Lukewarm
Introduction
Have you ever taken a sip of tea or coffee only to find it was lukewarm? It’s been sitting doing nothing for too long, and it’s not very pleasant to drink. So, if you’re anything like me, you probably pull a face and rush to the microwave.
In the first century, the city of Hierapolis in the Lycus Valley was famous for its hot springs that were said to heal those who bathed in them. About 30 kilometres away, the water at Colossae was cold and refreshing and wonderful to drink. In between these two cities was Laodicea. Laodiciea had no water supply of its own, but had to pipe in water from a hot spring a few kilometres away. By the time it reached the city it was dirty and lukewarm.
Yet despite the unpleasant water, Laodicea was a thriving, wealthy city. It was a centre of merchant banking and had a medical training school. It was famous for its highly sought after eye salve. It had a flourishing textile and clothing industry. A proud city that had so much to offer.
However, in Revelation chapter 3, Jesus does not speak about the greatness of this city. He looks past the outward trappings and into the hearts of the believers there. And he gives them a very stern warning.
Jesus’ assessment of the church at Laodicea
- How is Jesus described in verse 14? Why do you think he describes himself in that way to the church in Laodicea?
- How did the believers assess themselves? How does Jesus assess them? (verses 15, 17)
- What shocking thing did Jesus say he was about to do to them? (verse 16). Why do you think he said this?
Jesus is the true, authoritative and faithful witness. He is the ruler of all creation. He has the right to warn all believers – including those in Laodicea – of their true state before him. These Christians are not committing some terrible sin or great heresy – it is their spiritual temperature that angers Jesus! They are lukewarm, spiritually complacent. And this makes Jesus want to throw up! So ask yourself: am I wholeheartedly giving myself to knowing, loving and following Jesus, or have I too become lukewarm and complacent in my walk with the Lord?
Jesus’ counsel to the church in Laodicea
- What counsel does Jesus give to the believers in Laodicea? What do you think he means? (verse 18)
- What is Jesus’ motive for counselling the Laodiceans in this way? (verse 19)
Because Jesus loves the Laodiceans he is inviting them to come to him to receive the things they need. He wants them to repent – to turn from their complacency and rekindle their passion to serve him. He shows them that their city may be wealthy, but he is the one who will give them true gold refined in the fire and fine clothing to cover their spiritual nakedness. He is the one who will open their eyes so they can see their true spiritual state and repent.
Jesus’ promises to the church at Laodicea
- Verse 20 is Jesus’ promise to the Laodicean believers. Where is Jesus standing, and what is he doing and saying?
- What additional promise is given to those who listen to Jesus and accept the invitation? (verse 21)
The Laodicean believers felt they didn’t need anything – they were lukewarm and self-sufficient. Yet Jesus was ready to come in and enjoy fellowship with them, if only they would repent and invite him in. How sad it would be if we too were to have the same attitude and ignore all the amazing riches that Jesus is offering us. Read Ephesians 1:3 and praise God for all he has done for us in Jesus Christ.
Let’s praise God in song!
Rock of Ages (Toplady/Buchanan); Ancient of Days (Cityalight); Shine Jesus Shine (Kendrick); My the Mind of Christ My Saviour (Wilkerson); All I have is Christ (J Kauflin).
Thanks CWCI.