“Because you have kept my word of patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial which is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell upon the earth.” (Rev. 3:10)
As we reflect on the Father, we join the church in Philadelphia, which received high praise from the Lord for its faithfulness. We can regard it as a model of a faithful church in times of tribulation.
Jesus speaks of the church’s steadfastness. This is especially important when the holy faith is under attack.
After all, there are many persistent enemies: temptations arising from our own disordered inclinations, the allurements of the world, and the attacks of the devil, who prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (cf. 1 Pet 5:8). We must continually resist these enemies in the power of God and remain steadfast in faith. Even if things seem quiet for a while, we must always remain vigilant.
What did the Lord mean by the “hour of trial”? The text above continues: “which is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell upon the earth.”
This passage does not focus solely on the personal dimension, though that is always included.
Could this refer to widespread apostasy among humanity? Deceptions that lead people away from God—perhaps even in connection with the Antichrist, who seeks to sit on God’s throne? Will a moment of decision come for everyone, revealing whether they love God more than themselves?
As the Lord says, what is crucial is that we remain steadfast and faithful to Him, even unto death, no matter what may come. Then His promise will hold true: He will stand by us and protect us from the hour of trial.