Awakening from Spiritual Dormancy: A Call to Action
Summary
In this season, it’s vital to recognize the subtle danger of spiritual dormancy—a state where we may be alive in Christ, but not growing, not impacting, and not truly awake to the life God has called us to live. Throughout Scripture, especially in the New Testament, there is a repeated call to “awake.” This is not just a call to be alert for our own sake, but for the sake of the world around us. God desires that we not only remember what He has done in the past, but that our remembrance would propel us forward, motivating us to live for Him today and to pursue His vision for our future.
The letter to the church in Sardis in Revelation 3 is a sobering reminder. Sardis had a reputation for being alive, but in reality, it was spiritually dead. Outwardly, everything looked impressive—perhaps even enviable—but Jesus saw through the façade. He saw that their works were not complete, that their hearts were not truly alive. The problem was twofold: arrogance and a lack of vigilance. Sardis, both as a city and as a church, had become self-reliant, trusting in their own resources and reputation rather than in God. Their history of being conquered, despite their natural defenses, was a direct result of letting their guard down—an arrogance that led to vulnerability.
This is a warning for us. It’s easy to become complacent, to rest on past blessings or current appearances, and to forget that we have an enemy who is always watching for an unguarded moment, a hidden trail into our lives. The enemy doesn’t always attack head-on; often, he waits for us to become inattentive, to let our guard down in small, unnoticed ways. That’s when he slips in and does the most damage.
But Jesus doesn’t just diagnose the problem—He gives the solution. We are called to strengthen what remains, to reestablish and breathe life into the areas of our faith that are fading. We are to remember what we have received and heard—the gospel, the Spirit, the living water that only Christ provides. This remembering is not nostalgia; it is fuel for present faithfulness and future hope. We must be awake, alert, and dependent on the Spirit, not on our own works or reputation. Only then will we be able to stand firm, impact our world, and walk in the fullness of life God intends.
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Key Takeaways
- Spiritual Dormancy Is Subtle but Dangerous
It’s possible to be alive in Christ yet not growing, to have all the outward signs of faith but lack true spiritual vitality. Dormancy creeps in when we settle for routine and lose our zeal, becoming seeds that are alive but not bearing fruit. The call is to be awake, not just for ourselves, but so that we can impact our families, communities, and the world for God’s kingdom. [01:44]
- Reputation and Outward Appearance Are Not Enough
The church in Sardis had a reputation for being alive, but Jesus saw that their works were dead. Outward success, impressive ministries, and polished presentations mean nothing if they are not rooted in a living relationship with Christ. God looks at the heart, not the appearance, and He desires authenticity and spiritual life over mere activity. [10:56]
- Arrogance and Self-Reliance Lead to Spiritual Vulnerability
Sardis’ downfall was rooted in arrogance—believing they had it all and letting their guard down. This self-satisfaction blinded them to their need for God and made them susceptible to attack. True security is found not in our own strength or resources, but in humble dependence on God and a continual awareness of our need for His grace. [18:03]
- The Enemy Exploits Unattended Weaknesses
Just as the Persian army found a hidden trail into Sardis, the enemy seeks out the unguarded areas of our lives. He studies our habits, waits for moments of inattention, and exploits our complacency. We must be vigilant, examining our lives for “hidden trails” where we’ve let our guard down, and be watchful in prayer and obedience. [28:55]
- Remembering God’s Work Fuels Present Faithfulness
Remembrance is not about longing for the past, but about letting God’s faithfulness motivate us today. We are called to strengthen what remains, to reestablish spiritual disciplines, and to cling to the gospel and the Spirit who gives life. When we feel distant or passionless, we must return to the source—Jesus, the giver of living water—and allow Him to renew and awaken us. [37:57]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:44] - The Danger of Dormancy
[03:01] - The Purpose of Remembering
[04:56] - Reading Revelation 3:1-6
[06:16] - The Structure of the Letters to the Churches
[07:45] - Sardis: Reputation vs. Reality
[09:44] - Outward Appearance and Dead Works
[11:37] - God Looks at the Heart
[13:48] - Learning from Sardis’ Mistakes
[15:07] - The Problem of Arrogance
[17:02] - Sardis’ False Security
[18:59] - Paul’s Warning Against Self-Righteousness
[22:18] - Responsibility of Blessing
[24:34] - Our Call to Intercede and Reach Others
[26:12] - Letting Our Guard Down
[28:55] - The Enemy’s Hidden Trails
[31:26] - Examining Our Vulnerabilities
[33:49] - The Call to Be Awake and Alert
[35:14] - Strengthen and Remember
[37:57] - The Spirit Gives Life
[39:28] - Closing and Prayer
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Awake and Strengthen What Remains
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### Bible Reading
Revelation 3:1-6 (ESV)
> “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. “‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you. Yet you have still a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy. The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’”
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Revelation 3:1-6, what was the reputation of the church in Sardis, and what did Jesus say was the reality behind that reputation?
[[04:56]]
2. What specific instructions does Jesus give to the church in Sardis after pointing out their spiritual condition?
[[04:56]]
3. In the sermon, what were the two main problems identified in the church of Sardis?
[[13:48]]
4. What does Jesus promise to those in Sardis who have not “soiled their garments”?
[[04:56]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think it’s possible for a church or a Christian to have a reputation for being alive, but actually be spiritually dead? What might cause this disconnect?
