We continue our look at the seven churches of Asia which received John’s message from the island of Patmos. There were far more congregations than these seven for Paul’s work resulted in the spread of the gospel throughout all of Asia (Acts 19:10). God specifically chose these seven churches to help all other individuals and churches to profit from these messages (Rev. 3:6)
The city of Sardis. It was located on the western boundary of the Roman province of Asia and played an important role in the commerce of that area. These two truths enabled it to become a wealthy “frontier” city. Think of the history of America and the vice often connected with such cities as our nation spread to the west. The wealth caused many to focus on material matters rather than on matters of far more importance.
The church in Sardis as it appeared to others. Jesus does not look at outward appearances at the truth. He said to the church in Sardis, “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive” (Rev. 3:1). He then adds these words showing He is not concerned with reputation with character, “But you are dead.” The view of this church in the eyes of men is far different from the way Jesus saw the “great” church at Sardis.
The church at Sardis as it appeared to Jesus. Having said that he said, “You are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God” (v. 2). While the English word perfect is used to indicate being totally complete and flawless, the Greek word is far different. As a child, I read the words of Jesus that we should be perfect as God is perfect and knew I could never do this for I could never be sinless. When God speaks of perfection, He uses this Greek word to indicate maturity and growth. We look at our newborn and see them as being perfect, even though they cannot walk or feed themselves. Babes in Christ can be viewed in the same way, and God wants us to keep growing into the fulness being like Jesus (Eph. 4:13).
The absence of the “good” and the “bad” in Sardis. There was still hope for the church, but it was fading. Jesus said that if they did not repent His judgment was coming (v. 3). Their future was “ugly.” There was hope for some in that church, and the Lord told them to continue in faithful service. If they did, they would walk with Him clothed in white garments.
Some names in Sardis to remain in the book of life. There is a difference between having a name in a church directory and a name in the book of life. That book contains the names of those whose names are recorded in heaven and, if they remain faithful, their names will not be blotted out. Is your name still in that book?