Revelation 3:4-6
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
4 However, you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; they will walk with me dressed in white, because they are worthy.(A)
5 “‘“The victor will thus be dressed in white,[a] and I will never erase his name from the book of life but will acknowledge his name in the presence of my Father and of his angels.(B)
6 “‘“Whoever has ears ought to hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”’
To Philadelphia.[b]
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- 3:5 In white: white is a sign of victory and joy as well as resurrection; see note on Rev 2:17. The book of life: the roll in which the names of the redeemed are kept; cf. Rev 13:8; 17:8; 20:12, 15; 21:27; Phil 4:3; Dn 12:1. They will be acknowledged by Christ in heaven; cf. Mt 10:32.
- 3:7–13 The letter to Philadelphia praises the Christians there for remaining faithful even with their limited strength (Rev 3:8). Members of the assembly of Satan are again singled out (Rev 3:9; see Rev 2:9). There is no admonition; rather, the letter promises that they will be kept safe at the great trial (Rev 3:10–11) and that the victors will become pillars of the heavenly temple, upon which three names will be inscribed: God, Jerusalem, and Christ (Rev 3:12).
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