5. Sardis - Denominations.                                     (Rev. 3: 1 – 6)

Christ comes to this group of believers telling them He is the one with the Spirit of God & the administrative power over the Body of Christ.                                                                                   

                                    “These things says He who has the 7  (fold) Spirits of God & the 7 stars.`

                                                                                                                               (Rev. 3: 1)

He exposes their trust in man-made denominations, a `name` they have made for themselves.

                               `I know your works, that you have a name,...`   (Rev. 3: 1)

    Name – Gk. Word `onoma,` authority.    & `onomai,` renown, to derive advantage from.

                         Denomination – the act of naming.  (The Concise English Dictionary)

Many in this group have prided themselves on their denomination rather than honouring the Lord Jesus Christ. They gain prestige from their allegiance to the organisation which has a standing in the world. They think that they are `alive,` but Christ says, they are `dead.`

The Apostle Paul speaks of such people who preserve all the outward form of religion, but don`t believe its true meaning.     

                             `For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud...

                                    ....having a form of godliness but denying its power:`

                                                                                                               (2 Tim. 3: 5)

 Paul speaks of this `power.` It is Christ Himself whom we humbly believe died for our sins & is now risen, giving us His new life by His Holy Spirit.  

                               `we preach Christ crucified,....Christ the power of God...`

                                                                                                            (1 Cor. 1: 23 & 24)

The Lord then counsels these people to receive of the Holy Spirit, remembering how they first received life in Christ.

                                          `Be watchful & strengthen the things that remain.....

                                      Remember therefore how you have received & heard;

                                                                 hold fast & repent.`   

                                                                                                                 (Rev. 3: 2 & 3)

Finally the Lord commends the few believers who have not put their trust in man`s denominations, but have looked to Him for their righteousness.

                `You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments,

                                 & they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.`

                                                                                                                  (Rev. 3: 4)