Scripture: Revelation 3:14–22
Laodicea (near modern Denizli) was rich and self-sufficient, famous for its wealth, medicine, and textiles. Jesus rebuked the church for being “lukewarm”—neither hot nor cold—and warned that spiritual complacency would lead to rejection.
Why It Matters:
Laodicea mirrors many modern believers who rely on comfort rather than Christ. Spiritual wealth can make us blind to our true need.
Lesson:
Renew your zeal. Let Christ into every area of your life. True riches come from spiritual devotion, not material success.
The letter to Laodicea in Revelation (3:14-22) is Jesus' message to the church in the wealthy city of Laodicea, criticizing their spiritual complacency and self-sufficiency. He calls them "lukewarm" because they are neither hot nor cold, and because they feel rich and in need of nothing, He advises them to buy from Him "gold refined by fire," "white garments," and "salve to anoint your eyes". The message ends with an invitation to open the door to Him and a promise of reward for those who overcome.
Jesus' message to the church in Laodicea
The rebuke: Jesus describes the church as "lukewarm," a spiritual state of being neither committed ("hot") nor resistant ("cold"). He states they are complacent because they believe they are wealthy and have all they need, when in reality, they are "wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked" in His eyes.
The rebuke's context: This criticism is understood in the context of Laodicea's actual wealth and industry. The city was a banking center, known for its black wool textiles (the "white garments" He speaks of), and had a famous eye medicine (the "salve"). Jesus uses these local industries to make His point, explaining that true wealth comes from Him.
Jesus' counsel: He urges them to buy from Him "gold refined by fire" (character developed under pressure), "white garments" (righteousness), and "salve to anoint their eyes" (God's perspective). These are things that cannot be purchased with money but are given by Jesus.
The invitation: The letter famously concludes with Jesus standing at the door and knocking, an invitation to all who will open it to Him. This is a call for them to repent and allow Him back into the center of their lives.
The promise: To those who overcome, Jesus promises they will be able to "sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne".