Scripture:
Revelation 3:16-17, 19 – “So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind and naked. Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.”
Observation:
Jesus is telling the church in Laodicea, that they are just “playing church” and going through the motions. The church fails to recognize their own desperate condition. Jesus has and is everything we need to be right with God. This is the Good News, that he loves us and wants us to repent to be on fire for Him.
Application:
Strong words of warning from Jesus for the church at Laodicea that are equally applicable to the church in America and myself today. We live in a culture where, for the most part, our needs are pretty much met. Therefore we need to be on alert and not put our faith on cruise control and think we’ve got this deal figured on our own. The second we lose focus of the Gospel we are in danger of forgetting our sin and what Jesus did to save us. All good things come from God who provides us with a wealth far more valuable than anything of earthly measure. I must repent from thinking I am driving and Jesus is my passenger to submit that I owe everything to Him.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your word. Let me not just go through the motions and be lukewarm about my faith. Help me to have a passion and love that others can see points to you.