The church at Philadelphia was like Smyrna in that they received only praise and encouragement from Jesus. They are rooted and grounded firmly in their relationship with Jesus so that despite seeming small and weak they have wide-open opportunities to share the gospel with those around them. Jesus affirms his love and support for them and assures them that as they remain on mission for him he is with them, will never leave them or forsake them, and enable them to accomplish all he has called them to. He alone determines their circumstances and as they continue to faithfully proclaim him none can stop them even as Jesus promised in Matthew 16:18. May we be faithful to intentionally invest in gospel-centred relationships that cultivate mature followers of Jesus to the glory of God!

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