Revelation 3:16

Revelation 3:16 F.O.G Commentary

Visual Media Suggestion

• Infographic Idea: A visual representation showing the metaphor of “lukewarmness” in Revelation 3:16, depicting the comparison between hot, cold, and lukewarm water, and their symbolic meanings related to spiritual zeal, refreshment, and indifference. This could also include imagery of Laodicea’s water supply to provide historical context.
• Are you a talented designer or illustrator? Submit your ideas for the above to the F.O.G project here.

Verse Text

“So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.” (NASB)

Immediate Context

Revelation 3:16 is part of Jesus’ message to the church in Laodicea, one of the seven churches addressed in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Laodicea was known for its wealth, self-sufficiency, and lukewarm water supply. Jesus uses this metaphor to rebuke the church’s spiritual state—neither fervent (hot) in their faith nor refreshingly cold (useful for quenching thirst). The church is spiritually complacent and self-reliant, causing Jesus to threaten to “spit” them out of His mouth, a powerful expression of rejection.

Key Insights

• “Lukewarm”: The Greek word for “lukewarm” (chliaros) implies a state of being tepid or mildly warm. This metaphor, drawn from Laodicea’s water supply, symbolizes spiritual indifference—neither passionately committed (hot) nor refreshingly honest (cold).
• “Neither hot nor cold”: “Hot” water represents zeal and spiritual fervor, while “cold” water symbolizes refreshment and honesty. Being “lukewarm” means lacking genuine spiritual fervor or authentic engagement, which is more dangerous than being “cold” or openly opposed.
• “I will spit you out of My mouth”: The Greek word for “spit” (emeō) is a strong term that indicates disgust and rejection. This conveys that spiritual complacency is repulsive to Christ and that such indifference will result in being cut off from fellowship with Him.

Biblical Themes

• Spiritual Zeal vs. Apathy: The verse emphasizes the need for a passionate and genuine faith rather than a complacent and lukewarm attitude.
• Divine Judgment and Repentance: The threat of being “spit out” serves as a call to repentance for spiritual complacency and indifference.
• Authenticity in Faith: Encourages believers to avoid lukewarmness by being either fully committed (“hot”) or refreshingly truthful (“cold”) in their walk with God.

Cross References

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• Matthew 7:21-23 – Jesus warns that not everyone who calls Him “Lord” will enter the Kingdom, highlighting the need for genuine faith and commitment.
• Romans 12:11 – “Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” This verse emphasizes the importance of fervency and zeal in serving God.
• James 1:22 – “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” This verse stresses the need for an active and engaged faith, not merely passive or indifferent belief.

Reflection Question

In what ways could you be “lukewarm” in your spiritual life? What steps can you take to rekindle your passion and zeal for God and live more authentically for Him?

Did You Know?

1. Laodicea’s water supply was lukewarm, coming through an aqueduct from hot springs and losing heat along the way. This geographical context makes Jesus’ metaphor particularly impactful to the Laodicean church.
2. The Greek word “emeō,” translated as “spit,” is the root of the English word “emetic,” a substance used to induce vomiting, emphasizing the severity of Jesus’ rejection of spiritual indifference.
3. Laodicea was wealthy and self-sufficient, known for its banking industry, wool production, and medical school. Yet, in Revelation 3:17, Jesus describes them as “wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked,” highlighting their spiritual poverty despite material wealth.