Revelation 3 - The Dead Church
Pastor Josh Denham
In Revelation 3:1–6, Pastor Josh explains Jesus’ stern warning to the church in Sardis. Though outwardly active and admired, Jesus declares them spiritually dead. Pastor Josh stresses that reputation does not equal reality in God’s eyes. Sardis had allowed spiritual laziness, pride, and legalism to replace vibrant, Gospel-centered faith.
He walks through the text verse by verse, emphasizing that salvation is by grace alone and not by works—though true salvation always results in fruit. The sermon warns against trusting in reputation, performance, or church activity instead of Christ. Pastor Josh connects Sardis’ failure to “watch” with their historical downfall due to negligence, making the spiritual application clear: stay awake and anchored in Jesus.
The message closes with a hopeful note: even in Sardis, a remnant remained. Jesus promises white garments and eternal security to those who overcome, offering assurance to those who continue walking faithfully in the Gospel.
Pastor Josh explores Jesus’ letter to the church in Sardis, a congregation with a reputation for life but one that was spiritually dead. He warns believers against complacency, self-righteousness, and outward religion without inward faith. The call is to wake up, return to the Gospel, repent, and walk in true righteousness through Christ alone.