BE VICTORIOUS Christ and the Churches Part Three

BE VICTORIOUS!

Christ and the Churches Part Three Revelation 3

Hear this Good News: Jesus desires to help us “Hold Fast”!

Laodicea, “The Lukewarm Church” Revelation 3: 14 - 22

Laodicea was known for its wealth, its manufacture of a special eye salve, and its famous hot springs

His Approval: Is short… “I know your works…”

His Accusation: “I know your works, you are neither cold or hot”

Laodicea: —Lost it’s spiritual temperature; unlike their hot springs they had become lukewarm

Laodicea: —Lost it’s spiritual compass; worldly they were rich but in His sight they were poor

Laodicea: —Lost it’s sight; they needed the anointing of spiritual eye ointment to see!

CAUTION: Laodicean believers could not see themselves as they really were

His Admonition: “I rebuke and correct those I love; I stand at the door knocking” I desire to heal you!

Reflections on what we have heard Jesus share:

Ephesus: One can be praised for hard work, patience, and resistance of evil but… lose their love of Jesus and others

Smyrna: One can receive praise of enduring hardship, poverty, and persecution…and still be encouraged to Hold Fast and not be afraid

Pergamum: One can receive praise for works and resistance of evil but found guilty of compromising with cultural influences

Thyatira: One can receive praise for their works, love, service, faith and patience but be found guilty of sexual immorality

Sardis: One can receive praise for their works but be completely spiritually dead

Philadelphia: He sees one’s works, faithfulness, perseverance while commending one still to Hold Fast for your reward will be great

Laodicea: Jesus utterly detests any believer being lukewarm

Humble Question: As a believer which characteristics of the churches mirror my life?

Hear this Good News: Jesus shares His Words hoping we will repent, receive His forgiveness, be revived and renewed!