For centuries, Sardis was one of the richest and most powerful cities in Asia Minor. Capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia, it reached fame under King Croesus, renowned for his wealth and for minting the first gold and silver coins in history.
Built atop a steep plateau, it was considered nearly impregnable. Even so, it fell twice to surprise attacks: to the Persians under Cyrus, in 546 BC, and later to the Seleucid king Antiochus III. A powerful earthquake struck it down again in 17 AD, and it was rebuilt with help from the Roman Empire.
In the New Testament, Sardis is one of the seven churches of Asia mentioned in Revelation. Christ dictates to John a severe letter to this church: it had a reputation of being alive, but it was spiritually dead.
The warning echoes the city’s own history: a fortress that seemed secure but was caught by surprise because no one kept watch. Christ calls the church to wake up, repent, and stand firm, promising white garments and the book of life to those who overcome.
