The Church @ Sardis Street

Discussion Questions: Share a story about a sports team or group who had a reputation far better than its performance? In verse 1 what did the Lord mean by, “you have a reputation for being alive?” What are the implications of a church that has a reputation for aliveness, but the Lord has to tell them they are dead? What was the contrast between reputation and reality in the church at Sardis? What does Paul say about this in 2Tim. 3:5? Deadness is as unscriptural as doctrinal error. What are some warning signs of deadness in a church? What dangers exist for Christians who rely on an image instead of nurturing a genuine spiritual life (v.2)? How can a church continue if it is spiritually dead? From verse 3 make a simple outline of the only hope for survival in the church of Sardis. If Jesus addressed this “wake up call” to you, what would He want you to strengthen?