The last of the 7, lukewarm Laodicea makes Jesus want to spit them out of His mouth.
I’ve told this story before but will tell it again because it seems relevant to Laodicea. A mainline church in my area announced in the paper that they were having a community “Hymn Sing.” I was truly excited because someone I love dearly was a member there, but I knew she thought Jesus was just a good teacher. I told her I’d like to go with her to their “Hymn Sing.”
The church was packed. There were beautiful stained glass windows with scenes from Jesus’ life. There was a large wooden cross on the wall. Everyone had a hymnal with the great old hymns packed with sound theology. Had I been wrong? I also knew personally one man whom I thought was a believer who attended there. Maybe this church had life after all!
Then the minister stood up and said:
We cherish these hymns. They are part of our heritage. But I don’t want anyone to be concerned. We do not believe the words.
I nearly asked him to repeat it, I could hardly believe my ears.
Jesus says to Laodicea:
I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So because you are lukewarm — neither hot nor cold — I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
(Rev. 3:15-16)
Matthew Henry describes this as endeavoring to stay neutral, not be against Him or for Him, just in the middle. Or, in his own 19th century language: “An open enemy shall have a fairer quarter than a perfidious neuter; and there is more hope for a heathen than of such.”
By endeavoring to stay neutral, this church was like the lukewarm water that was such a problem in Laodicea, having traveled such a long way from the hot springs. They were perhaps preaching short homilies about how to be nice to one another, reading short Scripture passages aloud, singing hymns… so naive members could be lulled into complacency, unaware that their “plane” was in a fatal dive?
Was the church at Laodicea dead? Beyond hope? I believe they were on life support, but there must have been a few there that weren’t dead, but “asleep,” as in the parallel passage of the Song of Songs. Remember how the best interpreter of Scripture is Scripture? When we compare this Revelation passage to its almost identical one in the Song of Songs, I believe we are given the light we need to interpret and also to respond well to this passage. In both, Jesus is knocking and knocking, waiting, and if his bride opens, Her Bridegroom will come in and have intimate fellowship with her. We also learn, from the Song of Songs passage, how to stir our hearts from lukewarmness to passion. (This is really helpful!) If you have always been taught that the Song of Songs is only or primarily about marriage, please watch this trailer to my book He Calls You Beautiful.
Dr. Michael Reeves sheds light on the passage Revelation 3:20 alludes to in The Song of Songs in this 13 minute message you will watch at the end of the week.
Also, Colin Smith has a one-page article on “Three Ways Christ Can Be Outside Your Church.” This too can apply to both a whole church and to us as individuals. Please read and respond today.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/3-ways-christ-can-be-outside-your-church/
What does it look like to be hot instead of lukewarm? I see it in the Benton brothers who spoke at last year’s Wilberforce Weekend. (This is optional but both inspiring and entertaining!)
Seeing the imago Dei in Everyone, Including Opponents
WORD DOCUMENT QUESTIONS:
Word Document for Laodicea questions
Sunday: Getting Started
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- What are three ways Colin Smith said that Christ could be “outside our church?” Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? To your church?
- If you watched the Benton brothers, how did it impact you?
Monday: Overview
4. Read Revelation 3:14-22 aloud. Does anything jump out at you? If so, why?
5. The Pattern:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
B. How is Jesus described? How might this be relevant to Laodicea?
C. Are they commended for anything?
D. For what are they rebuked? What do you think it means to be neither hot nor cold?
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke?
F. Find both the warning and the promise.
I have wondered if Progressive Christianity fits into the category of being lukewarm. My thought is that they do not, for they are not asleep, they are dead. When a journalist asked atheist Christopher Hitchens if his opposition to Christianity was mainly with “fundamentalists,” he replied: “I would say that if you don’t believe Jesus of Nazareth was the Christ and the Messiah, and that he rose again from the dead and by his sacrifice we are forgiven, you’re not really in any meaningful sense a Christian.”
6, What are your thoughts on the above?
7. Read Dr. Campbell’s opening paragraph under “The Church at Laodicea.”
A. What does Amen mean in Hebrew?
B. Isaiah uses the same words to describe God in Isaiah 65:16 (the ESV says “God of truth) and then, in Isaiah 65:17 continues by describing a creation. What creation is Isaiah talking about?
C. Why, according to Dr. Campbell, do the Laodiceans needs this hope?
D. How does the picture painted of the new heaven and new earth in Isaiah 65:17-25 give you hope and awaken you?
Tuesday: A Rich City with Water Problems
8. Read paragraph 2 of Dr. Campbell and describe how the city’s water problems paralleled their spiritual condition.
9. Meditate on Revelation 3:17 and read Campbell’s 3rd paragraph:
A. What three businesses were Laodicea known for?
B. What irony do you see therefore in Jesus’ rebuke that aligns with the businesses?
C. Pray here for our poor, blind, and naked Western world and church, and for your own heart.
10. Meditate on Revelation 3:18 and Cambell’s 4th paragraph and explain how each of these is a solution to their need (or to your need.
A. Gold refined by fire
B. White clothes
C. Salve for your eyes
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s closing paragraphs under Laodicea and share his main points and any comments.
12. Why is God going over this with you today, do you think?
Wednesday: I Stand At The Door And Knock
There are those who reject seeing Christ in the Song of Songs because it deals with sexual intimacy in the marriage bed. Our world has gone so mad, covering God’s marriage bed with garbage, so that it no longer is seen as holy, though God says His plan is. (Hebrews 13:4) He invented it, and He does indeed, use it as a parallel to our relationship with Him and to the spiritual passion that is meant to penetrate our hearts if only we have ears to hear.
Today we’ll look at Revelation 3:20 side by side with Song of Songs 5. I’m excited to do this together with you, for together we see more. And Mike Reeves will help you see so much more on Friday!
13. Read Revelation 3:19-20.
A. From what you’ve learned about Laodicea, what was her spiritual state and what did this “bride” need?
B. What do you learn about Christ’s feelings for them in verse 19?
C. What two things do they need to do?
D. What does it mean to be earnest if you have been lukewarm?
E. What does it mean to repent of lukewarmness?
F. What is His promise if they do, and what does that really mean?
For context, this passage in Song of Songs occurs after the wedding (ch. 3) and after the honeymoon is over. (ch. 4:1-5:1).
14. Read Song of Songs 5:2-3
A. What do you see immediately that is similar to Jesus at the door of His Bride, Laodicea?
B. What do you think it means to say “I slept but my heart was awake?”
C. What does He call her, and how would you describe His attitude toward her? Toward you?
D. With Laodicea He describes Himself (in contrast to her, perhaps) as faithful and true. How do you see Him like that here? How can you see He has been knocking for a long time?
E. What are her excuses for not coming to let him in? Thoughts? Applications?
Keyholes in biblical days were so big you could put your hand through them.
15. Read Song of Songs 5:4-9
A. What does she see him do in verse 4, and what impact does it have on her?
B. When she opens the door, what of him does she find on her hands?
C. How does she feel and what does she do?
D. What do the watchmen do?
The watchmen could have mistaken her for an immoral woman, out in the night in her robe, or they may represent false shepherds who try to silence passionate believers.
E. What does she ask of the daughters of Jerusalem and with what question do they respond?
Thursday: He’s The Fairest of Ten Thousand
In another message by Dr. Mike Reeves on The Song, he makes the very good point that too often when we share Christ with an unbeliever, we jump to the plan of salvation instead of telling them how wonderful He is. It is as if we are saying, “This is WHAT you get,” instead of “This is WHO you get, the fairest of ten thousand to my soul.” Here she paints “a living statue” for the daughters of Jerusalem, and I cannot help but contrast this statue not just to the one in Daniel representing different kingdoms with “feet of clay,” but to some of the fierce portraits of Jesus in Revelation where He is so angry with the enemies of His Bride that he is a Warrior, with eyes that blaze and a sharp sword coming out of His mouth. (Rev. 19:12 & 15) Here, with the Shulammite, His eyes are like doves and His lips are like lilies dripping with myrrh. (Song of Songs 5:12-13) I asked Dr. Campbell about this in case I was going too far, and he wrote:
Of course, we have to take the whole picture of Scripture on every topic. Revelation presents Christ as holy judge and conquering King, the Gospels present him as the greatest manifestation of love and mercy (but also in the temple with a whip!). So taking Rev. 1 and the Song of Songs passage together brings that same kind of full Biblical picture. Another way of approaching it is to contrast Christ in chapter 1 with Christ as the slain Lamb of chapter 5, and that brings us back to the One introduced as a Lion but then revealed on closer sight as a Lamb, as your daughter’s painting reveals.
16. Read Song of Songs 5:10-16 aloud to yourself and let it lead you into worship.
17. If someone were to ask you, “How is your beloved better than others?” (Better than Allah, Buddah, or any human lover) what would you tell them?
Friday: Mike Reeves
18. Listen to the above message where he compares these two passages and share your notes and comments.
Saturday:
19. What is your take-a-way and why?
102 comments
Dee, do you mean Colin Smith for the article from TGC? Wow-the article was an eye opener! Oh, Lord. Let us not leave you outside the door of our church!
Thanks, Bing — you helped me again. I think Colin Smith was my mailman growing up! 🙂
I meant Colin Hanson was my mailman. I’m hopeless.
Dee, I can see how you can get those names mixed up! Ordinarily, I would not have said anything (idol of approval again) but this group has been so kind and caring, that I just went for it. lol I knew you wouldn’t mind. I am hopeless, too, in more ways than one.
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? A church is having a “Hymn sing” service which I assume would be centered around singing hymns and then the pastor says “we do not believe the words!” So much for singing hymns! I shared this with my husband and he was just dumbfounded. Through our discussion we realized how sheltered we were raised, thinking that all churches preached the Bible and believed it to be truth. One thing we’re both thankful for is being taught the importance of knowing the Word which prepared us for the realization that not all churches do and praying for continued discernment.
