Reviving Passion: Overcoming Spiritual Lukewarmness

Devotional

Day 1: The Danger of Spiritual Lukewarmness

Jesus rebukes the Laodiceans for being neither hot nor cold but lukewarm, which makes Him want to "vomit" them out. This metaphor of lukewarm water, which the Laodiceans would have understood well due to their own water issues, serves as a powerful indictment of their spiritual state. Lukewarmness represents a state of complacency and indifference, where one is neither fully committed to God nor completely turned away. It is a dangerous middle ground that leads to spiritual stagnation and decay.

In our own lives, we must examine the temperature of our spiritual fervor. Are we passionate and zealous for God, or have we allowed our faith to become lukewarm? Jesus calls us to maintain a fervent, passionate relationship with Him, avoiding the middle ground of indifference. This requires intentional effort and a conscious decision to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. [55:23]

Revelation 3:15-16 (ESV): "I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth."

Reflection: In what areas of your spiritual life have you become complacent or indifferent? What steps can you take today to rekindle your passion and zeal for God?

Day 2: True Wealth in Christ

Despite their material riches, Jesus tells the Laodiceans they are spiritually "wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked." This stark contrast highlights the difference between material wealth and true spiritual riches. The Laodiceans' self-sufficiency and reliance on their wealth blinded them to their spiritual poverty. Jesus counsels them to seek true riches, white clothes of righteousness, and healing for their spiritual blindness.

True wealth is found in a vibrant relationship with God, not in material possessions. We must seek spiritual riches that come from knowing and following Christ. This includes the righteousness that covers our shame and the spiritual insight that heals our blindness. By prioritizing our spiritual well-being over material wealth, we align ourselves with God's values and experience true fulfillment. [01:01:27]

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV): "As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."

Reflection: How have you been relying on material wealth for your sense of security and worth? What steps can you take to seek true spiritual riches in your relationship with God?

Day 3: Jesus' Relentless Pursuit of Us

Jesus stands at the door and knocks, offering to come in and share a meal, symbolizing intimate fellowship. This image of Jesus knocking at the door of our hearts shows His relentless pursuit of us, even when we have grown cold or indifferent. He desires a deep, personal relationship with each of us and invites us to open the door and let Him in.

This invitation is a call to repentance and renewal. Whether we have never opened the door to Jesus or have allowed our relationship with Him to grow lukewarm, He is still knocking, still inviting us into a deeper, more vibrant relationship. By responding to His knock, we experience the joy and fulfillment of intimate fellowship with our Savior. [01:04:55]

Revelation 3:20 (ESV): "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me."

Reflection: Have you heard Jesus knocking at the door of your heart? What is preventing you from opening the door and inviting Him into a deeper relationship with you today?

Day 4: Guarding Against Deception

Jesus warns that in the last days, the love of many will grow cold due to increasing wickedness. This warning highlights the danger of being deceived by the allure of wealth and materialism, which can lead to a cold and indifferent heart. We must guard against this by staying fervent in our relationship with God and not allowing the distractions of the world to pull us away from Him.

Maintaining a fervent, passionate relationship with God requires vigilance and intentionality. We must regularly examine our hearts and ensure that our love for God remains strong and vibrant. By prioritizing our relationship with Him and staying grounded in His Word, we can guard against the deception of the world and keep our hearts warm and devoted to Him. [01:13:35]

Matthew 24:12-13 (ESV): "And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved."

Reflection: In what ways have you been distracted by the allure of wealth and materialism? How can you guard your heart against these distractions and maintain a fervent relationship with God?

Day 5: Invitation to Repentance and Renewal

Jesus' message to the Laodiceans is not just a rebuke but also an invitation to repentance and renewal. He offers forgiveness and a fresh start to those who open the door to Him. This is a call to examine our hearts, acknowledge our spiritual lukewarmness, and make a conscious effort to rekindle our passion for God.

Repentance involves turning away from our complacency and indifference and turning towards a vibrant, passionate relationship with God. It requires humility and a willingness to admit our need for Him. By responding to Jesus' invitation, we experience the joy of renewed fellowship with Him and the transformative power of His love and grace. [01:18:51]

Acts 3:19-20 (ESV): "Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus."

Reflection: What areas of your life do you need to repent of and turn back to God? How can you make a conscious effort to rekindle your passion for Him today?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Good morning, everyone! Today marks the conclusion of our series "Seven," where we've been exploring the seven letters to the churches in Revelation. We focused on the final letter to the church in Laodicea, a wealthy city known for its banking, medical advancements, and luxurious black wool. Despite their material wealth, Jesus rebukes them for being spiritually lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, which makes Him want to "vomit" them out of His mouth. This metaphor of lukewarm water, which the Laodiceans would have understood well due to their own water issues, serves as a powerful indictment of their spiritual state.

