This week Pastor Josh looks at Jesus’s message to the church in Philadelphia in Revelation 3:7-13. We see how Jesus’s acceptance can help us endure rejection from our culture.
- The church in Philadelphia endured social exclusion because of their faith in Jesus.
- But Jesus gives them strength to endure rejection because of the acceptance we have with him.
- We should expect some form of rejection in our city as Christians, but we can endure that if we focus on the welcome we have in Christ.
ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:
- Romans 15:7
- John 6:37
COMMUNITY GROUP QUESTIONS:
- The church in Philadelphia experienced rejection and exclusion because of their faith. This is a reality or potential consequence of our faith that we need reckon with. What areas of life or culture are you most afraid to experience rejection? Why?
- In order to help these Christians endure rejection, Jesus reminds them and assures them of the welcome they have in him. When we understand all that we have in Christ we can endure through trials. What aspect of Jesus and his gospel tends to give you the most strength?
- The open door Jesus references also refers to the door remaining open for those who are persecuting these Christians. This means no one is too far gone, but we tend to think they are. How do you struggle to believe that Jesus can save anyone? How does this keep you from sharing about Jesus?
- Our endurance depends on Jesus’s acceptance of us, which we always have. He will never cast us out. What area of life do you need to remember this truth? How can you internalize the truth that Jesus will never cast you out?