Topical Encyclopedia The Laodice'ans were the inhabitants of Laodicea, a city located in the region of Phrygia in Asia Minor, which is present-day Turkey. Laodicea was one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation and is mentioned specifically in Revelation 1:11 and 3:14-22. The city was known for its wealth, medical advancements, and textile industry, particularly its production of a glossy black wool.Biblical References: 1. Revelation 3:14-22 : The most notable biblical reference to the Laodice'ans is found in the message to the church in Laodicea. The Lord Jesus Christ, through the Apostle John, addresses the church with a stern warning and rebuke. The Laodicean church is described as "lukewarm," neither hot nor cold, which is a metaphor for their spiritual state. Jesus says, "So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth" (Revelation 3:16). This imagery reflects the city's water supply, which was neither hot like the nearby hot springs of Hierapolis nor cold like the refreshing waters of Colossae. 2. Colossians 4:16 : The Apostle Paul also makes mention of the Laodiceans in his letter to the Colossians. He instructs the Colossians to share their letter with the church in Laodicea and to read the letter from Laodicea: "After this letter has been read among you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea." Historical and Cultural Context: Laodicea was a prominent city in the Roman province of Asia, strategically located on major trade routes. Its wealth was largely due to its banking industry, medical school, and the production of a special eye salve. The city's affluence contributed to a sense of self-sufficiency and complacency, which is reflected in the spiritual condition of the church. The church in Laodicea is often used as a symbol of spiritual complacency and materialism. The Lord's admonition to the Laodiceans includes a call to repentance and a reminder of His love: "Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent" (Revelation 3:19). The passage also contains the well-known invitation of Christ: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me" (Revelation 3:20). Theological Significance: The message to the Laodiceans serves as a warning to all believers about the dangers of spiritual indifference and the illusion of self-sufficiency. It emphasizes the need for genuine faith and reliance on Christ. The Laodicean church's condition is a reminder that material wealth and comfort can lead to spiritual poverty if not accompanied by a fervent commitment to Christ. The call to repentance and the promise of fellowship with Christ highlight the grace and patience of the Lord, who desires a close and personal relationship with His followers. The Laodicean message encourages believers to examine their own spiritual temperature and to seek a vibrant and committed walk with the Lord. Concordance La-odice'ans (1 Occurrence)Colossians 4:16 Thesaurus La-odice'ans (1 Occurrence)La-odice'ans. Laodiceans, La-odice'ans. Lap . Multi-Version Concordance La-odice'ans (1 Occurrence). Colossians 4:16 When this letter ... /l/la-odice'ans.htm - 6k Lap (12 Occurrences) Laodiceans (2 Occurrences) Resources Does the Bible say anything about a pre-Adamic race? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Santeria? | GotQuestions.org What is the Jerusalem Bible (JB)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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