REVELATION 3

JOHN’S MESSAGE TO SARDIA, PHILADELPHIA, + LAODICEA 

Writing to the church in Sardis, John states that they have a reputation for being alive, but are actually dead in their faith. John calls them to repent and return to a life of following God. Some believers in Sardis have remained steadfast, and John says they will be clothed in white garments and their names will be added to the book of life. Those who remain faithful will be called conquers because they will share in Jesus’ victory over death.

Next, John writes a hopeful message to the believers in Philadelphia. These believers have kept God’s Word and not denied their faith despite persecution. John describes Jesus as holding the key of David, showing the fulfillment of the prophecy that the eternal king will come from the line of David (2 Samuel 7). Revelation 1:18 states that Jesus holds the key to hell, but He also holds the key to heaven—Jesus has authority and dominion over both life and death! Those who have been patient and faithful in their endurance will be spared from the judgment that will come upon the earth. John commends the faithful believers and describes them as the pillars of God’s temple.

Addressing the seventh and final church, John writes to the church in Laodicea. These believers have become lukewarm, neither hot nor cold in their faith. John corrects them and calls them to repentance. Jesus only reproves and rebukes those who He loves, like a loving father. John says that for whoever knocks at the door, Jesus is accessible and available. Those who have trusted in Jesus will eventually sit at God’s throne as conquerors of death and sin.

Because these messages were written directly to specific groups of people within a certain context, it is important to look for the truth of God’s character rather than applying these words directly to the modern-day church.