Proposition: So often we have more excuses of why we can't persevere than reason for why we should. If you are faithful to God's plan, then nothing or noone will be able to stop you.

Introduction: Famous Quote by Chuck Swindoll

Once, one of my children asked me something along the lines of, "Who is your favorite celebrity?" If I remember correctly this question was asked for a school project. My answer to the question was, Chuck Swindoll.

Chuck Swindoll is a great preacher and pastor. There is spirit in his speech and warmth in his words. His sermons are full of humor, healthy advice, and practical ways to live the word of God. His sermons entertain, convict, challenge and instruct.

The reason that I answered with Chuck Swindoll is He seems to state things both profoundly and simplified. One of my favorite quotes is penned by pastor Swindoll.

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes.

-Chuck Swindoll

Today we look at another church that Jesus addressed in the Book of Revelation. The church we look at is the church of Philadelphia. The church of Philadelphia epitomizes this quote. They were not the strongest or most privileged of these churches, but Jesus had no problems with their service. He did not scold them. He only warned them that they should keep up the good work.

I. How Jesus is Portrayed

• His Character
1. Holy
2. True
• His Authority
1. He has the key of David
2. When He opens or shuts no man can reverse it

II. Jesus' Commendation

• You have had little strenth
1. The circumstances have not been the most favorable
• You have kept my word
• Yoy have not denied my name

III. Jesus' Reward

• An open door (v 8)
1. They would be able to succeed in their work
2. No opposing force would be able to stop them
• Their enemies would have to acknowledge how God used this church
• They would be kept from the tribulation

Conclusion: Jesus is comming quickly

• No one knows the day, but when he comes it will be with no warning.
1. This serves as your warning
• Hold on to what you have
• Crown of Life (Righteousness)
• "Don't Let Nobody Shake Your Faith In God"