Wake Up

There's a problem with todays church just like there where problems when John wrote Revelation. Not only were churches plagued with an abandonment of the truth and sexual immorality, but they were challenged with spiritual decay. One church in particular fits the description of the state of the present-day church.

The church in Sardis was convicted of appearing very vibrant and alive on the outside, but very dead and decayed on the inside. This was a church that seemed to have it all, but really missed the mark on what was important to them. Sardis had little to no passion and enthusiasm for their work. Evangelism and discipleship suffered as a result. Minimal praise offerings were being presented regularly. Today's church is falling into the same trap.

Revelation 3:2 tells us that throughout this hardship, there was still hope. This verse indicates that some were "ready to die", meaning that they still had a minimal amount of life left. The fire may have been nearly extinguished, but a flicker of a flame remained. Jesus supplied Sardis with a remedy on how to renew their spiritual fire.

First, the church was told to remember back to the beginning. They lost their original focus. Secondly, the church was told to obey. Not to shrink back into destruction, but to stand firm with the original teachings. Finally, and most importantly, the church in Sardis was told to repent. Sardis was instructed to turn from evil, and cling to what was good.

Just like the church in Sardis, present-day church has been losing focus and passion. It's time we remember what's really important, and what our mission is. The church must hold fast and repent before it's too late. It's time for the church to wake up.

"Wake up and strengthen what remains and is on the point of death, for I have not found your works perfect in the sight of my God." -Jesus (Rev. 3:2 NRSV)