Verses 1-7

• Jesus refers to himself as he who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars. What does this mean to you (Isa 11:2-5)? How is it relevant to the message that he has for the church of Sardis?
• What does Jesus mean when he says that they seem to be living, but are dead?  Do you see a similar reproach from Jesus in Mat 23:27-28?  What could this mean about the church of Sardis?
• What is Jesus admonishment for the church of Sardis? What is his advice for them? What do you think he means by “strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die..”
• How does Jesus explain that they can improve? What is the consequence if they do not?
• What support does Jesus offer? What benefit will be there to those who overcome? Can you describe the value in the benefits in verse 5? Can you claim the same benefit?

Verses 7-13

• What traits does Jesus use to describe himself to the church in Philadelphia? What does Jesus description about the door mean to you?
• How does Jesus use this opening description to teach the church of Philadelphia?
• What are the consequences of those who are against God and his people? What comfort is this for you? (Isa 45:23)

• What trait of the church did Jesus highlight?
• What reward is Jesus offering the faithful of Philadelphia? What do you think verse 3:10 means?  Note that the verbs are keep “from” rather than keep “through”.  What does this mean to you?
• What warning does Jesus offer the church of Philadelphia? Does this warning apply to you and your church as well?
• What will Jesus do to those who overcome? Describe what it means to have God’s name, then name of God’s city, and a new name written on them?

Verses 14-22

• How does Jesus’ introduction relate to his message for the church of Laodicea?
• Explain Jesus’ criticism of the church of Laodicea?
• What do the Laodicians have and what don’t they have? What does it mean to you to be poor, blind and without clothing?
• Can you find parallels with the Laodicea church and America today?
• What does Jesus offer the wise? Draw a parallel to what Laodicians lack and what Jesus offers.
• Why does Jesus give sharp words? What does this reveal about Jesus’ character and his attitude toward us?
• Picture Jesus standing at your door, knocking to come in,calling to you wanting to come in and dine with you and your family. What does that mean to you?
• What example does Jesus give that demonstrates his ability to invite the church to his throne? What does this reveal about Jesus’ character?