◄ Revelation 3 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
To the Church in Sardis 1“To the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of the One who holds the seven spiritsa of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation for being alive, yet you are dead. 2Wake up and strengthen what remains, which is about to die; for I have found your deeds incomplete in the sight of My God. 3Remember, then, what you have received and heard. Keep it and repent. If you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know the hour when I will come upon you. 4But you do have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments, and because they are worthy, they will walk with Me in white. 5Like them, he who overcomes will be dressed in white. And I will never blot outb his name from the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and His angels. 6He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the Church in Philadelphia 7To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of the One who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What He opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open.c 8I know your deeds. Behold, I have placed before you an open door, which no one can shut. I know that you have only a little strength, yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name. 9As for those who belong to the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews but are liars instead, I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and they will know that I love you. 10Because you have kept My command to persevere, I will also keep you from the hour of testing that is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11I am coming soon.d Hold fast to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12The one who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will never again leave it. Upon him I will write the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God (the new Jerusalem that comes down out of heaven from My God), and My new name. 13He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the Church in Laodicea (Colossians 2:1–5) 14To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originatore of God’s creation. 15I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! 16So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth! 17You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. 18I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. 19Those I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent. 20Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me. 21To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Footnotes: 1 a Or the sevenfold Spirit 5 b Or scrape off 7 c See Isaiah 22:22. 11 d Or suddenly or quickly 14 e Or Beginning or Ruler Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Revelation 3 Summary To Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea Verses 1–6 – Sardis: Wake Up Sardis is told that a glowing reputation means nothing if the people are spiritually lifeless. Jesus, who holds “the seven spirits of God and the seven stars,” sees beyond appearances. They must wake up, strengthen what is dying, remember the truth they first received, and repent. Otherwise, He will come like a thief. A faithful few have stayed clean; they will walk with Him in white and never be erased from the Book of Life. The call ends: “He who has an ear, let him hear.” Verses 7–13 – Philadelphia: Hold Fast The One who is holy and true, bearing “the key of David,” sets an unshuttable door before steadfast Philadelphia. Though small in strength, they have kept His word and not denied His name. Their foes—the “synagogue of Satan”—will one day bow before them. Because they patiently endured, He will keep them from the coming worldwide hour of testing. He is coming soon; they must hold fast so no one steals their crown. Overcomers become pillars in God’s temple and receive the threefold name of God, the New Jerusalem, and Christ’s new name. Verses 14–22 – Laodicea: Lukewarm The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, and the Originator of creation exposes Laodicea’s self-delusion. Rich in commerce yet tepid in faith, they are about to be spat out. Christ urges them to buy real riches—gold refined by fire, white clothes for covering, and eye salve for sight. Love motivates His rebuke, so they must be zealous and repent. He stands at their door knocking; anyone who opens will dine with Him. The conqueror will sit with Him on His throne. “He who has an ear, let him hear.” Revelation Chapter 3, from the Berean Standard Bible, carries the continuation of Jesus Christ's messages to the seven churches. It presents a stern warning to those in spiritual apathy, encouraging them to wake up and strengthen what remains. The chapter also features messages of perseverance, faith, repentance, and the promise of heavenly reward. Historical Setting of the Seven Churches • Seven congregations stood along a Roman postal route in western Asia Minor, allowing John’s scroll to circulate easily. • Each city’s culture and geography shape the message Jesus gives. Sardis: Wealth and Complacency • Former Lydian capital, legendary home of King Croesus’s gold. • Twice captured when guards failed to watch, echoing “Wake up.” • Excavations show luxurious homes but modest worship spaces, mirroring spiritual decay. Philadelphia: Gateway City • Founded by King Attalus II; located on a main trade road. • Frequent earthquakes; “pillar” promise speaks to residents who often fled aftershocks. • An “open door” fits its role in spreading ideas—and now the gospel. Laodicea: Lukewarm Prosperity • Banking hub, black-wool trade, renowned medical