Summary
Are we truly alive in our faith, or merely going through the motions? The letter to the church in Sardis in Revelation 3 challenges us to wake up spiritually before it’s too late. Just as the affluent city of Sardis fell due to overconfidence, we too can become complacent in our spiritual lives. The message urges us to be alert, strengthen what remains, and finish what we’ve started in our walk with God. The symbolism of ‘seven spirits’ emphasizes the completeness of God’s power and presence available to us. We’re called to rely on the Holy Spirit for protection, direction, and correction, avoiding the pitfalls of overconfidence, cruise control, and mission drift in our faith. This wake-up call reminds us that nearness to Christ is directly related to our pursuit of holiness. Are we prepared for Christ’s return, or will it catch us off guard like a thief in the night?
Key Scripture
Revelation 3:1-6
Discussion Questions
- The sermon describes the Church of Sardis as appearing alive but being spiritually dead.
- In today’s culture, where do you see people focusing more on outward appearances of faith or success rather than genuine spiritual vitality?
- Andy talks about “white noise” from the world lulling Christians to sleep.
- What are some examples of distractions in modern culture—like social media, entertainment, or societal pressures—that might be pulling people away from God’s purpose, and how have you noticed this affecting those around you or perhaps yourself?
- Jesus urges the Church of Sardis to “wake up” before it’s too late.
- What are some areas—such as relationships, community issues, or spiritual practices—where you see a need for people to wake up to God’s calling, and how might this connect to something you’ve seen or felt personally?
- The sermon highlights overconfidence, cruise control, and mission drift as risks for spiritual deadness.
- Where do you see these tendencies in in churches, workplaces, or social circles, and how might they resonate with challenges you or someone you know faces?
- Jesus calls the Church of Sardis to finish what they started.
- What are some common reasons people might abandon spiritual commitments—like prayer, volunteering, or studying scripture—and what have you seen work to stay committed to these goals?
- The sermon connects nearness to Christ with holiness.
- What are some practical ways people can pursue holiness despite worldly pressures, and have you seen any moments where this pursuit has made a difference in someone’s life?
Scripture Reference
- Revelation 3:1-6 (The letter to the church in Sardis)
- Ephesians 4:4-6
- Genesis 1 (Creation account, specifically the 7 days)
- 2 Kings 5:14 (Naaman dipping in the Jordan 7 times)
- Joshua 6 (Battle of Jericho)
- Isaiah 11:2
- Luke 11:11-13
- 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6