Among the seven churches in the book of Revelation, the church at Laodicea was the only one without any commendation from the Lord Jesus Christ. It had condemnation only. It was an harlot church. Revelation 3:14 describes Jesus as “the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God.” He is truly faithful, One who never lies. And as the beginning of the creation of God, He has the right to evaluate us, for we are in His domain. He judged the Laodicean church to be lukewarm (Rev 3:15-16), and warned that He would spue them out of His mouth if they did not repent.

Lukewarm churches are useless to God. They do not point others to Christ, but teach the false gospel, and the people’s lives are not changed for Christ. Carnality is considered spirituality. Messages tickle the ears of the hearers, and sins are not pointed out for fear of offending the hearers.

Lukewarm believers are completely ignorant of their own spiritual bankruptcy. They see their material possessions as blessings from God, thus thinking that they are right with God. They do not even know that they are not born-again. They are complacent about their spiritual life, and fail to see that they are wretched, miserable and pitiful. We are not to judge our spiritual life according to the material things of this world, but by the Word of God. Desire spiritual things (eg: reading God’s Word, praying, going to church, serving God, etc). These will not be burnt up by fire. Only those who overcome sin and death and hell, are truly rich in God’s sight.

Jesus warned the Laodicean “believers” to repent (Rev 3:18-22). They could still do so as long as they had breath. When they truly and sincerely repent, they would have the white raiment to cover the shame of their nakedness. Christ’s righteousness is that white garment. Then, they would have spiritual impact, be useful and be a delight and blessing to others. Are you lukewarm? Will you repent?

Jesus is at your heart’s door (Rev 3:20), knocking. He wants you to open the door. He wants to come in and sup with you. The fellowship meal indicates the most intimate relationship between the two parties at the meal.

Do not wait. By His grace and mercy, surrender your life genuinely, sincerely and unconditionally to God. You can begin to learn to love Him, and to serve Him. And you will see that as a privilege and honour. Repent! Jesus will spue out those who are lukewarm. Be sure of your salvation. Work out your own salvation.