Thank you for you ministry, Jack. I’ve been thinking lately on how there are references to the “synagogue of Satan”? and “those who claim to be Jews but are not”? in the only two churches which receive the Lord’s commendation in Revelation 2 and 3 (Smyrna and Philadelphia).
In the case of Philadelphia I’m wondering if it refers to the replacement theology prevalent in Catholicism and many protestant denominations. I’ve always considered that this theology is a great offense to God as it denies the glory accorded to His Son, denies His covenants with Israel and denies the truth of His prophetic Word.
I think it is significant also that of all the 7 Churches in Revelation 2 and 3 it is to the church of Philadelphia that the Lord says he holds the “key of David”?. The modern period of Philadelphia coincided with Zionism and the resurgence of the pre-millennial interpretation of prophecy. What are your thoughts on this?
Well said. I couldn’t agree with you more. Viewing the seven letters as a chronicle of Church history puts the letter to Philadelphia in the period when the literal interpretation of prophecy re-emerged after 14 centuries of suppression and those concerning Israel were once again seen as applying to the re-born Jewish nation, and not to the church.
Since many of those who deny Israel’s place in God’s Kingdom also deny the need to be born again, they will be required to bow down before us and admit their errors as part of their judgment.