Read Revelation Chapter 3!!
The Message to the Church in Sardis Verses 1-6
1. Verse 1: Explains who the letter is to: the angel/star/messenger of the church in Sardis.
2. Verse 2-3: Criticism/what they are doing wrong, also direction/what they need to do.
3. Verses 4-6: Recognizing that there are some people who have not fallen.
This church reminds us that we can still fall away from God. We need to be careful not to follow the world's version of acceptable... We need to constantly remember to go back to the basic truth of salvation. We don't need to add stipulations or rules, we just need to follow God's Word.
The Message to the Church in Philadelphia Verses 7-13
1. Verse 7: Explains who the letter is to: the angel/star/messenger of the church in Philadelphia.
2. Verses 8-13: Encouragement and reward! Reward for being obedient/persevering. Warning to keep up the good work; and what will happen if they do.
I always wanted to be a part of this church, for it says, "I will protect you from the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world." I don't believe the Church of Philadelphia is referring to Pennsylvania! However, I do believe we will be rewarded for being obedient just like this church. This church also shows that perseverance will be very important! God will open doors for us that no one can close; we just have to keep an eye out for those doors, and walk through them when the time is right.
The Message to the Church in Laodicea Verses 14-22
1. Verse 14: Explains who the letter is to: the angel/star/messenger of the church in Laodicea.
2. Verses 15-22: "I know the things that you do, that you are neither hot nor cold... I will spit you out of my mouth!" "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If you hear My voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends."
Through this church we learn to be all in our all out for Christ. We don't want to just be drifting along. There is no compromise when we follow Him; either we follow all of God's Word or none of it. There is no middle ground here. When we are all in fro God, and we do our absolute best to follow Him, He will recognize that. We are still human, we ill still mess up, but "I correct and discipline everyone I love." We need to open the door to our hearts and let him in. We serve a loving and merciful God. A few mistakes won't separate you from Him if you truly repent and turn away from it.
All in all these church teach us to be obedient, attentive, and that the end is near. We need to stay alert and focused on God and His Plan for our lives! Then we will be prepared when the storms come!
What did you learn from these churches? I'd love to hear you thoughts below!!
Blessings!
~ S*
