ESV Global Study Bible :: Footnotes for Revelation 3

Rev. 3:1–6 The church in Sardis has a few who remain faithful, but their faith does not result in good works. Most of the impressive Roman-era remains now visible at Sardis were constructed by the emperor Tiberius after the tragic earthquake of a.d. 17. The emperor Tiberius helped sponsor reconstruction efforts, earning greater local renown for himself. In John’s day the structures included a theater, a stadium, a central marble road, and many temples.

Rev. 3:1 the seven spirits of God. See note on 1:4–6.

Rev. 3:2–3 The church in Sardis is near death, but not beyond Christ’s ability to wake them up. Twice in its history Sardis had been conquered when its watchmen failed to see the enemy climbing its cliffs and walls, so the people knew the importance of alertness. like a thief. A frequent NT image (Luke 12:39–40; 1 Thess. 5:2–4; 2 Pet. 3:10; Rev. 16:15). Humans cannot predict the timing of Christ’s return.

Rev. 3:4–5 There is hope for a few names, alert and faithful believers. Christ promises them the conqueror’s reward. They will have communion with him (walk with me) and the white clothing of victory (see note on 6:9–11). Their name is secure in his book of life (20:15).

Rev. 3:7–13 Philadelphia is praised for enduring in faith. In recognition for the aid after an earthquake in a.d. 17, the city was briefly renamed Neocaesarea (“Caesar’s New City”). Jesus promises his suffering church an infinitely greater name, “the city of my God, the new Jerusalem” (v. 12). Philadelphia lies near a fertile valley known for growing wine grapes.

Rev. 3:7 Jesus holds the key of David. He has absolute authority to admit to or exclude from God’s kingdom (compare Isa. 22:22; Matt. 16:19).

Rev. 3:8 an open door. Paul used the phrase “open doors” to describe opportunities for ministry (see 1 Cor. 16:9). That sense is possible here. More likely, Jesus is offering them an open door into God’s heavenly sanctuary (see Rev. 3:12; 4:1). little power. Christians in Philadelphia were weak yet were holding onto Jesus’ word (3:10–11).

Rev. 3:9 Members of the synagogue of Satan (compare 2:9) say that they are Jews but they serve God’s enemy, for they persecute Christians.

Rev. 3:10 hour of trial. This trial is coming on the whole world. It will happen before the day of judgment. Revelation envisions a brief future period of intense persecution for the church (see 19:19; 20:7–9). This time will include ever more intense manifestations of God’s wrath against rebellious humanity (6:10; 8:13; 11:10; 13:8; 12; 14; 17:2; 8). Some believe this verse means Christ will take believers out of the world before a literal “great tribulation” period begins (the “pretribulation rapture” view). Other interpreters, however, see this as God’s promise to protect and remain faithful to believers who endure patiently during this difficult time.

Rev. 3:14–22 Laodicea is criticized for its spiritual immaturity. The city was a commercial center. It had thriving medical and textile industries. It was so wealthy that it declined imperial disaster relief after an earthquake in a.d. 60. The city did not see itself as “poor, blind, and naked” (v. 17), but Jesus does not find anything in its church to praise. Laodicea was famous for its worship of Zeus.

Rev. 3:14 Jesus contradicts the church’s boast, “I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing” (v. 17). the beginning of God’s creation. This does not mean that Jesus is God’s first creation (see Col. 1:15–17 and notes on Colossians 1:15–17). It means that he is the one who began God’s creation (see note on John 1:3). This phrase signifies Christ’s sovereign rule over the created order (see Rev. 21:6; 22:13).

Rev. 3:15–16 The church’s lukewarm indifference was disgusting to Jesus. Cold and hot water both represent something positive, for cold water refreshes in the heat and hot water gives warmth in the cold.

Rev. 3:17–18 The Laodiceans were spiritually blind, bankrupt, and naked. They had no resources to buy from Jesus gold or garments or salve for their eyes. They could “purchase” these necessities only by his grace (see Isa. 55:1–4).

Rev. 3:19–20 Like a loving father, Christ will reprove those whom he loves (compare Prov. 3:12). I stand at the door and knock. Jesus is the master of the house. He expects alert servants to respond immediately to his signal and welcome his entrance (Luke 12:35–36). eat with him. A picture of close personal fellowship.

Rev. 3:21 I will grant him to sit with me on my throne implies that Christ will give some of his ruling authority to his people (compare 20:4; 22:6; Luke 19:17; 1 Cor. 6:3; 2 Tim. 2:12).