Sardis signifies " Song of joy," or " that which remains."
If we are correct in the application of the first four churches, then Sardis represents the popular churches for nearly a century past. This church has a name to live, but is dead.
Look at the exalted position and name which these churches have had among the nations of the earth. Look at their high-sounding titles, and the applause they receive from what is called the world. They bear the name of the church of Jesus Christ, and have the credit of doing much for the world.
But they are dead to the pure principles of the gospel, and to good works as taught by Christ and his first ministers.
James White
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.
Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die:
for I have not found thy works perfect before God.
Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent.
If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.
Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
Revelation 3:1-6
Look at the exalted position and name which these churches have had among the nations of the earth. Look at their high-sounding titles, and the applause they receive from what is called the world. They bear the name of the church of Jesus Christ, and have the credit of doing much for the world.
But they are dead to the pure principles of the gospel, and to good works as taught by Christ and his first ministers.
James White
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.
Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die:
for I have not found thy works perfect before God.
Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent.
If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.
Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
Revelation 3:1-6
