Revelation 3:14-22

Laodicea (Verses 14-22)

The City

Laodicea was a city of great wealth, richest in the region of Phrygia. It is located in the Meander Valley on the Lycus River. It had existed since the third century BC, but was badly damaged in an earthquake in 60 AD. It was being rebuilt with Roman assistance.

The city was on a major trade route. It was known for its raven black wool and a famous eye salve made developed in its medical school. It was also a banking center for the region. Six miles away was the city of Hierapolis, known for its hot springs. This hot water flowed near Laodicea after falling over a 300-foot cliff. It was, thus, lukewarm when it got to Laodicea.

The Church

We know that the church had existed for many years, because Paul wrote a letter to them. This letter predates the letter to the Colossians. Paul urged that the two churches exchange and read the letter. (Colossians 4:16)

Things Commended

There is nothing good to say about this church. In all the other letters Jesus first commends then condemns. In Laodicea there is nothing good to say, therefore, nothing is said. In the movie “Bambi”, Thumper’s mother said, “If you can’t say somethin’ nice, then, just don’t say nothin’ at all.”

Things Condemned

This is the church that made Jesus sick. They were lukewarm. Not hot, on fire for Christ, not cold, opposing the truth. They were just lukewarm.

Jesus pictures himself as on the outside of this church seeking permission to come in. Most often this verse (20) is used to invite those who have not obeyed the gospel to open the door of their heart and invite Jesus into their lives. However, Jesus is speaking to a church, body of believers, who have not allowed Jesus into their hearts.

Because Christ loves them, he rebukes them.

Jesus uses the fame of the city to urge them to become an alive, active and faithful church.

1. Banking center - This city was proud, arrogant, and self-sufficient because of their riches. Their thinking was, “We have gold, and we need nothing else.” Jesus requests that they buy some gold from him, tried in the fire of persecution and trial. This is the only way they can be rich.

2. Black wool - Since there was pride in their black wool, Jesus requires them to buy some WHITE (pure) garments. In their black wool - they were naked and failed to realize it.

3. Eye salve - The city was famous for an eye salve developed by the medical school. Jesus said, “You have all this eye salve at your disposal, but you are not using it.” They were commanded to apply some of the salve to their spiritual eyes so they could see. The sight here is spiritual discernment, ability to see and understand the will of God.

This church had everything - everything except Christ! He was on the outside looking in. He was knocking, seeking permission to come in and fellowship with them.

Conclusion:

Here is the summary conclusion of Ray Summers in his book, “Worthy is the Lamb”, page 127.

“The message delivered first to the churches of Asia Minor is universal. Its truth applies wherever similar conditions are found today; and it is difficult to find churches where at least some of these conditions are not found. The warning against spiritual apathy still stands.”

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”