“And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.”
After not attending church for decades, an elderly man started to attend regularly. But then, without warning, he vanished. The pastor investigated his sudden departure, only to discover that he was at the point of death. He had no life-threatening illness, so why was he in such a state? His son explained that his father had decided to stop eating and drinking. In quick order, he died. If Christians fail to partake of God’s word, if they fail to commune with Him at the fountain of prayer, then what?
We find the first-century church of Sardis in such peril. They may have looked okay externally, but they were actually dying a spiritual death. What was wrong? Jesus does not point to a specific sin or address any heresy or conflict in the church. Neither does He give them any commendation. The church had a vibrant and strong history, but one cannot live on past reputations. A good name doesn’t negate a rotting core. The problem was what they lacked.
Jesus approaches the church as the one who has “the seven Spirits of God”. This refers to the Holy Spirit and His full ministry to the seven churches. But to this church, Sardis, Jesus specifically addresses the Holy Spirit. Thus, we find their lack. They were dying for the want of the Spirit. “It is the Spirit who gives life” (John 6:63). Without which, a church will perish. Therefore, they needed the Holy Spirit to resuscitated them.
What was causing their death spiral? We learn much from their city’s history. Sardis was relatively secure, being a natural citadel due to its favourable geography. Still, twice before it had been captured. How? Due to overconfidence, it became carelessly guarded. The same happened to the Sardis church. It appears they had compromised with the world, which in turn benumbed their spirituality. Their overconfidence and spiritual neglect had lulled them into a slumber.
If we don’t safeguard our relationship with Christ, our life too will drain away. Therefore, Jesus calls the Sardis church to repent, to awaken to their dire condition. If not, His return would catch them by surprise. They were to wake up from their complacency and turn their hearts back to Him. They were urged to recapture the vibrant experience they once had with their saviour. Sardis is given promises if they do so. So are we! Not death, but eternal life. Not spiritual nakedness, but being fully clothed in Christ. Not refutation, rather Jesus will confess our names before the Father and the angels.
Therefore, don’t neglect the precious promises of God. If you’ve allowed your relationship with Christ to slip away, turn back to Him now. Don’t delay! Not for a moment. “Behold, now is the accepted time...” (2 Corinthians 6:2). Ask for the Holy Spirit to revive you and awaken your heart. Is it not a matter of life and death?
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