Sermon Notes:
1. A Description of Jesus (v. 1a)
Note 1: Jesus Christ is Lord over the churches.
2. A Diagnosis of the Church (v. 1b)
Note 2: There is nothing hidden from Jesus.
i) What are the signs of a dying church?
ii) What are the signs of a living church?
3. A Directive to Action (v. 2-3a)
Note 3: There is a glimmer of hope if they make some changes.
i) Wake up
ii) Strengthen what remains
iii) Remember what you received and heard
iv) Obey and Repent
4. A Danger to Consider (v. 3b)
Note 4: Jesus says He will suddenly come in Judgement
5. A Declaration of a Reward (v. 4b-5)
Note 5: Our Lord makes a very gracious promise to those who remain faithful to Him.
Follow-up Questions from Sunday:
Quick review:
Looking back at your notes from last week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Digging Deeper:
1. When you read Revelation 3:1-6, what is your impression of this Church?
2. In verse 1, Jesus says that He holds/controls the Seven-fold Spirit of God. How important do you think the Holy Spirit is to the health of a church community? What do you think a church would look like if Jesus removes His Spirit from that church?
3. What is the contrast between reputation and reality in Sardis?
4. What dangers do you think exist for Christians who rely on their past testimony instead of nurturing a genuine spiritual life?
5. Jesus says that a church that rests on its past accomplishments/reputation instead of moving forward is a dead church. What do you think He means by this?
6. Was there ever a time in your spiritual life when you may have been in a similar situation of resting on past accomplishments? How did you return to a healthy relationship with the Lord?
7. If Jesus was to address His “wake-up” call to you today, what do you think He would want you to strengthen?
Taking it Home:
Share with your group any special prayer requests you may have now.