And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.
Revelation 3:1
Scripture says, "There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 16:25). Many see attaining heaven as a stair step approach of good works. This "way" disregards the utter holiness of God and the guilt of even one sin. How many sins did it take for Adam and Eve to be removed from the presence of God and bring death on themselves anyway? Just one! Yet, this verse also deals with false perceptions in many other areas. It is important that we allow scripture to guide us always as well as ask the Holy Spirit to show us our constant need to stay near the cross. He needs to help us crucify this flesh daily.
False perceptions stymie the effectiveness of local churches. Both Sardis and Laodicea saw themselves with a completely different viewpoint than Christ the Truth saw. Sardis saw themselves as vibrant, alive, and as a living testimony to God's glory. The piercing eyes of Christ saw them as near death. Laodicea, sated with the worlds temporary goods and believing it was a sign of God's blessing, was actually revealed to be wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. Their lack of discernment about their true spiritual condition led them both to a very poor walk with the Savior. Again, Jesus is not even seen in the church of the Laodicean's. Its name, the people's justice or the church of the people, was an apt description.
False perceptions stymie the effectiveness of local churches. Both Sardis and Laodicea saw themselves with a completely different viewpoint than Christ the Truth saw. Sardis saw themselves as vibrant, alive, and as a living testimony to God's glory. The piercing eyes of Christ saw them as near death. Laodicea, sated with the worlds temporary goods and believing it was a sign of God's blessing, was actually revealed to be wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. Their lack of discernment about their true spiritual condition led them both to a very poor walk with the Savior. Again, Jesus is not even seen in the church of the Laodicean's. Its name, the people's justice or the church of the people, was an apt description.
Remember, listen to God before you listen too much to what others say about you or your church. It keeps us on the path that the Lord wants us to walk on. It is so easy to get caught up with flattery that we lose sight of reality. Have you ever had a guest preacher or evangelist praise your church as the most loving or most spiritual? It happens all of the time. Sadly, these vanities are often said in order to assure a return revival next year, but the truth is that the church or individuals need to be at the altar praying about their critical spirit or lack of spirituality. What is even worse is when we convince ourselves of our importance or level of spirituality. If not checked by the Word and the Spirit, these type assessments can lead us down a spiraling slope into a worthless witness while we think we are doing so well. Just a few words of caution that was on my heart and mind. Blessings!
Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
Revelation 3:17
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