school with eye powder. • Water arrived by aqueduct, lukewarm by the time it reached town. • After the AD 60 quake, the city rebuilt itself without Rome’s help—boastful self-sufficiency reflected in the church. The Seven Spirits and Seven Stars (v. 1) • “Seven spirits” = the Spirit’s fullness (Isaiah 11:2). • “Seven stars” = angels/messengers of the churches (1:20), showing Christ’s control. Remember, Keep, Repent (v. 3) A three-step cure found throughout Scripture: remember (2 Peter 1:13), keep (John 14:23), repent (Acts 3:19). If ignored, His surprise coming matches Matthew 24:43 and 1 Thessalonians 5:2. Overcomers and the Book of Life (v. 5) • City rolls recorded citizens; disgrace or death could erase a name. • Exodus 32:32–33; Philippians 4:3; Revelation 20:15 reference the heavenly book. • Jesus’ promise to “confess his name” mirrors Matthew 10:32. The Key of David (v. 7) • From Isaiah 22:22; Christ alone controls access to God’s kingdom (John 14:6). The Open Door (v. 8) • Symbolizes gospel opportunity (1 Corinthians 16:9; Colossians 4:3) and safe entrance. Protection from the Hour of Testing (v. 10) • Refers to a defined, future world-wide trial (cf. Luke 21:36; Daniel 12:1). • Whether removal or preservation, Jesus Himself is the keeper (John 17:15). Crown, Pillar, and New Names (vv. 11–12) • Crown = reward (2 Timothy 4:8). • Pillar = stability (Galatians 2:9). • New names = ownership and intimacy (Revelation 22:4). Cold, Hot, Lukewarm (v. 16) • Cold refreshes, hot heals, lukewarm nauseates—fit description of Laodicea’s water. Buy From Me (v. 18) 1. Gold refined by fire—true riches (1 Peter 1:7). 2. White garments—Christ’s righteousness (Revelation 19:8). 3. Eye salve—Spirit-given sight (Ephesians 1:18). Discipline Born of Love (v. 19) • Proverbs 3:11–12 and Hebrews 12:6: the Lord disciplines those He loves. Behold, I Stand at the Door (v. 20) • Continuous action: He keeps knocking. • Table fellowship signals acceptance (Luke 15:2). Sharing the Throne (v. 21) • Joint reign fulfills Daniel 7:27 and 2 Timothy 2:12. • Overcoming mirrors Jesus’ own victory (John 16:33). Old Testament Echoes • Isaiah 61’s garments of salvation (cf. white robes). • Zechariah 3’s filthy clothes made clean. • Psalm 69:28 names blotted from a book. New Testament Links • Romans 2:28–29: inward Jew aligns with “synagogue of Satan.” • 1 John 2:15–17: love not the world—antidote to Laodicean pride. Archaeological Insight • Sardis synagogue beside the gymnasium shows temptation to status. • Philadelphia’s standing columns echo the “pillar” promise. • Laodicea’s calcified pipes still prove lukewarm water supply. Literary Structure Each message: address, Christ’s title, “I know,” commendation/rebuke, command, promise, call to hear. Key Words Wake up, overcome, book of life, pillar, lukewarm. Chronological and Prophetic Outlook • Real first-century churches, yet timeless warnings. • “Hour of testing” ties Revelation 3 to later tribulation scenes. • Overcomer rewards preview chapters 7, 21, 22. Practical Applications • Check reputation against reality. • Small but faithful beats large and dead. • Wealth can hide spiritual poverty. • Jesus still knocks—open the door. • Overcome by faith (1 John 5:4). Connections to Additional Scriptures Ephesians 5:14 Wake up, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will shine on you. Matthew 25:1-13 The Parable of the Ten Virgins, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared. Colossians 4:3 Paul’s request for prayer for an open door for the word, paralleling the open door in Philadelphia. Hebrews 12:1-2 Encouragement to run the race with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus. Teaching Points The Church in Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6) Jesus identifies Himself as the one who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars, emphasizing His authority and omniscience. Sardis is rebuked for having a reputation of being alive but is spiritually dead. This serves as a warning against complacency and spiritual lethargy. The call to wake up and strengthen what remains highlights the urgency of spiritual vigilance and renewal. A promise is given to those who overcome: they will be clothed in white garments, symbolizing purity and victory, and their names will not be blotted out from the Book of Life. The Church in Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13) Jesus describes Himself as the Holy and True One, who holds the key of David, signifying His sovereign authority to open and close doors. Philadelphia is commended for keeping Jesus' word and not denying His name despite having little strength. The promise of an open door that no one can shut encourages perseverance and faithfulness. Overcomers are promised to be made pillars in the temple of God, signifying stability and honor, and they will bear the name of God, the city of God, and Jesus' new name. The Church in Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22) Jesus is introduced as the Amen, the faithful and true witness, and the ruler of God's creation, underscoring His reliability and authority. Laodicea is criticized for being lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, which is distasteful to Christ. This serves as a caution against spiritual indifference. The call to repentance is accompanied by an invitation to fellowship, as Jesus stands at the door and knocks, offering intimate communion to those who open. The promise to overcomers is to sit with Jesus on His throne, sharing in His victory and authority. Practical Applications Evaluate your spiritual life: Are you spiritually alive or merely maintaining a reputation? Strengthen your faith by engaging in regular prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. Embrace opportunities for service and witness, trusting that God opens doors that no one can shut. Guard against spiritual complacency by regularly examining your heart and repenting of lukewarmness. Seek a deeper relationship with Christ, inviting Him into every area of your life. People 1. The Angel of the Church in Sardis This refers to the spiritual leader or messenger of the church in Sardis. The term "angel" (Greek: ἄγγελος, angelos) can mean "messenger" and is often interpreted as the pastor or bishop responsible for conveying the message to the congregation. 