The Daily Nugget- Hot or Cold

Hi All

As believers we are called to make a difference in the world,but as we read today this cannot be done if we are indifferent or “lukewarm” about our faith.Jesus calls us to have a deep commitment, involving actions like prayer, scripture study, service, and strong Christian fellowship.He wants our faith to consist of a wholehearted dedication that loves God with all our heart, soul and mind(Mathew 22:37).

Be Blessed and Encouraged

Hot Or Cold

15 'I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot.   16 So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold,I will spit you out of my mouth.

(Revelation 3:14-16)

In the above passage John is relaying a message to the church of Laodicea(Modern Day Turkey)which was given to Him by Jesus which is basically saying that the people were indifferent(lukewarm) regarding their faith, they were neither “hot” nor “cold” so their faith was not the highest priority in their lives,which displeased Jesus.We can all understand that Jesus wants us “hot” and on fire for Him, but surely to be lukewarm is better than to be cold ? 

When we look into the context it helps us understand why Jesus said what He did. There were three towns near to each other the first was Hierapolis which was well known for its hot springs,there was also Colossae which was renowned for its freshly fed streams of water and then there was Leaodicea whose water was piped in. In verse 15 both “hot” and “cold” are good things. To first-century readers, they were not measures of spiritual temperature but of vitality and usefulness. The water from the hot springs of Hierapolis was useful for healing and restoration. The cold water at Colossae was refreshing to drink and quenched people’s thirst. But the water that reached Laodicea did not seem to serve any useful purpose.

When we look at things from a spiritual point of view,Jesus never wants us to be Lukewarm or half hearted about our faith. No, he wants us to be “Hot”( passionate on fire about our faith) or “Cold”(refreshing like cold water on a warm day). When we are passionate and refreshing we become His shining light to a dark world.