Revelation 3:1

“And to the angel of the church in Sardis write,

• ·        This church was known for its lively devotion to Jesus that was well established about forty years earlier (52-55 AD) in the great Ephesians revival that swept through all Asia (Acts 19-20).  They were deeply touched in this revival and became well known of it. However, over time they became spiritually dead. They lived on their past reputation established decades in the revival.

Exodus 17:14  Then the LORD said to Moses, “Write this for a memorial in the book and recount it in the hearing of Joshua….

Deuteronomy 6:9  You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

“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.

• ·         Jesus has the seven Spirits of God – to release the diverse ministries of the Spirit to them

• ·         Jesus will hold His people in His hands to make them bright like a star. To hold the seven stars means for Him to be deeply involved in the life and heart of the leadership. Jesus wants to make our heart bright like a star in His hand.

1 Samuel 8:8   According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even to this day – with which they have forsaken Me and served other gods – so they are doing to you also.

Psalm 33:15  He fashions their hearts individually, He considers all their works.