a “name” for being alive, i.e., they had a reputation for spiritual vitality. The idea, then, is that such people are saved, but will forfeit any hope of an honorable position in the coming kingdom of God. They are saved, but will experience shame at the last day. It is not the loss of life, per se, but the loss of a certain quality of life that otherwise could have been theirs. Thus, what one loses by having their name erased from the book of life is eternal rewards in the kingdom. Third, others insist that the key is in identifying the “overcomers”. Those who overcome, it is argued, are Christians, indeed, all Christians. See 1 John 5:4–5+; Rev. 21:7+. This isn’t to suggest that Christians can’t backslide and sin badly. The rebukes in these seven letters indicate otherwise. Nevertheless, the evidence of the reality of true saving faith is perseverance (i.e., “overcoming”; cf. 1 John 2:19+). Three factors lead me to conclude that John does not envision the possibility of a true Christian forfeiting salvation. First, all of the other promises to the “overcomer” are coined in positive terms with no threat (implied or explicit) of losing a salvation once gained (see Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 26–27+; Revelation 3:12, 21+). Second, if it is asked why this promise is couched in negative terms, the answer is obvious: Jesus couldn’t say “I will write his name in the book of life” because the names of the “overcomers” (i.e., the elect) were already written in the book from eternity past. Read Rev. 13:8+; Rev 17:8+. There is no indication in Scripture, least of all in Revelation, of additional names being inscribed in the book as a reward for faithfulness or perseverance. Rather, faithfulness and perseverance are the evidence or fruit of having had one’s name written in the book. Those who worship the “beast” do so precisely because their names were not written in the book in eternity past (Rev 13:8+; Revelation 17:8+). Third, this declaration of Jesus is a promise to the elect that nothing will by any means (he uses a double negative) prevent them from possessing the eternal inheritance to which they have been ordained. In other words, we must take note of what Jesus does not say. He does not say that anyone will be erased from the book of life. Rather, he says the overcomers will not be erased. His word is a promise of security to overcomers, not a threat of insecurity to those who lapse. So again, Jesus nowhere says he will erase names previously in the book of life. (Eternal Security) (Bolding added) Clothed (wrapped)(4016) periballo from peri = around, about + ballo = throw) means literally to cast or throw around, to throw up a rampart around, to encompass by erecting something around, to build an embankment around as in Lk 19:43+ ("your enemies will throw up a barricade against you") (Lxx of Ezek 4:2+). BDAG describes a figurative use in the Apocrypha - to envelop someone in torture, thereby involving the person in misfortune (3 Macc 6:26). Gilbrant - In classical Greek periballō is used in a variety of ways. In a literal sense it is used of embracing, of surrounding with defenses (such as with a city wall), and of putting on garments. Figuratively, the word can denote investing a person with authority, involving in evil or calamity, encompassing, or understanding (cf. Liddell-Scott). In the papyri the common use “to clothe” occurs, as well as “to construct” an enclosing wall around a vineyard. The meaning “afflict” is also found (cf. Moulton-Milligan). In the Septuagint periballō usually means “clothe.” However, other uses such as “cover” (Judges 4:18+; 2 Kings 8:15+ [LXX 3 Kings 8:15]; Psalm 147:8 [146:8]), “encompass” (Job 23:9), “cling to” (Job 24:8), and “throw” a net “over” (Ezekiel 32:3) do appear as well. In two instances the word is used in connection with a city wall. Proverbs 28:4 in the Septuagint uses it figuratively: “Those who love the Law put a city wall (that is, a wall of protection) around themselves.” Ezekiel 4:2+ uses it of throwing up a mound around a walled city to besiege it. (Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary) Periballo - 22x/22v - clothe(4), clothed(13), dressed(1), wear for clothing(1), wearing(2), wrap...around(1). Matt. 6:29+; Matt. 6:31+; Matt. 25:36+; Matt. 25:38+; Matt. 25:43+; Mk. 14:51+; Mk. 16:5+; Lk. 12:27+; Lk. 23:11+; Acts 12:8+; Rev. 3:5+; Rev. 3:18+; Rev. 4:4+; Rev. 7:9+; Rev. 7:13+; Rev. 10:1+; Rev. 11:3+; Rev. 12:1+; Rev. 17:4+; Rev. 18:16+; Rev. 19:8+; Rev. 19:13+ Revelation 3:5+ ‘He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. Revelation 3:18+ I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. Revelation 4:4+ Around the throne were twenty-four thrones; and upon the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white