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Hidden From the Hour of Trial
'Prophecy Watch' by Ronny H. GrahamIn 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.

Who Will Be Kept from the Hour of Trial?
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn 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.
Where Is Your Trust?
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn times of trouble, where is our trust? The Kingdom of God is what we should be seeking—not a self-satisfied avoidance of suffering.
The Philadelphia Syndrome (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeChrist favors the Philadelphia church, but such favor puts it under obligation. Sadly, God's favor causes some to think too highly of themselves.

The Seven Churches (Part Eight): Philadelphia
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Philadelphia church is often considered the best of the seven churches of Revelation 2 and 3. Is it? Does it have faults? Is our judgment biased?
The Philadelphia Syndrome (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe effect of the Worldwide Church of God seeing itself as Philadelphia has been profound, elevating organizational loyalty over faithfulness to God.

Places of Safety
'Prophecy Watch' by StaffWhile an end-time Place of Safety is possible, we should not discount God's ability to protect us anywhere. In Christ, we find our safest place.
A Place of Safety? (Part 5)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughObsessing about the Place of Safety is a sure way to disqualify oneself from it. God calls some faithful, zealous ones for martyrdom during the Tribulation.
Every Word?
'Prophecy Watch' by Pat HigginsGod frequently admonishes His people to be careful to observe His commands. Carefulness in living by God's every word may have life-or-death consequences.
The Handwriting Is on the Wall (2004)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe cannot assume that we are going to be immune from tough times and persecution, but we need to ask God for the strength to endure what He gives us to endure.
Hope to the End (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Faith, hope and love are spiritual gifts which safeguard us from discouragement and depression, giving us a mature perspective that will last eternally.
Fully Accepting God's Sovereignty, Part Three: The Fruits
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughHere are four qualities of character that our full acceptance of God's sovereignty will build and that will prepare us for whatever work God may choose for us.
How Long, O Lord?
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The Seventh Trumpet is a call to assemble, a call to battle, and announces the arrival of a new ruler, Jesus Christ, separating the wheat from the tares.
State of Fear
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Effective propaganda is being employed by global warning alarmists to enslave us economically. Fear is a powerful motivator