Chapter three brings two extremes of conversation from Jesus. We hear harsh
and direct words that are intended to shake believers back to reality, and
we hear words of loving persistence as Jesus brings comfort to His faithful
people. To the church in Sardis, we hear the confrontational words of Jesus
as He tells them to “wake up!” But we also hear Jesus comfort some as He
says there are some in this church who will walk with Him “dressed in
white!” For those who are asleep in their sin, Jesus’ judgment will come
upon them as a surprise like a thief. But to those whose names are in the
book of life, they will be declared worthy before the Father. Both words
of warning and comfort. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit