The Apostle John was exiled to the island of Patmos during the cruel reign of Domitian. John’s crime was that he proclaimed and shared the saving message of the Lord Jesus (Revelation 1:9). On Patmos, John received a prophetic revelation but also seven letters to seven churches that existed at that time in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). These letters are filled with correction and encouragement not only for the believers in those days but also today.
The last of the seven churches addressed was the church in Laodicea which was approximately 45 miles southeast of Philadelphia. “Laodicea was named by Antiochus of Syria in honor of his wife Laodice.”[1] At this time, Laodicea was one of the richest cities in the entire world.
Of all the seven churches, Laodicea is the only one that the Lord has nothing good to say about it. This is interesting because it has what many today would see as “signs of success.” They had substantial resources and had all their needs met. So, while they were rich in the things of this world, they were bankrupt spiritually.
In Revelation 3:19, Jesus indicates that His harsh tone is because He loves them. The word used here for love is “phileō” which reflects a deep brotherly affection. Discipline in the Bible is often associated with love (see Psalm 94:12; Proverbs 3:11-12). As a result, they needed to quickly repent and restore their relationship with the Lord.
“It is evident that Christ has in mind here those few in the Laodicean church who are actually born again but whose lives have taken on the same lukewarm characteristics as those around them. The fact that they are reproved and disciplined is evidence that they are true children of God (cf. Hebrews 12:3-11).”[2]
One lesson that we learn from the church in Laodicea is that the Lord’s discipline is not always negative. It should remind us that the Lord loves us and wants what is best for us. Perhaps you have something in your life that you need to quickly repent of. Why not do it right now?
Grace and peace,
Pastor Steven