The traditional view has been that the Laodiceans were being criticized for their neutrality or lack of zeal (hence “lukewarm”). One problem with this is that Christ’s desire that they be either “cold or hot” implies that both extremes are positive.
Which church was lukewarm in Revelation?
Revelation 3:18-19
Only in Christ can we as Christians find our true purpose in life. The church in Laodicea had grown lukewarm and useless.
What does it mean to be a lukewarm church?
A church that is lukewarm is one that doesn’t challenge, sharpen, or equip those who attend. This church hasn’t become entirely cold towards God but neither do they burn with passion for Him. A lukewarm church has taken measures to make certain that spiritual comfort is more important than spiritual growth.
What was laodicea known for?
Laodicea was the first city in Anatolia importing textile products made of quality knitting wool to the Roman Empire. Laodicea was also a great center for the manufacturing of clothing – the sheep which grazed around Laodicea were famous for the soft, black wool they produced.
Who started the church at Laodicea?
Laodicea, the building of which is ascribed to Antiochus II Theos in 261-253 BC in honor of his wife Laodice, was probably founded on the site of the older town. It was approximately 17 kilometres (11 mi) west of Colossae, and 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) south of Hierapolis.
What kind of church was Laodicea?
The Laodicean Church was a Christian community established in the ancient city of Laodicea (on the river Lycus, in the Roman province of Asia, and one of the early centers of Christianity).
Where in the Bible does it talk about lukewarm?
“Because you are lukewarm–neither hot nor cold–I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” This verse from Revelation 3 certainly must rank as one of the most misused in the Bible.
What is the origin of lukewarm?
Lukewarm’s exact origin is still up for debate, but the most popular theory suggests it first appeared in the late 14th century and was derived from either Middle Dutch or Old Frisian. The term leuk meant tepid or weak. However, as the word blog Sesquiotica points out, the Dutch word for lukewarm is not leuk, but lauw.
What things are lukewarm?
Lukewarm is a word for things that are warm, but only barely. A forgotten cup of hot coffee will get lukewarm before it eventually gets cold. It’s disappointing when food at a restaurant is served lukewarm; most people like their food hot. Also, people can have lukewarm feelings and reactions.
How was laodicea destroyed?
It was finally destroyed by the earthquake that struck Laodicea during the reign of Emperor Phocas that is in the years 602-610.
What are the characteristics of a lukewarm church?
Lukewarm Christians will be quick to say that they love God fully and completely, with their whole heart, soul and strength. They know all the right things to say to make it look like to those around them that they are strong in their faith, but their devotion to God isn’t unconditional.
Where is Colossians located today?
Colossae (/kəˈlɒsi/; Greek: Κολοσσαί) was an ancient city of Phrygia in Asia Minor, and one of the most celebrated cities of southern Anatolia (modern Turkey).
What is the Church of Sardis?
Sardis (modern Sart in the Manisa Province of Turkey) gained reputation and fame as one of the Seven Churches of Asia (or Seven Churches of the Apocalypse) when it was addressed by John in the Book of Revelation.
Who was the church of Smyrna?
The Christian community of Smyrna was one of the Seven Churches of Asia, mentioned by Apostle John in the Book of Revelation. It was initially an archbishopric, but was promoted to a metropolis during the 9th century.
What is the Church of Ephesus?
Ephesus was also one of the seven churches of Asia cited in the Book of Revelation; the Gospel of John may have been written there; and it was the site of several 5th-century Christian Councils (see Council of Ephesus).