But God’s solid foundation stands firm, with this message written on it: “The Lord knows who his own people are.” Also, “All those who say that they believe in the Lord must stop doing wrong.”
But now you do know God. Even better, God knows you. So why are you turning back to those weak and worthless powers? Do you want to be slaves to them all over again?
‘I know what you’ve been doing. I know about your love and your faith. I know how well you’ve served me and that you haven’t given up easily. In fact, you’re doing more now than you did at first.
Blessed is the person who keeps going when times are difficult. After they’ve made it through these times, they’ll receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to give to those who love him.
‘I know that you’re suffering and that you’re poor—but you’re rich! I know how you’re being insulted by people who claim to be Jews but aren’t. They’re a synagogue of Satan.
Even though you’ve never seen Jesus, you love him. Though you don’t see him now, you believe in him and you’re filled with a glorious joy that can’t be put into words.
‘I know that even though you live where Satan has his throne, you’re still faithful to me. You didn’t give up your faith even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city, where Satan lives.
Jesus said to him a third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” It made Peter sad that Jesus had asked him a third time, “Do you love me?” He answered, “Lord, you know all things. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.
My dear brothers and sisters, listen to me. Hasn’t God chosen those who are poor in the world’s eyes to be rich in faith? Hasn’t he chosen them to receive the kingdom that he promised to give to those who love him?
God didn’t reject his people, the ones he knew ahead of time. Don’t you know what Scripture says in the story of Elijah? Elijah complained to God about Israel and said,
Now we see only a dim reflection of things, as if we were seeing them in a foggy mirror. But someday we will see clearly, face to face. Now I know in part; then I will know completely, just as God knows me completely.
