Revelation 3:8
Verse
Context
To the Church in Philadelphia
7To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of 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.8I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door, which no one can shut. For you have only a little strength, yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name.9Look at those who belong to the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews but are liars instead. I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and they will know that I love you.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I have set before thee an open door - I have opened to thee a door to proclaim and diffuse my word; and, notwithstanding there are many adversaries to the spread of my Gospel, yet none of them shall be able to prevent it. Thou hast a little strength - Very little political authority or influence; yet thou hast kept my word - hast kept the true doctrine; and hast not denied my name, by taking shelter in heathenism when Christianity was persecuted. The little strength may refer either to the smallness of the numbers, or to the littleness of their grace.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I have set--Greek, "given": it is My gracious gift to thee. open door--for evangelization; a door of spiritual usefulness. The opening of a door by Him to the Philadelphian Church accords with the previous assignation to Him of "the key of David." and--The three oldest manuscripts, A, B, C, and ORIGEN read, "which no man can shut." for--"because." a little--This gives the idea that Christ says, He sets before Philadelphia an open door because she has some little strength; whereas the sense rather is, He does so because she has "but little strength": being consciously weak herself, she is the fitter object for God's power to rest on [so AQUINAS], that so the Lord Christ may have all the glory. and hast kept--and so, the littleness of thy strength becoming the source of Almighty power to thee, as leading thee to rest wholly on My great power, thou hast kept My word. GROTIUS makes "little strength" to mean that she had a Church small in numbers and external resources: "a little flock poor in worldly goods, and of small account in the eyes of men" [TRENCH]. So ALFORD. I prefer the view given above. The Greek verbs are in the aorist tense: "Thou didst keep . . . didst not deny My name": alluding to some particular occasion when her faithfulness was put to the test.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan,.... Which may be understood either of the Papists, the followers of the man of sin, whose coming was after the working of Satan, and whose doctrines are the doctrines of devils, many of whom will now be converted, and brought to the true church; or rather of the Jews, who had, and have, and will have till this time, their synagogues for religious worship in their way; but they are no other than synagogues of Satan; the men that assemble in them are of their father the devil, and do his works, and will do them: which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; they are Jews by name and nation; they are. Jews outwardly, but not inwardly and spiritually, Rom 2:28; they are carnal wicked men, under the influence of Satan, though they pretend to be religious men, and worshippers of God: behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet; the conversion of the Jews is here intended. The worship here spoken of is not either a religious or civil worship of the church, for the church is not the object of worship; only before whom, and at whose feet, this worship shall be given to God in the most humble and hearty manner: the sense is, that the convinced and converted Jews shall come to the church, and in the most lowly and contrite manner acknowledge their former blindness, furious zeal, and violent hatred of the Christians, and shall profess their faith in Christ; shall join themselves to the church, and partake of the ordinances of the Gospel with them; and shall worship God and Jesus Christ, their Lord and King, in their presence, and at their feet: and to know that I have loved thee; the Gentile church, and the members of it, in assuming human nature, and dying for, and redeeming them, as well as the Jews; in sending his Gospel to them, and calling them by his grace, and planting them into Gospel churches; giving them a place, and a name in his house, better than that of sons and daughters.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:8 I know: See study note on 2:2-3. • little strength: Like the city of Philadelphia itself (see study note on 3:7), the Christians there were not prosperous, and they lacked status and power. But Christ had opened a door for them (see 3:7) to claim his status and authority. In spite of their weakness, the Philadelphia church obeyed Christ’s word and did not deny him under pressure.
Revelation 3:8
To the Church in Philadelphia
7To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of 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.8I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door, which no one can shut. For you have only a little strength, yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name.9Look at those who belong to the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews but are liars instead. I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and they will know that I love you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Revelation Overview Pt. 1
By Chuck Smith2.3K56:47RevelationREV 2:2REV 2:9REV 2:13REV 2:19REV 3:1REV 3:8REV 3:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses how John, in the book of Revelation, was taken by the spirit into the future to witness events that would occur. The speaker emphasizes that John had to use familiar figures and language from his time to describe modern concepts, such as tanks firing cannons and jet planes flying through the air. The sermon also highlights the importance of repentance and having a relationship with Jesus, as God's judgment is imminent. The speaker concludes by urging the audience to listen to God's messages to the church and to avoid being deceived by the voice of Satan.
(Revelation) the Lamb in the Midst of the Throne
By Willie Mullan1.7K1:10:59Throne Of GodMAT 7:7MAT 25:1JHN 10:9REV 1:17REV 3:8REV 4:6REV 5:6In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing the opening of a door in heaven as described in the book of Revelation. He suggests that this may be a figurative representation of John being able to see into heaven. The preacher then connects this to the idea that the Lord Jesus will come and open the door to search the Book of Revelation. Moving on to chapter 4, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believers taking advantage of the open door of opportunity to witness for God in these dark times. The sermon concludes with a reminder to those who may be alone or widowed that God is with them and cares for them.
Persecution and the Underground Church in China
By Edgar Reich1.4K34:07Chinese Underground ChurchMAT 10:22MAT 28:19MRK 16:17ACT 2:4ROM 12:12TI 3:12REV 3:8In this sermon transcript, the speaker recounts a personal experience of being in a prison and witnessing executions. The speaker describes being with the police and witnessing the execution of a prisoner who claimed to have supernatural power. The speaker then shares their own experience of being punished by being hung in the air for four hours, during which they prayed and felt a connection to Jesus' suffering on the cross. Despite the mistreatment and potential execution, the speaker expresses love for the Lord and a desire to share the gospel with those who do not know Christ. Eventually, the speaker is released from prison after a few hours of interrogation.
Job Chapter 40:
By Stan Ford1.0K43:26JOB 40:4MAT 6:26JHN 1:29REV 3:8REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher references several verses from the Bible, including Matthew 6:26, Revelation 3:8, and Revelation 22:20. He emphasizes the message of the Christian faith and highlights five simple truths that are brought forth by these verses. The preacher also talks about the importance of knowing Jesus Christ and surrendering to God's will. He concludes by discussing the story of Job and how it teaches humility before God.
The Apocalypse - Revelation 2
By Steve Gallagher96745:35Apocalypse StudyREV 2:2REV 2:10REV 2:14REV 2:20REV 3:1REV 3:8REV 3:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the structure of the letters to the churches in the book of Revelation. He likens them to a form letter that can be customized for each congregation. The letters follow a pattern of describing Christ, offering commendations and reproofs, and concluding with a word of promise to overcomers. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus addresses the strains of ungodliness that were already present in the early years of the churches and deals with them forcefully.
The Eternal Spirit Walking in the Spirit
By Willie Mullan95259:55Eternal SpiritEXO 12:13EXO 13:20DEU 2:2JDG 6:36REV 3:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance from God. He encourages listeners to start by humbling themselves before God and asking Him what His will is for their lives. The preacher shares personal experiences of how God tested and guided him, including losing a loved one and seeking guidance through prayer. He also mentions a specific incident where he prayed for guidance and was led to live with a couple who mentored and trained him in his ministry. The sermon highlights the significance of relying on God's guidance and trusting in His plans.
Fear, Faith and Following God
By Wally Magdangal79239:25SufferingPSA 118:17ISA 54:17MAT 6:25MAT 10:32ROM 8:31GAL 1:4REV 3:8In the video, the speaker shares his personal experience of being persecuted for his faith in Christ. He describes being surrounded by Islamic fanatics and facing physical abuse and threats. Despite the difficult circumstances, he testifies to the Lord standing by his side and giving him strength to proclaim the message of the gospel. The speaker emphasizes the urgency of reaching out to Arab Muslims in America, warning that if Christians do not share the gospel, they may eventually face the sword of Islam. He calls on young people to take up the cause of Christ and be willing to go all the way for Him.
The Open Door Set Before You
By Peter Orasuk60926:40MissionsMAT 7:7MAT 27:50LUK 13:24JHN 3:16JHN 10:91TI 1:15REV 3:8In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about five young men in East Berlin who were desperate to be free from the captivity of communism. They pooled their resources and made plans to escape through the iron curtain. They bribed a tower guard to hold his light for an extra two minutes, giving them a chance to get through the barbed wire corridor. However, to their horror, they discovered that there was no opening on the other side, leaving them trapped. The preacher uses this story to illustrate how man is held captive by sin and the need for salvation through Jesus Christ.
Making a Purity Covenant: Seven Practical Commitments
By Mike Bickle2653:22PurityAccountabilityREV 2:19REV 3:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the need for a purity covenant within the church, drawing from Revelation chapter 3, where he highlights the Church of Philadelphia's faithfulness and the dangers of tolerating immorality as seen in the churches of Thyatira and Pergamos. He calls for a commitment to uphold God's standards, warning that as God's glory increases, so does the accountability for sin within the community. Bickle outlines seven practical commitments to maintain purity, including refusing to participate in conversations that promote immorality and holding each other accountable through confession and support. He stresses the importance of a culture of repentance and the grace of immunity to overcome past failures, urging the congregation to stand united against the rising tide of immorality in society.
