Hope for Laodiceans.
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.” Revelation 3 v 19
The opening lines of the letter written to the members of the Laodicean church were uncomplimentary, to say the least.
“You are neither hot or cold. You are lukewarm (which is disgusting!). I’m about to spit you out of my mouth.”
“You are wealthy, and lacking nothing. But you don’t realise that your reliance on material wealth has made you wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked!”
This is a harsh critique from the Lord Jesus. It makes me feel uncomfortable, because I realise how easily this could describe me. I too live comfortably, with no lack of material possessions; on which I rely a little too much.
I too can fall prey to living a lukewarm faith.
However, I was heartened by the concluding lines of the letter. There is hope, it seems, even for lukewarm Laodiceans.
Here is the antidote:
- Redirect energy into buying lasting wealth – gold refined in fire.
- Recognise rebuke and discipline as a sign of God’s love.
- Repent!
- Answer the door. Jesus is knocking, and wants to come in to share a meal and beautiful fellowship together. He wants a close relationship.
- To the one who is victorious in overcoming lukewarm tendencies, Jesus will give the right to sit with him on his throne.
“Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Let’s listen and take note!
With gratitude to all those who help and inspire me to grow a faith that is hot,
ThinkyThings 