In what ways can we strive to be "worthy" as mentioned in Revelation 3:4? Setting the Scene in Sardis Revelation 3 describes a church with a reputation for life yet spiritually asleep. Into that setting the Lord says, “But you do have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.” (Revelation 3:4) “Worthy” here carries the idea of being fit to accompany the Lord—demonstrated by unsoiled garments, i.e., an undefiled life. What “Worthy” Looks Like • Clean before God—sins confessed and forsaken (1 John 1:9) • Walking consistently with the gospel we claim (Philippians 1:27) • Living so that our actions match the holiness of the One who saved us (1 Peter 1:15-16) Guarding Unsoiled Garments • Resist compromise. James 1:27: “to keep oneself unstained by the world.” • Remain awake and alert. Revelation 3:2: “Wake up and strengthen what remains.” • Remember what you have received. Revelation 3:3: “Remember, then, what you have received and heard; keep it, and repent.” Daily Practices That Keep Us White 1. Quick, honest repentance – “If we walk in the light… the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7) 2. Saturation in Scripture – “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) 3. Spirit-led obedience – “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) 4. Genuine fellowship and accountability – “Let us consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) 5. Active service that reflects Christ’s character – “Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work.” (Colossians 1:10) Strengthening Our Walk with Christ • Present your body “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” (Romans 12:1) • “Deny ungodliness and worldly passions,” living “sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age.” (Titus 2:12) • Pray for endurance so you may be “considered worthy of the kingdom of God.” (2 Thessalonians 1:5) The Promise for the Worthy • Immediate fellowship—“They will walk with Me.” • Visible purity—“in white,” symbolizing victory and holiness (Revelation 7:14). • Future honor—“He who overcomes will be dressed in white” and never have his name blotted from the Book of Life (Revelation 3:5). Striving to be worthy, then, is not earning salvation but living consistently with the salvation already received—keeping our garments unspotted so we may walk with the Lord in unhindered fellowship now and in glorious white forever. |
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