REVELATION 3:1-5
The words of the risen Christ to seven churches in Asia are recorded in the book of Revelation. He made it clear to the church at Sardis that He was aware of their deeds, that they had a name (a reputation) that they were alive, but that they were actually dead (Revelation 3:1). The Lord knew the real story about them, and I am sure that they did too. He urged them to awaken and strengthen the spiritual life that was on the verge of passing away inside of them. He advised them to remember the truth they had been given, to follow it, and then to turn around and begin moving in a new direction.
Let us consider what the city of Sardis looked like during the time this message was given. There were many followers of paganism in Sardis. This could be a contributing factor in some churchgoers’ spiritual sluggishness. The lives that believers live should not be influence by the outside world. A decision to submit to God’s transformative process is the key to maintaining spiritual vitality.
The Lord always offers a solution for change when He reveals what is wrong in our lives. He pardons us and provides us the strength to start afresh when we repent of our sins.
What a liberating experience it is to trade in a phony spiritual reputation for the real, vivifying character that comes from knowing Christ our Lord!
🙏🏼Lord, make us truly alive in You.
