Lexical Summary psuchros: cold Original Word: ψυχρός Strong's Exhaustive Concordance cold. From psuchos; chilly (literally or figuratively) -- cold. see GREEK psuchos NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom psuchos Definition cold NASB Translation cold (4). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5593: ψυχρόςψυχρός, ψυχρα, ψυχρόν (ψύχω, which see), from Homer down, cold, cool: neuter of cold water, ποτηρτιον, ψυχροῦ, Matthew 10:42 ((ψύχρω λουνται, Herodotus 2, 37); ψυχρόν πίνειν, Epict ench. 29, 2; πλύνεσθαι ψύχρω, diss. 4, 11, 19; cf. Winers Grammar, 591 (550)); metaphorically, like the Latinfrigidus, cold i. e. sluggish, inert, in mind (ψυχρός τήν ὀυργην, Lucian, Tim. 2): of one destitute of warm Christian faith and the desire for holiness, Revelation 3:15f. Topical Lexicon Literal and Figurative Nuances of “Cold”The term translated “cold” denotes a tangible state of low temperature (Matthew 10:42) and, in Revelation, a metaphorical description of spiritual condition. Both senses share an idea of refreshing contrast—either relieving physical thirst or illustrating stark spiritual apathy when set beside fervent zeal (“hot”). Compassion Expressed in Practical Service Matthew records Christ’s promise: “And whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is My disciple, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42). A “cup of cold water” conveyed immediate refreshment in a hot, arid climate; it required effort to draw from a well and was more valued than tepid water. The verse elevates the simplest act of kindness, reminding believers that kingdom-minded charity sanctifies ordinary deeds. Early Christian communities adopted this practice, seeing hospitality to itinerant teachers and the poor as obedience to Christ’s directive. Spiritual Temperature in Christ’s Message to Laodicea In Revelation’s letter to Laodicea, the risen Lord twice laments the church’s indifference: “I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot… So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth” (Revelation 3:15-16). The imagery draws from the city’s water supply. Nearby Hierapolis had hot mineral springs; Colossae was known for cold, refreshing streams. Laodicea’s aqueduct delivered tepid water, prone to mineral deposits that induced vomiting. Christ leverages this cultural backdrop to indict spiritual complacency: “cold” would at least be candid disengagement that might awaken repentance; “hot” represents vibrant devotion; “lukewarm” exposes smug self-sufficiency. The passage warns that middle-of-the-road religiosity nauseates the Lord. Historical Reception and Exegetical Emphases Church fathers such as Tertullian and later commentators like John Chrysostom highlighted the moral hazard of lukewarm faith, urging fervor instead of neutrality. Reformers echoed this theme when critiquing nominal Christianity. In modern missions literature, Laodicea’s example frames discussions on cultural comfort and the perils of affluence dulling spiritual passion. Ministry Implications 1. Encourage Small Acts of Mercy Practical kindness—symbolized by a “cup of cold water”—remains a valid expression of discipleship. Relief efforts, hospitality, and daily neighbor-love exhibit Christ’s compassionate heart. 2. Cultivate Holy Zeal Congregations and individual believers are to assess spiritual temperature. Regular self-examination, prayerful dependence, and fervent worship guard against the drift toward lukewarmness. 3. Leverage Cultural Context for Proclamation Just as Jesus used Laodicea’s water system, teachers today can employ familiar images to expose indifference and call listeners to wholehearted devotion. Theological Reflections “Cold” can signify either wholesome refreshment (Matthew 10:42) or stark indifference (Revelation 3:15-16). These seemingly opposite uses cohere when viewed within Scripture’s broader call to integrity: honest acknowledgment of need (even if “cold”) is preferable to pretended warmth. Divine grace meets those who are poor in spirit; feigned sufficiency invites rebuke. Summary Strong’s 5593 reminds believers that temperature metaphors gauge both mercy and fervor. A literal cup of cold water models tangible love, while the warning to Laodicea calls the church to diligent, fiery devotion. Together, the passages summon Christians to refresh others and to remain refreshingly earnest before the Lord. Forms and Transliterations ψυχρόν ψυχρος ψυχρός ψυχρὸς ψυχρου ψυχρού ψυχροῦ psuchros psuchrou psychros psychrós psychròs psychrou psychroûLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Matthew 10:42 Adj-GNSGRK: τούτων ποτήριον ψυχροῦ μόνον εἰς NAS: a cup of cold water to drink, KJV: a cup of cold [water] only INT: of these a cup of cold [water] only in [the] Revelation 3:15 Adj-NMS Revelation 3:15 Adj-NMS Revelation 3:16 Adj-NMS Strong's Greek 5593 |
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