Devotional 21 January 2025

Revelation 3:1 ESV “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. “‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead.”

Jesus begins His message to the church in Sardis by identifying Himself as the one who holds the fullness of the Spirit (“the seven spirits of God”) and the authority over the church (“the seven stars”). This introduction reminds us of Christ’s sovereignty and His intimate knowledge of His people. As Proverbs 15:3 says, “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.” Jesus knows not only what we do but also the condition of our hearts. (1 Samuel 16:7)

The church in Sardis had a reputation for life, but Jesus declares it spiritually dead. This sobering assessment echoes Isaiah 29:13: “This people draw near with their mouth and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me.” Outward activity and human approval are no substitutes for genuine faith and obedience. Sardis teaches us that reputation without spiritual vitality is meaningless before God.

This passage calls us to examine our own lives. Are we merely going through the motions of faith, maintaining an outward semblance of godliness while our inner lives lack vibrancy? (Matthew 23:27)

Jesus’s message is a reminder that He desires His church to be alive in Him, bearing fruit through the Spirit (John 15:4-5). As we reflect on this passage, let us seek the power of the Spirit to quicken our hearts, that we may honor Christ with lives marked by sincerity, faithfulness, and true spiritual life.

Let this passage lead us to pray, “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!” (Psalm 139:23). May we strive for a faith that is alive and growing, not for the sake of appearances, but because we long to honor the One who truly knows our works and loves us still.

-steve