Podcasts about Laodicea

Send us a textA quiet country church. A knock on the side door. And a question that won't leave us alone: what if Jesus is outside, patiently waiting to be invited in? In this episode I share something a bit different; a guest sermon I gave at our church a few weeks ago to help fill in for our pastor. After a brief farm and family update, we will listen to my sermon on Revelation 3:14–22, the letter to Laodicea, to explore the uneasy distance between liking Jesus and actually following him.We unpack why Scripture calls lukewarm faith nauseating and why hot and cold are both images of usefulness—healing warmth and refreshing cool—while room temperature blends into its surroundings. With Laodicea's banking, textiles, and eye salve as backdrop, we trace Jesus' piercing diagnosis of self-satisfied religion and his generous prescription: gold refined by fire, white garments of righteousness, and salve for true sight. Along the way, we talk about real-life patterns that pull us toward comfort—people-pleasing, hurry, and performative faith—and simple, costly habits that reverse the drift: unhurried Scripture, honest prayer, confession, reconciling conversations, generous service, and witness that changes the room.The heart of the message is not shame but invitation. Those Jesus loves, he disciplines. He stands at the door and knocks, not with a battering ram, but with patient mercy, promising table fellowship to any who open, even if the whole room isn't ready. We offer practical next steps to move from thermometer to thermostat, including one action this week that costs something and proves what we value. If you've felt “fine” yet fruitless, this conversation will help you trade comfort for a living, useful faith that leaves a holy mark on your family, church, and community.If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend, and tell us: what door will you open to Jesus this week? Your story might encourage someone else to turn the knob.Send your thoughts and questions to noah@redeemingthedirt.comSupport the show

Pastor Erina reflects on the letter to Laodicea and the trappings of wealth and power in our life with Jesus. How might material prosperity lead us to forsake our own spiritual poverty? How might Jesus want to free us from self-deception in order to pursue faithful and uncompromised witness?

Send us a messageAs the last prophetic minutes of the Last Hour continue to move closer to Midnight Hour, the great “falling away” Scripture warned of is taking place at a rapid speed as the Laodicea Church becomes more and more worldly and lukewarm.The evidence, which confirms that – but for God's Holy and preserved Remnant -  today's contemporary Church has surely reached its Laodicea condition, is compelling – and heart breaking at the same1ime. Instead of being the Light of God's unadulterated Word of Truth to a sin-darkened world – it has embraced the very things that are an offence to that Truth – while boasting of their great successes – as evidenced by the multitudes of people who fill their assemblies week after week.The Holy Spirit is sounding His alarm through His Watchmen on the Wall to the Laodicea Church of today – with the call to Repent – and to return to their first Love – while there is still time to do so. For the Ark of Salvation is ready to depart with only His truly “Born Again” redeemed ones aboard.Let those who have ears to hear – Hear!  And Come! For Jesus is returning for us – Soon!Support the showVisit our website: https://agapelightministries.com/

Week 3: New Life in Christ, Colossians 3:1-17 While imprisoned in Rome awaiting trial before Caesar, Paul wrote to the believers in Colossae, a group he had never met but who respected his authority. His coworker Epaphras, a native of Colossae, had brought the gospel there and to nearby Laodicea and Hierapolis after working with Paul in Ephesus. When Epaphras was later imprisoned in Rome, he told Paul about the situation in those cities. The mostly Gentile Colossians were being pressured to follow Jewish laws and drawn into false teachings that emphasized visions and secret knowledge. In response, Paul reminded them that Jesus is all they need: all creation was made through Him, and through His death all things are reconciled to God. Christ fully embodies God's nature, and believers, now part of His kingdom of light, are called to live out their new life and await His glorious return. November 16, 2025 Guest Speaker: Sara Reimer Used with permission. CCLI Streaming License: 20979318

Our spiritual need is deeper than we know, but Christ’s provision is greater than we could imagine.

Murray McLellan's sermon from Revelation 3:14-22 at the Scotiabank Theatre The post Promise to the Overcomers in Laodicea appeared first on | Grace Fellowship | Saskatoon Church | Warman Church.

Mark Janzen's sermon from Revelation 3:14-22 in Warman, SK at the Warman Communiplex The post To the Church in Laodicea appeared first on | Grace Fellowship | Saskatoon Church | Warman Church.

We would love to hear from you!This week, Josh teaches at our Downtown Neighbourhood Table gathering on Revelation 3 and the churches of Sardis and Laodicea. These two churches thought they had everything figured out, but Jesus loves them enough to tell them the truth about themselves. 

