Two of the seven churches have nothing condemning them in the letter because they are the regenerate church. Again, not perfect or sinless, but in a right standing with God. Look for topics that will help you overcome and develop character. Ezekiel looked up and saw remarkable visions of Godthe throne of God surrounded by angelic beings. Revelation 3:7-13 | The Letter to the Church in Philadelphia Things Consider highlighting these in your Bible and/or linking them together by writing the next reference in your Bible margin. They are idolatry, immorality, infidelity, and disloyalty. They are the spiritual food we need in order to grow spiritually (John 6:55-59, 63 and 1 Peter 2:2). They have two sons, who are both married, and four grandchildren. You are welcome to join us for worship (10 AM) and a period of Bible study (11:30 AM). Such is the picture David paints with his words in Psalm 32a drought of spiritual vitality brought on by his own sin. The homepage of the online Bible course states that 100,000 individuals have enrolled in the mail-in correspondence course prior to its online launch. Sometimes the scriptures that relate to a specific subject are not easily found in a concordance because the subject is broader than just one word used in the Bible. Useful knowledge will always humble us and prepare us to be in Gods Family. It was not uncommon in the Old Testament for the word of the Lord to come to Gods prophets again and again. A Harmony of Samuel, Kings and Chronicles does the same thing for those books. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. The Greatest Questions. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. In January 1990 Gerald Flurry and John Amos broke away from the Worldwide Church of God and began a new church called "The Philadelphia Church of God." They have pointed out many of the drastic changes Worldwide is going through, and claims to want to return to the faith of Herbert Armstrong, whom they look upon as "Elijah." The key of David Confession and repentance reveal the access to restoration. The ministers have prepared what God knows we need to hearmaterial that is currently relevant and appropriate and possibly urgent. We have a much better chance of putting the knowledge we gain in class to practical use if we prayerfully study and review what God teaches us each and every week through His instructorsthe ministry. The pcg won the copyright to the correspondence courses predecessor, the Ambassador College Bible Correspondence Course, in 2003. Bible study is like one of the four tires of a car that youre driving down the road to the Kingdom of God. Its not just bowing down to a small carved statue or a pagan worshiper offering incense at a shrine to Buddha. Apollos, for example, didnt have any Bible helps, yet he was mighty in the scriptures (Acts 18:24). Forgiveness is to be set loose from sins. We continue looking at the seven messages in Revelation 2-3. from Jesus to the churches of Asia. Do the problems and frustrations of this world continually get you down? Or do you graciously say, Thank you, in a spirit of genuine appreciation and humility? We serve the same God who said: And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. To be honest, we would have to make the same assumption for each of the groups, and no one has been able to make a significant conclusion in this vein for the Ephesian group in regard to the name "Ephesus," or for the Thyatiran group with "Thyatira," or for the others. Individuals in the Bible are noteworthy of study. They loved Jesus, and Jesus was not ashamed to call them brothers (Hebrews 2:11). Goodbye trials and troubles. C. S. Lewis, For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer. We should neither overestimate the gift of Gods grace or underestimate it. A Lydian city founded by Attalus II Philadelphus (159-138 b.c. Doesnt it make sense to take notes and study them later? To first-century leaders in the Roman world, the imagery was familiar: A victorious Roman general returning from battle leading his soldiers and their captives into the city. The conventional interpretation among those who have come out of the Worldwide Church of God is that Christ has given the Philadelphians an open door to preach the gospel, an idea that is not without merit. Are You a Prisoner of Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. So we study to be corrected. By grouping all the scriptures together that use the same word we gain a deeper understanding of what each aspect of spiritual fruit entails and how specifically we need to change. How well do we understand the doctrines of the Church? God gave him a second chance. Nevertheless, the Philadelphians, though faithful, are somewhat weak. Commentaries and other Bible helps can be great reference works. Luke 6:12. Understand how this attack rages in full force today. As our lives center on God, giving priority to hearing His voice and reading His Word, we become bolder in sharing our faith. God has placed each one of us into His bodythe Church. As we study and learn to think like God, as we put into action Gods way of life, were able to handle strong meat and continue growing (Hebrews 5:13-14) until we attain the very character of God! M. S. Kimber in The Sunday School World, 1893, I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, because I know that I will soon put it aside. Please refer to the table below for a sample of 40 very encouraging scriptures. What is the Great White Throne Judgment in Revelation? His words are reliable. In these cases, topical books such as topical study Bibles, the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (with over 500,000 scripture cross-references and parallel passages) and a book called Where to Find It in the Bible (that lists over 3,700 contemporary topics from abortion to zoology) are very useful. Tmolus. Often modern translations have been rendered from faulty translations, rather than original texts. Can we explain the details of the gospel, the Kingdom of God, the Millennium and Gods government? Chronological Bible Reading Plan Ezekiel is the prophet of the glory of the Lord. The Great Awakening marked the emergence of Anglo-American . What the Bible says about Is it the opposite of pride? ", John W. Ritenbaugh by King Attallus of Pergamum, whose nickname was Philadelphus, which means "lover of a brother." The King James Version is the most accurate English translation, but, written nearly 400 years ago, it does have some hard-to-understand expressions. But Jonah fled west toward Spain because he feared the Assyrians. Question: "I was baptized at age 11 by a minister of a large denomination, but I didn't understand the true meaning of repentance until I began studying my Bible and hearing your broadcasts. What mistakes did they make that we can avoid? How did you feel? In Revelation 3:8, the phrase "open door" is being used, not so much as an opportunity, but as a reward. Television Program. The church of Philadelphia would be victorious over its enemies. It is profound, describing where we approach in spirit when we pray. Christian Kryptonite? Notice, however, that they have "a little strength"they are weak. Laodicea earned its wealth in the textile industry in the production of black wool [see Revelation 3:18, white garments contrasted] and in the banking industry. What Is Your Area of Weakness? Integrity of heart is indispensable. Digging For Truth : Church of Philadelphia They should, however, only be used to establish historical or grammatical facts. Have you responded to Gods willing invitation to come to Him? Attention Conservation Notice: A long take on why I left a small, cult religious group that I grew up in. A Place of Safety? The "church in Philadelphia," along with the "church in Smyrna," are the only two churches (of the seven mentioned) about which Jesus had nothing negative to say. Because of volume we may not be able to promptly reply to submissions using the form below. Consider these verses: No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13). What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. Revelation 3:7-13 - The Church at Philadelphia and the Key of David He traces Christs genealogy to King David and refers to Him as the Son of David seven times. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4). God has placed each one of us into His bodythe Church. Have we studied in detail what the Bible says about prayer, fasting, trials and overcoming? How often? Just reading a booklet is not really Bible study. We study them to make the appropriate course corrections in our thinking. After all, according to Paul in 1 Corinthians 13, love is known by its actions more than its words. When you see opportunities to care for creationnature or your own bodydo so as a way of glorifying the Creator. In Philadelphia, the Church of God has been dedicated to serving neighbors by hosting Bible seminars, family events and smile campaigns. Privacy Policy, Then God blessed them, and God said to them, Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth. What the Bible says about We are Gods FamilyHis royal householdand we need to thoroughly digest the meat contained in these articles. 3. We are among the generation addressed by Jesus: "When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" 8. Laodicea -- The Lukewarm Church | Bible.org And when he believed God, [God] accounted it to [Abraham] for righteousness (Genesis 15:6). Even if they get their lessons in the mail, we hope they will take tests online to be scored immediately so they can get on with the course.. Practice studying the Bible each day, and you will enrich your life now and forever! Colossians 3:1 tells us to seek those things which are above, where Christ is. In verse 5 were told to put to death the passions that come from below"fornication, uncleanness, passion, and evil desire. Then the Lord added the sin of greed or covetousness to the list, calling it idolatry. Other biographies worthy of study are noted in Hebrews 11the faith chapter. This daily newsletter provides a starting point for personal study, and gives valuable insight into the verses that make up the Word of God. What does God think of that? Herbert W. Armstrong College site allows users to study lessons, take tests online. God inspired the original text of the Bible, but not the translations in to our modern languages, which can contain errors. None of us is above God's discipline if we engage in sin. Bible study is one of those assignments! Bible Study | pastor | Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church Philadelphia PA A The church in Corinth was an undisciplined church, and he was letting them know that even though the culture around them was in flux, their faith in Jesus Christ needed to remain focused and sure. He is committed to caring for us, watching over us, and giving us strength when we are within His will. Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City Several of the organizers and members of Philly Bible Study worship with the West Philly Assembly of Christ. The major weakness of Laodicea was its lack of a water supply. It appears the ancient church took that name to heart. Thomas Watson, Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. He refers to Jerusalem as the city of the great King. Matthew is a book about kingship. r/Christianity on Reddit: Did a Bible study devotional today on 1 4. Of all Jesus' comments to the churches, the one to the Church of the Laodiceans is undoubtedly the most sobering and solemn. History The word Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7) means "brotherly love ." This city was built before 138 B.C. Moreover, God expects parents to teach their children His way of life just as He has taught us (Deuteronomy 6:6-7) and to be able to answer their questions. But we need to remember that knowledge not used is really of no value. Citizens lined the streets applauding while the aroma of celebratory incense filled the air. Spiritual disciplines are essential to a more vibrant spiritual life and knowing God more intimately. Sermons | LCG Members International readers pay significant postage rates for sending their tests to Edmond for grading. The non-conclusion of 3 John exposes that the attack on God's Church didn't end in the first century. The new website allows students to bypass the wait for receiving tests and lessons through the mail system and for submitting their test answers using the same method. Baptism is an important step in your spiritual life and it must be done properly - at the right time and in the right way . We need to consider this in terms of our recent lives in the church. Officially, church historians recognize seven ecumenical church councils held between A.D. 325 and A.D. 787. Australia and the Philippines, campers participate in athletic activities, Bible studies and a wide variety of social and educational activities during the two to three-week camp. They do have good characteristics, but they are weak. Inside was $4,000! Peter wrote his final letter shortly before his execution. Actually, the church of Philadelphia has arisen already, and it is Eastern Lightning that everyone has heard aboutit is The Church of Almighty God. Stephen Flurry Article on Fear Winds Down the Wrong Road. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. You need all four tires operating in conjunction with one another to make any headway. The Philadelphians have one fine qualitythey are faithful. | Philadelphia Church of God Bible Correspondence Course Website Launches on 27th PCG Anniversary Herbert W. Armstrong College site allows users to study lessons, take tests online. Do any of them have problems similar to ours? God can always be counted on to keep his promises (Titus 1:2). Home Page | Philadelphia Church of God Click a link to view a PDF workbook: Lessons The Philadelphians' strength is small, but God's is without limit. The Church of God in Philadelphia. 5. It was the youngest of the seven cities whose churches are addressed in these letters. The Philadelphians have had to knock because they have only a little strength, and they know it. You dont have to go to heathen lands today to find false gods. Although Philadelphia is the only church as a whole that Jesus promises to rescue from the hour of temptation, He reveals that among those taken to heaven will be some from Sardis (Rev. For more, log onto, 4 Lessons From the Philadelphia Church in Revelation, thefaithfulness of the church in Philadelphia, 4 Steps to Spiritual Awakening From Revelation, Christs Message for the Seven Churches of Revelation and Today, Revelations 7 Promises to Every Believer, Becoming a Cashless SocietyA Financial Sign of the End Times. What Went WRONG with the "Philadelphia Church of God"? Youll be elated with what you discover! But how about a book titledThe Righteous Father? They are not those who seek after earthly glory, like Shebna, but they are faithful in their responsibilities to the Most High God, like Eliakimand like Jesus Christ. William Gurnall, Now it came to pass in those days that [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. Yet He did, following the example of godly men like Daniel in Babylon (Daniel 2:16-18). King David said, I rejoice at Your word As one who finds great treasure (Psalm 119:162; New King James Version). Genesis 1:28. Francis Schaeffer, And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. And he was called the friend of God. The biblical city was located about 28 miles southeast of the city of Sardis. The hardest part of forgiving another person isacting like the offense never occurred. To think our temptation is unique is to believe a lie. A vital reason to study is that it enhances our prayers with God. Snowfall in the winter and melting snow in the spring are critical factors in replenishing shrinking reservoirs. Where is there hope today? Philadelphia - The Seven Churches of Revelation! - Bible Study If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! The moment we resolve to stand strong and walk away is when temptation grows most intense. Bible study builds up our faith. It has everything to do with whats at the center of our affections. . John Calvin, Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. The Philadelphia Trumpet began in February 1990 and is published 10 times a year by the Philadelphia Church of God. The letter to the church in Philadelphia begins with Christ identifying himself as "holy and true" (3:7). r/Christianity Did a Bible study devotional today on 1 Corinthians 12, 13:7 on One body, Many Members in the body of Christ also looking into the meaning of Love before the BMX learning stream to somehow attempt to plant or sow any seeds of faith for the Lord Jesus Christ You will receive one lesson every month until you finish the course. God's inspired words to the congregation at Philadelphia are an uplifting message of hope and encouragement. After all, as Jesus explained, actions speak louder than words (Mark 2:8-11). name of his foundation means "brotherly love.". The Living Church of God is devoted to that mission. To help students avoid this fee, pcg regional offices in Canada, the Philippines and Australia collected tests from those nations and sent them overnight to Edmond for grading and processing. In Romans 12:3 Paul exhorts the believers not to think of themselves pridefully but rather to think of themselves soberlythat is, realistically or accurately. Likewise, we need to be nourished daily while we are in the womb of the Church, otherwise we are in danger of spiritually starving to death. Its the act of becoming too attached to the material things of the worldfalling more in love with the things on earth than on things in heaven. 7 Answers to 7 Questions. God doesn't tempt us, but He may allow temptation to enter our lives in order to give us opportunities to make obedient and mature choices. To see what is behind the open door, we must read and meditate on the rest of the chapter. By giving the Spirit, He gives more of Himself. Instead of waiting months to receive four lessons and a test in the mail, paying to ship the completed test, and starting the wait all over again, Bible course students can now log in to the Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course website and progress through the lessons and tests much more quickly. Note for example what the Holman Bible Dictionary says about Laodicea: Laodicea was well known in the ancient world for its wealth [see Revelation 3:17]. We have victory now and for eternity only because of the victory Christ won for us. What Is the Church of Philadelphia in the Bible? In fact, even with the record we have in Johns writings, most people still do not understand Christ as John described Him. Philadelphia - The Church that was Faithful - Revelation 3:7-13 He also is a resident faculty member at the Ambassador Bible . For decades, the church interpreted Revelation 3:7 to mean the church had "God's government," and the ministry too often wielded this club with a heavy hand (Ezekiel 34:1-10; Jeremiah 23:1-3). Bible helps that focus exclusively on the meanings of words are known as wordbooks or word studies. During difficult times, the hope of eternity gives us strength. These can be used to get an overview of a particular book, but the commentary provided can sometimes be misguided because the authors do not have the framework of Gods overall plan for man as revealed to His Church. To think less of Gods gift would be to devalue it; to think realistically about it allows one to serve humbly. Out of the seven churches, only this church and the church in Smryna received unqualified praise and approval. Are you letting Him speak to you? During this year, you will read the Old Testament once and the New Testament and Psalms twice. Colossians 3:5. Let thy hope of heaven master thy fear of death. A five-mile-long aqueduct supplied the city with tepid water [Revelation 3:16, the lukewarm reference]. Expose` on the Royal . And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; Revelation 3: 7. With the other prophets, the second time meant additional prophetic utterances they were to deliver. Mr. Armstrong said that one purpose for Church services is to instruct us sufficiently so that we can teach others in the World Tomorrow.