2. What are three ways Colin Hansen said that Christ could be “outside our church? ” 1) Outside the preaching. No mention of Jesus. 2) Outside the mission. Mission is being defined in a way to leave Christ out. 3) Outside the fellowship. We can do so by not keeping Christ the center. Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? Out of fear, acceptance or just being neutral purposely leave Christ out of our conversations. To your church? It can be geared towards the world so much that Christ isn’t even seen.
3. If you watched the Benham brothers, how did it impact you? They were such a breath of fresh air, loved how they played off each other, teasing one another. What stood out to me was a candle in the song “This Little Light Of Mine” is better interpreted to be a hot coal. If a wind comes up it will blow out the flame on the candle but a burning ember will be ignited even more when the wind hits it. Also, responding to those that want to extinguish our ember, we should reach out to with compassion, remembering they are made in God’s image. The interaction the one brother had with the woman on the plane when she wanted to extinguish his ember was a teachable story for me. Thank you so much for sharing this Dee…a must see!
This was so encouraging to me, Sharon. Thanks. I can picture Jim dumbfounded.
1. What stood out in the introduction and why.
For a ‘Christian’ minister to say, don’t be concerned…we don’t believe the words…. That is terrible! Is this why most people don’t want to sing the old hymns anymore? They don’t believe the words? Or are they are too convicted by them?
2. The article by Colin Smith. I was dumbstruck, having never put it together before that verse 20 is Jesus knocking at the door of the church, not at the heart of unbelievers. How could I have missed that?? My mind keeps turning this over – Jesus outside, looking to come in. And that the life of Jesus centers on the church; the life of the church should center on Jesus. He started with pointing out how he was told this new congregation he was coming to had everything, much like the church at Laodicea. Or at least, they thought they did. It echoes in my mind with what I consider to be the saddest and most tragic verse in the Bible, when Samson did not know that the Lord had left him. Oh, to be so careful not to get to that place! I want to keep Jesus in my speech, in my mission, and at the center of my relationships.
3. The Benham brothers. Wow!! I don’t watch TV, so was only vaguely aware that someone had been tossed off for taking a Christian stance. They were so impressive! Winsome, articulate, funny, engaging, and convicting all at the same time. If you could learn to witness well by following someone else’s method, it would be them. See the person first. Listen to the Holy Spirit. Love and listen to the person. Then see the problem. Follow what the Spirit says to do.
Mary, my heart soars at all you are taking in. Yes, I think conviction is the reason people endeavor not to believe. And I loved your connection with Samson who didn’t know the Lord had left him.
Oh, Mary! Yes, maybe the words of the hymns are too convicting! So many churches just want to feed people what they want to hear and not words to convict them. I am so thankful that there are still Christ centered churches who believe God’s word.
I love your answer to the article by Colin Smith. I had never seen that verse as Jesus knocking on the door of the church. I also loved your connecting this to Samson. I pray that same prayer that I do not want to ever get to that place.
Mary, I missed that, too in the past. I always thought of verse 20 as referring to unbelievers. Oh, I need to go back to Song of Songs again!
Monday
4. Read Revelation 3:14-22 aloud. Does anything jump out at you? The message to this church has always haunted me the most. “Since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” If so, why? To know that the things I am doing are just so-so, lukewarm, cause Him to spit me out of His mouth is devastating and then I continue in that behavior. I then look to verse 19 where He says “I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference.” He loves me enough to correct and discipline me, not the easiest way to learn but a way none the less followed by being diligent and turning from my indifference. I pray that I will be diligent in seeing my indifference and turning away so I won’t be lukewarm. I am so glad He loves me!
5. The Pattern:
A. To whom is the letter addressed? To the angel of the church in Laodicea
B. How is Jesus described? The one who is the Amen – the Faithful and True witness, the Beginning of God’s new creation. How might this be relevant to Laodicea? I think of Amen as having the final word, or so be it. Him being the Faithful and True Witness was just the opposite of what the people were in this church and He is the source, the ruler of God’s creation, not them…they weren’t in control.
C. Are they commended for anything? No
D. For what are they rebuked? Being like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold. Saying they’re rich and have no need of anything. They don’t realize they’re wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked. What do you think it means to be neither hot nor cold? Be indifferent and compromising. Thinking they can ride the fence – deciding which side suits them at the time. The problem being Satan owns the fence.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke? Buy gold that has been purified by fire from Jesus, then they’ll be rich. Buy white garments from Him so they won’t be shamed in their nakedness and ointment for their eyes so they can see.
F. Find both the warning and the promise. Warning: He corrects and disciplines everyone He loves. So be diligent and turn from your indifference. He is standing at the door knocking. Promise: If we hear His voice, He will open the door, come in, and will share a meal as friends. Those who are victorious will sit with His Father on His throne.
I have wondered if Progressive Christianity fits into the category of being lukewarm. My thought is that they do not, for they are not asleep, they are dead. When a journalist asked atheist Christopher Hitchens if his opposition to Christianity was mainly with “fundamentalists,” he replied: “I would say that if you don’t believe Jesus of Nazareth was the Christ and the Messiah, and that he rose again from the dead and by his sacrifice we are forgiven, you’re not really in any meaningful sense a Christian.”
6, What are your thoughts on the above? My first thought was Progressive Christianity is false teaching, false prophets that are leading people astray. So, I would agree, they are dead.
The devil owns the fence! I won’t forget that.
2. What are three ways Colin Smith said that Christ could be “outside our church?” Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? To your church?
The church at Laodicea had Jesus outside the door knocking. Outside. Colin Smith suggests that even though Jesus created the church we can leave him outside
1. in our preaching by failing to make him the focus,
2. in our mission by focusing on meeting needs without mentioning Christ (“Go make disciples of all nations . . . teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:19-20) is a radically Jesus-centered mission. But many churches are redefining mission in a way that leaves Christ outside, knocking at the door.”), and
3. in our fellowship by “doing life together” without Jesus. “Christian fellowship goes beyond doing life together. It’s about doing life together, in Christ, with Christ, and for Christ.”
Christ needs to become central to the whole life and ministry of a church.
3. If you watched the Benton brothers, how did it impact you?
The Benton brothers video shows how being open and honest about our Christian faith will lead to sharp disagreement with the world. I often have kept quiet about my beliefs, not wanting confrontation, and wanting to be accepted. And, while it may be true, that we need to earn a right to be heard, I too often use it as an excuse to say nothing. Right now, I have a two relationships in which I am feeling called to speak God’s truth and it will likely mean being rejected or at the very least a sharp disagreement. My control and approval idols are screaming for me to be quiet and just get along.
Lord, help me to be winsome, gentle but uncompromising about Jesus and who he is.
Would love your thoughts, Diane, on whether we should initiate conversations on LGBT or just give a reason for the hope when it comes up. I often think of how peripheral issues feel like diverting from the main message of the gospel. Yet everyone is talking about LGBT issues.
Dee, you ask a very difficult question about whether we should initiate conversations on LGBT. I don’t feel I can speak for anyone but myself. One of the difficult conversations I need to have is with someone who has declared herself bisexual. The only reason I will initiate this conversation is because she lived with us for three years and I love her too much to allow her to sink without trying to rescue her. I think each person has to have a deep conviction about what God is calling them to do. I hope my history with her will cause her to still trust me and respect me enough to “hear” my concerns. I truly hope she will hear my love as well as the fact that she seems to have lost her way and Jesus is calling her back.
I understand how you feel, Diane. We are very cautious too with certain relationships. We love the people, but not certain things in their lifestyle. We are not comfortable speaking too boldly to those we don’t know well. It is even difficult with grandchildren sometimes. They know where we stand as Christians, but we want to build bridges not moats. A person’s history and the way they grew up has such a powerful impact on how they see God and how they value themselves. I pray that I can be a bridge to others, without alienating them. One of the things I love about the series “The Chosen” is the way the Jesus character always speaks love first. I feel I need to earn another’s trust first in any relationship. It is difficult in our culture, as so many young people have no idea who God is and they learn so much of what they believe from “news bites”.
Diane, your prayer is my prayer, too as I anticipate my daughter, Ruth coming back home. She has 2 close friends who are practicing homosexuals (one is married to another guy). I feel so concerned about their lives after death. I keep reminding myself of the sovereignty and kindness of God.
I know that the topic will come up again while she is here. And her one friend maybe even coming to visit with his husband. I have Rosaria Butterfield’s book, The gospel comes with a house key and I need to continue reading it soon.
Bing, please tell me what you think of Rosario Butterfield’s book “The Gospel Comes with a house key”. I didn’t realize she had written another book. What do you think? I found her previous book fascinating but tough sloughing at times. I would be interested in reading more, though.
Diane, it has been a tough read for me up to this time. That was probably why I have put it down for now.
Diane, we did it as a women’s summer book read a few years ago. It was inspiring and terrifying. She lives her life for Christ in an intensely intentional way, beyond what most of us think of. I should go back and read it again.
Not to stir anything up here, Bing, but what exactly do you mean the “…sovereignty and kindness of God?” Are you suggesting that God will save them even though they remain gay for their lives? If so, this is sounding like progressive Christianity to me. Can you elaborate on what you mean?
Laura, thanks for asking. What I mean by the sovereignty of God is that He already foreknew whether they will be saved or not and I can trust Him to do His will in their lives. And that may mean they would never accept Jesus. By His kindness, I mean, that He is kind that if they repent, and accept Jesus, they will be redeemed. I maybe should have worded that differently?
I am glad to be a part of this blog and be exhorted when I am unclear. A lot of my acquaintances and friends, with an exception of a few, seldom ask for clarification in what I say (Some would think “I think I know what she means”-which can be a kindness if it is not an issue of non-essentials). Then I presume I was clear and then find out later, they have misunderstood me. I would rather be asked than be confusing to others. I need friends like you, Laura, and I wish you were close by. (smile).
Sunday: Getting Started
What stands out to you from the above and why?
The parallel from Song of Songs and our passage stood out to me and I LOVE that Michael Reeves is part of this week.
What are three ways Colin Hansen said that Christ could be “outside our church?” Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? To your church?
Christ can be outside preaching, outside the mission of the church, outside our fellowship.
I thought a lot about our life group at church, we have been a part of two very different life groups. One was more formal, we always worked on a study, but rarely spoke about what was actually going on in our hearts. The one we are in now is opposite. We never do a study, but we sometimes have real times of confessing our struggles and sins.I suppose a perfect group would have equal amounts of both, but I feel like the sharing group we are in now comes closer to what fellowship ought to be. We actually know and love one another.
If you watched the Benton brothers, how did it impact you?
They were funny, and much more real and compelling that I imagined they would be when I began watching.These things stood out to me:
If you have been in the word. The forces that seek to extinguish your light are the things that will actually increase it.
People are made in the image of Christ- Christ loves them, if you really love them you will reach out in love, they are being held captive
Boldness apart from brokenness makes you a bully
Interesting about your two groups, Chris. Right now in our home church we are trying something new with study – we all have the same passage to study (doing psalms now) and the same sermon to listen to (often Keller or another Reformed preacher) and an optional guide (Peterson) We recommend Spurgeon and Matthew Henry too. Everyone is to meditate using tools suggested as they like. Then we come together and have a hopefully Spirit-led discussion going slowly through the psalm. It is a bit freeing as we don’t have to get through “the questions” and it seems to be a good balance of Scripture and personal sharing.
Chris, a few friends of mine, and I bought Dee’s Peter and Jude Study guide and we are going through it and sharing our answers and thoughts through Email. We “Reply all” as we feel led. I divided the questions for each weekday and start on a Sunday like what Dee is doing here. Even though we are not meeting face to face, I feel like we are have deep fellowship across the virtual world. We just started study three of the 13 study series. I feel like I am getting to know the hearts of these ladies through their writing!
Thanks for sharing about your 2 life groups.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I was so saddened when I read what the pastor said to the church at the hymn sing. It broke my heart to know that a pastor would deny the words of the hymns….. I really found his words scary and sad. I know this attitude is so prevalent in many churches in our country.
2. What are three ways Colin Smith said that Christ could be “outside our church?” Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? To your church?
Christ can be outside the preaching of a church. Christ can be outside the mission of the church. Christ can be outside the fellowship of the church. I especially loved the thought:
The Spiritual temperature rises as Christ becomes the center to the whole life and ministry of the Church.
3.If you watched the Benton brothers, how did it impact you? I loved the Benham brothers! I took two pages of notes on their presentation. I loved their perspective and their humor…all clean, entertaining and Christ centered. They brought up many good points: The battle is between:
a.) The seed of the serpent and the seed of the woman b.) Truth and Lies c.) Light and Darkness The Elton Trueblood quote: “In the year 2000, Christians in America will be a conscious minority surrounded by an arrogant, militant paganism.” Wow! So true.
There was so much in this video.
“If your theology is not your biography, your theology is worthless.” “Resist with knowledge agendas that are contrary to God. Reach out with compassion to those captive by those agendas.” “God’s blessings are found in God’s boundaries. If you remove those boundaries the blessings become burdens.” “Operate out of a fear of God, not a fear of man.” “Focus on the person of God who gave you the platform you have, not on the platform ~ that platform can become your idol.”
“Boldness apart from brokeness makes you a bully~ God took us away from our self sufficiency.” “Courage is first recognizing your inner coward and allowing the Holy Spirit to release your inner lion.” ” Goliath today is a demonic agenda.” “Your greatest blessing is only found on the other side of your greatest fear.” I loved everything about these courageous young men. God has truly blessed them for loving others as they are, yet not compromising their love of Jesus and their godly values.
I don’t know what happen to the spacing on my answers! Yipes! I tried to correct it, but it is still weird.
Such good notes, Patti. Thank you!
4. Comments on this passage.
When Jesus says, you do not realize, followed by I counsel you, it sounds so legal and serious. Here is our defender telling us our danger. It is very reassuring that His rebuke and discipline are always in love. I easily get tired of being confronted with my wrong, but it helps to know His goal is not to beat me down, but to build me up. The line about overcoming as He overcame is a bit daunting to me. He was perfect, and suffered so much. How can I hope to make it to the other side? Only by His grace and help!
I have access to a Navigators study on Revelation and found the following information on Laodicea very helpful.
The word itself means ‘rule of the people’. The city was built to accommodate trade routes rather than natural resources, and had no water supply of its own. Because the water came in stone conduits from 6 miles away in two different directions, they were especially vulnerable to attack, and so their politicians specialized in appeasement. The hot water came from mineral springs, and at its source was useful for medicinal baths and healing. By the time it got to Laodicea, it had lost its heat, was useless for healing, and merely poisonous to drink. The water from the other direction came from the springs of Denizli and were icy cold to refresh thirst. But again, the distance took much of the positive distinctive away.
I saw so much interaction between this explanation and the Benham brothers. We, as believers, especially today, are vulnerable to attack. But appeasement will not keep us safe and only takes away our ‘heat’ and usefulness. The biggest problem Laodicea had was being in a place where the focus was on earthly things, and being distant from the vital things. Could it be that our biggest problem is when we situate ourselves where we can focus on personal gain from the world around us, but distance ourselves from the Living Water?
5. B. Jesus is described as the Amen, the faithful and true, none of which were true for Laodicea, yet were desired by God for them.
C. There is no commendation, the only church of whom this is true. Not even embers to blow on.
D. Jesus rebuked them for their lack of retaining the ability to heal their culture (hot water), to refresh their culture (cold water), and having deeds that accommodated their culture rather than seeking to, in the words of Wilberforce, reform it.
E. He tells them to come to Him for the spiritual reality and worth of the things they think they have, which was wealth, clothing, and eye salve. He says He wants their repentance not to be lukewarm either, but to be in earnest.
F. The warning is that they are very needy and need to acknowledge it and turn in repentance before they are spewed out of His mouth. The promise is that He will welcome them back. He will deeply, intimately commune with them, and allow them closeness to Him throughout eternity.
6. The Hitchens quote. It was impressive to me that he could clearly and fully articulate what Christianity is, something a lot of believers can’t do. But sad that he can see that and yet not bow his knee to Jesus.
Great notes. I too loved the Hitchen’s quote — obviously!
7. From Campbell. A. What does amen mean in Hebrew?
Campbell said faithful and true. When I looked it up in my Strong’s, it said surely, truth, so be it for the Hebrew, and for the Greek, truth; a formula of solemn expression of certainty. I don’t see a contradiction there, but I also didn’t see ‘faithful’ as part of the definition.
B. Isaiah 65:16 talks about invoking a blessing or swearing by the God of truth. Since the end of the verse says ‘for the past..wil be forgotten and hidden from My eyes,’ it sounds like a summation and transition to Verse 17, which echoes God’s – and our – forgetting the former things, with a view to God having created new heavens and a new earth.
Monday
7. Read Dr. Campbell’s opening paragraph under “The Church at Laodicea.”
A. What does Amen mean in Hebrew? Faithful and true.
B. Isaiah uses the same words to describe God in Isaiah 65:16 (the ESV says “God of truth) and then, in Isaiah 65:17 continues by describing a creation. What creation is Isaiah talking about? The new creation that began with Christ’s resurrection. So I’m thinking this is spiritual creation?
C. Why, according to Dr. Campbell, do the Laodiceans needs this hope? Because they need the power of His new creation kingdom to bring them out of a state of spiritual death.
D. How does the picture painted of the new heaven and new earth in Isaiah 65:17-25 give you hope and awaken you? Wow, there is so much to look forward to that we will never see happen on this earth. Quite honestly it overwhelms me and goes beyond my comprehension.
7. C. Why do the people of Laodicea need this hope?
Without this hope, their death becomes something eternal. With the hope, they can return to Jesus and experience revival. They are very lacking in faithfulness and truth and need their Savior’s intervention.
D. How does the Isaiah passage give you hope and awaken you? We will be able to leave all the pain of this life behind. I have to say these verses are difficult for me because some seem to speak of heaven, but others definitely do not (he who dies at a hundred will be considered cursed). I hear what Campbell is saying about these verses fitting in with his view of Revelation, where it is all a progression of change from the time of the resurrection on, but it is confusing to me. I am waiting patiently for more of it to unfold.
8. Campbell: how did their water problems parallel their spiritual condition?
Laodicea had no water of their own, and what was piped to them was dirty. All people are without a source of spiritual water on their own. Man made religions are distortions or downright lies of what God revealed about Himself to people. They are dirty water, leading not to health but instead to death. The people of Laodicea were so busy with the outwardly visible trappings of wealth and industry they didn’t see how dehydrated they were. It was sickening to Jesus.
Mary, I use the NLT version more than others but when I am confused about a scripture I go to 3-4 more versions for clarification. Here’s what the NLT says:
““No longer will babies die when only a few days old. No longer will adults die before they have lived a full life. No longer will people be considered old at one hundred! Only the cursed will die that young!”
Isaiah 65:20 NLT
I think it means that age doesn’t matter anymore when in heaven? I guess it’s just reinforcing the idea that the cursed wouldn’t even make it to heaven to experience the lack of age idea? Just thinking with you.
Sunday: Getting Started
1.What stands out to you from the above and why?
We cannot be lukewarm in our faith. We cannot “straddle the fence” either on the essentials of the gospel.
I echo Dee’s and Sharon’s comments on the hymn sing event in that church. Not believe in the words? How could a true Christian not believe the rich theology in many of our hymns? “A mighty fortress is our God”-true; “Psalm 23” (I love Keith Green’s rendition)-true. And so many others!
2.What are three ways Colin Smith said that Christ could be “outside our church?”
This struck me in a profound way and made me really sad: Jesus knocking on his own people’s door… But the first application is not to unbelievers, but to the church.
Christ is outside the preaching in our church.
Christ is outside the mission of the church.
Christ is outside the fellowship of the church…We should be doing life together in Christ, with Christ, and for Christ.
Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? To your church?
As an individual: Christ should permeate whatever I do as one member of the body of Christ.
For our church:
That each member would seek and pray for the centrality of Christ in what we do and not allow our smallness to discourage them.
3.If you watched the Benton brothers, how did it impact you?
When we are persecuted for our faith, we need to look at that person and love them as image-bearers of God. Only in love are able to respond boldly and in the right way.
Acts 4:29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.
4. Read Revelation 3:14-22 aloud. Does anything jump out at you? If so, why?
This verse has always stood out to me
“17 For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.”
Apart from Christ this is what we are and we are ignorant of our condition.
“I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire”
Stood out to me this time because gold refined by fire brings to mind trials, I thought about how suffering does expose what we are hoping in as worthless if our hope is fixed on anything but Christ.
“Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline”
Upside down things of the gospel, what appears to be God letting us down may be just the opposite, a train ground to drive us to his side.
Monday: Overview
5. The Pattern:
To whom is the letter addressed?
the angel of the church in Laodicea
B. How is Jesus described? How might this be relevant to Laodicea?
The Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creationI always feel a bit thick when answering how Christ description is relevant, He is true and faithful he is over all- they need to pay attention to what they do not see.
C. Are they commended for anything?They are not.
D. For what are they rebuked?
For being lukewarm
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke?
To buy from me gold refined by fire, white garments, and salve from the LordIt sounds as if they are to ask God to purify them with suffering.
F. Find both the warning and the promise.The warning is that God will be down with them, I thought of the fish that keeps its babies in its mouth to protect them.The promise is that God will be jealous for their hearts, he will reprove and discipline them, he will respond and accept if they will ask him to be with then, those who conquer will reign with him
I have wondered if Progressive Christianity fits into the category of being lukewarm. My thought is that they do not, for they are not asleep, they are dead. When a journalist asked atheist Christopher Hitchens if his opposition to Christianity was mainly with “fundamentalists,” he replied: “I would say that if you don’t believe Jesus of Nazareth was the Christ and the Messiah, and that he rose again from the dead and by his sacrifice we are forgiven, you’re not really in any meaningful sense a Christian.”
6, What are your thoughts on the above?I guess I imagine that God sees peoples hearts and deals with each one in his own way. People can begin in error, grasping onto the truth that is there and God can ignite that into a desire for more and greater truth. I know a friend whose first faith steps were under a ministry most of us would deem unsound. She has moved on from there, but no doubt that beginning was real for her.I remember when I heard the hymn sing story the first time, I hoped that seeds of truth were planted in the hearts of those present.
I absolutely love your answer to 6, Chris — and the illustration of the fish keeping babies safe in his mouth. I didn’t know that!
Here it is:
I guess I imagine that God sees peoples hearts and deals with each one in his own way. People can begin in error, grasping onto the truth that is there and God can ignite that into a desire for more and greater truth. I know a friend whose first faith steps were under a ministry most of us would deem unsound. She has moved on from there, but no doubt that beginning was real for her.I remember when I heard the hymn sing story the first time, I hoped that seeds of truth were planted in the hearts of those present.
Powerful thoughts!! Love this! Love the fish keeping the babies safe too.
Chris, I too, loved the illustration of the fish keeping its babies in its mouth to protect them. Oh, I do not want to be spat out!
7. Read Dr. Campbell’s opening paragraph under “The Church at Laodicea.”
What does Amen mean in Hebrew? Faithful and True
B. Isaiah uses the same words to describe God in Isaiah 65:16 (the ESV says “God of truth) and then, in Isaiah 65:17 continues by describing a creation. What creation is Isaiah talking about?
The new heavens and new earth
C. Why, according to Dr. Campbell, do the Laodiceans needs this hope?
Because the lack truth and faithfulness and they need Christ power to change this
D. How does the picture painted of the new heaven and new earth in Isaiah 65:17-25 give you hope and awaken you?
The former things being remembered no more-
All my sin, shame, failures, All the PAIN, coming to mind no more. Not to God’s mind not to our minds…we are promised Joy“
And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure”
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
You left me hanging Dee! What happened with you and your friend after the pastor said that they didn’t believe the words of the hymns?? I don’t remember hearing this story from you before.
2. What are three ways Colin Smith said that Christ could be “outside our church?” Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? To your church?
This article made me reflect on the church we attend. I love our church! On the wall we have a humongous sign that says, “Loving people one step closer to Jesus.” He is mentioned over and over again in our church. In fact, when we began attending, about 10-12 years ago, I thought it was “weird” that they talked about Jesus so much! Ha ha! That must mean I had never been in a church that valued Jesus much, in my entire life. How sad! Or maybe it was assumed? Maybe I didn’t listen well? I know I have never been closer to Jesus than in the past 15 years. However, I went seeking Him when I realized I needed Him.
Colon H. says, Christ can be outside the church when
1) He is outside the preaching.
2) He is outside the mission.
3) He is outside the fellowship.
Missions? Check ✔️
I think it’s harder to see Him in our fellowship as a church. When we had our church picnic, we were enjoying each other’s company, but not talking about Jesus.
Laura — I was simply stunned and silent at the time. During the service someone requested a song about the blood, I don’t remember which one, but the minister turned that request down. I talked with my friend about that on the way home, and she agreed the blood was barbaric. She is a progressive Christian, one whom I love dearly and pray for. Sometimes I see tiny signs of hope. She came to our Easter service and actually liked it, but in talking to her afterwards, I don’t think she really got it, even though it was all about the lamb. Only God can open the eyes of the blind, and so I pray.
I should have written Colin Smith when referring to the article.
Maybe you need to initiate the discussion into Jesus in your fellowship — might you ask some leading questions?
Dee, that’s a great idea. One question I like to ask is , “how has Jesus showed up in your life this last week or How has Jesus spoken to you through His Word?”Responses are are very telling, although that is not why I ask! I also realize this can put people on the spot and my response requires grace.
Good ideas ladies! Thanks!
You ladies would be proud of me today…I was in fellowship with several church members today at VBS and we talked about Jesus! Hahaha….
3. If you watched the Benton brothers, how did it impact you?
wow….they are amazing. I have a situation at my school that needs addressing; I may have shared it before. Here’s the quick version:
A young woman, 25, all year has put (to me) controversial materials on her walls (inside the classroom – BLM flag) and on the hallway walls (flags that stand for LGBT “types,” for example, the lesbian flag). I do not believe that children need to be taught these things, and that they are adult topics. I complained about the BLM flag and it was taken down. I decided to let the other flags go, until I saw the “l” word (lesbian). I am supposed to protect children in my job, and I believe this is exposing them to perversion. I complained to my director (there were some other things also; things she has said that are bothersome) and hoped the flags would come down. I also told my director if she could have that up then I could put up the love scripture from 1 Corinthians. She took them down on the last day, and put them in her class room. I do not think she got in “trouble.” I do think they are trying to make these perversions “normalized.” I told my director I didn’t want to appear to be hateful. That is not why I was coming to her. Instead, I pressed the children/adult issue. The Benton Brothers strengthened my argument, making me see that I need to step up to the plate. I would love to hear what some of you think I should do. But, even more so I would like your ideas about “equity.” Are these two camps equal in thought? I think both might be considered “offensive” to certain groups. But I don’t think Christianity is perverse, but I do think parents in our district would think that having the words lesbian, gay, trans, bisexual and so on, are perverse and shouldn’t be on the wall. Perhaps they would like their children to be protected? Perhaps they would like their children to learn from them, not a “woke” biased teacher? I’m planning to complete an informal survey this summer, of parents in our district, showing the pictures and asking if they agree that they should be on the wall. What would my argument be if someone asks me to take down the scripture? Thank you for guidance. I trust this group.
I also meant to add that I do think both camps are threatening to a student who doesn’t agree with one or the other; they might think she or myself might grade them with that in mind (to their detriment). In other words, if they aren’t Christian I might grade them differently, or if they don’t agree with LGBT issues she might grade them differently.
You are in a hard position, warring against the world. I’m proud of you for standing up, and I think protecting the children is a good reason.
BLM is a cover for a very bad group, but people don’t believe that.
I agree, Dee. If people dig for their news they would see the leaders are self-proclaimed Marxists. One has extorted money from the proceeds for her own gain. It is awful. They are not what they appear to be at all.
Dee and Laura, can you send me links to BLM so I am more knowledgeable about them? I am interested in what they are all about. I am thankful that God has promised to hold us fast in His truth as we face and are bombarded by many new ideologies or philosophies engineered by the enemy.
4. Read Revelation 3:14-22 aloud. Does anything jump out at you? If so, why?
I think God’s description of Himself, the Amen, is telling. He is the end.
5. The Pattern:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
The letter is addressed to the angel of the church of Laodicea.
B. How is Jesus described? How might this be relevant to Laodicea?
The Amen. The true and faithful Witness. The beginning of God’s creation. They need to change because the time is near.
C. Are they commended for anything?
Nope.
D. For what are they rebuked? What do you think it means to be neither hot nor cold?
They are lukewarm in their faith. They believe they have everything they need. He tells them they are blind, wretched, miserable, poor and naked (!).
I think spitting out means He would leave them.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke?
He says to buy gold that is purified, white garments to cover themselves, and ointment for their eyes to see. This should be bought from Him.
F. Find both the warning and the promise.
The warning is to be diligent and turn from their indifference.
The promise is that they will eat a meal with Him; they will sit next to Him in the throne in heaven.
Tuesday: A Rich City with Water Problems
8. Read paragraph 2 of Dr. Campbell and describe how the city’s water problems paralleled their spiritual condition.
The city’s water had to be delivered through aqueducts from a long distance. By the time the water reaches Laodicea, it is lukewarm and full of sediments. That is how the Laodicean church was in its spiritual condition.
9. Meditate on Revelation 3:17 and read Campbell’s 3rd paragraph:
A. What three businesses were Laodicea known for?
Salve for the eyes, textile, and banks
B. What irony do you see therefore in Jesus’ rebuke that aligns with the businesses?
Banks: Buy gold refined by fire from Jesus
Textile: White clothes to cover their nakedness
Salve : salve for their eyes so they can see
C. Pray here for our poor, blind, and naked Western world and church, and for your own heart.
Lord, only you can make us rich, clothed with righteousness and with eyes that see your truth. Our world has given us substitutes that we are enamored with; earthly things of temporal value that never satisfy.
Make me long for things eternal and looking to you for joy and fulfillment in this life. Help me to be “hot” for you and all that you stand for.
This is a beautiful song by Selah https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kvzgoH-l90
You never asked me to be kingBuild my tower up to the skySo why do I try?
You never asked me to be richBuy the things that gold can buySo why do I try?
All You ever wanted was my heartMy heart, my simple heartTo You that’s all that really mattersWhy do I feel I have to reachBelieve I have to riseWhen You never said I had to climbThese broken ladders
You never asked me to be completeBy myself, find all I needSo why do I try?
Oh, You never asked me to stand aloneFace the struggles on my ownSo why do I try?
‘Cause all they do is takeMy eyes off of YouMake me forget the truth.
Good lyrics — thanks for sharing, Bing.
Tuesday: A Rich City with Water Problems
8. Read paragraph 2 of Dr. Campbell and describe how the city’s water problems paralleled their spiritual condition.Their water and their spiritual condition were both contaminated .
9. Meditate on Revelation 3:17 and read Campbell’s 3rd paragraph:
What three businesses were Laodicea known for? Banks, textiles and eye salve
B. What irony do you see therefore in Jesus’ rebuke that aligns with the businesses?The things they are hoping in are exposed, they thought those things were enough- Jesus shows that they are worthless in the grand scheme of things.
C. Pray here for our poor, blind, and naked Western world and church, and for your own heart.
Father forgive me and forgive us for thinking our security lies in anything or anyone but you. Our 401 k’s our good health our relationships are all gifts from you, not what really makes us secure. Help the reality of eternity to be real to us, more real that what we now see. Please father, we want to trust you more.
6. What are your thoughts on the above?
Since I do not know who Christopher Hitchens is, I had to look him up to have any thoughtful kind of comment. I learned that he was an “…English-American socio-political critic…” He died young of esophageal cancer (62). He is known for being an atheist and his “razor” statement, “What can be asserted without evidence can also be dismissed without evidence.” All this came from Wikipedia.
So, with that in mind, I would have to agree with Hitchens answer to the journalist. It’s the basic premise of Christianity, yes? I’m not sure I am making the connection between progressive Christianity and Hitchens though? The progressives think that picking parts of the Bible that they don’t like and making them into a “new” thought out Christianity, is a modern way of accepting the Bible. But, it is not the truth. The Bible is the Bible. You either accept it or you don’t. I guess I would agree with you Dee, they are dead. They are not lukewarm. Luke warm is wishy-washy. They know they don’t like what the Bible says so they change it to fit their comfort level.
I think Alysia Childers point was that even an atheist could recognize that progressive “Christians” were not Christians at all.
I see. Thanks!
10. Meditate on Revelation 3:18 and Campbell’s 4th paragraph and explain how each of these is a solution to their need (or to your need).
A. Gold refined by fire-this speaks more of character rather than material wealth
B. White clothes of righteousness instead of outward refinement but spiritually dead inside
C. Salve for your eyes- not be blinded by the world’s treasures but seeing the truth
These all point to Christ and without Him they/we are nothing.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s closing paragraphs under Laodicea and share his main points and any comments.
Christ does not give up on those whose love has gone cold. He relentlessly pursues us to an intimate relationship with Him so we can gain what we can never lose.
12. Why is God going over this with you today, do you think?
We are moving and downsizing and going through our material stuff has been mindboggling, to say the least. This study is showing me my heart idols once more as I touch and handle “stuff” and decide whether to keep them or not. It is painful to be face to face with them.
Jesus, help me let go of whatever is keeping me from having you as Lord of my life.
Tuesday
8. Read paragraph 2 of Dr. Campbell and describe how the city’s water problems paralleled their spiritual condition.
Laodicea didn’t have water so they had aqua ducts built which brought hot water from Hieraplos and cold water from Colasse and by the time it reached them it was lukewarm and dirty, just like people in the church.
9. Meditate on Revelation 3:17 and read Campbell’s 3rd paragraph:
A. What three businesses were Laodicea known for?
Banks, school of ophthalmology which was famous for eye salve and textile trade.
B. What irony do you see therefore in Jesus’ rebuke that aligns with the businesses?
Banks, they say they’re rich and don’t need a thing, they are wretched miserable and poor.
School of Ophthalmology, they don’t realize they are blind.
Textike trade, they are naked.
C. Pray here for our poor, blind, and naked Western world and church, and for your own heart.
Lord, there is so much turmoil in this country because we have forsaken You, which brings about spiritual poverty, blindness to the truth and naked in our self righteousness. It is sad to think that this is even going on in some of the churches, they are dead when they think compromise with the world is loving and do everything they can to to be “accepting.” I pray Lord that in my own life I would be dependent upon You, remembering that only in You am I rich, that my eyes would be open to Your truth and I am clothed in Your righteousness. May I with boldness reach out to those who are poor, blind and naked and share the Good News of Jesus Christ in love.
10. Meditate on Revelation 3:18 and Cambell’s 4th paragraph and explain how each of these is a solution to their need (or to your need.
A. Gold refined by fire
Signifies purity (1Peter 3:7 doesn’t make sense to me in regards to this. I think it should be 2Peter) The present heaven and earth have been stored up for fire…being kept for the day of judgement, when ungodly people will be destroyed.
B. White clothes
Signifies purity…haven’t been soiled with evil and white linen represents the good deeds of God’s holy people. Campbell goes on to say that the shame of nakedness is related to idolatry…wow, doesn’t that make sense, we’re depending on anything but God to make us right and that leaves us shamefully naked!
C. Salve for your eyes
Not being blind so we can have understanding or wisdom.
All of the above point to Christ.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s closing paragraphs under Laodicea and share his main points and any comments.
Christ standing and knocking at the door are ongoing actions. He faithfully and tenaciously pursues even those whose love has grown cold. His love does not grow lukewarm.
We’e called by Christ to give up what we can’t keep in order to gain things we can never lose.
12. Why is God going over this with you today, do you think?
To open my eyes to the lukewarm attitude of my heart and why. Idolatry.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The story of the church in your area, Dee, and their hymn sing. It seems an oxymoron to say that those hymns are cherished and a part of our heritage, and in the next breath, to say but we don’t believe any of the words. What? Then why not dispose of them? If you don’t believe the words, what is there to cherish and hold onto? Maybe just the lovely musical score?
2. What are three ways Colin Smith said that Christ could be “outside our church”? Is there any application to you as an individual that you can see? To your church?
Christ can be outside the preaching of a church: sermons may be about marriage, relationships, family, or more of the “self-help” type, but focus on Christ is absent.
Christ can be outside the mission of a church: though alleviating needs is certainly important, we need to remember the Great Commission.
Christ can be outside the fellowship of a church: even in our small church communities in which we have fellowship, Christ needs to be at the center of our fellowship. I remember a couple years ago, a woman in my Sunday school class liked to get together with a few other women about an hour before our class. I went a few times, and though it’s good to talk and get to know about others’ lives, I grew frustrated in that we rarely talked about spiritual things. Lots of times it was one person talking about her grandchildren.
3. If you watched the Benham Brothers, how did it impact you?
I appreciated their honesty about the email they were going to send to HGTV, stating their beliefs but saying they wouldn’t talk about them. They admitted that they were compromising and clenching onto the thing God had given them, with a closed fist, and how easily the good things He gives us can become idols. We need to hold things loosely. There was also a statement about we need to remove the ‘party invite’ from our churches. A patient told me recently, and he is a Christian and in the motorcycle group the Hell’s Angels, that he once went to a church. Now, he’s a pretty big guy with some tattoos and looks kind of rough. A man dressed in a nice suit looked at him and said, “I’m surprised they let you in here.” That’s sad.
Kind of jumping in the middle of things here but I had some time yesterday and stopped in on the blog and read this weeks lesson. Greatly enjoyed the conference session by the Benham brothers. And after reading the article “3 ways Christ can be outside your church” (which was also very good) I moved on down and read a couple of other articles which lead to one called “Are you unintentionally joining the pride parade” Here is the link.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/erik-raymond/are-you-unintentionally-joining-the-pride-parade/
I put it here for you because as I read through this weeks comment section I saw questions and concerns relating to how do we respond to the homosexual community. This is a well balanced article. For anyone wanting to look deeper into the issue there is a book by a Chinese man named Chris Yuan written with his mother. It is their story of his life that went into the deepest levels of the homosexual lifestyle and her conversion to Christ and her response to his homosexuality. My daughter gave me the book because she was a classmate of his at Moody Bible Institute. The book helped give me great clarity on having a personal and biblical perspective of those trapped in the lies of gender issues. And it is an amazing story of Gods grace and redemption played out in their lives. It is called “Out Of A Far Country” by Christopher Yuan and Angela Yuan. We were traveling the entire month of May and still have an unfinished kitchen but hope to be back to near normal in the next couple of weeks and will keep tabs on rejoining the disunite soon. still have great appreciation for Dee and this group.
Loved Christopher Yuan’s book! Everyone should read it to glean what they can from husband his moms perspective. It is an amazing story.
Not husband! Haha…stupid autocorrect….should say, “…from he and his moms…”
Bev — so good to see you here! That was a very good article — thanks for posting it.
I’m sure you will be so glad to have your kitchen back and we will be so glad to have you back sometime!
Bev, it is good to see you here. Thanks for sharing about the book, Out of the far country”. It will be on my “wish list” to read.
Thank you for posting this link, Bev!! I am going to order that book, too. It sound excellent!
Bev, I appreciate your input here on responding to the homosexual community. I appreciate your link to the article and also the book recommendation. I so want to speak the truth in love. Big on love and Big on truth! I also want to speak in such a way that God will be heard!
Wednesday: I Stand At The Door And Knock
Today we’ll look at Revelation 3:20 side by side with Song of Songs 5. I’m excited to do this together with you, for together we see more. And Mike Reeves will help you see so much more on Friday!
13. Read Revelation 3:19-20.
A. From what you’ve learned about Laodicea, what was her spiritual state, and what did this “bride” need?
They are lukewarm. They need to be earnest and repent and open their heart’s door to Jesus.
B. What do you learn about Christ’s feelings for them in verse 19?
He loves them.
C. What two things do they need to do?
Be earnest and repent.
D. What does it mean to be earnest if you have been lukewarm?
Be decisive, determined and serious to not be in this state. Consider this with seriousness and have a willingness to change.
E. What does it mean to repent of lukewarmness?
You cannot be either/or. I do not want to be cold for Christ so I need to be “hot” for Him.
F. What is His promise if they do, and what does that really mean?
He will eat with them and have fellowship with them if they hear His voice and open the door.
For context, this passage in Song of Songs occurs after the wedding (ch. 3) and after the honeymoon is over. (ch. 4:1-5:1).
14. Read Song of Songs 5:2-3
A. What do you see immediately that is similar to Jesus at the door of His Bride, Laodicea?
Jesus is knocking and asking for His bride to open the door.
B. What do you think it means to say “I slept but my heart was awake?”
That we should always be alert to the Lord’s voice?
C. What does He call her, and how would you describe His attitude toward her? Toward you?
My garden, my sister, my bride –words of affection and intimacy.
I looked up the Hebrew meaning of “sister”. It is “achoti” and can mean “my beloved”.
I found this neat reference to a “garden” to Ellen Davis’ write-up about the Song of Songs: Why does the author draw on garden imagery? What is the effect? In the first garden story of Genesis, a strong relational harmony exists between Adam and Eve as well as between God and humanity. The garden also symbolizes a time when all creation enjoyed a unique proximity to their Creator.
https://bibleproject.com/blog/song-songs-blog/
D. With Laodicea He describes Himself (in contrast to her, perhaps) as faithful and true. How do you see Him like that here? How can you see He has been knocking for a long time?
He has prepared Himself for His bride. From dew in the morning to the night can be a metaphor for a long time?
E. What are her excuses for not coming to let him in? Thoughts? Applications?
She was all ready to go to bed on her own-taken off her robe and washed her feet.
In the Chosen, Jesus was shown coming from a day’s work of healing-he took off His robe and washed His feet and He laid down.
Doing these things are signs of being ready to turn in for the night. I don’t want to be bothered anymore.
Is this pointing to our lack of desire for Christ once we get used to His blessings and do we take Him for granted?
Am I ready to be “inconvenienced” so I can have sweet fellowship with Jesus? Do we only seek Him when it is convenient for us?
I love love love that you quoted Ellen Davis. Such a gifted commentator!
4. Read Revelation 3:14-22 aloud. Does anything jump out at you? If so, why?
Materialistic wealth and comfort do not equal being spiritually rich, but they can make us comfortable and complacent so that we are coasting spiritually. When life is going smoothly and all of our needs are being met, we can forget God. “Remember” is an ongoing theme throughout the entire Bible. We need to remember that we need God, even if our refrigerators are full, we live in a comfortable home, have a means of transportation, and money to fulfill our needs and some of our wants.
5. The Pattern:
A. To whom is the letter addressed?
To the angel of the church in Laodicea.
B. How is Jesus described? How might this be relevant to Laodicea?
Jesus says He is the one who is the “Amen” – the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. I believe “Amen” means that Jesus is the “Yes” to all of God’s promises. He says He is the “witness”. He is offering a correction to this church because they are lukewarm, and His testimony is true. In verse 19, Jesus says that He is the one who corrects and disciplines everyone He loves. This letter has an overall tone of warning, yet given in love. These believers have relied on their material riches too much, yet in reality, they are poor, blind, and naked spiritually. They need to turn to the “Yes” who can truly fulfill all of God’s wonderful promises of blessing to them – then they will truly be rich.
C. Are they commended for anything?
I don’t see any commendation in this letter.
D. For what are they rebuked? What do you think it means to be neither hot nor cold?
They are rebuked for being lukewarm believers, neither hot nor cold. For boasting about being rich and having everything they need (with no mention of thanks to God). I think this means that they aren’t putting themselves out there to love and serve their neighbors, their community, to spread the good news of the gospel. And, they’re not totally indifferent to God either, hence they are not cold. God isn’t at the center of their lives, He is on the periphery.
E. How are they to respond to this rebuke?
Jesus advises them to purchase “gold” from Him, and also “white garments” so that they won’t be ashamed of their spiritual nakedness, and to buy “ointment” for their eyes so they will be able to see. In other words, they need to repent and turn to Him, ask Him to open their eyes to their true spiritual condition, and renew their belief in being clothed in His righteousness and in that true riches are things that matter for eternity. They must turn away from their indifference.
F. Find both the warning and the promise.
Jesus promises that if anyone will listen to His call, explained with the metaphor of Him knocking at the door, and a person opening the door to Him, He will restore their intimacy as friends sharing a meal with one another. To those who are victorious, He will invite them to sit with Him on His throne. The warning is that if they remain lukewarm, He will spit them out of His mouth.
6. What are your thoughts on the above?
Well, the atheist Christopher Hitchens did a good job of defining the crucial beliefs that make someone a Christian. As far as Progressive Christianity, I found an online article that makes the following points about it:
1. They have a low view of Christ – Jesus isn’t so much the divine Son of God, but rather just a moral example for us to follow.
2. It is focused on moralism, not salvation – the highest goal of life is to be a good person, to emulate Jesus.
3. It downplays our fallenness – if you believe you can be a good person, you don’t have a correct view of sin. People aren’t really fallen or bad. There is no talk about the wrath of God or of judgment.
If this is true, then I don’t see how someone who believes these tenets could truly be a believer. On the other hand, I know that some Christians who would say they do believe in the basic orthodox tenets of the faith, are “progressive” in that they believe we can accept, for example, same-sex relationships, or, for another example, some “progressives” believe that women should be allowed to be ordained as ministers. I can’t judge someone as an unbeliever, say, if they believe women should be able to serve as a pastor, and are therefore progressive in that way.
Good clear points from that article on progressive Christianity, Susan.
7. Read Dr. Campbell’s opening paragraph under “The Church at Laodicea.”
A. What does Amen mean in Hebrew?
It means faithful and true.
B. Isaiah uses the same words to describe God in Isaiah 65:16 (the ESV says “God of truth) and then, in Isaiah 65:17 continues by describing a creation. What creation is Isaiah talking about?
A new heaven and a new earth is described in the scripture. Campbell says it (the new heaven) began upon Christ’s resurrection. How does he know this? The Isaiah scripture just says He will create a new heaven and a new earth. It doesn’t allude to Christ that I can tell by reading the verses around 16 & 17.
C. Why, according to Dr. Campbell, do the Laodiceans needs this hope?
The Laodiceans need this hope because they are completely void of Christ in their lives. They have left Him; the truth and faithfulness are gone.
D. How does the picture painted of the new heaven and new earth in Isaiah 65:17-25 give you hope and awaken you?
It describes what the new heaven and earth will look like. Jerusalem is a place of happiness! No more weeping or crying! Newborn babies won’t die. These people will be blessed by the Lord. I like the NLT version here. No one will be hurt or destroyed on the Lord’s holy mountain.
I wasn’t able to add to B before it posted. Here is what I wanted to add. I had forgotten the original conversation we had about this.
I’m thinking this still goes back to the beginning of our study when I questioned his initial idea that the timeline for Christ’s return began when He ascended into heaven. I need to go back and review that, I think.
8. Read paragraph 2 of Dr. Campbell and describe how the city’s water problems paralleled their spiritual condition.
Laodicea was between two other cities, one with hot water and one with cold. Laodicea had to get their water pumped in to them and therefore it was lukewarm and dirty. This brings a picture to mind that can be related to their spiritual lacking.
9. Meditate on Revelation 3:17 and read Campbell’s 3rd paragraph:
A. What three businesses were Laodicea known for?
They were known for their banks, their famous eye salve (ophthalmology), and their textiles.
B. What irony do you see therefore in Jesus’ rebuke that aligns with the businesses?
He uses the gold/banking, cloth/textiles, and ointment/eyes in His rebuke. Interesting….
C. Pray here for our poor, blind, and naked Western world and church, and for your own heart.
Oh Dear Lord, thank You for giving us this important reminder from so long ago, about our faith today! Forgive us, and me, in particular, for being blind, wretched, and miserable. Help us to see and understand that our wealth and happiness come from knowing You and Your ways. Help me use my wealth for others, to better our world. Help us not be stingy, as we know that when we give, we are given back, and that You will always take care of us. I watched my mom die a pauper, but wealthy in spirit. She had what she needed until the end. Thank You Lord for loving us so much that You took the time to make sure we knew what is to come for us in the future. Amen.
Oh, Laura! Tears when I read this for that is exactly what my mom was- I watched my mom die a pauper, but wealthy in spirit. So thankful God chose her to be one of His beloved. I, too, pray that I be generous, to better our world and to let our light shine so it points to the Author of all riches.
I hope you are on the home stretch at school. This was definitely a year to remember the faithfulness of God as we dealt with the aftermath of the pandemic. Well, at least with the serious consequences of it. Many things seemed to have changed in the school system.
I agree with Bing, Laura. That was an amazing statement.
16. Read Song of Songs 5:10-16 aloud to yourself and let it lead you into worship.
Beautiful are you, Lord! Fairest of ten thousands!
Here is a song from Shane and Shane based on Psalm 45. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCTFpPmQyHQ
My heart burst at its banksSpilling with beauty and goodnessI pour it out as a song to my KingShaping the rivers into words
What grace pours from Your lipsThe sound calls the midnight to morningThe melody turns my winter to springI echo it now in my worshipI echo it now in my worship
Ten thousand strongYou’re the fairest of allFairest in heaven and earthOf the children of menYou’re the fairest of themFairest in heaven and earth
Your heart burst at the seamsFlowing with blood and with waterA song of love pouring out from the tree, singingFor the joy set before meFor the joy set before me
You ransomed Your brideOn the day that You diedAscended to heaven in gloryShe stands clothed in whiteWith her head lifted high, singing”Come and return in Your glory”
17. If someone were to ask you, “How is your beloved better than others?” (Better than Allah, Buddha, or any human lover) what would you tell them?
He loves beyond what we can ask or imagine. He died for us. He hotly pursues us but will never push Himself to us although He will rush to our side when we are in anguish.
He is gentle with us. He is fiercely protective of His Beloved. He is like no other in His love, patience, tenderness, grace, and mercy.
10. Meditate on Revelation 3:18 and Cambell’s 4th paragraph and explain how each of these is a solution to their need (or to your need.
A. Gold refined by fire
We need money to live so we slave away at our jobs to earn it. Instead, we can glean the gold from the Bible (and Jesus) and we will be refined as we experience the fire (of life) over and over again. Campbell says gold represents purity. Jesus has a golden sash also. This points to Him, which is all they (we) need.
B. White clothes
The white clothes represent righteousness. We strive to be morally upright though difficult at times. Campbell says white represents purity as well as the shame of idolatry. His white clothes would cover them (and us) if we “buy” them from Him. Again, pointing to Jesus as their “cure.”
C. Salve for your eyes
Lastly, these people are blind. They need a salve to heal their eyes. Campbell says they lack spiritual wisdom. Christ is presented with eyes aflame with fire. This represents the wisdom He provides if they would only reflect and listen.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s closing paragraphs under Laodicea and share his main points and any comments.
Christ has not given up on them or us. He stands at the door and knocks (present tense). He pursues those He has lost. He wants them to eat a meal with Him, referencing the Last Supper. If they partake then He will reward with a seat next to Him in heaven.
I love this line:
“Christ calls us, as he did them, to give up the things we cannot keep in order to gain the things we can never lose.”
12. Why is God going over this with you today, do you think?
Hmmm, well it has been on my heart that we (my husband and I) should give more to those who are not as fortunate.
Wednesday
13. Read Revelation 3:19-20.
A. From what you’ve learned about Laodicea, what was her spiritual state and what did this “bride” need?
They were lukewarm. Correction and discipline.
B. What do you learn about Christ’s feelings for them in verse 19?
He loves them.
C. What two things do they need to do?
Be diligent and turn from their indifference.
D. What does it mean to be earnest if you have been lukewarm?
To be enthusiastic or zealous, to serve and love the Lord with a boiling passion.
E. What does it mean to repent of lukewarmness?
To see Him knocking at the door, hearing His voice and opening the door.
F. What is His promise if they do, and what does that really mean?
He will come in and together they’ll share a meal as friends. Fellowship will be restored and their lukewarmness can be changed to being hot. The sin of being lukewarm can be forgiven and the relationship is restored.
Dee, I so appreciate your questions…I continue going over them in my mind in prayer.
Aww, thanks Sharon.
7. Read Dr. Campbell’s opening paragraph under “The Church At Laodicea”.
A. What does Amen mean in Hebrew?
It means faithful and true. It is also translated as the God of truth.
B. Isaiah uses the same words to describe God in Isaiah 65:16 (the ESV says “God of truth”) and then, Isaiah 65:17 continues by describing a creation. What creation is Isaiah talking about?
The creation of a new heaven and a new earth.
C. Why, according to Dr. Campbell, do the Laodiceans need this hope?
This letter is talking not about the original creation, but of the new creation which began at Christ’s resurrection. The church in Laodicea is spiritually dead. They are in need of this resurrection, new creation power to bring them to life.
D. How does the picture of the new heaven and new earth in Isaiah 65:17-25 give you hope and awaken you?
I think this world, the creation and natural beauty, is pretty darn wonderful. But God says that His new creation, His new earth, will be so wonderful that no one will even think about the old earth! It will be spectacular. And there will be joy. There will no longer be reasons to cry, weep, and be sad; no lamenting over young lives cut short, no more feeling the futility of life.
8. Read paragraph 2 of Dr. Campbell and describe how the city’s water problems paralleled their spiritual condition.
The two neighboring cities of Laodicea had waters thought to have medicinal value. Hierapolis had hot waters and Colossae cold water. Laodicea, however, had no water except what was piped in via aqueduct, and that water was lukewarm and dirty. In this metaphor, lukewarm water, or lukewarm spirituality, is the worst possible situation to have.
9. Meditate on Revelation 3:17 and read Campbell’s 3rd paragraph.
A. What three business were Laodicea known for?
Its banks, its school of ophthalmology with its famous eye salve, and its textile trade.
B. What irony do you see therefore in Jesus’ rebuke that aligns with the businesses?
Banks are symbols of wealth, investment, power. But Jesus tells them they are in reality poor – spiritually bankrupt. There’s nothing in their spiritual account.
Having eye specialists and eye salve, one would think everyone’s eyesight would be pretty good. But Jesus tells them they are blind. Nothing made by humans, nor any human remedy or power can cure spiritual blindness.
Textiles make you think of cloth, and fine clothing. Yet Jesus tells them they are wretched and naked. Their true spiritual condition is one of being uncovered before God, with all of their dirty sin on display.
C. Pray here for our poor, blind, and naked Western world and church, and for your own heart.
Lord, we are a country that has so much – material possessions, food, clothing, transportation, homes, cars, restaurants, technology, million-dollar corporations….the list goes on endlessly. Yet too often, we are wanting, lacking, spiritually. Our culture focuses on human achievements and efforts, and neglects to acknowledge You. There are some churches, too, that preach more about health, wealth, and prosperity, and seek to make people feel good about themselves. And in my own heart, I can get easily lulled into being half-asleep, coasting along, and forgetting just how desperately I do need you – every day, every hour, every moment. I pray that You would open our eyes, ears, and heart to You.
Amen for me too:
And in my own heart, I can get easily lulled into being half-asleep, coasting along, and forgetting just how desperately I do need you – every day, every hour, every moment. I pray that You would open our eyes, ears, and heart to You.
13. Read Revelation 3:19-20.
A. From what you’ve learned about Laodicea, what was her spiritual state and what did this “bride” need?
She needed a Savior because she was faith-less.
B. What do you learn about Christ’s feelings for them in verse 19?
He loves them!
C. What two things do they need to do?
turn and repent
D. What does it mean to be earnest if you have been lukewarm?
They need to turn and reorient quickly?
E. What does it mean to repent of lukewarmness?
They need to choose either hot or cold. Preferably hot for Jesus, not cold.
F. What is His promise if they do, and what does that really mean?
He promises that they will sit with Him on His heavenly throne and eat a meal with Him. When He is in their hearts they will be blessed by Him?
So much this week to think about. The image of the lukewarm church is so sad. Trying to keep up with the assignments takes my time and I have little energy left to post…but my heart was sad to read about your friends’ church with the hymnsing. Nostalgia without meaning for the words of hymns…that is a dead church. So glad you pray for your friend. She visited your church at Easter, yet continues to attend the dead church. I think many do not realize the futility of the emptiness. Their hearts are not open.
Mike Reeves puts the story of the Song so beautifully. Jesus the bridegroom comes for the church, the bride. I had never thought of Jesus knocking at the door of the church in comparison with the lover knocking on the door in the Song until we studied it.
Lukewarmness is undesirable, yet it is not dead. They are spiritually indifferent and don’t even realize it. Christ tells them to buy gold tried in the fire and white garments to cover their nakedness, and eye salve. I pray for my church that has similar needs and wonder if there is hope. Jesus does not seem to be the center in mission and sometimes in fellowship and sermons. At least we have a small womens’ Bible study in which Jesus is central. My husband desires to continue to worship there as we committed to do jobs and he doesn’t want to let people down. There are sparks but we need the coals described by the Benham brothers.
Hard situation with your church. Your husband’s loyalty is commendable yet I too would wonder — so will pray God gives you His like-mindedness! And for the church to have coals!
Friday: Mike Reeves
18. Listen to the above message where he compares these two passages and share your notes and comments.
Mike Reeves is always a breath (14 minutes and 56 seconds!) of fresh air. He packs a punch with this message and one can hear his passion for Christ in his voice.
I often times forget who my Beloved is and am as lukewarm as Laodicea or the Shulamite here when Jesus was knocking at her door. He is the fairest of all yet I look at the substitutes and feel the temporary happiness that they bring about.
This is my shortened version of his message:
a. Song of Songs is a story of a lady in love with the shepherd King. It is a romance between an ordinary girl and the King. It is also the greatest marriage swap.
b. I am my Beloved’s and He is mine.
1c. The groom is the King, Shepherd, Lord and High Priest rolled into One how died and who is Christ. The ordinary girl and bride is the Church and compared to a vineyard just as Israel was referred to in the OT.
2d. The greatest marriage swap
This throbs with the gospel as King Jesus coming to claim His bride. The bridegroom is the king and the ordinary girl becomes a queen.
He says, “All that I am I give to you; all that I have, I share with you.”
3e. We are the Bride of Christ and this is our happy story.
He took our sins, our debt, and judgment; we received His righteousness, glory, life, salvation. Christ wears our crown of thorns; we wear His crown of glory; our shame, for His royal robe of blessing, glory and honor.
4f. How did this girl make herself wif-ish?
By simple acceptance is what we need to remember. No confidence in my behavior; we are given a righteous status.
5g. Martin Luther “The sinner can confidently display her sins in the face of death and hell, and say if I have sinned and yet Christ in whom I believe has not sinned, I know His is mine and mine is His. This gives us confident boldness.
“When the devil throws our sins at us and that we deserve hell…I admit I deserve death and hell, what of it? Does this mean I shall merit eternal damnation by no means! I know one who made satisfaction and suffered on my behalf His name is Jesus Christ. What boldness-happy confidence!
6h. The benefit of union of Christ is Christ.
We can use him as a get out of hell insurance and we then are using Christ for salvation only-using Christ for our own ends.
I may feel grateful but not necessarily love Christ and still love myself. Rather, we should be enjoying Christ and letting others in to enjoy Him, too…Entering a loving relationship with the living God. My beloved is mine and I am His. He gives us all that He is-He gives us himself.
Great notes, Bing.
19. What is your take-a-way and why?
I do not want to be lukewarm for Christ and the gospel. I pray for myself and our church as well. And I say, Amen to Susan’s prayer: “I can get easily lulled into being half-asleep, coasting along, and forgetting just how desperately I do need you – every day, every hour, every moment. I pray that You would open our eyes, ears, and heart to You.”
14. Read Song of Songs 5:2-3
A. What do you see immediately that is similar to Jesus at the door of His Bride, Laodicea?
He is knocking.
B. What do you think it means to say “I slept but my heart was awake?”
I knew what I needed to do but wasn’t doing it.
C. What does He call her, and how would you describe His attitude toward her? Toward you?
He calls her His treasure, darling, dove, and perfect one. He LOVES her dearly! I suppose He loves me this way too….
D. With Laodicea He describes Himself (in contrast to her, perhaps) as faithful and true. How do you see Him like that here? How can you see He has been knocking for a long time?
He hasn’t given up. He is drenched, presumably because of a hard search for her.
E. What are her excuses for not coming to let him in? Thoughts? Applications?
She says she has disrobed and washed her feet. (I have to wash my hair!!) She does question herself though.
I guess I kind of understand (gulp). I don’t like doing messy things (eating ribs, swimming in a pool, etc.) because it means I have to redo my makeup and hair. I can be that way about sex too. Ugh! My poor husband… How vain and self serving! So, she is really only concerned with herself and not Him.
Love your honesty and desire to be other-centered, Laura. You are in many ways.
15. Read Song of Songs 5:4-9
A. What does she see him do in verse 4, and what impact does it have on her?
He tries to unlatch the door. It thrills her inside.
B. When she opens the door, what of him does she find on her hands?
Myrrh!
C. How does she feel and what does she do?
She is excited and opens the door for Him. He is gone so she goes searching for Him.
D. What do the watchmen do?
They beat and bruise her.
E. What does she ask of the daughters of Jerusalem and with what question do they respond?
She asks if they see Him to tell Him how she loves Him.
They want to know just why her lover is better than any other.
16. Read Song of Songs 5:10-16 aloud to yourself and let it lead you into worship.
Oh Lord! You are strong and protective of me. Thank You for that! I feel safe and secure with you by my side. No one can hurt me. You have everything I need in my life. Help me remember this when the going is tough. It will come, and I can be weak. Remind me of Your strength when this happens. Thank You for accepting me, dirt and all. Amen.
17. If someone were to ask you, “How is your beloved better than others?” (Better than Allah, Buddah, or any human lover) what would you tell them?
He gave Himself up for me. None of the others did that for their people.
18. Listen to the above message where he compares these two passages and share your notes and comments.
I love this Mike Reeves sermon!
We get His crown of glory and He gets our crown of thorns.
We shouldn’t use Christ for a “get out of hell free card.” We need to know Him out whole lives, and enjoy Him. He is our salvation.
The Gospel is not some deal to buy us “stuff.”
Wednesday
14. Read Song of Songs 5:2-3
A. What do you see immediately that is similar to Jesus at the door of His Bride, Laodicea?
Knocking at the the door and calling for her to open it.
B. What do you think it means to say “I slept but my heart was awake?”
It seems like an in between state, like dreaming.
C. What does He call her, and how would you describe His attitude toward her? Toward you?
My treasure, my darling, my dove, my perfect one. He is very much in love. He loves me.
D. With Laodicea He describes Himself (in contrast to her, perhaps) as faithful and true. How do you see Him like that here? How can you see He has been knocking for a long time?
He is faithful and true in wanting to be with her, knocking and calling her.
His head is drenched with dew, wet hair with the dampness of the night.
E. What are her excuses for not coming to let him in? Thoughts? Applications?
She had taken off her robe, not wanting to go get dressed again.
Had washed her feet and didn’t want to soil them again.I think of the excuses I give or have for not wanting to spend time with Him. This puts a whole different picture in my mind of being spiritually lazy or there’s a gulf between me and Him, of visualizing Jesus at the door of my heart and saying, not now, I’ve committed a great sin, or not now, I’m busy…oh how He wants to come in and be first place no matter what!
15. Read Song of Songs 5:4-9
A. What does she see him do in verse 4, and what impact does it have on her?
She sees him trying to unlatch the door. Her heart is thrilled within her.
B. When she opens the door, what of him does she find on her hands?
Perfume, lovely myrrh.
C. How does she feel and what does she do?
She opens the door but he is gone. Her heart sinks and she searches for him everywhere
D. What do the watchmen do?
They beat, bruised and stripped off her veil.
The watchmen could have mistaken her for an immoral woman, out in the night in her robe, or they may represent false shepherds who try to silence passionate believers.
E. What does she ask of the daughters of Jerusalem and with what question do they respond?
To tell her lover that she is weak with love. Why is your lover better than all others? What makes your lover so special that we should make this promise?
Thursday
17. If someone were to ask you, “How is your beloved better than others?” (Better than Allah, Buddah, or any human lover) what would you tell them?
He is living, faithful, compassionate, fairest of 10,000, never changing, immovable, His love and power are everlasting, desires intimacy, His words are sweeter than honey and the drippings of the honey comb, altogether lovely and gave His life for you so you might have life and have it abundantly.
Love how you used the Song for this, Sharon.
Saturday
19. What is your take-a-way and why?
The message to this church is very sobering. Oh, may I hear Him knocking and repent of being lukewarm, indifferent, knowing how much He loves me and longs to sup with me. To open the door for renewal of fellowship, being earnest in my walk with Him.
10. Meditate on Revelation 3:18 and Campbell’s fourth paragraph and explain how each of these is a solution to their need (or your need).
A. Gold refined by fire – Jesus offers them His treasure. Gold signifies purity. This church is steeped in impurity, in idolatry. The offer is to turn to Jesus, but first, they must admit their true poverty, in order to receive from Him. As for me, I can’t turn to Jesus with my hands “full”. As long as I think I have everything I need apart from Him, believing that my idols really are meeting my needs, I can’t receive what He wants to give me.
B. White clothes – their true spiritual condition is likened to being naked. That would cause shame. We are naked, and ashamed, without Jesus, because of our sin. He offers white garments, white again signifying purity. It is Jesus who will beautifully dress His bride in white and in purity. But I don’t believe that our shame is only hidden, but that He removes it. The white garments don’t just cover up filth underneath. He cleanses us so that we are clean.
C. Salve for your eyes – Jesus also wants them to buy ointment for their eyes, so that they can see. While not physically blind, they are spiritually blind. Only Jesus can heal this condition. I can be blind, too, to my sin….rationalizing it or ignoring it, not wanting to deal with it, or some sins, like pride, are so sneaky that I don’t know it’s there. I think a good prayer would be to ask Jesus to show me my hidden sins.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s closing paragraphs under Laodicea and share his main points and any comments.
Jesus has not given up on this church. “Stand” and “Knock” are both in the present tense, signifying an ongoing action on Jesus’ part. Jesus is faithfully pursuing even those whose love has grown cold. That is reassuring news. Jesus’ standing at the door and knocking is an allusion to The Song, where the bridegroom knocks at the door, urging his bride to open the door to him.
In any wealthy, affluent culture, the same problems that beset the church in Laodicea will reappear.
12. Why is God going over this with you today, do you think?
I don’t think I will ever progress beyond the basics – that my true condition without Jesus is one of being poor, wretched, blind, and naked. Even though I may not see it and believe I have everything I need. It’s a spiritual renewal to say often to Him that this would be me without Him, and to ask Him to show me any areas in my life that are not open to Him and where I am believing a lie, or looking to something else, or someone else, to make me “rich”.