In the late 1960s and early 1970s, there was a strong belief among some that the church would be taken to a Place of Safety, hidden from the Great Tribulation prophesied to come upon the earth. This expectation lingered, with many wondering if each holy day might be the moment of departure to a secure location. The concept of being kept from the hour of trial, as mentioned in Revelation 3:10, was tied to the identity of Philadelphian Christians, with a promise from Jesus Christ that He would protect those who persevere: "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth." This idea of protection and hiding is reflected in Ezekiel 5:1-3, where a small portion of hair is bound in the edge of a garment, suggesting a safeguarded remnant. The Hebrew word for "bind" in this context carries meanings of guarding, keeping in a secret place, and hiding. Throughout biblical accounts, hiding often appears as a means of protection or wisdom, and the Place of Safety is seen as where God will hide His faithful at the end. Ezekiel 5:3 further details that this small portion is securely bound in a priest's garment, implying a tight, protected group under divine care. However, Ezekiel 5:4 warns that even among those initially hidden, some will be removed to face severe testing, indicating that the focus should not solely be on reaching a Place of Safety but on being worthy to enter the Kingdom of God at Christ's return. Zephaniah 2:2-3 reinforces this urgency, with a call to seek the Lord and righteousness, suggesting that it may be possible to be hidden in the day of the Lord's anger. Ultimately, it is Jesus Christ, as the High Priest, who judges and decides who will be protected from the hour of trial, looking for those who have kept His word and not denied His name.

In the promise given to the church of Philadelphia, Jesus Christ declares, "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth." This hour of trial represents a time of immense pressure and temptation, when a great false prophet will deceive many, and a blasphemous tyrant will demand worship and control commerce, making life extraordinarily difficult for those who resist. During this period, the temptation to compromise or give up will be overwhelming, as the world's attractiveness and distractions grow, alongside blatant idolatry and religious deception. Yet, Christ assures that those who have already demonstrated faithfulness in persevering will be kept from the worst of this trial. He recognizes their consistent endurance and does not require them to face the hardest tests, as their steadfastness under suffering has already proven their commitment. This promise reflects a reciprocal relationship, where diligently guarding what He has entrusted to us prompts Him to guard and hold us fast during this hour of trial. For those who maintain courageous endurance, He offers a blessing of protection amidst the hardships they must still face.