garments, and golden crowns on their heads. Revelation 7:9+ After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; Revelation 7:13+ Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, “These who are clothed in the white robes, who are they, and where have they come from?” Revelation 10:1+ I saw another strong angel coming down out of heaven, clothed with a cloud; and the rainbow was upon his head, and his face was like the sun, and his feet like pillars of fire; Revelation 11:3+ “And I will grant authority to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for twelve hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.” Revelation 12:1+ A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars; Revelation 17:4+ The woman was clothed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a gold cup full of abominations and of the unclean things of her immorality, Revelation 18:16+ saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, she who was clothed in fine linen and purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls; Revelation 19:8+ It was given to her to clothe herself in fine linen, bright and clean; for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints. Revelation 19:13+ He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. Revelation 3:6 'He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.' BGT Revelation 3:6 Ὁ ἔχων οὖς ἀκουσάτω τί τὸ πνεῦμα λέγει ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις. KJV Revelation 3:6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. NET Revelation 3:6 The one who has an ear had better hear what the Spirit says to the churches.' CSB Revelation 3:6 "Anyone who has an ear should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. ESV Revelation 3:6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.' NIV Revelation 3:6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. NLT Revelation 3:6 "Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. NRS Revelation 3:6 Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches. NJB Revelation 3:6 Let anyone who can hear, listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches." NAB Revelation 3:6 " '"Whoever has ears ought to hear what the Spirit says to the churches."' YLT Revelation 3:6 He who is having an ear -- let him hear what the Spirit saith to the assemblies. GWN Revelation 3:6 Let the person who has ears listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. BBE Revelation 3:6 He who has ears, let him give ear to what the Spirit says to the churches. RSV Revelation 3:6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.' NKJ Revelation 3:6 "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."' ASV Revelation 3:6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches. MIT Revelation 3:6 One who has capacity to hear should listen to what the spirit is saying to the churches. Rev 2:7+ Revelation 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries LEND YOUR EAR AND LISTEN! He (singular) who has an ear, let him hear (akouo) what the Spirit (pneuma) (present tense - continually) says to the churches (ekklesia) - Let him hear (akouo) is a command in the aorist imperative and the only way we can obey is by depending on the Holy Spirit to give us the desire and power to obey (Php 2:13NLT+). This command is found only on the lips of Jesus, 8 times while He was still on earth and 8 times after He ascended to Heaven! The command conveys a sense of urgency, what I like to call the "Nike commercial command" "Just Do it!" The idea is do not delay, procrastinate or prevaricate! Note the recipient is churches plural so this combined entreaty and command is repeated to every church (See Pattern). And remember, the idea of akouo is not just to hear the "sound waves" but to heed (obey) what is heard. It is not to be in one ear and out the other, because that results in self-delusion as Jesus' half-brother James wrote "But prove (present imperative) yourselves doers (poietes) of the word, and not merely hearers (akroates) who delude (paralogizomai - present tense continually deceiving by false reasoning) themselves.." (James 1:22+).. This addresses any and every person who has a "spiritual" ear. As Paul says in 1 Cor 2:14+ we know "a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand (AKA CANNOT "HEAR") them, because they are spiritually appraised." The Spirit speaks all 7 letters to the churches in John's day and throughout the church age! (cf Rev 14:13+ and Rev 22:17+). So in all 7 messages, both Christ and His Spirit deliver the messages! THOUGHT - If you are a pastor it would behoove you to consider an expository series on these letters to the 7 churches every few years, like performing "preventive maintenance on the heart and soul of the congregants.

