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Lesson 4 - My Dear Compromised People Revelation 3:1-22
Experts tell us we are exposed to fourteen hundred advertisements a day. It takes an enormous act of will not to be conformed to our environment, to be in but not of the world. The remaining three churches in the crown-like array of towns in Asia would be visited by a postal courier completing his circuit in the exact order of John's letters. Each letter helps us resist this powerful threat of being conformed to the world.
In what ways do Christian groups and churches you know resemble the surrounding culture?
Sardis: Read Rev. 3:1-6. In the first century, Sardis exhibited a stark contrast between its past splendor as a Persian capital and its current decay. What indications does the Lord give that the church's reputation does not match its reality?
Why is this such a serious problem?
Having lost most of its former glory, Sardis was now known more for its wickedness and affluence. What bearing do you think this had on the problems the church in Sardis was facing?
George Ladd wrote: "Here is a picture of nominal Christianity, outwardly prosperous, busy with the externals of religious activity, but devoid of spiritual life and power."1 To what extent does the church today fit this picture?
Philadelphia: Read Rev. 3:7-13. Of the seven churches, only the church in Philadelphia received nothing but praise and promises. Why would a weak church be encouraged by Jesus' promise of an open door of opportunity (Rev. 3:8)?
As the Philadelphian church faced opposition, how would Jesus' other promises encourage them (Rev. 3:9-13)?
Many churches today feel weak, insignificant and discouraged. What can we learn from Christ's words to the Philadelphians?
Laodicea: Read Rev. 3:14-22. Laodicea's northern neighbor, Hierapolis, had famous hot springs. Its southern neighbor, Colosse, had refreshing cool water. A six-mile aqueduct brought water to Laodicea, but by the time it arrived it was lukewarm. How does this help us understand Christ's statements in Rev. 3:14-16?
Laodicea was so self-sufficient that when they suffered an earthquake in A.D. 60 they rejected help from Rome. How did this attitude affected them spiritually?
The city was known for its finances, its woolen cloth and its eye salve. Yet what did the Laodicean Christians need to do to become over-comers?
How does Jesus demonstrate his love for this church?
As you review all seven letters (Rev. 2-3), what has the Spirit taught you about being an over-comer?
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1George E. Ladd, A Commentary on the Revelation of John (Grand Rapids, Mich: Eerdmans, 1972), p. 56.
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