Concept 10 - Permanence

In the previous lesson I wrote about Jesus being the Gatekeeper to the Kingdom of God. To continue this lesson we will look at the reward for the overcomers in the church at Philadelphia: to be a pillar in the temple of God, to have the name of God and the City of God written on him, and to have the new name of Jesus written on him (Rev 3:12).

Jesus is offering the overcomers something permanent for their reward. No man can ask them to leave the temple, for they will “never again leave it.” They have become supporting structures, like Peter and the apostles (Gal 2:9). God never changes, and His name on them signifies a never-changing relationship. Men of faith looked forward to the City of God (Heb 11:10), and the overcomer will see its glory.

Jesus is also letting the overcomer be part of His new name. We see the changing role of Jesus as the Lamb who becomes the Lion, the meek one becoming the warrior. This new name will be written on those who honor whom the Lord honors, and work with whom the Lord works with, not excluding any of the Lord’s servants from Christian fellowship or service. These overcomers see Jesus as the Gatekeeper to the Kingdom of God.

There is a condition, though. The overcomers must “hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” (Rev 3:11). One of the biggest trials in this hour may not be martyrdom; it may be putting the Lord’s wishes before the brethren’s. Paul writes that we are in an athletic competition, “running in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.” (1 Cor 9:25-26)

The crown is permanent. Paul is telling us that this prize is worth the effort of training, but only if we do not run our race “aimlessly.” We must not compromise that which is permanent for that which is temporary. Some men may want us to give up our place with Christ for a place with them, thus taking our crown. In a time of coldness (Mt 24:12), this may seem good. But the wise will realize that satan is setting the stage with the conditions for our failure. However, God has written the scriptures to equip us for success.

Jesus receives us, and asks us to receive each other (Mt 10:40-42). This is an hour where ministries require recommendations, credentials, and training that is exclusive to their church. If Jesus came as an prophet unknown in their circles, many would not receive what He had to say. Men have developed methods which they think God uses, and parameters which they think contain His speech. But their greatest teachings are foolishness to Him, and He will use the humblest to serve Him. Be faithful in what you have been given, for God has a permanent place for you in His Kingdom. Amen.