The essential source of all authority is God – Romans 13:1-2. Jesus Christ has given us the keys (spiritual authority) to build His church – Matthew 16:18-19.
Keys, as found in the Word of God. In the Old Testament, the word, key, is used twice:
• Hebrew meaning – an opening instrument – Judges 3:25.
• Key of David (lineage of Jesus Christ) – Isaiah 22:20-23.
Keys are powerful. Jesus Christ holds the most powerful keys in the universe, holding the keys to hell and death – Revelation 1:18.
In the New Testament, the word, key, is used six times; the Greek meaning is ‘competent authority’. Luke 11:52.
Jesus Christ announced the coming Church. He said: “It is my church, and I will build it…The gates of hell shall not prevail against it…I will give the church the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.” Matthew 16:18-19
What is the Kingdom of Heaven? The very first sermons that Jesus and John the Baptist preached were: “Repent, the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2; 4:17. Jesus went on to say the Kingdom of Heaven is a mystery (secret) – Matthew 13:11. There are 14 mysteries in the New Testament, and this is the first mystery mentioned.
Jesus gave the key of David – Isaiah 22:22-23 to the Church at Philadelphia he gave spiritual authority with the promise that if you open the door, no man can shut it. Revelation. 3:7-9. In Matthew 1:1, which is the very first verse in the New Testament, Matthew mentions Jesus Christ, the Son of David, and also of Abraham. In Galatians 3:25-29, Paul tells us that we are also the seed of Abraham and heirs according to the promise.
Because the church of Philadelphia obeyed the Lord and opened the door with the key of David, here is what followed: Revelation 3:7-13.
Jesus knew their works. Faith without works is dead. James 2:14-15
Jesus gave them an open door – open to God
No one can shut the door
You have little strength. This is awesome. The word ‘strength’ is the Greek word ‘dunamis’ which is the word for the Holy Spirit’s power in us and means ‘miracle power’. It is also the word for ‘ability’ in Matthew 25:15. Also used in Hebrews. 11:11 with Sarah conceiving a child in old age.
Because you have kept my Word, I will keep you from the hour of temptation that shall come upon the whole world.
You have not denied My Name.
Others will come and worship.
Behold I am coming quickly so hold fast to what you know so no man can take your crown.
You will overcome (get the victory) and you will see the New Jerusalem; Revelation 21:1-8.
They listened to the Holy Spirit.
Your name will be written in my book; Revelation 13:8; 21:27.
The Church needs to use the keys of the Lord today.
To preach repentance. According to Barna Group research, only ten percent of pastors preach a message of repentance.
To develop a Biblical worldview, including prophecy. Only 37 percent of pastors, 10 percent of youth pastors and just 9 percent of Christians have a Biblical worldview. (Barna)
Only 58 percent of Christians believe that the Holy Spirit is God (according to Arizona Christian University).
Only 11 percent of Christians read their Bible daily (American Bible Society)
Biblical prophecy must be preached, especially today. Revelation 1:3 says we are blessed if we read; heed and obey the words of prophecy. Prophecy is approximately one third of the Bible.
In Revelation 9:1, the fifth angel is given the key to the bottomless pit. Revelation 22:17-21, which are the last five verses in the Word of God, we are given three clear instructions, a warning and a blessing.
A clear invitation to accept Jesus as Saviour. A severe warning not to change anything in God’s Word and a conclusion of the Word of God – Come Lord Jesus!
He is coming soon!
Barry Borthistle, A Spiritual Entrepreneur With a Biblical Worldview, is a former pastor and entrepreneur, and is the author of Your Body is God’s Temple and Spiritual Authority.
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