Listening to God
By Zac Poonen0Listening to GodSpiritual GrowthGEN 1:3ISA 55:10LUK 10:42LUK 11:5LUK 13:1ACT 13:27REV 1:18REV 3:8Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of listening to God daily, illustrating that God's voice brought order and creation in Genesis. He warns against the danger of merely reading the Bible without truly hearing God's message, as exemplified by those who crucified Jesus despite their scriptural knowledge. Poonen encourages believers to adopt a listening posture like Samuel's, highlighting that God's word is powerful and transformative. He outlines various ways God communicates, including through His Word, circumstances, godly counsel, and communal fellowship. Ultimately, he stresses that developing the habit of listening to God is crucial for spiritual growth and effectiveness.
The Holy Spirit: Restrainer of Evil
By Chuck Smith0Spiritual WarfareThe Role of the Holy SpiritGEN 1:26MAT 5:13MAT 16:18LUK 4:6ROM 6:162TH 2:7HEB 2:8REV 3:8REV 13:2REV 19:19Chuck Smith emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as the restrainer of evil in the world, highlighting the ongoing spiritual battle against Satan's forces. He explains that while Satan is preparing for a final conflict, the Holy Spirit, through the church, is currently holding back the full manifestation of evil. Smith warns that once the church is removed, the antichrist will rise to power, leading to unprecedented darkness. He encourages believers to recognize their role as a purifying influence in a decaying world and to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance. Ultimately, he calls for readiness for Christ's return and the establishment of His kingdom.
The Excellent Glory
By Miles J. Stanford02CO 3:18PHP 3:13COL 3:1REV 3:8Miles J. Stanford preaches about the transformation believers experience as they behold the glory of the Lord, transitioning from a focus on doing to a concern about their being. He emphasizes the importance of being simply devoted to Jesus, seeking Him above all else, and allowing His Spirit to transform them into heavenly beings on earth. Stanford highlights the contrast between the glory of creation and the surpassing glory of redemption, urging believers to press on towards the Promised Land of spiritual maturity and intimacy with God.
Our God: Awesome in Power and Glory
By Greg Herrick0EXO 15:2EXO 15:11JER 32:17REV 3:8Greg Herrick emphasizes the infinite and awesome power of God, as displayed in creation and redemption. Through a children's book analogy, he illustrates the magnitude of God's power, from the blue whale to the vastness of the universe, highlighting the unfathomable greatness of the One who made it all with just a spoken word. He urges humility, wonder, and a reverent fear when approaching God, who is described as El Shaddai, 'the Almighty,' and Ish Milchamah, 'a man of war.' Jeremiah's declaration that nothing is too hard for God reinforces the omnipotence and saving purposes of the Lord.
The Call of God
By Walter Beuttler0PSA 5:3ISA 50:4EZK 1:1DAN 5:12MRK 1:17MRK 3:13JHN 5:19JHN 14:10REV 3:8Walter Beuttler emphasizes the importance of being called by God and the process of transformation that should follow. He stresses the need for personal application of biblical truths, leading to a life-changing experience. Beuttler highlights the significance of being with the Lord before engaging in ministry, focusing on the relationship with God above all else. He shares personal experiences of submission, obedience, and being led by the Spirit in various ministry opportunities, showcasing the faithfulness of God when one is faithful to Him.
Who Will Determine America's Future?
By Robert P. Jr Dugan02CH 7:14PRO 14:12ISA 5:20EPH 6:12REV 3:8Robert P. Jr Dugan preaches about the cultural crisis and the ongoing culture war in America, emphasizing the importance of evangelical Christians taking a stand to determine the nation's future. The sermon highlights the clash between cultural conservatism and cultural radicalism on various fronts such as radical feminism, abortion rights, government funding of the arts, and homosexual rights. It calls for evangelicals to engage in political life, uphold biblical values, and work towards spiritual and political renewal to counter the forces of decadence and ruin threatening the nation.
