[:en]TO THE CHURCH IN LAODICEA (vs. 14-22)
Speaker: Words of the Amen, the faithful and the true witness, the ruler of God’s creation
- Commendation: Good deeds
- Rebuke: You are lukewarm – neither cold nor hot. You think you are rich but you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
- Counsel: Buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. Be earnest and repent.
- Rewards: I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and open the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne.
Laodicea was the wealthiest of the seven cities known for its banking industry, manufacture of wood and a medical school that produced eye ointment. But the city had water supply problem. AT one time, an aqueduct was built to bring water to the city from hot springs. But by the time the water reached the city, it became lukewarm – neither hot nor cold. John described the city similar to the water that came into the city.
Lukewarm is a distasteful drink. The believers were half-hearted, indifferent, idle and do nothing for Christ. The church had become hardened and self-satisfied. The Laodiceans church was complacent and rich. They focus on their wealth and luxury. They felt confident, satisfied and did not have any relationship with Christ. They failed to see the true riches found in Christ.
Christ told them to buy from Him gold (real spiritual treasures), white garments (righteousness), and medicine (truth). True value is not in material possessions but right relationship with God and everlasting kingdom of Christ.
God would discipline them and bring them back by knocking on their door. Jesus also knocks at the door of our hearts. He is patient and persistent in trying to get through but He allows us to decide whether or not to open our life for Him. Are you willing to open up your door?[:]