How to Be a Philadelphia Christian in a Laodicean World

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Revelation 3:11 – Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.


            There is no doubt that we are living in the Laodicean church period of history. It is an age marked by churches that are popular, prosperous, pragmatic, polished, proud, and powerless! The Philadelphia age that produced the great hymns of the faith and shook the world with great revivals is over, but we can try to live like Philadelphia Christians in this apostate Laodicean age.

            First we must change our perception of God (vs. 7). We must see God’s righteousness, His rule, and His resources. He is still holy; He is still going to rule from the throne of David one day; and He still opens and shuts any door without man’s aid.

            Next we must cultivate our passion for God (vs. 8). The Philadelphia Christians knew they had “little strength” while the Laodiceans assumed they needed nothing. Philadelphia Christians stood for God’s name and God’s word. Laodicean Christians are so busy re-writing the Bible they won’t re-read it!

            Finally we must cling to our prize from God (vs. 11). There are a lot of crown stealers in Laodicea: those who focus more on the temporal than the eternal. Salvation can’t be lost, but rewards can (2 John 8). Don’t you want a crown to cast at Jesus’ feet?

            Philadelphia is admonished to hold on and keep up the good fight. Laodicea is rebuked and counseled to “repent” (vs. 19). If you are walking with God and pleasing God – keep it up! Don’t let Laodicea rub off on you! Don’t’ let these panty-waist apostate Christians put their smelly wet-blanket on your fire for God! If you are a Laodicean – repent! “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:16).