Sardis

The dead church:

““And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘these things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” Revelation 3:1-5 NKJV

General and end-time interpretation: This possibly refers to two types of churches;-

Pentecostal churches: They do have a name that they are alive, and most probably are. However, it is fairly obvious that some prosperity teachers are in fact worldly…in other words the following rebuke is applicable: ”for I have not found your works perfect before God.” They do not walk the talk.

This may apply to ritualistic churches such as the Roman Catholic Church and perhaps the Orthodox churches:

Some of the reasons put forward for this may be:

1) It’s a dead church. The power of the name and the blood of Jesus is lacking. There are several reasons for this: They Catholics have unfortunately corrupted the Lords supper. The supper symbols are pagan. So is the attire of the Pope and many symbols in the churches. Study these symbols and see that they are shockingly pagan. If you have any doubts, most seventh day Adventist websites will provide links to further information on this.

2) The works are not perfect, i.e. done in their own strength. They do much good with schooling and hospitals, but it lacks Gods power.

3) The Catholics like robes and garments.

But many have defiled them with immorality.

Hence overcomers from among their members shall walk with Jesus, and will be clothed in white garments, priestly garments of the holy office bearers of The Lord.

They are encouraged to “Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain….”.