What is the meaning of Revelation 3:3? Remember what you have received and heard “Remember, then, what you have received and heard.” (Revelation 3:3a) • The call is to look back at the apostolic gospel the church originally embraced (Galatians 1:11–12; 1 Corinthians 15:1–3). • “Received” highlights the gracious gift of truth; “heard” points to the reliable testimony delivered to them (1 Thessalonians 2:13). • For us, this means intentionally recalling Scripture we already know—just as Peter reminds believers, “I will always remind you of these things” (2 Peter 1:12–15). Keep it • “Keep” involves guarding and obeying (John 14:23; 1 Timothy 6:20). • Truth isn’t meant merely to be stored in memory; it must shape decisions, worship, and witness (James 1:22–25). • Practical ways to keep: – Regular reading and meditation on the Word (Psalm 119:11). – Corporate worship and sound teaching (Acts 2:42). – Accountability among believers (Hebrews 10:24–25). And repent • Repentance is more than sorrow; it is a decisive turn from compromise to wholehearted devotion (Revelation 2:5; Acts 17:30). • The church at Sardis had a reputation for life but was “dead” (Revelation 3:1). Repentance revives what is dying (Psalm 51:10–12). • Believers today guard against spiritual formalism by confessing sin quickly and renewing first-love passion (2 Corinthians 7:10–11). If you do not wake up • Spiritual lethargy is dangerous; Paul urges, “Awake, O sleeper, rise from the dead” (Ephesians 5:14). • “Wake up” echoes Jesus’ call in Gethsemane (Mark 14:38). Constant vigilance keeps temptation and doctrinal drift at bay (1 Thessalonians 5:6). I will come like a thief • The Lord’s coming is certain yet sudden (Matthew 24:42–44; 2 Peter 3:10). • For believers who watch, the return is blessed hope (Titus 2:13). For the unprepared, it is unsettling judgment (Revelation 16:15). You will not know the hour when I will come upon you • The unknown timing intensifies the call to readiness (Luke 12:40). • No sign guarantees a last-minute rally; ongoing faithfulness is the safeguard (1 John 2:28). • Jesus’ personal “I will come” underscores His authority and intimate knowledge of each congregation (Revelation 2:23). summary Revelation 3:3 presses believers to: 1. Recall the once-for-all gospel deposit. 2. Guard and obey that truth daily. 3. Turn from complacency to renewed zeal. 4. Stay spiritually alert, knowing Christ may appear without warning. Holding fast to Scripture and living in continual repentance keep us ready for the Lord who loves us enough to warn and to come. |
    |