(Revelation 3:15-20) 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm–neither hot nor cold–I am about to spit you out of My mouth. 17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with Me.
What was the problem? (Vs. 16) They were “lukewarm.” Their faith was casual. Jesus was in their vehicle but more as a sidekick, not as their GPS device.
How had this happened? (Vs. 17) They had become materialistic, selfish (it’s all about me) and self-reliant. They’d forgotten that life doesn’t come from stuff. They had forgotten about love. Consequently, they had become spiritually bankrupt. They had begun living out of the trash cans, but they thought it was treasure.
What was the solution? (Vs. 18) Go to Jesus. Seek Him for “gold refined in the fire” (renewed faith in Him). Why? So they can become rich in His unsearchable riches and properly adorned in royal raiment and see where their true value lies. Note the solution to the problem was not greater effort on their part to do what is right, but going to Jesus for the faith that was necessary to “see.”
What was Jesus’ attitude? (Vs. 19) I love you! So, I am going to correct you. I will do all in my power to keep you on the path of what is life indeed. I am the truth and I will always tell you the truth.
What is Jesus’ approach? (Vs. 20) Let’s have dinner together. This is not a commandment from Sinai. This is not about shaming you. It’s not about condemning you. Remember, I love you! So, let’s talk about it. Invite me into your place. Right where you are. Let Me be personal with you. Let’s share a meal together. I with you and you with Me. Let’s have a mutual sharing of our hearts. The process is as important to Me as the result. I do not just want you to “do” for Me. I want you to know Me.
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