Philadelphia was well-known for its commercial enterprises, but also as a stopping-point, a highway exit, on one’s way to the East. In that city was a small church, struggling to hang on to its witness there. Circumstances had caused that church to decline in numbers in recent years. But Jesus Christ, from his throne in heaven, was watching that church and encouraging it to endure patiently, to walk through open doors of opportunity, and to ultimately receive his promise of a new name and new standing in his eternal kingdom. 
Scripture: Revelation 3:7-13