Yesterday Francie did a wonderful job of explaining how the church in Laodicea became so apathetic spiritually, even though (and maybe because) they were living in such a rich culture. They were lukewarm, neither hot nor cold.
The city of Laodicea was a proud clothing manufacturer specializing in expensive garments made of black wool. The people in the church were comfortable, self-sufficient, and believed they were just fine. So can you imagine how they felt when Jesus told them they were pitiful and poor? (among other things) If they really listened, they were quickly jarred out of self-deception and into reality. He loved them enough to speak the truth–Jesus didn’t beat around the bush.
However, He quickly told them how they could be restored to spiritual health:
“I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see.” Revelation 3:17-18
In Bible times, refiners used fire as a gold purifier. Fire caused impurities to rise to the surface for easier removal. In his first letter to believers in Jesus throughout Asia Minor, (northern Turkey) the apostle Peter used the gold-refining process as a metaphor for the way trials work in the life of a believer. Unconfessed sin, hidden shame, guilt, pride, etc.–impurities in life that come to the surface in trials. Jesus can forgive and wipe them all away when we aren’t blinded and deceived and ask forgiveness.
The Laodicdeans were proud of their black wool, but Jesus said they would wear white garments symbolic of the pure life available when Jesus has taken away the guilt and shame of disobedience. They would no longer be naked and ashamed when wearing white and walking close to Him.
But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults, keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Psalm 19:12-13
Only Jesus can reveal to us what is really in our hearts: arrogance, pride, willful disobedience, shame, guilt, and others, leaving us lukewarm and lacking real joy. All we have to do is ask for his help and forgiveness. He is faithful.
“Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1.
How have trials in your life refined you and brought you closer to Jesus?
Deb Hill
EFCC Member