Jesus identifies Himself as the "Amen," the "faithful and true witness," and the "ruler of God's creation," establishing His authority to speak these hard truths. He criticizes the Laodiceans for their self-sufficiency and reliance on wealth, pointing out that they are spiritually "wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked." He counsels them to seek true riches, white clothes to cover their shame, and salve to heal their spiritual blindness.

Jesus' message is not just a rebuke but also an invitation. He stands at the door and knocks, offering to come in and share a meal, symbolizing a deep, intimate relationship. This is a call to repentance and renewal, urging the Laodiceans to rekindle their passion and zeal for God.

In applying this message to us today, we are challenged to examine the temperature of our own spiritual lives. Are we hot, cold, or lukewarm? We must not let our hearts grow cold or be deceived by prosperity. Jesus warns that in the last days, the love of many will grow cold due to increasing wickedness. We must guard against this by maintaining a fervent, passionate relationship with Him.

Finally, Jesus' knocking is a reminder of His relentless pursuit of us. Whether we've never opened the door to Him or have allowed our relationship to grow lukewarm, He is still knocking, still inviting us into a deeper, more vibrant relationship.

###

Key Takeaways

1. Spiritual Lukewarmness: Jesus rebukes the Laodiceans for being neither hot nor cold but lukewarm, making Him want to "vomit" them out. This serves as a stark warning against complacency in our spiritual lives. We must strive to maintain a fervent, passionate relationship with God, avoiding the middle ground of indifference. [55:23]
2. True Wealth: Despite their material riches, Jesus tells the Laodiceans they are spiritually "wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked." True wealth is found in a vibrant relationship with God, not in material possessions. We must seek spiritual riches, white clothes of righteousness, and healing for our spiritual blindness. [61:27]
3. Jesus' Relentless Pursuit: Jesus stands at the door and knocks, offering to come in and share a meal, symbolizing intimate fellowship. This shows His relentless pursuit of us, even when we have grown cold or indifferent. He invites us to open the door and rekindle our relationship with Him. [64:55]
4. Guarding Against Deception: Jesus warns that in the last days, the love of many will grow cold due to increasing wickedness. We must guard against this by staying fervent in our relationship with God and not being deceived by the allure of wealth and materialism. [73:35]
5. Invitation to Repentance: Jesus' message is not just a rebuke but also an invitation to repentance and renewal. He offers forgiveness and a fresh start to those who open the door to Him. This is a call to examine our hearts and make a conscious effort to rekindle our passion for God. [01:18:51]
### [78:51]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[39:31] - Baptism Sunday Announcement
[40:48] - Upcoming Missions Trip to Cuba
[42:08] - Introduction to the Letter to Laodicea
[43:35] - Prayer for Open Hearts
[45:06] - Wealth of Laodicea
[46:40] - Medical and Textile Industry
[48:06] - Water Issues in Laodicea
[49:27] - Jesus' Rebuke: Lukewarm Faith
[52:20] - Jesus' Authority and Identity
[55:23] - Spiritual Lukewarmness
[61:27] - True Wealth and Spiritual Blindness
[64:55] - Jesus' Relentless Pursuit
[73:35] - Guarding Against Deception
[78:51] - Invitation to Repentance
[90:28] - Conclusion and Final Announcements

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What are the three ways Jesus identifies Himself in Revelation 3:14, and what do these titles signify? [42:08]
According to Revelation 3:15-16, what does Jesus say about the spiritual state of the Laodiceans, and what is His reaction to it? [53:50]
What are the three specific conditions Jesus accuses the Laodiceans of being in, despite their material wealth? [01:01:27]
In Matthew 24:12-14, what does Jesus say will happen to the love of many in the last days, and what is the cause of this change?

Interpretation Questions

Why does Jesus use the metaphor of lukewarm water to describe the spiritual state of the Laodiceans? How does this metaphor relate to their city's water issues? [49:27]
What does it mean for Jesus to stand at the door and knock, and how does this symbolize His relationship with the Laodiceans? [01:04:55]
How does the warning in Matthew 24:12-14 about the love of many growing cold due to increasing wickedness apply to the church today? [01:13:35]
In Mark 4:18-19, how does the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word of God, and how does this relate to the Laodiceans' spiritual condition? [01:15:53]

Application Questions

Reflect on your own spiritual temperature. Are you hot, cold, or lukewarm in your relationship with God? What steps can you take this week to rekindle your passion for Him? [01:12:56]
Jesus rebukes the Laodiceans for their self-sufficiency and reliance on wealth. Are there areas in your life where you rely more on material wealth than on God? How can you shift your focus to seek true spiritual riches? [01:01:27]
Jesus stands at the door and knocks, offering to come in and share a meal. How can you make room in your daily life to invite Jesus into a deeper, more intimate relationship? [01:06:30]
The sermon mentioned that the love of many will grow cold due to increasing wickedness. How can you guard your heart against this and maintain a fervent love for God amidst a challenging world? [01:13:35]
The deceitfulness of wealth can choke the word of God in our lives. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your pursuit of material things does not overshadow your pursuit of God? [01:15:53]
Jesus' message to the Laodiceans is also an invitation to repentance and renewal. Is there an area in your life where you need to repent and seek renewal? How can you take action on this today? [01:18:51]
Think about a time when you felt spiritually lukewarm. What were the contributing factors, and how did you overcome it? How can you use that experience to help others in your small group who might be struggling with the same issue? [55:23]

Sermon Clips

1. "Come on, how cool is that? I've decided that I'm going to follow Jesus with the rest of my life and that old person, that old me, they're being buried like going under the water. Let's say I'm going to follow Jesus with the rest of my life. That old person, they don't exist anymore and I've been made brand new. I'm a new person in Jesus Christ." [39:31] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Holy Spirit speak to me today. God open up my ears, my spiritual ears, open up my heart, open up my mind so that I can receive what you want me to hear today. Let's pray. Lord thank you for your word for the challenge for the challenge that it brings and God we pray today by the power of the Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit have your way in this room and I pray that as we dig through your word today that your voice would be so clear and God I ask that you would speak to every one of us right where we're at." [43:35] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "I know your deeds that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one of one or the other so because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold I'm about to spit you out of my mouth. Look at this he says I know your deeds and right off the bat I want you to see here in this letter this letter is different than any of the others in that usually Jesus comes and says I know your deeds and then he'll you're doing this right and you're doing that right and I'm proud of you for this and then he'll deal with an issue but I have this against you and he'll correct something or address something that they need to change and then he goes back but I want to encourage you right so it's a encouragement kind of a correction and an encouragement in this letter he goes straight to correction." [53:50] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "You're not hot and by hot what he would mean is your relationship with God is not hot there's not a fire in your heart there's not a fire in your spirit there's no zeal there's no passion to love me and to serve me and to worship me you're just kind of you're going through the most he says you're not you're not you're not cold either cold would mean you don't have a relationship with God at all like you don't even believe in him you don't have faith in him so he says you're not hot you're not passionate you're not on fire but you're not cold you're not devoid of knowing me but you're lukewarm you're just kind of in the middle just kind of just going through the motions." [55:23] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "You're not hot you're not cold you're lukewarm and just like when you drink the lukewarm water that that comes into your city and it doesn't refresh and it kind of makes you sick as it tastes horrible it smells bad it's got mineral and it kind of makes you sick listen your lukewarm life makes me want to throw up one of the things that I hate about being sick is throwing up anybody else hate throwing up man I hate I hate to throw up and so I will fight it and fight it and fight it and even though my stomach is horrible I'm gonna fight it because man I I hate throwing up." [56:50] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "He says you say I'm rich I've acquired wealth and I don't need a thing but you do not realize that you are look at these words wretched pitiful poor blind and naked I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire so that you can become rich and white clothes to wear so that you can cover your shameful nakedness and salve to put in your eyes so that you can see look at these words he says he says you say I'm rich I got it all I'm good I don't need anything else that's somebody who's relying just on their wealth God's blessed me and I got it all look at all look at all this stuff that I have and he said I want you to understand something you're you're wretched you're pitiful." [59:53] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline so be earnest and repent here I am I stand at the door and knock if anyone hears my voice and opens the door I will come in and eat with them with with that person and they with me to the one who is victorious I will give the right to sit with me on my throne just as I was victorious and sat down with my father on his throne so let's look at this first of all he says I want you to know something those that I love are the ones that I I rebuke those the ones that I discipline he's saying I correct those that I love how amazing is it for you and I to realize that God in his love for us corrects us." [01:03:03] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "He's knocking he's standing at at the door of each one of our hearts think of this he is standing at the door of your heart and he's knocking our God loves us enough to pursue us think of that they're the ones that have grown cold they're the ones who their relationship with with God instead of being hot it's lukewarm or worse but he's not saying hey listen uh you've chosen to walk away you've chosen to go your own way you've chosen to put your faith your in your wealth and your opulence and all the stuff that you have. But I'll be over here. You've walked away from me, and so I'm going over here." [01:04:55] (61 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "And if you decide you want to come back, if you decide that someday maybe you want to have a relationship with me, you can come and you can knock on my door. And I'll decide whether I want to open it up or not. That's not what he's saying. He's saying, you've walked away. You've turned your back. You've allowed our relationship to grow lukewarm. But here I am. I'm still knocking. I haven't given up on you. I haven't turned my back on you. I still love you. And he says, and if you'll open up the door, I'll come in. And we'll share this meal together." [01:05:55] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "Don't let your heart grow cold. Don't let it get lukewarm. There was that time when you had that zeal, you had that passion for me. Do you still have that love, that fire, that passion in your heart for Jesus? A couple of weeks ago, one of my grand, I had several of my grandkids over, but one of them was not feeling good. He was laying on the couch. And so we got out this, I call it the temperature gun. Right? You know, you put it on the forehead and then you're like, oh, okay, yep. You may have a little bit of a fever. And so my grandkids thought this was so cool." [01:10:15] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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