Apocalipse 3

Spurgeon asked him, “What are you? What do you do?” The man said, “I’m an engine driver on a train.” “Then,” said Spurgeon, “Is the man who shovels coal on your train a Christian?” “I don’t know,” said the man. “Go back,” said Spurgeon, “and find out and start on him.”" The next 3 commendations would also seem to relate to this open door - little power, kept My faith, not denied My Name. All three would be attributes that would lead to an effective ministry and spreading of the Gospel and if we accept the translation of "because" these would be 3 reasons Jesus has replaced an open door before this faithful church. The Gospel itself has supernatural power (Ro 1:16+), so they only need a little power, ultimately the power of the Spirit (cf Zech 4:6+). The next two traits speak of their obedience and their courage in the face of opposition (the Gospel is always going to be opposed, but in this context the synagogue of Satan is clearly playing a significant role as an adversary). Guzik The church in Philadelphia had an open door set before them. Often, an open door speaks of evangelistic opportunity (1 Corinthians 16:9+, 2 Corinthians 2:12+, and Colossians 4:3+). Jesus told them He had opened the door of evangelistic opportunity, and they must go through that door in faith. In its history, Philadelphia had a great “evangelistic” calling. The city had the mission of spreading Greek culture and language through the whole region. Now Jesus opened the door for the Christians of Philadelphia to spread the culture of His kingdom through the whole region.

Apocalipse 3

Spurgeon reminds us that "Behold is a word of wonder; it is intended to excite admiration. Wherever you see it hung out in Scripture, it is like an ancient sign-board, signifying that there are rich wares within, or like the hands which solid readers have observed in the margin of the older Puritanic books, drawing attention to something particularly worthy of observation." I would add, behold is like a divine highlighter, a divine underlining of an especially striking or important text. It says in effect "Listen up, all ye who would be wise in the ways of Jehovah!" Idou (behold) in the Revelation - Rev. 1:7+; Rev. 1:18+; Rev. 2:10+; Rev. 2:22+; Rev. 3:8+; Rev. 3:9+; Rev. 3:20+; Rev. 4:1+; Rev. 4:2+; Rev. 5:5+; Rev. 6:2+; Rev. 6:5+; Rev. 6:8+; Rev. 7:9+; Rev. 9:12+; Rev. 11:14+; Rev. 12:3+; Rev. 14:1+; Rev. 14:14+; Rev. 16:15+; Rev. 19:11+; Rev. 21:3+; Rev. 21:5+; Rev. 22:7+; Rev. 22:12+ “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done." Open (455) anoigo from ana = again + oigo = to open) means to open, to open up, to open again, to give access to. To open one's eyes causing them to see (Acts 26:18+). To open one's mouth that they might begin to speak (Mt 5:2+). Figuratively, to open a "door" meaning to make possible (Col 4:3+). Luke records the parallel passages (Lk 11:9, 10+). Of heavens open = have the heavens opened or divided so that celestial things become manifest - Mt 3:16+; Lu 3:21+; Jn 1:51+; Acts 7:56+; Acts 10:11+; Rev 19:11+; (Lxx of the following passages) Isa 64:1; Ezek 1:1+; Ps 78:23. In 2 Cor 6:11+ the idea is to pour out one’s mind, open one’s heart, to speak fully and frankly. Anoigo is used in NT and Lxx of Jesus not opening His mouth - Not to open one’s mouth = not to utter complaints (Acts 8:32+; Isa 53:7+ cp Ps 38:14; Psalm 39:9) Matt. 2:11+; Matt. 3:16+; Matt. 5:2+; Matt. 7:7+; Matt. 7:8+; Matt. 9:30+; Matt. 13:35+; Matt. 17:27+; Matt. 20:33+; Matt. 25:11+; Matt. 27:52+; Mk. 7:35+; Lk. 1:64+; Lk. 3:21+; Lk. 4:17+; Lk. 11:9+; Lk. 11:10+; Lk. 12:36+; Lk. 13:25+; Jn. 1:51+; Jn. 9:10+; Jn. 9:14+; Jn. 9:17+; Jn. 9:21+; Jn. 9:26+; Jn. 9:30+; Jn. 9:32+; Jn. 10:3+; Jn. 10:21+; Jn. 11:37+; Acts 5:19+; Acts 5:23+; Acts 8:32+; Acts 8:35+; Acts 9:8+; Acts 9:40+; Acts 10:11+; Acts 10:34+; Acts 12:10+; Acts 12:14+; Acts 12:16+; Acts 14:27+; Acts 16:26+; Acts 16:27+; Acts 18:14+; Acts 26:18+; Rom. 3:13+; 1 Co. 16:9+; 2 Co. 2:12+; 2 Co. 6:11+; Col. 4:3+ Anoigo in the Revelation - Rev. 3:7+; Rev. 3:8+; Rev. 3:20+; Rev. 4:1+; Rev. 5:2+; Rev. 5:3+; Rev. 5:4+; Rev. 5:5+; Rev. 5:9+; Rev. 6:1+; Rev. 6:3+; Rev. 6:5+; Rev. 6:7+; Rev. 6:9+; Rev. 6:12+; Rev. 8:1+; Rev. 9:2+; Rev. 10:2+; Rev. 10:8+; Rev. 11:19+; Rev. 12:16+; Rev. 13:6+; Rev. 15:5+; Rev. 19:11+ = "And I saw heaven opened,"; Rev. 20:12+ = "books were opened; and another book was opened" Door (2374) thura referred to a literal door as allowing one to enter and exit some place (Mk 1:33+), a courtyard or outer door (Acts 12:13+), a reference to the Temple gate (Acts 3:2+), the door of a tomb (Mk 15:46+), or the door of heaven (Rev 4:1+ - this last use being in a sense metaphorical). Figuratively thura referred to Jesus Himself as the metaphorical door through which one could enter into salvation (John 10:7, 9+). And so in John we read that Jesus taught "I am the door (NOTE CAREFULLY - NOT "a door" BUT "THE door!" = the unique, only "DOOR!"); if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." (John 10:9+) and added "I am THE (specific, exclusive) way, and THE (specific, exclusive) truth, and THE (specific, exclusive) life; (absolutely) no one comes to the Father, but through Me." (John 14:6+) In Greek the definite article "THE" is important as it speaks of specificity...in other words, had Jesus been one of many ways, He would not have used the definite article "THE" but would have identified Himself as "a" way, "a" truth, "a" life, one of many gates/ways. Jesus did not teach that there are many roads that lead to the Kingdom of Heaven but clearly taught "I am the only Way. Thura in the Revelation - Rev. 3:8+; Rev. 3:20+; Rev. 4:1+ Matt. 6:6+; Matt. 24:33+; Matt. 25:10+; Matt. 27:60+; Mk. 1:33+; Mk. 2:2+; Mk. 11:4+; Mk. 13:29+; Mk. 15:46+; Mk. 16:3+; Lk. 11:7+; Lk. 13:24+; Lk. 13:25+; Jn. 10:1+; Jn. 10:2+; Jn. 10:7+; Jn. 10:9+; Jn. 18:16+; Jn. 20:19+; Jn. 20:26+; Acts 3:2+; Acts 5:9+; Acts 5:19+; Acts 5:23+; Acts 12:6+; Acts 12:13+; Acts 14:27+; Acts 16:26+; Acts 16:27+; Acts 21:30+; 1 Co. 16:9+; 2 Co. 2:12+; Col. 4:3+; Jas. 5:9+; Rev. 3:8+; Rev. 3:20+; Rev. 4:1+ Power (1411) dunamis from dunamai = to be able, to have power) power especially achieving power. It refers to intrinsic power or inherent ability, the power or ability to carry out some function, the potential for functioning in some way (power, might, strength, ability, capability), the power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature. Inherent power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature. Vine - (In 2Ti 1:7+ dunamis) denotes the ability requisite for meeting difficulties and for the fulfillment of the service committed to us. Dunamis (Click here for all the NT verses that use dunamis) is a key word in the NT being found in 115 verses in the NAS most often in the Gospels and especially by Dr. Luke and in the Revelation translated variously as: ability, 4; meaning, 1; mightily, 1; mighty, 1; miracle, 2; miracles, 17; miraculous powers, 3; power, 83; powers, 6; strength, 2; wealth, 1. Dunamis in the Revelation - Rev. 1:16+; Rev. 3:8+; Rev. 4:11+; Rev. 5:12+; Rev. 7:12+; Rev. 11:17+; Rev. 12:10+; Rev. 13:2+; Rev. 15:8+; Rev. 17:13+; Rev. 18:3+; Rev. 19:1+ Denied (720) arneomai from "a" = negation + rheo = say) literally means "to say no", to say one does not know about or is in any way related to some person or some thing. Webster says that to deny implies a firm refusal to accept as true, to grant or concede or to acknowledge the existence or claims of. The only other use of arneomai in the Revelation is Rev 2:13+. Because (3754)(hoti) Conjunction that is primarily translated "that" (demonstrative) or "because" (causal). (1) marker of narrative or discourse content, direct or indirect (2) marker of explanatory clauses (3). marker introducing direct discourse. (4) marker of causality = because, since, for. See Zodhiates lengthy discussion. Gingrich on hoti - conjunction—1. that, introducing an indirect statement, etc. Mt 26:54+; Matthew 28:7+; Mk 11:32+; Ac 20:26+; Acts 27:10+; 1 Cor 1:15+; 1 Corinthians 16:15+; 2 Cor 1:23+; 1 Jn 4:9, 10, 13+. So that expressing result Jn 7:35+; John 14:22+; 1 Ti 6:7+; Heb 2:6+. what (is it) that, why? Lk 2:49+; Ac 5:4, 9+; Mk 2:16+ not that, not as if Jn 6:46+ ; John 7:22+; 2 Cor 1:24+; Phil 3:12+; 2 Th 3:9+.—2. introducing direct discourse. In this case it is not to be translated into English, but to be represented by quotation marks: I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you’ Mt 7:23+. Cf. Mt 26:72+, 74f; Mk 1:37+; Mark 2:16+; Lk 1:25, 61+; Jn 1:20, 32+; Ac 15:1+; Ro 3:8+; 1 Jn 4:20+.—3. as a causal conjunction - because, since Mt 5:3+ff; Mk 5:9+; Lk 10:13+; Jn 1:30+, 50a; 20:29; Ro 6:15+; Romans 9:32+; 1 Cor 12:15+f. For Mt 7:13+; Lk 9:12+; J n1:16f; 1 Cor 1:25+; 1 Corinthians 4:9+; 2 Cor 4:6+; 2 Corinthians 7:8, 14+. (BORROW Shorter Lexicon of the Greek New Testament) Friberg on hoti - conjunction; (1) that; (a) used declaratively after speech verbs to turn a direct assertion into an indirect assertion (Acts 20.26+); (b) used after verbs of perception to introduce what is perceived ( Jn 4.19+); (c) used after verbs of thinking, judging, believing to introduce the content of the thought processes (Jn 11.13+); (d) used after verbs denoting emotion such as fear, joy, amazement to introduce the cause of the emotion (Lk 11.38+); (2) (that); to introduce direct discourse, untranslated but represented in written English conversation by quotation marks (Mt 9.18+); (3) because, since, for (this reason), used to introduce a cause or reason based on an evident fact (Jn 20.29+) (BORROW Analytical Lexicon of the Greek New Testament ) Gilbrant - (1) Hoti frequently introduces an objective or noun clause, calling specific attention to the fact or concept under consideration. This is clear in indirect discourse. Hoti also designates what is being quoted or said (Mark 3:28,29+). Lexicons list a number of variants. Hoti can also introduce what is only perceived, thought, felt, hoped, implied, summarized, or interpreted—whether orally communicated or not. The conjunction calls specific attention to the concept being discussed. (2) Hoti can introduce direct discourse. English would use quotation marks instead of translating the conjunction. But hoti still serves the purpose of calling specific attention to the content and form of the quotation as do quotation marks in English. (3) In many New Testament contexts there is an evident causative force that gives hoti the meaning “because, since, for,” or even “when.” Used in this way it indicates the nature and extent of the influence of the thing said in the subordinate clause on the statement in the main clause. Note, for example, how each subordinate clause in the Beatitudes is introduced with “for” (Matthew 5:3-12+), e.g., “for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (verse 3). (Complete Biblical Library) Revelation 3:9 'Behold, I will cause those of the synagogue of Satan, who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie--I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and make them know that I have loved you. BGT Revelation 3:9 ἰδοὺ διδῶ ἐκ τῆς συναγωγῆς τοῦ σατανᾶ τῶν λεγόντων ἑαυτοὺς Ἰουδαίους εἶναι, καὶ οὐκ εἰσὶν ἀλλὰ ψεύδονται. ἰδοὺ ποιήσω αὐτοὺς ἵνα ἥξουσιν καὶ προσκυνήσουσιν ἐνώπιον τῶν ποδῶν σου καὶ γνῶσιν ὅτι ἐγὼ ἠγάπησά σε. KJV Revelation 3:9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. NET Revelation 3:9 Listen! I am going to make those people from the synagogue of Satan– who say they are Jews yet are not, but are lying– Look, I will make them come and bow down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. CSB Revelation 3:9 Take note! I will make those from the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews and are not, but are lying-- note this-- I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and they will know that I have loved you. ESV Revelation 3:9 Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie-- behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. NIV Revelation 3:9 I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars--I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. NLT Revelation 3:9 Look, I will force those who belong to Satan's synagogue-- those liars who say they are Jews but are not-- to come and bow down at your feet. They will acknowledge that you are the ones I love. NRS Revelation 3:9 I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but are lying-- I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. NJB Revelation 3:9 Look, I am going to make the synagogue of Satan -- those who falsely claim to be Jews, but are liars, because they are no such thing -- I will make them come and fall at your feet and recognize that I have loved you. NAB Revelation 3:9 Behold, I will make those of the assembly of Satan who claim to be Jews and are not, but are lying, behold I will make them come and fall prostrate at your feet, and they will realize that I love you. YLT Revelation 3:9 lo, I make of the synagogue of the Adversary those saying themselves to be Jews, and are not, but do lie; lo, I will make them that they may come and bow before thy feet, and may know that I loved thee. GWN Revelation 3:9 I will make those who are in Satan's synagogue come and bow at your feet and realize that I have loved you. They claim that they are Jewish, but they are lying. BBE Revelation 3:9 See, I will make those of the Synagogue of Satan who say they are Jews, and are not, but say what is false; I will make them come and give worship before your feet, and see my love for you. RSV Revelation 3:9 Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie -- behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and learn that I have loved you. NKJ Revelation 3:9 "Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie-- indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. ASV Revelation 3:9 Behold, I give of the synagogue of Satan, of them that say they are Jews, and they are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. MIT Revelation 3:9 see this—I would put at your disposal those from the synagogue of Satan who call themselves Jews but are not; they are lying. See: I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will know that I loved you the synagogue of Satan: Rev 2:9+ I will make them come and bow down at your feet: Ex 11:8+ Ex 12:30-32+ 1Sa 2:36+ Es 8:17+ Job 42:8-10 Isa 49:23+ Isaiah 60:14 Zec 8:20-23 Ac 16:37-39+ Revelation 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Revelation 2:9+ (CHURCH AT SMYRNA) ‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy by those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Romans 2:28-29+ (JEWS WHO ARE NOT JEWS) For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh. 29 But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that which is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter; and his praise is not from men, but from God. Romans 2:17-27+ (SAY THEY ARE JEWS BUT THEY LIE) But if you bear the name “Jew” and rely upon the Law and boast in God, 18 and know His will and approve the things that are essential, being instructed out of the Law, 19 and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, 20 a corrector of the foolish, a teacher of the immature, having in the Law the embodiment of knowledge and of the truth, 21 you, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that one shall not steal, do you steal? 22 You who say that one should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the Law, through your breaking the Law, do you dishonor God? 24 For “THE NAME OF GOD IS BLASPHEMED AMONG THE GENTILES BECAUSE OF YOU,” just as it is written. 25 For indeed circumcision is of value if you practice the Law; but if you are a transgressor of the Law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. 26 So if the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision? 27 And he who is physically uncircumcised, if he keeps the Law, will he not judge you who though having the letter of the Law and circumcision are a transgressor of the Law? Romans 9:6-8+ But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For they are not all Israel who are descended from Israel; 7 nor are they all children because they are Abraham’s (PHYSICAL) descendants, but: “THROUGH ISAAC YOUR DESCENDANTS WILL BE NAMED.” 8 That is, it is not the children of the flesh who are children of God, but the children of the promise (BY FAITH) are regarded as descendants. SYNAGOGUE OF SATAN FILLED WITH LIARS PROFESSING TO BE JEWS Behold (idou - NET = Listen! CSB = Take note. NLT = Look. NIV - omits this demonstrative particle!), I will cause those of the synagogue (sunagoge) of Satan (satanas) As an aside it is notable that Satan is most concentrated in the book of the Revelation in the letters to these 7 churches, four times in 2 chapters (Rev. 2:9+; Rev. 2:13+; Rev. 2:24+; Rev. 3:9+) with one designation of "devil" in Rev 2:10+ for "good measure!" How would this be a synagogue of Satan? If none of members of the synagogue are born again, then their father is Satan (Jn 8:44+) and they are all children of Satan (1Jn 3:8+). In effect then this was "Satan's synagogue" or assembly. Keep Paul's words in mind that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." (Eph 6:12+). Recall also Paul's words in 1Co 16:9+ "a wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries (antikeimai)" But Satan does use human beings and we know that the Jews opposed and persecuted, even unto death, those who accepted Christ as Messiah (cf Saul before his conversion - Acts 9:1-2+). Hampton Keathley on synagogue of Satan - “Of Satan” is a genitive of possession, Satan’s synagogue, that which belongs to him. Satan was its head and the power behind the scenes. More crime, evil and persecution have been perpetrated in the name of religion and by the religious, self-righteous type than almost any other one source of evil. Religion is Satan’s trump card, and one of his primary weapons that he uses to both deceive and hurt mankind. This is what we have here, religious persecution by religious Jews operating under Satan’s control whether they realized it or not. The Lord’s word to the religious leaders in John 8:41–47+ is fitting here. (The Message to Philadelphia) John MacArthur on synagogue of Satan - Christians in Philadelphia faced hostility from unbelieving Jews. Ignatius later debated some hostile Jews during his visit to Philadelphia. Because of their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah, they were not a synagogue of God, but a synagogue of Satan. Though they claimed they were Jews, their claim was a lie. They were Jews physically, but not spiritually (Romans 2:28–29+). (Because the Time is Near : John

Apocalipse 3

Spurgeon points out the deadly effect of "lukewarm professors" - “Now, lukewarm professor, what do worldlings see in you? They see a man, who says he is going to heaven, but who is only travelling at a snail’s pace. He professes to believe that there is a hell, yet he has tearless eyes, and never seeks to snatch souls from going down into the pit. They see before them one who has to deal with eternal realities, yet he is but half awake; one who professes to have passed through a transformation so mysterious and wonderful that there must be, if it is true, a vast change in the outward life as the result of it; yet they see him as much like themselves as can be. He may be morally consistent in his general behavior, but they see no energy in his religious character.....The careless worldling is lulled to sleep by the lukewarm professor, who, in this respect, acts the part of the syren to the sinner, playing sweet music in his ears, and even helping to lure him to the rocks where he will be destroyed (Syren mythology). This is a solemn matter, beloved. In this way, great damage is done to the cause of truth; and God’s name and God’s honor are compromised by inconsistent professors. I pray you either to give up your profession, or to be true to it (ED: "BE BORN AGAIN!"). If you really are God’s people, then serve him with all your might; but if Baal be your god, then serve him. If the flesh be worth pleasing, then serve the flesh; but if God be Lord paramount, then cleave to Him.....“Alas, this state of lukewarmness is so congenial with human nature that it is hard to fetch men from it. Cold makes us shiver, and great heat causes us pain, but a tepid bath is comfort itself. Such a temperature suits human nature. The world is always at peace with a lukewarm church, and such a church is always pleased with itself.”” (Bolding added) YOU MAKE ME WANT TO VOMIT! I will spit you out (emeo) of My mouth (stoma) - "You make me vomit" Note that this has not yet happened but is clearly a vivid, strong warning! "I will" identifies a prophetic promise! Jesus says He would spew them from His mouth like undrinkable water which speaks of His utter abhorrence of the spiritual state of the Laodicean church. This figure of speech parallels the fact that the Laodicean water supplies were known to have an emetic character. John Stott - It is of course metaphorical language, but this does not empty the expression of its meaning. Lukewarm liquids create nausea. They are not only tasteless but positively distasteful. Christ’s forceful expression is one of disgust. He will utterly repudiate those whose attachment to him is purely nominal and superficial. One is reminded of the description in Psalm 95 of God’s attitude to Israel in the wilderness: “For forty years I was angry with that generation” (Ps 95:10). The verb used is almost shocking. The Revised Standard Version translates it “loathed.” Not that God’s wrath is ever tinged with personal malice, spite, or vindictiveness. But the Hebrew word here conveys distaste and disgust, and indicates God’s strong moral revulsion to human hypocrisy and sin. (Borrow What Christ thinks of the church : Revelation 1-3 expounded) William Newell - Christ does not say, “I will”; but, (mello) “I am about to.” He says, “I am