Scripture Text: Revelation 3:1–6
“Write to the angel of the church in Sardis:
“The One who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars says: I know your works; you have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead. Be alert and strengthen what remains, which is about to die, for I have not found your works complete before My God.
Revelation 3:1-2 (HCSB)
A man walking home at 2 a.m. in Dulwich, England, happened to notice a girl asleep at the top of an inactive crane. It turns out she was a sleepwalker and had climbed 130 feet up and 40 feet across to get there. Sleepwalking is more common than one might think. According to one recent study, 8.4 million Americans—nearly 4 percent of all adults—sleepwalk each year.
The problem Jesus highlights in the church at Sardis could be characterized as spiritual sleepwalking. Sardis had once rivaled Smyrna and Ephesus, but its best days were now in the past. And the church in that city had a reputation for being alive, but was in fact dead (v. 1). It had the motions of a living church but lacked the vitality of the Spirit. This church had started well but had failed to follow through. As a result, Jesus found its deeds “unfinished” (v. 2).
Jesus commanded the church in Sardis to wake up and remember what they had “received and heard” (v. 3). This is the language of biblical tradition. The way to break out of spiritual lifelessness is to recall the truth of Scripture, hold fast to it, and repent.
Jesus promised to come to this church like a thief and catch those who were spiritually asleep (see Luke 12:39–40; 1 Thess. 5:2, 4; 2 Peter 3:10; Rev. 16:15). Despite some similarity in language, this warning likely does not refer to the Second Coming. It is a promise to discipline this church in a way that will be both certain and unexpected.
And those in Sardis who were spiritually alive need not be afraid. Jesus promised that they would be dressed in white, and their names would never be erased from the book of life (v. 5).
Reflect
1. In what areas might you be going through the motions outwardly but lacking true spiritual vitality inwardly?
2. How can you cultivate a genuine and vibrant relationship with God?
3. What practical steps can you take to create a quiet space for God's guidance and wisdom to penetrate your heart?
Remember
Believers-followers of Christ are to have real, active faith, not just a show. They are to stay spiritually awake, be aware of their faith, and respond to God. The passage calls for turning back to God if they've drifted and receive His mercy. The promises of white garments and a secure place in the book of life provide hope for those who stay faithful.
Let us keep a genuine, alive faith, be watchful, turn back to God when needed, and trust in the promises in Christ for those who persevere.
Read
Luke 12:39–40; 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 4; 2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 16:15; 1 Corinthians 11:2, 23, 15:2–3, 16:13
Pray
Gracious Lord and Sovereign God, as I come before You, I am mindful of the message and the reminder. I acknowledge, Lord, that true faith is not merely about appearances but a genuine, active relationship with You. It is through it that You have clothed me with the righteousness of Your Son, and have inscribed my name in the book of life by Your grace alone. May Your Spirit awaken me to the depth of my faith, keeping me vigilant in Your Word and responsive to Your leading. In moments of spiritual complacency, lead me to heartfelt repentance, knowing that Your mercy is abundant. Grant me the strength to overcome through the power of Your Spirit. I place my trust in Your promises, acknowledging that all glory belongs to You. In the name of Jesus, my Savior and Lord, I pray.
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