v1-6: To Sardis. There are some similarities with the letters written to the Corinthian church, where their reputation was much better than the reality. The city was home to the Acropolis, a fortress thought impregnable, but was twice defeated through the complacency of its defenders. It was also the home of an unfinished temple to Artemis, which was supposed to rival the temple in Ephesus. The letter of the Lord Jesus takes up both issues, of complacency, and of being unfinished, as relevant to His Church.

"I know your deeds," for nothing is hidden from Him, including their motivation and hypocrisy. The church at Sardis claimed yesterday"s blessings and reputation, v1. Yet little remained, they had not continued, v2-3; worse, they were "dead." These words are a firm rebuke and warning. Unless they take seriously their position, there will be judgment upon them. There was a tiny spark, flickering, about to be extinguished; but now is an opportunity to fan into flame that spark. They had heard and received the wonderful message of Christ; now they must get back to that in repentance, and fresh commitment to obedience. Strikingly there is no mention of a specific sin; it was not that idolatry or immorality had crept in, but that love for Christ had largely departed.

God had not found them "complete," although their appearance to others is perhaps impressive

Some had remained faithful, even in the midst of pervasive complacency, v4-6. The Lord will make a distinction, and reward them richly. There are white garments, waiting for the faithful, speaking of a pure heart desire for Christ. This reward is for those who overcome, stepping away from the masses, and moving into deep love for Christ.

v7-13: To Philadelphia. The city was built near a volcano, which provided good soil for vines, and hot springs, but also caused cracks in buildings. As late as 17BC the city had been completely destroyed, and was rebuilt. Here too was the temple to Dionysius the lord of wine, and athletic games. It was said that important citizens had their names inscribed on the pillars of the temple. In contrast the name of the city itself had been changed by various rulers.

The Lord Jesus comes with keys, providing opportunity, v7-8. But, as is often the case, opportunity comes with opposition, 1 Cor 16.9; Col 4.3. The small church at Philadelphia had endured much opposition already, and there was no promise that that will cease immediately, although the church will be kept from "the hour of trial," v10. Indeed, history suggests more persecution later, but also indicates that this church remained strong for longer than many other churches in the area. Opposition comes from religious people, claiming to be Jews, v9, claiming to be God"s people, having God"s revelation. But the Lord will expose them, and honour His own, v9.

There are rich promises for the faithful, v11-13. There will be the security of a city that can never be defeated or destroyed. Never again will they flee the city, fearing another earth tremor. There is a city promised where the pillars are strong. The names of those who belong to Christ are secure, never to be blotted out.

v14-22: To Laodicea. The message from Jesus Christ the faithful and true witness, v14, in contrast with the lukewarm church being addressed. The church had become complacent, self-satisfied, ignorant of its true state, v15-17. The nearby hot springs delivered only lukewarm water to the city, so the recipients would understand the meaning here. Similarly, cold springs also delivered lukewarm water. The issue is one of lack of distinctiveness, rather than lack of zeal.

Complacency was a sin of Sodom (Ezek 16.49), and Israel (Amos 6.1).

The city had a reputation for medicine, with ear and eye ointments. There was also the production of bluish-black wool, in contrast with the white clothes granted to the faithful believer.

"You say..." but their own diagnosis was faulty; they needed to hear the Lord"s words about their true state, and enjoy true spiritual insight (hence; eye-salve).

The Lord promises true wealth, righteousness, from God alone, v18; true righteousness (white garments). God"s love for His people remains, but His rebuke and chastening are part of that, v19. He finds Himself outside, instead of being at the heart of the church, v20. The promise is for those who overcome, and so often the enemy is within our own hearts and attitudes, v21-22.