God speaks to the church of Laodicean regarding the condition of their heart. Laodicea was an ancient city built on the river Lycus. Situated on a hill between the narrow valleys of the small rivers Asopus and Caprus, it discharged water into the Lycus. This city was one of the most flourishing commercial cities in Asia Minor. Much wealth and trade were gained from the sale of black wool. It was also known for the practice of idol worship. In terms of spirituality, they were neither cold nor hot. To understand the significance of this comparison, let’s see the difference between hot and cold water. Hot water cleans and purifies while cold water refreshes and rejuvenate. Lukewarm shows little zeal or enthusiasm. There is no set standard.
These people were lukewarm. (Revelations 3:15-16). The world would have benefited from the church standing out from the crowd. But the Laodicea church practiced the ways of the culture. Their lifestyle was contrary to the ways of God, so He said I will cast you out my mouth. (Revelations 3:16). He knew their deeds which were neither cold nor hot. He referred to their spiritual walk with Him. We know each Christian by their works. “By their fruit, you will recognize them [that is, by their contrived doctrine and self-focus]. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the unhealthy tree bears bad fruit.” (Matthew 7:16-17). The works of the true Christian touches and transforms lives and points people to Christ. You’ll see their loyalty as they hold true to godly values in extreme difficulty. They remain committed to the Lord by refusing to partake of the cultural norm.
Laodicea was of a rich culture. (Revelations 3:17). This is clear because they were self-sufficient and full of pride and arrogance. 7 You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.” The Laodiceans were materialistic. Their trust was in wealth and worldly possessions. They believed they could make it without the Lord. This shows they had not surrendered their heart to God. Outwardly, they appeared righteous, but their heart doesn’t sync with God’s. Amid extreme difficulty, they didn’t keep their faith in Christ.
Paul even urges Timothy to read a letter to Colossians to the Laodiceans. “When this letter has been read among you, see that it is read in the church of the Laodiceans; and also, that you, in turn, read my letter [that is coming to you] from Laodicea.” (Colossians 3:16; Thessalonians 5:27).
Jesus is knocking at the door hoping to have sweet fellowship with them. And His stern discipline was out of love. (Revelations 3:20). He urges them to be passionate, faithful, and true. He invites them to repent because it is not His intentions for anything to put any to shame. (Revelations 3:18-19). A self-sufficient lukewarm life can lead to utter ruin and separation from God. The Lord offers them a new life, a transformation of heart, mind, and spirit and eternal security. (Revelations 3:21-22).
What’s the major problem with pride and arrogance and being self-sufficient within the church?
How does being a lukewarm church affect it and the culture?
What message did you receive from this lesson?
Bless yourself and others. Stop by the RESOURCE LOUNGE:
