Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "not hot, not cold" is derived from the biblical passage found in the Book of Revelation, specifically Revelation 3:15-16. This passage is part of the message to the church in Laodicea, one of the seven churches addressed in the opening chapters of Revelation. The Berean Standard Bible translates these verses as follows:"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 Background The city of Laodicea was a wealthy and prosperous center in the Roman province of Asia Minor, known for its banking industry, medical school, and textile production. Despite its affluence, the city had a notable problem with its water supply. Unlike nearby Hierapolis, which was famous for its hot springs, or Colossae, known for its cold, refreshing water, Laodicea's water was lukewarm by the time it reached the city through aqueducts. This geographical context provides a vivid metaphor for the spiritual state of the Laodicean church. Spiritual Implications In the message to the Laodiceans, the risen Christ uses the metaphor of temperature to describe the church's spiritual condition. Being "neither cold nor hot" signifies a state of spiritual indifference or complacency. The Laodiceans are criticized for their lack of zeal and fervor in their faith, which is likened to the tepid water that was neither refreshing nor therapeutic. The call for the church to be either "cold" or "hot" suggests that a definitive stance—whether one of passionate commitment or honest skepticism—is preferable to a lukewarm, indifferent faith. The imagery of being "vomited out" underscores the severity of this spiritual condition, indicating that such complacency is unacceptable to Christ. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the passage challenges believers to examine their own spiritual fervor and commitment. It serves as a warning against the dangers of spiritual complacency and self-sufficiency, which can lead to a disconnect from the transformative power of the Gospel. The Laodicean church's wealth and self-reliance may have contributed to their spiritual lukewarmness, highlighting the potential pitfalls of material prosperity and comfort. Application for Believers The message to the Laodiceans calls Christians to a life of earnest devotion and active faith. It encourages believers to pursue a vibrant relationship with Christ, characterized by zeal and a willingness to be transformed by His Spirit. The passage invites self-reflection and a re-evaluation of one's spiritual priorities, urging believers to seek a deeper, more committed walk with God. In summary, the phrase "not hot, not cold" serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual indifference, challenging Christians to avoid complacency and to strive for a fervent, authentic faith that reflects the transformative power of the Gospel. Topical Bible Verses Revelation 3:15-16I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot: I would you were cold or hot. Topicalbible.org Library Whether Habits Increases by Addition? How those are to be Admonished who do not Even Begin Good Things ... An Earnest Warning About Lukewarmness Meanwhile Florian Varillo had not Gone to Naples. ... Evil is not a Substance, but a Disagreement Hostile to Substance. We See How the Husbandmen have a Method for Separating the Chaff.. ... What is Our Free Will, which Stands in Between the Lust of the ... Letter xxxi. To Eustochium. Whether God Exists The Right to the Ordinary Safeguards of Good Health Resources What does the Bible mean that we are not to judge others? | GotQuestions.orgIs it possible for a person to be saved but not predestined? | GotQuestions.org What is the concept of "already but not yet"? | GotQuestions.org Not: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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