Seven Churches: Laodicea
November 24, 2024
Laodicea: The Lukewarm Church
Pastor Ricky Smith
Sermon Notes
I. Jesus Finishes What He Starts
Revelation 3:14
And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: “The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation.”
II. Jesus Knows When We Are Prideful
Revelation 3:14
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. For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.
Pride spots are blind spots
Psalm 1:1
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit in the seat of the scoffers.
III. Jesus Invites Us to Be Consumed By His Grace
Revelation 3:18-22
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. Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. 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. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
We are designed for relationships and invited into His mission
Next Steps
- I confess my sin and turn to Jesus as King for the first time.
- I repent of pride that has blinded me to my sin.
- I choose to commune with Jesus every day in prayer and Bible reading.
Deep Dive
- Read Revelation 3:15-17 and describe the danger of self-sufficiency. In what ways do you struggle with this?
- How does pride create blind spots in our lives?
- Read Revelation 3:18-22 and discuss the beauty of Christ’s invitation into relationship and meaningful purpose.
