Is it possible that the Church at Laodicea has been given an unfairly bad reputation? Sure, being rejected by the Lord is probably the worse thing that could happen to anyone. Being deceived about one’s wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked condition is a sobering reminder of the Great Apostasy (see 2Thessalonians 2:9-12). And it probably doesn’t help that critical observation of the Western Church reminds us of Laodicea’s lukewarm state.

Indeed, it is difficult to look beyond Jesus’ rebuke and chastening of the Church at Laodicea. It is hard to get past the King’s displeasure and the frightening consequences. Still, there is hope.

The Lord himself seems to have considerable hope for this much maligned church… and much to offer her. Let’s take a look.

I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. Revelation 3:18-21

It is truly amazing what the Lord offers the Church at Laodicea:

1. His kind and godly counsel;
2. To sell them what they need;
3. Loving rebuke and chastening;
4. Encouragement that they are still capable of zealous repentance;
5. To dine with them; and,
6. A place with Him on His throne.

In short, our King offers restoration. How can we neglect so great a salvation, or so kind a King? What must we do to restore our relationship with Him? How do we turn this thing around?

1. Submit to His counsel;
2. Purchase and apply what He has offered;
3. Receive and respond to His rebuke and instruction;
4. Be zealous (burn with passion) and repent (change one’s mind);
5. Hear His voice and open the door; and,
6. Overcome the deceptions and distractions in our lives.

The marvelous thing is that God the Father has already offered the grace we need for every one of these requirements. It is by grace, through faith, that we are saved. There is still hope for the Lukewarm Church.

Perhaps this explains why God has sequestered us off from the world (or, if you prefer, the good He intends to work out of it). Could He be offering a reset and renewal? Could He be offering us encouragement for rest and repentance? Can you hear Him screaming?

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. Revelation 3:22

God bless you with grace for restoration – the exercise of ears you have been given, by the One who would see you overcome and enter into His kingdom. How can we neglect so great a salvation?

Humbly yours and forever His,

Rob