To the Church in Philadelphia—Revelation 3:7–13 Open It 1. *What are some examples of progress we’ve seen in the last ten years? 2. What is the weakest you’ve ever felt? 3. What is a nickname you had (or wish you’d had) as a child? 4. What groups would you cite as the biggest present-day enemies of the church? Explore It 1. Who spoke these words and instructed John to write them down? (3:7) 2. What church was the focus of this letter from Jesus? (3:7) 3. How did the speaker in this passage identify Himself? (3:7) 4. What did Christ say about His power? (3:7) 5. By what descriptions or names did Jesus call those who claimed to be Jews? (3:9) 6. What humbling act did Jesus say He would force the enemies of the church of Philadelphia to perform? (3:9) 7. What worldwide event was predicted by Christ? (3:10) 8. *Why will the world experience an “hour of trial”? (3:10) 9. *What was promised to the church at Philadelphia because of its patient endurance? (3:10) 10. *How did Jesus instruct the believers in Philadelphia to prepare for His coming? (3:11) 11. What did Jesus promise at the conclusion of this letter? (3:11–12) 12. How did Jesus challenge us? (3:11–13) 13. What promises were made to “him who overcomes” in Philadelphia? (3:12) 14. In addition to the church at Philadelphia, who else was encouraged to heed this message? (3:13) Get It 1. *What do you think about the idea that the world is getting better and better? 2. What difference does it make to you that Christ is “holy and true”? 3. How can we obey Christ and keep standing up for Him even when we are physically exhausted? 4. How might you persuade a friend that Christ is the ultimate power in the universe? 5. *What can we do to prepare for Christ’s return? 6. Why can we rejoice even when we are persecuted by hostile anti-God forces? 7. Who are some of the “pillars” of your church (faithful, godly members who give their full support)? 8. Why are some Christians seemingly more able or better equipped to “endure patiently”? 9. What advice would you give to a Christian friend who expressed physical exhaustion and a lack of spiritual strength? Apply It 1. How can you share what you have learned so far in Revelation with a non-Christian friend who is looking for spiritual answers? 2. *How can you pray this week as a result of your study? 3. In what areas of your life do you need to turn away from wrong attitudes? 4. Where can you go for the encouragement you need to keep walking with Christ in a hostile world?