For taking your time to study remain blessed. PURITY OF A FAITHFUL CHURCH THURSDAY JANUARY 19 TEXT: REVELATION 3:7-13 Key verse: “I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and has kept my word, and hast not denied my name” Revelation 3:8. The church in Philadelphia received commendation and encouragement without any blame from Christ. He who is holy and true did not see anything unholy or untrue in their midst. The righteous, impartial judge was so pleased with that church that all He had for them was greater privilege of more usefulness in ministry. The compromise and corruption found in other churches were not found in the church in Philadelphia. The decline of the first love, the inroad of idolatry and immorality through the corrupting influence of Jezebel, the deception of the doctrine and deeds of Balaam and the Nicolaitanes, association and interaction with false world religions, compromise and toleration of sin and false prophets, fear of suffering persecution and consequent unfaithfulness were not found in this faithful, pure, Christ-honouring church. The Lord Jesus has Divine power and authority to demand holiness and to make us holy. He sets an open door before a pure, persevering Church which had not denied His name when their adversaries and persecutors brought much pressure upon the ministers and the members. They seemed to have a little strength but God is in it. Faithfulness with little opens the door of more opportunities in ministry. The Lord promised to subdue the enemies of truth under His faithful people. He was going to prove His love for His consecrated people for all to see. And He will protect and preserve His people from the tribulation which will soon come on the whole world. He has promised to take away in the Rapture His faithful Church before the Great Tribulation. He has repeatedly assured us that He is coming again. The conqueror’s crown awaits all believers who are faithful to the end. Those who are negligent and unfaithful will deprive themselves of eternal rewards and the promised glory. The overcomers will be made a pillar in the eternal temple of God and shall go no more out. They will be permanent as part of God’s spiritual temple forever. What a glorious thing it will be to live a holy, victorious and overcoming life till the end. Thought the day: He has promised to take His righteous, pure, faithful and steadfast church. Song for the day: Remember me O Lord, remember me in Your kingdom … Bible reading for the day: Genesis 44-45; Matthew 14:1-21 #horemow.