The topic is relatively short, and with no added segments, we keep it that way.

Main Topic

A church that seemed to measure success by its wealth, but was clueless about its true condition. Follow along as Keith and Nathan unpack the statements in this letter to Laodicean.

Verse 14

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;

As with all these churches, an angel, or a messenger is the recipient. . the pastor at the congregation.

Some details about Laodicea.

* In a fertile Vally.

* The Roman road ran through it. From coast to interior.

* An important center of trade, communication, and producing glossy black wool.

* Wealth also came from banking, a medical school, and "Phrygian powder" known for healing eye defects.

* Also an ear ointment.

* No recorded accomplishments, known for compromise. And bowing to others needs.

Paul never visited, but mentioned the church to the Colossians.

Colossians 2:1 (ESV)

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face,

Colossians 4:16 (ESV)

And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea.

Jesus identifies himself with certain attributes of God.

Amen, An acknowledgement of a truth, Or a response of a spoken truth from God.

2 Corinthians 1:20 (ESV)

For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.

Jesus claims to be the faithful and true witness, an attribute found earlier in this letter.

Revelation 1:5 (ESV)

and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood

The beginning of the creation of God, of course refers to Jesus as creator. Not that he was the first to be born in creation, but that he came first, as the architect of creation.

Verse 15

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

Jesus sees. Here it comes. The report card for the Laodiceans, and its not a good one. But there's still promise.

Neither cold nor hot:

Cold is refreshing. Hot is satisfying. Both are good in their own way. Lukewarm, or tepid, is not accepted.

But what is it that has grown tepid?

Matthew 24:12 (ESV)

And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.

Philippians 1:9 (ESV)

And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment,

2 Thessalonians 1:3 (ESV)

We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.

1 Peter 1:22 (ESV)

Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart,

Did you notice? What has grown cold? How about: Love, knowledge, wisdom, obedience, faith.

The desire is for being cold or hot. There's only one answer. This or that. Yes or no. Middle ground is still, not God.

Joshua 24:15 (ESV)