This conversation peels back the glossy veneer on modern church culture and asks what Jesus actually had in mind. We talk megachurch money, the “business model” of religion, and whether tithing-as-law was ever the point. Amy unpacks the influencer pastor era, the pressure-cooker system that breeds burnout, and why Acts-style fellowship (shared tables, rotating teachers, real accountability) still works. We compare Sunday stage shows to small, Spirit-led communities and ask if the apostles would even recognize our churches. From Laodicea warnings to Watchman Nee–style generosity, we press into discipleship over attendance. It's frank, hopeful, and aimed at reform from the inside out with one of our favorite guests- Amy from Eyes on the Right podcast!Amy's Counseling Website: https://www.biblicalguidancecounseling.com/Amy's Podcast Same Topic: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mega-church-money-machine/id1692081180?i=1000716256160*Catch This Must-Watch Docuseries : https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/AMYW36*IG: eyesontherighpodcast & eyesontheright4.0https://www.unrefinedpodcast.com +Timestamps:00:01:00 Exposing the business of Christianity00:02:47 Mention of “The Religious Business” documentary00:05:08 Heart posture vs church consumerism00:07:29 Institutional systems and fallen influence00:09:42 Pastoral pressure and spiritual burnout00:11:56 Success measured by butts in pews00:14:23 What is church? The body of Christ00:16:42 Pedestal pastors and misplaced focus00:18:59 Shared teaching and authentic leadership00:21:25 Comparing Acts church to modern models00:22:05 Tithing vs New Covenant generosity00:24:32 Giving as worship and heart posture00:26:45 Generosity, reaping, and sowing in faith00:29:05 Can the megachurch model be redeemed?00:31:22 Laodicea church and spiritual blindness00:33:43 House church rhythm and online fellowship00:36:03 Would the apostles recognize our churches?00:38:19 One-anothering and real fellowship00:40:41 Why recovery groups feel like real church00:43:07 Transparency, confession, and authentic ministry00:45:26 Amy's story — “Get up” and walk again00:47:46 Prayer for the church and believers00:49:53 Guest plugs and final thoughtschurch reform, megachurch culture, prosperity gospel, tithing debate, modern Christianity, church business, religious institutions, discipleship, Acts church, house church, faith and money, church accountability, spiritual authenticity, pastoral burnout, influencer pastors, transparency, corporate Christianity, biblical generosity, Laodicea church, religious corruption, faith over fame, gospel integrity, consumer Christianity, spiritual reformation, faith community, worship culture, religious hypocrisy, Holy Hustle, Christian leadership, church finance, heart posture, revival vs revenue, kingdom mindset, body of Christ, church manipulation, spiritual discernment, modern faith crisis, Christian culture critique, Unrefined Podcast, Eyes on the Right

This message dives into the final church in Revelation, the Church of Laodicea, known for being neither hot nor cold. It's a wake-up call to shake off complacency and live passionately for Jesus.The Lord is calling His church to rise up, burn bright, and be fully on fire for Him.Let this message ignite your heart and renew your devotion to the One who is worthy of it all....let's be a CHURCH ON FIRE!Messages, teaching and encouragement from Pneuma Life Church pastors and leaders! Pneuma Life Church is a spirit-filled and bible-based church located in Saint Johns, Florida. It's lead by Pastors Jason & Jessica Huffman. Join us live (and online) for services each Sunday at 10AM4100 Race Track Rd. (Durbin Creek Elementary) Saint Johns, FL 32259 Visit us online at: https://pneumalife.churchEmail: hello@pneuma.life 

