Lukewarm

Revelation 3:14-22 presents a chilling account of a church languishing in smug self-satisfaction, a congregation that finds its security in material resources rather than in the Maker of all things, and a church oblivious to its own spiritual poverty. As the text was read, I was struck with sadness at this decline into comfortable, status quo spirituality—how pathetic. And yet I had to admit that this safe-nice-easy-comfy, man-centered “faith” has its insidious appeal to my sinful heart: I saw myself in the mirror of God’s Word. How about you?

Jesus rebukes the Laodicea congregation for its lack of conviction, commitment, and spiritual passion. They’re lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—and this makes the Lord want to spit them out of his mouth (3:16). Such a jarring declaration needs to get our attention: if we allow earthly comforts and material security to have our hearts, the Lord will be repulsed by us. How dreadful!

And yet, grace prevails: Christ still knocks at the door of compla­cent, compromised churches. He could say, “Fine, you want to cozy up with your portfolio, you want to demand that I show my goodness by making your life comfy and cushy, you want to sing the praises of prosperity—fine. Go ahead. Away with you!!” But he doesn’t banish us from his presence—that’s the wonder of grace! He still knocks. Will we open the door of our confused souls and let Christ in? Will we humble ourselves, recognize our spiritual nakedness (3:17), and receive the Lord’s rebuke? Remember, Jesus says, “Those whom I love I reprove” (3:19).