Spiritual Sleepwalkers
By A.W. Tozer0PRO 18:10ROM 8:51CO 1:18EPH 3:162TI 1:7HEB 1:3REV 1:16REV 3:8Gary Demarest, in his sermon, emphasizes the importance of discipline or 'sound mind' (sophronismos) as a saved mind that is self-controlled, disciplined, and properly prioritized. This sound-mindedness in action is marked by sobriety, sound judgment, and prudence, contrasting with a mindset of excessive self-indulgence. Paul reminds Timothy that God has given us the power to keep ourselves in check and free from excitement, reflecting a spirit of self-control. Various commentators like William MacDonald, Guy King, and J. Vernon McGee further elaborate on the significance of discipline in maintaining a sensibly minded and balanced life.
Epistle 401
By George Fox0Suffering for RighteousnessFaithfulness2TI 2:19REV 3:8George Fox emphasizes the steadfastness of Christ as the foundation of the church, urging believers to remain faithful and patient amidst trials and temptations. He warns against those who separate from the church, likening them to historical figures who rebelled against God's chosen leaders, and highlights the importance of suffering for righteousness' sake. Fox encourages the faithful to follow the example of Christ, who suffered without sin, and to maintain a good conscience in the face of false accusations. He reassures believers that enduring trials will lead to spiritual growth and ultimate victory in Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to remain united in love and wisdom, despite the challenges posed by false brethren.
The Church in Philadelphia: Lovers of God, His Name and His Word
By Phil Beach Jr.0MAT 5:3JHN 14:151CO 10:12PHP 2:3HEB 12:2JAS 4:81PE 5:6REV 3:8REV 3:10Phil Beach Jr. preaches about the church in Philadelphia, commended by Jesus for their little strength, faithfulness to His Word, and love for His name. They were pleasing to the Lord because they were filled with God's sacrificial love, living selflessly and seeking His will above all else. Despite their weaknesses, they were promised an open door for sharing the gospel and defended by God against their enemies. However, they were warned to guard against losing their heavenly reward by turning their focus from Jesus to worldly desires or human sources.
The Name 'Christian'.
By Elijah Goodwin01SA 26:81CH 16:22ISA 62:2ACT 11:261PE 2:51JN 2:20REV 3:8Elijah Goodwin preaches about the significance of the name 'Christian' as the family name of the religious association, derived from 'Christ' meaning 'anointed.' He emphasizes that all who wear this name are Scripturally regarded as the anointed people of God, reflecting the priesthood of believers under the new covenant. Goodwin delves into the sacredness of anointing in the Old Testament, highlighting the reverence for God's anointed ones. He explores the distinction, property, and patronymic nature of the name 'Christian,' pointing out its universal application and commemorative influence. Goodwin concludes by discussing the divine authority behind the name 'Christian,' supported by biblical references and prophecies.
Christian Fundamentalism - 1
By Anton Bosch0DEU 5:32ISA 66:2MRK 7:13JHN 8:311CO 2:132TI 3:152PE 1:19REV 3:8REV 22:18Anton Bosch discusses the varying definitions of Christian labels and emphasizes the importance of understanding Christian Fundamentalism according to Professor Malan's comprehensive definition. Christian Fundamentalists strongly adhere to basic Scriptural principles and values, recognizing the authority of the Bible as the literal and inerrant Word of God inspired by the Holy Spirit. They interpret Scripture literally, reject spiritualization, acknowledge spiritual realities, and maintain theological conservatism by interpreting the Bible in its plain meaning without altering its fundamental truths.
True Love Equals Obedience to God's Moral Law
By Phil Beach Jr.0ISA 40:28JHN 14:151CO 13:1HEB 12:51JN 5:3REV 3:8Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of genuine love for God being inseparable from obedience to His commandments, contrasting it with the prevalent misconception of love in modern Christendom. He warns against the danger of claiming love for God while living in disobedience and sin, highlighting the necessity of authentic faith expressed through obedience and selfless service. Drawing from the example of the church in Philadelphia, he underscores the significance of unfeigned love, faithful obedience, and endurance in suffering as evidence of a transformed heart truly pleasing to the Lord.
You Have a Little Strength (False Revival and True Revival)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Surrender to ChristTrue RevivalMAT 7:7JHN 15:5ROM 12:12CO 5:17PHP 3:102TI 3:5HEB 12:14JAS 4:81PE 5:6REV 3:8Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the distinction between false and true revival, asserting that true power comes from a deep, personal relationship with Jesus rather than outward manifestations. He reflects on the little strength of believers who have kept God's word and not denied His name, highlighting that genuine transformation occurs within the heart. Waldvogel warns against the allure of superficial revivals that focus on external signs rather than the inward work of Christ. He calls for a return to seeking Jesus Himself, rather than merely His blessings, and encourages believers to surrender fully to Him. The sermon serves as a reminder that true revival is often hidden and requires a sincere desire for Christ.
