I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut….The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Revelation 3:8, 12
One can never really express a lived experience where the things we have seen, things we have heard, or experienced have deeply impacted us and further shaped our understanding of Scripture. That is why Leon is so passionate about inviting his flock to these ancient places of the bible and the early church. Leading and shepherding them on Pilgrimage. My husband and I were privileged to have accompanied him and Bronwyn Spilsbury on just such an adventure. It was one of the richest most valued experiences I have ever embarked on.
As many of you know, a group of us travelled to Türkiye and Greece to visit the Churches of Revelation as well as visit some of the sites that Paul travelled while caring for His flock. There were so many moments filled with “Awe and Wonder” for me as we not only visited these places in the bible but sat under the teaching of Leon and Bronwyn. They brought to life these precious passages and helped me to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding for the words written to these churches. I understood in a deeper way the significance of the words Jesus spoke through His Beloved disciple John which are recorded for us in the first chapters of Revelation. These words have incredible relevance to us today as individuals as well as the modern church in the midst of the culture we find ourselves in. I would like to share some of my insights from one of the sites that deeply spoke to my heart and spirit. Th (Revelation 3:7-13)
Little is left of the prosperous, grand city of Philadelphia (Shown above) which was filled with so many temples, shrines and religious festivals that it became known as “Little Athens”. The pagan culture was intermixed with every aspect of everyday life; business, trades, civic leadership and policies. The city was known for having a very open-door policy to “anything goes” ideals, and distorted brotherly love from which the city’s name was derived. They embraced a very Hellenistic ethos. Philadelphia was a place where all beliefs and practices were welcome. I liken it to a smorgasbord of faiths, beliefs and cultures. You could choose a bit of this, a bit of that, and so on to create your own belief structure. Philadelphia prided themselves on being an open door or gateway to Greek culture, manners, language, and a pantheon of gods. It was in this Hellenistic soup pot this faithful little church was applauded and served as a model of unwavering faithfulness and endurance for all time. Aren’t these great attributes to be known for?!!
Also of note was the geological influence to this city, situated in a major fault zone which means a lot of earthquakes that violent shook the pillars and structures of the city!! Many times, only a few pillars remained standing. Inhabitants would flee as the city literally came crashing down around them only to return and try of their own volition to rebuild. This reminded me of how I have foolishly tried to build my own strong towers throughout my life aside from God. Fortunately, after a few major earthquakes in my life, I did discover a better, stronger foundation to build my life on. I wonder if any of you are experiencing shaky ground on which you have self-made pillars you are trying to maintain and keep standing during this particular season of your life.
I love that even though this faithful bunch was heavily persecuted by “synagogue of Satan”, those who professed to be people of God but were not, were seen by Jesus. He sees their trials, their pain and suffering of being persecuted, displaced, cast out of the city and relevant conversations leaving them vulnerable to financial poverty, Roman execution, and lacking legal protection. Do you see parallels in our own experiences of our current culture? Jesus promises justice, to put things right and encourages them to hold fast. He will turn the tables and gives beautiful promises of protection and reward for their faithful endurance.
This small, culturally impotent, persecuted, group of faithful followers of “The Way”, were encouraged by Jesus that He would cause their oppressors to fall at their feet acknowledging His great love for them. He, Jesus, would open doors for them that no one could shut. This speaks to me of encouragement to go to hard places, whether physically or spiritually difficult because He has already prepared the way for us to bring the Kingdom there.
He promises to make them “Strong Unshakeable Pillars” in God’s temple with the many names of God, Jesus, and the city of God written upon them… a special intimate privilege expressing to others that they know and are known by the Creator of heaven and earth, the LORD of all…they/we belong to Him. Never again will they be displaced or expelled…That my friends is security that goes beyond anything this world or culture can ever offer us.
I encourage you to reflectively, prayerfully read through the full account of the faithful little church of Philadelphia and ask the Spirit to speak to your heart. “Whoever has ears, let them hear” ...what personal message or encouragement is waiting for you, for our church? I would love to hear what the Spirit speaks to your heart.
Fondly, Melody
PS, come join Encounter Ministries on July 5 for a special evening of sharing Leon’s travelogue. Refreshments and a few treats will be available as well. More details on the website under coming events
