Straight From The Heart Radio Calvary Chapel of Philadelphia

The lukewarm church- Jesus - the faithful and true witness - rebukes the church at Laodicea for their half-heartedness. They were self-deceived, wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked, and they didn't know it.

Let no one take your crown- Since this church patiently endured, Jesus would keep them from the coming trials. In the meantime, He's coming soon, so hold on to Him. If we overcome we become pillars before the Lord of all the earth, written with new names, showing our faithfulness.

The faithful church- The Lord knows who has kept His word and not denied His name. The church of Philadelphia kept and treasured their relationship with Him. Are we using our "little strength" to honor the One who opens a door of service and is a Father like no other?

The Book of Life- Some in Sardis had not soiled their clothes. They knew the day of the Lord would come like a thief in the night and wanted to be ready. Those who overcome will, like them, be dressed in white.

The dead church- The church at Sardis was alive in name only. Dead orthodoxy is the greatest threat to true life in Christ. Are we a disciple of His, and know His awesome life-giving power in our lives?

Hold fast to what you have- Not holding the Scripture as the final authority, a woman in the church was misleading some. As always, repentance is prescribed. "Jezebel" refused, but those who refuse idolatry to the end will be rewarded with authority over the nations, as Jesus has.