2. The Angel of the Church in Philadelphia Similar to the angel of the church in Sardis, this is the leader or messenger of the church in Philadelphia. The message is directed to this individual to be communicated to the church members. 3. The Angel of the Church in Laodicea This is the messenger or leader of the church in Laodicea. The message to this angel addresses the spiritual state of the Laodicean church, known for being "lukewarm." 4. He Who Has the Seven Spirits of God and the Seven Stars This refers to Jesus Christ, who is described as having the fullness of the Holy Spirit ("seven spirits" symbolizing completeness) and authority over the churches ("seven stars"). The Greek word for "spirits" is πνεύματα (pneumata), indicating the Holy Spirit's presence and work. 5. He Who is Holy and True, Who Holds the Key of David This is another description of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His holiness, truth, and authority. The "Key of David" signifies His sovereign control and authority over the kingdom, drawing from Isaiah 22:22. 6. The Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Originator of God’s Creation This title for Jesus Christ highlights His role as the ultimate affirmation of God's promises ("Amen"), His reliability and truthfulness as a witness, and His preeminence in creation. The Greek word for "originator" is ἀρχή (archē), meaning "beginning" or "source." Places 1. Sardis Description Sardis is addressed in Revelation 3:1-6. It was an ancient city known for its wealth and as a center of trade. The church in Sardis is admonished for having a reputation of being alive but is spiritually dead. The call is to wake up and strengthen what remains. The Greek word for "alive" (ζῶν, zōn) contrasts with their spiritual deadness (νεκρός, nekros). 2. Philadelphia Description Philadelphia is mentioned in Revelation 3:7-13. Known as the "city of brotherly love," it was strategically located on trade routes. The church in Philadelphia is commended for its faithfulness despite having little strength. The Greek term for "open door" (θύρα, thyra) signifies opportunities for ministry and evangelism that no one can shut. 3. Laodicea Description Laodicea is addressed in Revelation 3:14-22. It was a wealthy city famous for its banking, textile, and medical industries. The church in Laodicea is criticized for being lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, which is a metaphor for spiritual indifference. The Greek word for "lukewarm" (χλιαρός, chliaros) reflects their complacency and lack of zeal. Events 1. Message to the Church in Sardis Wake Up Call The church in Sardis is admonished for having a reputation of being alive but is spiritually dead. They are urged to "Wake up and strengthen what remains" (Revelation 3:2). The Greek word for "wake up" (γρηγορέω, grēgoreō) implies being watchful and vigilant. Call to Repentance They are reminded to remember what they have received and heard, to obey it, and to repent (Revelation 3:3). The Greek term for "repent" (μετανοέω, metanoeō) means to change one's mind or purpose. Promise to the Overcomers Those who overcome will be clothed in white garments, and their names will not be blotted out from the Book of Life (Revelation 3:5). 2. Message to the Church in Philadelphia Open Door The church in Philadelphia is commended for their deeds and is told that an open door has been set before them, which no one can shut (Revelation 3:8). The open door symbolizes opportunities for ministry and evangelism. Promise of Protection They are promised protection from the hour of trial that is coming upon the whole world (Revelation 3:10). Pillar in the Temple Overcomers will be made pillars in the temple of God, and they will never leave it. They will have the name of God, the name of the city of God, and Christ’s new name written on them (Revelation 3:12). 3. Message to the Church in Laodicea Lukewarmness Rebuked The church in Laodicea is criticized for being lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, and is warned that they will be spit out of Christ’s mouth (Revelation 3:16). The Greek term for "lukewarm" (χλιαρός, chliaros) indicates a state of indifference or complacency. Counsel to Buy True Riches They are counseled to buy gold refined by fire, white garments, and eye salve to become truly rich, clothed, and able to see (Revelation 3:18). Invitation to Fellowship Christ stands at the door and knocks, offering fellowship to anyone who hears His voice and opens the door (Revelation 3:20). Promise to the Overcomers Those who overcome will sit with Christ on His throne, just as He overcame and sat with His Father on His throne (Revelation 3:21). Lessons from Revelation 3 1. Wake Up and Strengthen What Remains In Revelation 3:2, we are urged to "Wake up and strengthen what remains, which was about to die." This is a call to action for all believers to be vigilant and proactive in their faith. Just as a gardener tends to plants to ensure they thrive, we must nurture our spiritual lives. This means being alert to the areas