James Nisbet Commentary - Revelation 3:7 - 3:7

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James Nisbet Commentary - Revelation 3:7 - 3:7


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THE CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA

‘And to the angel of the Church in Philadelphia write.’

Rev_3:7

The suggestive phrase ‘Thou hast a little power’ is descriptive of the men and women of humble standing, whose opportunities of service are narrowly restricted, to whom no great chance presents itself for acceptance, to whom no special call ever comes. It never can be theirs to exercise wide influence, or deal with really large issues, or bring about momentous changes.

I. And yet the complete perfection of reward is offered to the Philadelphian Church.—No comparative insignificance of mission in this world could deprive its members of the most glorious and most blessed privileges in the life to come.

II. The measure of our responsibility is for the Divine determination; but it is ours to see that we are faithful to our allotted tasks. The lamp of our witness to Christ may be set in a tiny room, but we can at least see that it burns clear and bright.

III. The rewards of victory are not limited to the few, but are for all who show themselves ‘more than conquerors.’ They may be ours. They are offered to us to encourage and uphold us, that we may quit ourselves with strength and resolution and constancy. Upon us—even upon us—may hereafter be written those wondrous names—the name of the Father, the new name of the Son, the name of the holy city. We also—we not less than any others, not less than those whose privileges have in a sense been far larger, whose responsibilities have been far wider and more extensive, whose ministry has been far more noteworthy, whose power has been far greater than ours—may be pillars in the everlasting temple. Upon us also may the recompense be bestowed of inclusion for ever and ever within the now unspeakable, now unthinkable glory and majesty of the perfect and eternal sanctuary of God.

—
Rev. the Hon. W. E. Bowen.