Chapter 5 Philadelphia

The largest city, known for its historical landmarks and cultural institutions.

5.1 Motto

Philadelphia’s motto is “Philadelphia Maneto,” which translates to “Let Brotherly Love Continue.” This reflects the city’s name, which is derived from the Greek words “philos” (love) and “adelphos” (brother), emphasizing the city’s founding principles of tolerance and community.

5.2 Historical Sites

Philadelphia is rich in historical sites that reflect its pivotal role in American history. Here are some notable ones:

  1. Independence Hall: The birthplace of the United States, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and adopted.

  2. Liberty Bell: An iconic symbol of American independence, located near Independence Hall.

  3. Betsy Ross House: The home of Betsy Ross, who is credited with making the first American flag.

  4. Elfreth’s Alley: The oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, showcasing 18th-century architecture.

  5. National Constitution Center: A museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs.

  6. Christ Church: An historic church where many Founding Fathers worshipped, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

  7. Valley Forge National Historical Park: Located just outside Philadelphia, this site commemorates the winter encampment of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

These sites offer a glimpse into Philadelphia’s rich history and its role in the founding of the United States.

Philadelphia is mentioned in the Book of Revelation (also known as the Apocalypse of St. John) in the New Testament. It is one of the seven churches addressed in the letters found in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Specifically, the letter to the church in Philadelphia is found in Revelation 3:7-13.

5.3 Book of Revelations

The seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation symbolize different types of Christian communities and spiritual conditions. Each church receives a specific message that addresses its unique situation, offering commendations, criticisms, and guidance. Here’s a brief overview of each:

  1. Ephesus: Known for its hard work and perseverance, but criticized for losing its first love. The message encourages them to remember their initial devotion and repent.

  2. Smyrna: Praised for its faithfulness amidst persecution and poverty. The message reassures them of eternal life and encourages them to remain faithful even unto death.

  3. Pergamum: Recognized for holding fast to faith despite living in a challenging environment. However, they are criticized for tolerating false teachings. The message urges them to repent and promises hidden manna and a white stone to the faithful.

  4. Thyatira: Commended for love, faith, service, and perseverance, but criticized for tolerating immorality and false prophecy. The message calls for repentance and promises authority over nations to those who overcome.

  5. Sardis: Criticized for being spiritually dead despite having a reputation for being alive. The message urges them to wake up, strengthen what remains, and repent. The faithful are promised white garments and their names in the Book of Life.

  6. Philadelphia: Praised for keeping God’s word and enduring patiently. The message promises protection from trials and a place in God’s temple for those who remain steadfast.

  7. Laodicea: Criticized for being lukewarm, neither hot nor cold. The message advises them to seek true riches and spiritual sight, urging repentance. Those who overcome are promised the right to sit with Christ on His throne.

These messages serve as both encouragement and warning, reflecting the spiritual state of the churches and offering guidance for growth and improvement.

Smyrna and Philadelphia are the only two of the seven churches that receive praise without any criticism.

  • Smyrna is commended for its faithfulness in the face of persecution and poverty. The message to Smyrna reassures them of eternal life and encourages them to remain faithful even unto death.

  • Philadelphia is praised for keeping God’s word and enduring patiently. The message promises protection from trials and a place in God’s temple for those who remain steadfast despite having “little power.” It commends its members for keeping God’s word and not denying His name. The letter promises rewards for their steadfastness, including being made “a pillar in the temple of my God.”

Both churches are encouraged to continue their faithfulness and are promised rewards for their perseverance.

5.4 Symbolism

The message to the church in Philadelphia in the Book of Revelation and the city of Philadelphia’s motto, “The City of Brotherly Love,” can be metaphorically related through themes of steadfastness, community, and enduring support.

In Revelation, the church in Philadelphia is praised for its faithfulness and perseverance, despite challenges. This steadfastness can be seen as a metaphor for the enduring spirit of brotherly love—remaining committed to supporting and uplifting one another through trials.

Similarly, the motto “The City of Brotherly Love” emphasizes unity, compassion, and mutual support among its residents. Just as the biblical Philadelphia is commended for holding fast to its values, the city of Philadelphia embodies these principles by fostering a community where love and support are central, encouraging resilience and solidarity.

Both the biblical message and the city’s motto highlight the importance of maintaining core values and supporting one another, even in the face of adversity.

Moreover, the motto of Pennsylvania, “Virtue, Liberty, and Independence,” can be metaphorically related to both the message to the church in Philadelphia in the Book of Revelation and the city of Philadelphia’s motto, “The City of Brotherly Love,” through shared themes of steadfastness, community, and enduring principles.

  1. Virtue: The church in Philadelphia is praised for its faithfulness and moral integrity, reflecting the virtue of steadfastness in the face of challenges. Similarly, the city of Philadelphia’s emphasis on brotherly love aligns with the virtue of compassion and mutual support within a community.

  2. Liberty: The concept of liberty can be seen in the church’s promise of protection and freedom from trials, symbolizing spiritual liberation. In the context of the city, brotherly love fosters an environment where individuals are free to support and uplift one another, promoting a sense of communal liberty.

  3. Independence: The church’s perseverance and commitment to its values despite external pressures mirror the spirit of independence. For the city, brotherly love encourages a community that stands strong and independent through mutual support and unity.

Together, these elements highlight a cohesive narrative where virtue, liberty, and independence are achieved through steadfast faith, communal support, and enduring love, resonating with both the biblical message and the city’s ethos.