Why God Actually Loves a Lukewarm Christian: A Deeper Understanding of Revelation 3:15-17
In the book of Revelation, the letter to the Church in Laodicea often sparks confusion and concern among Christians. The passage in question, Revelation 3:15-17, speaks of being neither hot nor cold and the consequences of being lukewarm. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that the metaphor used here is not meant to condemn a lack of spiritual fervor but rather a failure to provide spiritual healing and refreshment to others. In fact, there are reasons to believe that God actually loves a lukewarm Christian. Let’s explore this intriguing perspective.
Understanding the Metaphor
To comprehend the true meaning of the metaphor employed in Revelation 3:15-17, it is important to consider the historical context of Laodicea. This city was situated between two neighboring towns, Hierapolis and Colossae, each known for their distinct water sources.
Hierapolis had natural hot springs, renowned for their therapeutic properties, often used for healing purposes. Colossae, on the other hand, possessed cold, pure waters that provided refreshment to its inhabitants. Laodicea, however, had no permanent supply of good water and relied on efforts to pipe water from nearby springs. Unfortunately, by the time the water reached Laodicea, it would be lukewarm.
The metaphorical use of hot and cold in this passage is not a reflection of spiritual fervor or zeal, as some may interpret it. Rather, it symbolizes the ability to provide spiritual healing (hot) and spiritual refreshment (cold) to those around them. The lukewarmness mentioned refers to the Laodicean Christians’ failure to fulfill this purpose.
God's Love for Lukewarm Christians
Contrary to popular belief, this passage is not a blanket condemnation of a lack of works or witness. Instead, it highlights the disappointment caused by the Laodiceans’ inability to bring spiritual healing or refreshment to others. However, even in their lukewarm state, there is evidence of God’s love and desire for their growth.
Freedom from Sin’s Dominion:
God’s Discipline: The strong words used in the passage indicate that God desires a change in the Laodicean Christians. Just as a loving parent disciplines their child to correct and guide them, God expresses His dissatisfaction with their lukewarmness in order to spur them toward growth and renewal.
The Call to Repentance: In Revelation 3:19, Jesus states, “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent.” This statement reveals that God’s love for the Laodiceans motivates His desire for them to turn away from their lukewarmness and rekindle their passion for Him. His purpose is to restore them to a place of spiritual vitality and effectiveness.
Restoration and Fellowship: Despite their shortcomings, God extends an invitation to the lukewarm Christians, saying, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20). This demonstrates His willingness to restore a close and intimate relationship with them. It reveals that His love is unconditional and that He eagerly desires to fellowship with them once again.
Revelation 3:15-17, often interpreted as a harsh condemnation of lukewarmness, can be understood in a different light. Rather than viewing it as a blanket rejection of a lack of spiritual fervor, we should perceive it as a call to provide spiritual healing and refreshment to those around us. God’s discipline, call to repentance, and invitation to restoration exemplify His unwavering love for lukewarm Christians. As we respond to His call, we can experience personal growth and rekindle our fervor for Him.