[[10:56]]
2. The sermon described arrogance and self-reliance as roots of Sardis’ downfall. How can these attitudes make someone spiritually vulnerable?
[[18:03]]
3. The enemy exploited a “hidden trail” into Sardis. What might “hidden trails” look like in our spiritual lives today?
[[28:55]]
4. Jesus calls the church to “strengthen what remains” and “remember what you have received and heard.” What does it look like to do this in practical terms?
[[35:14]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon warned about spiritual dormancy—being alive in Christ but not growing or impacting others. Are there areas in your life where you feel you’ve become spiritually dormant? What is one step you could take this week to “wake up” in that area?
[[01:44]]
2. Outward appearance and reputation are not enough. Is there a part of your faith that is more about looking good to others than about a real relationship with Jesus? How can you move toward greater authenticity?
[[10:56]]
3. The church in Sardis became self-reliant and arrogant, trusting in their own resources. Are there ways you’ve been relying on your own strength or past experiences instead of depending on God? What would it look like to shift your trust back to Him?
[[18:03]]
4. The enemy looks for “unguarded” areas in our lives. What is one “hidden trail” or weak spot in your spiritual life that you need to pay more attention to? How can you guard it this week?
[[28:55]]
5. Remembering God’s faithfulness is meant to fuel present faithfulness, not just nostalgia. Can you share a story of God’s work in your past that motivates you to trust Him today? How can you let that memory propel you forward?
[[03:01]]
6. Jesus says to “strengthen what remains.” What is one spiritual discipline or habit that has faded in your life? What practical step can you take to reestablish it?
[[35:14]]
7. The sermon mentioned that only a few in Sardis had not “soiled their garments.” What does it mean for you to “walk in white” in your daily life? Are there any changes you feel prompted to make after hearing this message?
[[04:56]]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to reveal any areas of spiritual dormancy, to help you be alert and awake, and to strengthen what remains in your faith. Pray for humility, vigilance, and a fresh dependence on the Holy Spirit.
Devotional
Day 1: Remembering God's Work Motivates Us Forward
Remembering what God has done in the past is not just about nostalgia or recounting the “good old days.” Instead, it is a powerful motivator for living faithfully today and pursuing the vision God has for the future. When we recall His faithfulness, miracles, and provision, it should propel us to action, inspire hope, and renew our zeal for His purposes. Let your memories of God’s goodness stir you to live for Him with renewed passion and commitment, impacting your community and those around you. [03:50]
Psalm 77:11-14 (ESV)
I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God? You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples.
Reflection: What is one specific way you can let a memory of God’s faithfulness in your life motivate you to take a step of faith or service today?
Day 2: Outward Appearance vs. the Heart
It is easy to focus on outward appearances—reputation, activity, and visible success—while neglecting the true condition of the heart. God, however, is not impressed by what people see; He looks deeper, searching for genuine spiritual life and devotion. The church in Sardis had a reputation for being alive, but their works were dead because their hearts were not aligned with God. Today, examine not just what you do, but why you do it, and invite God to renew your heart so that your actions flow from a place of true love and faith. [12:25]
1 Samuel 16:6-7 (ESV)
When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is before him.” But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
Reflection: In what area of your life are you most tempted to focus on appearances rather than the condition of your heart, and how can you invite God to transform that area today?
Day 3: The Danger of Spiritual Arrogance
Spiritual arrogance and self-reliance can blind us to our true need for God and our responsibility to others. Like the church in Sardis and the Jews Paul addressed in Romans, it is possible to take pride in our spiritual heritage, knowledge, or blessings, and forget that these are gifts meant to be shared, not hoarded. God calls us to humility, recognizing that all we have is by His grace, and to use our blessings to lead others to Him. Let us guard against pride and instead embrace our calling to be a light to those in darkness. [21:05]
Romans 2:17-24 (ESV)
But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God and know his will and approve what is excellent, because you are instructed from the law; and if you are sure that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth—you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. For, as it is written, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”
Reflection: Is there a blessing or spiritual privilege you have been tempted to take pride in rather than use to serve others? How can you intentionally use it to bless someone else this week?
Day 4: Stay Awake and On Guard
Letting your guard down spiritually can open the door for the enemy to gain a foothold in your life. Just as the city of Sardis was conquered when its defenders became complacent, so too can we be vulnerable when we become spiritually sleepy or inattentive. The enemy is always watching for an opportunity, seeking a hidden trail into our hearts and lives. Be watchful, alert, and prayerful, asking God to reveal any area where you may have become complacent or vulnerable, and take steps to fortify your spiritual defenses. [29:36]
1 Peter 5:8 (ESV)
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
Reflection: What is one “unguarded” area in your life where you sense the enemy may be seeking a foothold, and what practical step can you take today to strengthen your defenses?
Day 5: Strengthen What Remains and Rely on the Spirit
When spiritual passion wanes or you feel distant from God, do not give up or settle for dormancy. Jesus calls us to strengthen what remains, to reestablish and breathe life into the areas of our faith that are still alive. This is not something we do in our own strength, but by relying on the Holy Spirit, who gives life and refreshes our souls. Come to Jesus with your thirst, and let the Spirit fill you anew so that rivers of living water may flow from your heart, bringing life to you and those around you. [38:29]
John 7:37-39 (ESV)
On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
Reflection: Where do you sense spiritual dryness or decline in your life, and how can you intentionally seek the Holy Spirit’s refreshing and strength today?
Quotes
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