ready to: I have it in my mind, implying graciously the possibility of the threat not being executed if only they repent at once. His dealings towards them will depend on theirs toward Him.” These words from Fausset more nearly express what the text sets forth. Michael Andrus - Friends, if nothing else comes through to us from this Scripture passage, this must: Christ hates apathy and He threatens to spit it out. Thankfully this is a threat, not a promise. The KJV reads, “I will spit you out,” but the NIV correctly reads “I am about to spit you out.” This is a very strong warning, but it is still a warning. Perhaps the question comes to your mind, “But can’t I still be saved even if I’m lukewarm?” I think that is an illegitimate question–it’s almost like asking, “How little can I get by with? How uncommitted can I be and still get to Heaven? How ungodly can I be and still be saved?” Instead we should be asking, “How close to Jesus can I get?” Technical Note - There is good evidence that the water supply of Laodicea was rich in Calcium Carbonate (same ingredient is "Tums for your tummy!") hot springs nearby at Hierapolis had large deposits of this mineral; the aqueduct remnants around Laodicea had deposits of this mineral). Here is a note from Medline Plus - "Calcium carbonate is a dietary supplement used when the amount of calcium taken in the diet is not enough. Calcium is needed by the body for healthy bones, muscles, nervous system, and heart. Calcium carbonate also is used as an antacid to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. It is available with or without a prescription.....Calcium carbonate may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: upset stomach. vomiting." ARE LAODICEANS BELIEVERS OR UNBELIEVERS At this point the reader should be aware that there are diametrically different interpretations of the church at Laodicea. There are many (probably the majority of commentaries) who say this church was composed of saved people (or mostly saved people) who had just lapsed and were half-hearted and in need of fellowship with Christ (as suggested by I will come in and dine with you in Rev 3:20+) (Hampton Keathley,). There are others who say this church was composed completely of unbelievers, not just Christians who were spiritually "lukewarm." (John MacArthur, David Thompson, Gotquestions.org, John Stott, Precept Ministry International, Alan Johnson, yours truly - preceptaustin.org, et al) You will need to read the text for yourself and not the commentaries (including this one!) and ask the Spirit of Truth to guide you into all truth concerning Rev 3:14-21+. It is fascinating that many writers seem to be hesitant to state flat out that there were no genuine believers in the Laodicean church. However, I cannot find the Scriptural support for this premise. Robert Ramirez (The Complete Layman's Guide to End Times Prophecy) writes "Lukewarm is a description of church people who have professed Christ hypocritically, but do not have in their hearts the reality of what they pretend to be in their actions. The genuine Christians in this church were so few in number that they were inconsequential in influence that Christ did not find it necessary to acknowledge their presence." There is simply has no Scriptural support for this statement. He seems to be paraphrasing R L Thomas' comment "Lukewarm is a description of church people who have professed Christ hypocritically but do not have in their hearts the reality of what they pretend to be in their actions....A person who professes to be a Christian, but secretly has not believed in Christ, thinks that such a profession is enough to get him by. Nothing can be done with a nominal Christian who cannot recognize that he needs repentance and that Jesus is really outside His life (Moffatt). The five adjectives that describe this church in Rev 3:17+ make it quite evident that, corporately speaking, they did not have a relationship with Christ as Savior. This probably cannot be pressed to mean that there were no genuine Christians there. It simply means they were so few in number and insignificant in influence that the Lord did not find it necessary to acknowledge their presence as He did in a similar situation with the church of Sardis (cf. 3:4). By and large, the church had come under the dominance of pretending Christians." Here are some who say the Laodiceans were believers... Henry