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"Faith cometh by hearing..."
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Rev 3:7 -13, Church of Philadelphia- An Open Door
Ministered by Kerry Lathrop
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Sermon Summary
Elder Lathrop continues a series of messages on the Seven Churches of Asia. He bridges the gap of centuries as he applies many truths here to the church today. Though specific circumstances are unique, the “Word of the Lord endureth forever†and, therefore, can bless us today.
If I could emphasize a byline to this message, it would be, “Doors of Deliverance.†Doors of love, fellowship, gospel realism, growth, understanding, repentance, and evangelism…and no man is able to shut those doors.
“What has made the difference in which each of these churches had?†This is a question Brother Lathrop asks and will answer. Regardless of each church and its particular inward and outward experiences, the answer to this question boils down to their obedience.
There are three things Brother Lathrop will speak of in terms of obedience through which blessings arrive.
A division in a household will cause destruction; such a house will not stand. However, Philadelphia is virtually problem-free and was commended by the Lord, who therefore gave this church an open door – from the surrounding trials sent upon the whole world. Christ promises security to this church.
Brother Kerry stresses the importance of the continuance of brotherly love and other New Testament admonitions characteristic of a church that are over-comers. He takes us through various places in Scripture, bearing out the importance of New Testament doors of timely and gospel deliverance.
The sermon has very practical applications for us today. The church's strength was not in numbers, money, or buildings…but in Christ the Lord.
Keep the faith and walk through that open door.
This is not done by a works-based system of religion where burdens are inflicted on the consciences of God’s people but in the love of God, free from torment and fears. Take hold through faith and keep the word of God, not denying His name, and be blessed through the many trials that shake others who have no hope.
If I could emphasize a byline to this message, it would be, “Doors of Deliverance.†Doors of love, fellowship, gospel realism, growth, understanding, repentance, and evangelism…and no man is able to shut those doors.
“What has made the difference in which each of these churches had?†This is a question Brother Lathrop asks and will answer. Regardless of each church and its particular inward and outward experiences, the answer to this question boils down to their obedience.
There are three things Brother Lathrop will speak of in terms of obedience through which blessings arrive.
A division in a household will cause destruction; such a house will not stand. However, Philadelphia is virtually problem-free and was commended by the Lord, who therefore gave this church an open door – from the surrounding trials sent upon the whole world. Christ promises security to this church.
Brother Kerry stresses the importance of the continuance of brotherly love and other New Testament admonitions characteristic of a church that are over-comers. He takes us through various places in Scripture, bearing out the importance of New Testament doors of timely and gospel deliverance.
The sermon has very practical applications for us today. The church's strength was not in numbers, money, or buildings…but in Christ the Lord.
Keep the faith and walk through that open door.
This is not done by a works-based system of religion where burdens are inflicted on the consciences of God’s people but in the love of God, free from torment and fears. Take hold through faith and keep the word of God, not denying His name, and be blessed through the many trials that shake others who have no hope.
