### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Sárdeis**, represented by `{{G4554}}`, identifies **Sardis, a place in Asia Minor**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. It is mentioned exclusively in the book of Revelation as one of the seven churches of Asia receiving a direct message.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4554}}` first appears as the recipient of a letter to be written in a book and sent to the seven churches in Asia [[Revelation 1:11]]. The specific message to the church in **Sardis** is a stern one, coming from "he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars" [[Revelation 3:1]]. The church is rebuked for having a reputation, or a **name**, that it is alive, while in reality, it is spiritually **dead**. However, even in this state, a faithful few are acknowledged within **Sardis** who "have not defiled their garments" and are promised to walk in white because they are **worthy** [[Revelation 3:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the spiritual condition of the church at Sardis:
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): The term for a religious congregation, highlighting that **Sardis** was the location of one of the specific communities addressed in Revelation ([[Revelation 1:11]], [[Revelation 3:1]]).
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (work): The message to Sardis begins with the declaration, "I know thy **works**" [[Revelation 3:1]], establishing that the church's deeds, or lack thereof, are under divine scrutiny.
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): This word describes the true spiritual state of the church in Sardis, which has a name for being alive but is figuratively **dead** [[Revelation 3:1]].
* `{{G3686}}` **ónoma** (name): This term is central to the critique of Sardis, which has a **name** for being alive [[Revelation 3:1]] and also contains a "few **names**" who have remained faithful [[Revelation 3:4]].
### Theological Significance
The message to `{{G4554}}` carries significant thematic weight concerning the nature of the church.
* **Reputation versus Reality:** The primary theme is the contrast between outward appearance and spiritual vitality. The church at Sardis had a **name** that it was alive, but was found to be **dead** [[Revelation 3:1]], serving as a warning against spiritual complacency.
* **A Faithful Remnant:** Despite the overall condemnation, hope is extended to a faithful minority. The mention of a "few names" who have not **defiled** their garments shows that God recognizes individual faithfulness even within a failing community [[Revelation 3:4]].
* **The Promise to the Worthy:** Those who remain pure are deemed **worthy** `{{G514}}` and are promised the reward of walking in **white** `{{G3022}}`, a symbol of purity and honor [[Revelation 3:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4554}}` is more than just a place name; it represents a specific spiritual condition. As one of the seven churches, **Sardis** stands as a biblical archetype of a congregation that maintains a reputation of life while being spiritually dead. Its story is a powerful exhortation for the church to examine its works and pursue genuine spiritual life rather than relying on a past name or outward appearance.
TRV