Rev. 3:8. the Church's Little Strength, and the Lord's Great Love
By Horatius Bonar0Strength in WeaknessChrist's LoveISA 32:2ISA 40:11ISA 42:7ISA 43:3ISA 46:1ISA 63:9ISA 66:132CO 2:12COL 4:3REV 3:8Horatius Bonar emphasizes the tender love and gracious character of Christ as depicted in Revelation 3:8, where He acknowledges the Church's little strength while offering an open door of opportunity and service. Bonar highlights Christ's patience and gentleness, encouraging believers to rely on His compassion during their struggles and weaknesses. He reassures that even in their feebleness, their faithfulness in keeping His word and not denying His name is honored by God. The sermon illustrates how Christ's love is a source of comfort and strength for those who feel overwhelmed and in need of support. Bonar's message is a reminder of the open door to salvation and service that Christ provides, regardless of our limitations.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I have set before thee an open door - I have opened to thee a door to proclaim and diffuse my word; and, notwithstanding there are many adversaries to the spread of my Gospel, yet none of them shall be able to prevent it. Thou hast a little strength - Very little political authority or influence; yet thou hast kept my word - hast kept the true doctrine; and hast not denied my name, by taking shelter in heathenism when Christianity was persecuted. The little strength may refer either to the smallness of the numbers, or to the littleness of their grace.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I have set--Greek, "given": it is My gracious gift to thee. open door--for evangelization; a door of spiritual usefulness. The opening of a door by Him to the Philadelphian Church accords with the previous assignation to Him of "the key of David." and--The three oldest manuscripts, A, B, C, and ORIGEN read, "which no man can shut." for--"because." a little--This gives the idea that Christ says, He sets before Philadelphia an open door because she has some little strength; whereas the sense rather is, He does so because she has "but little strength": being consciously weak herself, she is the fitter object for God's power to rest on [so AQUINAS], that so the Lord Christ may have all the glory. and hast kept--and so, the littleness of thy strength becoming the source of Almighty power to thee, as leading thee to rest wholly on My great power, thou hast kept My word. GROTIUS makes "little strength" to mean that she had a Church small in numbers and external resources: "a little flock poor in worldly goods, and of small account in the eyes of men" [TRENCH]. So ALFORD. I prefer the view given above. The Greek verbs are in the aorist tense: "Thou didst keep . . . didst not deny My name": alluding to some particular occasion when her faithfulness was put to the test.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan,.... Which may be understood either of the Papists, the followers of the man of sin, whose coming was after the working of Satan, and whose doctrines are the doctrines of devils, many of whom will now be converted, and brought to the true church; or rather of the Jews, who had, and have, and will have till this time, their synagogues for religious worship in their way; but they are no other than synagogues of Satan; the men that assemble in them are of their father the devil, and do his works, and will do them: which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; they are Jews by name and nation; they are. Jews outwardly, but not inwardly and spiritually, Rom 2:28; they are carnal wicked men, under the influence of Satan, though they pretend to be religious men, and worshippers of God: behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet; the conversion of the Jews is here intended. The worship here spoken of is not either a religious or civil worship of the church, for the church is not the object of worship; only before whom, and at whose feet, this worship shall be given to God in the most humble and hearty manner: the sense is, that the convinced and converted Jews shall come to the church, and in the most lowly and contrite manner acknowledge their former blindness, furious zeal, and violent hatred of the Christians, and shall profess their faith in Christ; shall join themselves to the church, and partake of the ordinances of the Gospel with them; and shall worship God and Jesus Christ, their Lord and King, in their presence, and at their feet: and to know that I have loved thee; the Gentile church, and the members of it, in assuming human nature, and dying for, and redeeming them, as well as the Jews; in sending his Gospel to them, and calling them by his grace, and planting them into Gospel churches; giving them a place, and a name in his house, better than that of sons and daughters.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:8 I know: See study note on 2:2-3. • little strength: Like the city of Philadelphia itself (see study note on 3:7), the Christians there were not prosperous, and they lacked status and power. But Christ had opened a door for them (see 3:7) to claim his status and authority. In spite of their weakness, the Philadelphia church obeyed Christ’s word and did not deny him under pressure.