What does it mean to "keep it" in Revelation 3:3? Setting the Scene at Sardis “Remember, then, what you have received and heard; keep it, and repent” (Revelation 3:3). • The believers in Sardis had the reputation of being alive, yet the Lord said they were spiritually dead (Revelation 3:1). • Christ’s remedy is three-fold: remember, keep, repent. The middle command—“keep it”—anchors the other two. What “Keep It” Means The Greek verb tēréō carries the ideas of guard, preserve, obey, and continue. To “keep it” is to treat God’s Word as a priceless trust that must be actively protected and practiced. Guard the Deposit • 1 Timothy 6:20 “Guard what has been entrusted to you.” • 2 Timothy 1:13-14 “Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching… Guard the treasure entrusted to you.” The Lord calls Sardis to defend the truth against dilution, distortion, or forgetfulness. Obey What You Know • John 14:23 “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word.” • Luke 11:28 “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it.” Keeping is not mere mental assent; it is doing what Scripture says day after day. Hold Fast and Persevere • Revelation 1:3 “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and obey.” • Revelation 22:7 “Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book.” The same verb brackets the whole book, urging steadfast endurance until Christ returns. Practical Marks of “Keeping It” • Continual remembrance—regular reading, hearing, and meditating on Scripture. • Immediate obedience—translating truth into action without delay (James 1:22). • Repentant posture—turning quickly when the Word exposes sin. • Doctrinal vigilance—testing every teaching against the whole counsel of God (Acts 17:11). • Watchful expectancy—living alertly because Christ may come “like a thief.” Why It Matters To keep the Word is to stay spiritually awake. Neglect invites decay; vigilance brings life, assurance, and readiness for the Lord’s sudden appearing. In Sardis and today, keeping Scripture is the difference between a façade of faith and a vibrant, overcoming walk with Christ. |
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