the-church-at-philadelphia – Pataskala Seventh Day Baptist

Saturday, April 25, 2026

We gathered in a joyful celebration of worship.

Marissa shared maple candy with the kids as a reminder of the free gift of God’s grace to us.

Christ’s message to the church at Philadelphia is also a message to us.

With references to GenZ speak, like “Sigma King,” (super good) Brother Chuck continued his series on the messages to the seven churches in the book of Revelation. From Chapter 3: 7-13: The One who is holy and true, who holds the Key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open, writes to the church in Philadelphia.

Similar scriptures were given to the prophet Isaiah (Chapter 22) when Jerusalem was facing a devastating siege. The people needed to repent, but preferred to hang onto their sin. They did not have to be lost, and neither do we. Don’t listen to the lie that says you’re too far gone for Jesus to save you. We hear bad news all the time, but there is always hope.

The church at Philadelphia was not critiqued for any weakness. Those believers in Jesus were encouraged to hang on. Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world, to test those who live on the ear. I am coming soon! (Rev. 3: 10-11a).

Hold on. It is hard to be a Christian sometimes. But God is faithful. The time is coming when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord. He is with you. His name will be written on you, and He is coming soon. Amen.