“But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.” — 1 Corinthians 16:8-9
Freedom has always been a central part of American life. This is especially true of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which was founded in 1682 by William Penn. One of the hallmarks of the city is the Liberty Bell, which quotes Leviticus 25:10 (KJV), “Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.”
Although not perfect, America provides many people with great opportunities for success, if only they walk through its open doors. As Americans, we are grateful that more and more doors are opened to others each year.
In the Book of Revelation, John wrote a message to the Philadelphia Church about walking through open doors. While this terminology could refer to a new job or marriage, John uses it to describe sharing the Gospel. God gives us open doors to speak or send messages. The Lord wants us to be known for “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) and sharing our Christian faith.
The primary purpose of the Bible is to bring salvation to the doorstep of every person in every place. “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31).
Are we walking through open doors to share God’s message of love, forgiveness and eternal life? Or are we wasting opportunities to share His love with the world? “[B]ecause a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me” (1 Corinthians 16:9).
— Bill Kent, Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, Sylvania, Georgia
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