where our faith may be waning and taking steps to revive and strengthen them. It's a reminder that our spiritual journey requires constant attention and care. 2. Remember and Repent Revelation 3:3 advises, "Remember, then, what you have received and heard. Keep it and repent." This lesson emphasizes the importance of recalling the teachings and blessings we've received. It's about holding fast to the truth and being willing to turn away from anything that leads us astray. Repentance is not just a one-time act but a continual process of aligning our lives with God's will. 3. The Promise of White Garments In Revelation 3:5, we are given the promise that "He who overcomes will be clothed in white garments." This symbolizes purity and victory over sin. It's a beautiful assurance that through faith and perseverance, we can stand blameless before God. The white garments represent the righteousness of Christ, which covers us when we remain faithful. 4. Acknowledge His Name The verse continues, "I will never blot out his name from the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and His angels." This is a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging Jesus in our lives. When we boldly proclaim His name, we are assured of our place in the Book of Life. It's a call to live unashamedly for Christ, knowing that He will acknowledge us in heaven. 5. The Open Door Revelation 3:8 speaks of an open door that no one can shut. This represents opportunities and pathways that God provides for us. When we remain faithful, God opens doors that lead to growth and service. It's a reminder to trust in His timing and to walk through the doors He opens with confidence and faith. 6. Hold Fast to What You Have In Revelation 3:11, we are encouraged to "Hold fast to what you have, so that no one will take your crown." This lesson is about perseverance and steadfastness. It's a call to cling to our faith and the promises of God, ensuring that we do not lose the reward that awaits us. Our spiritual crown is precious, and we must guard it diligently. 7. Be Zealous and Repent Revelation 3:19 tells us, "Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent." This is a reminder that God's discipline is an expression of His love. Just as a parent corrects a child, God corrects us to guide us back to the right path. Our response should be one of zeal and a willingness to repent, knowing that His correction is for our ultimate good. 8. The Invitation to Dine In Revelation 3:20, Jesus says, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me." This is a beautiful invitation to fellowship with Christ. It's a reminder that He desires a personal relationship with each of us. By opening the door of our hearts, we welcome His presence and enjoy the richness of His companionship. 9. The Promise of Sitting with Him Revelation 3:21 offers the promise, "To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne." This is an incredible assurance of our future with Christ. It speaks of the honor and authority we will share with Him in His kingdom. It's a call to remain faithful, knowing that our perseverance will be rewarded with a place of honor. 10. Listen to the Spirit Finally, Revelation 3:22 concludes with, "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." This is a call to be attentive and responsive to the Holy Spirit's guidance. In a world full of distractions, we must tune our ears to hear His voice. By listening and obeying, we align ourselves with God's will and purpose for our lives. Topics 1. Message to the Church in Sardis The letter to the church in Sardis begins with a call to wake up and strengthen what remains. The church is described as having a reputation for being alive, but is actually dead. The call to repentance is emphasized, urging them to remember what they have received and heard, and to obey it. The Greek word "νεκρός" (nekros) is used here, meaning "dead," highlighting the spiritual lifelessness of the church. 2. Promise to the Overcomers in Sardis Those who overcome are promised to be clothed in white garments, symbolizing purity and victory. Their names will not be blotted out from the Book of Life, and Jesus will acknowledge their names before His Father and the angels. The Greek term "νικάω" (nikao) is used for "overcome," indicating victory through faith. 3. Message to the Church in Philadelphia The church in Philadelphia is commended for keeping Jesus' word and not denying His name despite having little strength. An open door is set before them, which no one can shut. This church is encouraged to hold on to what they have so that no one will take their crown. The Greek word "φύλαξον" (phylaxon) is used for "keep," emphasizing the importance of guarding their faith. 4. Promise to the Overcomers in Philadelphia Overcomers are promised to be made pillars in the temple of God, never to leave it. They will have the name of God, the name of the city of God (the new Jerusalem), and Jesus' new name written on them. This signifies a permanent place in God's presence and identity with Him. 5. Message to the Church in Laodicea The church in Laodicea is rebuked for being lukewarm, neither hot nor cold. They are called to recognize their spiritual poverty, blindness, and nakedness, despite their belief in their own wealth. The call to repentance is strong, urging them to buy refined gold, white garments, and eye salve from Jesus. The Greek word "χλιαρός" (chliaros) is used for "lukewarm," indicating a lack of zeal or fervor. 6. Promise to the Overcomers in Laodicea Those who overcome are promised to sit with Jesus on His throne, just as He overcame and sat with His Father on His throne. This promise highlights the reward of sharing in Christ's authority and victory. The Greek term "θρόνος" (thronos) is used for "throne," symbolizing royal authority and power. Each of these topics reflects the spiritual condition and challenges faced by the respective churches, along with the promises given to those who remain faithful and overcome. Themes 1. Spiritual Vigilance and Repentance Revelation 3 emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and repentance, particularly in the message to the church in Sardis. The church is admonished to "Wake up and strengthen what remains" (Revelation 3:2). The Greek word for "wake up" (γρηγορέω, grēgoreō) implies being watchful and alert, highlighting the importance of spiritual awareness and readiness. 2. Faithfulness and Perseverance The theme of faithfulness is evident in the message to the church in Philadelphia, where believers are commended for keeping God's word and not denying His name. "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I will also keep you from the hour of testing" (Revelation 3:10). The Greek word for "persevere" (ὑπομονή, hypomonē) suggests steadfast endurance under trial. 3. Spiritual Wealth versus Material Wealth The church in Laodicea is warned about their spiritual poverty despite their material wealth. "You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing,’ but you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked" (Revelation 3:17). This theme contrasts true spiritual wealth with the deceptive security of material riches. 4. Christ’s Authority and Judgment Throughout Revelation 3, Christ's authority and role as judge are underscored. He is described as the one who "holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars" (Revelation 3:1) and as the "Amen, the faithful and true Witness" (Revelation 3:14). These titles affirm His divine authority and the certainty of His judgments. 5. Promise of Reward for Overcomers Each message to the churches concludes with a promise to those who overcome. For example, "The one who overcomes will be dressed in white" (Revelation 3:5). The Greek word for "overcome" (νικάω, nikaō) conveys victory and conquest, emphasizing the reward for those who remain faithful. 6. Christ’s Invitation and Fellowship In the message to Laodicea, Christ extends an invitation for fellowship: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me" (Revelation 3:20). This theme highlights the personal relationship and communion Christ desires with believers. Prayer Points Pray for spiritual awakening and renewal in your life and church. Ask God for the strength to remain faithful and true to His word. Seek God’s guidance to recognize and walk through the doors He opens. Pray for a heart that is fervent and passionate for Christ, avoiding spiritual lukewarmness. Invite Jesus into every aspect of your life, seeking deeper fellowship and communion with Him. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Revelation 3:5’s promise of not erasing names from the Book of Life align with the concept of free will or potential apostasy in other scriptures? 2. Does Revelation 3:7’s reference to the “key of David” have any verifiable historical or archaeological basis? 3. In Revelation 3:10, how can a global “hour of trial” be reconciled with scientific or historical records of tribulations that were not universal? 4. If Jesus “knocks” at the door in Revelation 3:20, does that conflict with the idea of humanity needing divine intervention rather than personal initiative? 5. How does the lukewarm analogy in Revelation 3:16 align with other biblical passages that describe God’s patience and mercy? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the message to the church in Sardis resonate with your current spiritual state? 2. How might a modern-day believer fall into the trap of being 'lukewarm' as the Laodiceans were? 3. What does it mean to be an overcomer in your daily life? 4. How does the promise to the church of Philadelphia inspire you to persevere in your faith? 5. What steps can you take to ensure you are not just 'living' but 'alive' in your spiritual journey? 6. How can you apply the counsel to the Laodiceans to "buy gold refined in fire" in your life? 7. How does the judgment presented in Revelation 3 reflect on God's love and justice? 8. What practical actions can you take to avoid being 'spiritually asleep' like the church in Sardis? 9. How can modern believers maintain a 'hot' rather than 'lukewarm' faith amid worldly distractions? 10. How can the promise to the overcomers in each church encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith? 11. How can you apply the call to repentance in your daily life? 12. In what ways can you apply the teachings from the messages to the churches in your church or community? 13. What does having the names of God, the city of God, and Christ's new name written on you signify for you personally? 14. How can you strive for the true wealth in Christ, as suggested to the Laodiceans? 15. How can we discern whether we have fallen into a reputation of life but are spiritually dead, as with the church in Sardis? 16. How can the message to the church in Philadelphia be a source of motivation in times of trial? 17. In what ways does the counsel to the Laodiceans challenge your understanding of spiritual wealth, righteousness, and insight? 18. How can the promise of sitting with Christ on His throne inspire you to live righteously? 19. How does the spiritual condition of the three churches reflect the various states of modern churches? 20. How can you use the messages to the churches to evaluate and improve your personal spiritual journey? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions