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N Revelation 3 the churches of Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea are addressed. Just like the four churches of chapter 2, each one of these is unique. Once again, we should examine ourselves and see if there are traits in our character (as individuals) that fit with the descriptions of these churches. If things are out of line, then we should adjust without hesitation.
Sardine Christians might be descried as believers who are doing really well, as long as they are only compared to other believers. We might have a resume that will impress the most nitpicking of critics, but if we lack sincerity in our hearts, then we are in grave spiritual danger (Revelation 3:1-2). Our reputation is meaningless if our hearts aren't right in the sight of God (verse 2). God did not save us so that we could impress our neighbor.
Like the suffering saints of Smyrna, the faithful saints of the Philadelphian variety receive only commendations from Christ. This type of believer is a wise opportunist. Philadelphians redeem the time. These believers epitomize God's love: receiving, reciprocating and distributing it. If we qualify for this label, then we are among those who value God's Word, both in principle and in practice.
Now, Laodiceans are believers, but that's where our commendation ends. "Yet so as by fire" & "by the skin of our teeth" - these are appropriate descriptions for this brand of Christianity (1st Corinthians 3:15 & Job 19:20). In fact, the word Christian should be hesitantly applied to them. If Christians are called such because of Christlikeness, then Laodiceans leave much to be desired. A Laodicean is carnal, complacent, comfortable, confident, & worldly.
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