Topical Encyclopedia The term "lukewarm" is most prominently featured in the Bible in the book of Revelation, specifically in the message to the church in Laodicea. This term is used metaphorically to describe a spiritual state that is neither fervent nor cold, indicating a lack of zeal or commitment in one's faith and relationship with God.Biblical Reference: Revelation 3:14-16 states: "To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originator of God’s creation. I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth." Context and Interpretation: The city of Laodicea was known for its wealth and self-sufficiency, but it lacked a good water supply. Nearby Hierapolis was famous for its hot springs, and Colossae for its cold, refreshing water. The Laodiceans would have understood the metaphor of lukewarm water as undesirable, as their own water supply was tepid and unpalatable. In this context, being "lukewarm" spiritually implies a complacency and self-reliance that is distasteful to God. The passage suggests that God desires a definitive stance in faith—either hot, symbolizing fervent zeal and passion for God, or cold, which could imply a clear recognition of one's need for God. The lukewarm state is one of indifference and self-satisfaction, which leads to spiritual stagnation and ineffectiveness. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the concept of being lukewarm is a warning against spiritual complacency and the dangers of a faith that is not fully committed. It challenges believers to examine their spiritual fervor and to seek a deeper, more passionate relationship with God. The imagery of being "vomited out" underscores the seriousness with which God views this state, emphasizing the need for repentance and renewal. Practical Application: In practical terms, the call to avoid being lukewarm encourages Christians to engage actively in their faith, to pursue spiritual growth, and to live out their beliefs with conviction. It serves as a reminder to rely on God's strength rather than one's own resources and to maintain a vibrant and dynamic relationship with Him. Related Concepts: · Zeal: The opposite of being lukewarm, zeal refers to an enthusiastic and passionate commitment to God and His purposes. · Repentance: The call to turn away from lukewarmness involves repentance, a change of heart and mind that leads to renewed devotion. · Spiritual Growth: Overcoming lukewarmness requires intentional efforts toward spiritual maturity and deepening one's faith. The message to the Laodicean church remains relevant to contemporary believers, urging them to evaluate their spiritual temperature and to strive for a faith that is alive and active. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Moderately warm; neither cold nor hot; tepid; not ardent; not zealous; cool; indifferent.Greek 5513. chliaros -- tepid, warm ... tepid, warm. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: chliaros Phonetic Spelling: (khlee-ar-os') Short Definition: lukewarm Definition: warm, tepid; of persons ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5513.htm - 6k Library An Instance of a Lukewarm Monk Caught in the Snares of ... Lukewarmness. The Answer Concerning the Threefold Condition of Souls. How those are to be Admonished who do not Even Begin Good Things ... Christ's Curate in Decapolis Letter xxviii (Circa AD 1130) to the Abbots Assembled at Soissons That Holy Communion is not Lightly to be Omitted The Eighteenth Chapter: the Example Set us by the Holy Fathers What is Our Free Will, which Stands in Between the Lust of the ... The Laodicean State of Christendom. Thesaurus Lukewarm (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Lukewarm (1 Occurrence). Revelation 3:16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of my mouth. ... /l/lukewarm.htm - 6k Vomit (12 Occurrences) Luke-warm (1 Occurrence) Warm (25 Occurrences) Spue (4 Occurrences) Spit (15 Occurrences) Spew (6 Occurrences) Accordingly (34 Occurrences) Cold (25 Occurrences) Pharisees (86 Occurrences) Resources Why did Jesus speak so strongly against lukewarm faith? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said, “I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20)? | GotQuestions.org What was Jesus' message to the church in Laodicea in Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Lukewarm: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lukewarm (1 Occurrence)Revelation 3:16 Subtopics Related Terms |
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