Ezra 9 tells of the problems of those who had married nonbelievers. Verse 4 tells that the rulers and officials had been at the forefront of those who had disobeyed God's command about this. The reader should look at Malachi 2verses10-16 and Nehemiah 13verses23-27 to understand Yahweh's views on this subject; and why His prophets were so strong in denouncing this practice. From verse 10-15 Ezra seeks God's forgiveness of His people for their wrongful ways in marrying out of the Truth and counsels all of God's people to forsake that dangerous and evil course.Hosea 10 tells of a vine that produced no fruit for God. How often do the prophets and the Lord Jesus Christ take up this theme cp Isaiah 5 and consider the number of references in the last week of our Lord to the barrenness of the fruitless, but showy fig tree. Also see John 15 where our Lord comments on himself being the vine. Without fruit a vine is useless - its wood is poor fuel; its wood cannot be used to make anything. We are useless unless we are producing the fruit of the spirit for God in our lives (see Galatians 5verses22-25; and Ephesians 5verses8-16). But for Israel when the LORD looked at their actions, instead of fruit, He saw poisonous weeds. Instead of sincere worship of Yahweh He saw the idolatrous calf worship. Bethel (meaning "the house of God") becomes Bethaven ("the house of vanity" - or "nothingness"). The result of this would be the delivering up to captivity of Israel to nations who were themselves ruled by idolatry. Israel's sinfulness was evident from earliest times, even when the Tabernacle was at Gibeah. The Lord God would again bring them under the yoke, when they will finally learn righteousness and will open their hearts to God as the poetic symbol of breaking open the fallow ground of their hearts suggests. By doing this God would be able to rain blessings on them. But the coming judgment would be a necessary part of helping Israel to learn this.Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers - one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years' time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting "Grace ('charis' the Greek greeting) and peace ('shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had "qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light ... and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son" (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk 'archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we, the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, "Christ in you (i.e. each of us) the hope of glory".Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Ezra 9 tells of the problems of those who had married nonbelievers. Verse 4 tells that the rulers and officials had been at the forefront of those who had disobeyed God's command about this. The reader should look at Malachi 2verses10-16 and Nehemiah 13verses23-27 to understand Yahweh's views on this subject; and why His prophets were so strong in denouncing this practice. From verse 10-15 Ezra seeks God's forgiveness of His people for their wrongful ways in marrying out of the Truth and counsels all of God's people to forsake that dangerous and evil course. Hosea 10 tells of a vine that produced no fruit for God. How often do the prophets and the Lord Jesus Christ take up this theme cp Isaiah 5 and consider the number of references in the last week of our Lord to the barrenness of the fruitless, but showy fig tree. Also see John 15 where our Lord comments on himself being the vine. Without fruit a vine is useless - its wood is poor fuel; its wood cannot be used to make anything. We are useless unless we are producing the fruit of the spirit for God in our lives (see Galatians 5verses22-25; and Ephesians 5verses8-16). But for Israel when the LORD looked at their actions, instead of fruit, He saw poisonous weeds. Instead of sincere worship of Yahweh He saw the idolatrous calf worship. Bethel (meaning "the house of God") becomes Bethaven ("the house of vanity" - or "nothingness"). The result of this would be the delivering up to captivity of Israel to nations who were themselves ruled by idolatry. Israel's sinfulness was evident from earliest times, even when the Tabernacle was at Gibeah. The Lord God would again bring them under the yoke, when they will finally learn righteousness and will open their hearts to God as the poetic symbol of breaking open the fallow ground of their hearts suggests. By doing this God would be able to rain blessings on them. But the coming judgment would be a necessary part of helping Israel to learn this. Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers - one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years' time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting "Grace ('charis' the Greek greeting) and peace ('shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had "qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light ... and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son" (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk 'archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we, the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, "Christ in you (i.e. each of us) the hope of glory". Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

The church at Laodicea had become so ineffective and powerless that Jesus compared them to a tepid beverage. However, if they were willing to repent, Jesus was ready to restore them.Preached on November 9th, 2025 by Jared Kress. Series: "Revelation: Behold, He Is Coming" Primary Text: Revelation 3:14-22. Join us in person Sundays at 10:30am at 6325 Poplar Ave, Memphis TN or online at https://www.kirbywoods.org/live. Follow us online! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirbywoodsmemphis Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirbywoodsmemphis YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kirbywoods Podcast: https://kirbywoodspodcast.buzzsprout.com

In this message, Pastor Jay sounds the alarm on one of the greatest spiritual threats facing the modern church, the danger of lukewarmness. Drawing from Jesus' words to the church of Laodicea in Revelation, Pastor Jay exposes how comfort can quietly replace commitment, how passion fades into routine, and how purpose is lost when believers grow spiritually apathetic. Discover how to rekindle your spiritual fire, return to your first love, and let the Holy Spirit ignite a renewed passion for God's presence and purpose in your life.

Jesus confronts the church in Laodicea for being lukewarm, which means spiritually useless because of their pride and self-sufficiency. In this message, we see how Jesus offers an invitation to restore His people, aligning their purpose with God's Kingdom.

Jesus confronts the church in Laodicea for being lukewarm, which means spiritually useless because of their pride and self-sufficiency. In this message, we see how Jesus offers an invitation to restore His people, aligning their purpose with God's Kingdom.

Text: Revelation 3 : 14 - 22 James Martin

On last week’s podcast, I discussed my deportation from Egypt to Istanbul. This week we continue in Turkey, visiting the Seven Churches of Revelation. Today's show begins with a look at modern-day Laodicea, and a short talk I gave yesterday in the heart of old Ephesus. Unbeaten: My Arrest, Interrogation, and Deportation from China - Unbeaten.vip Pray for China (Nov 10-16): https://chinacall.substack.com/p/pray-for-china-nov-10-16-2025 The second half of the show is a detailed look at this week's Pray for China (PrayforChina.us) cities, with a number of stories and details along the way, including my first night alone on the streets of China (Alien China), being confronted by the police during a casual lunch (CCP Warnings), and China's border with North Korea (NK Spy Balloons). Two North Korea Stories: https://www.dw.com/en/north-korean-man-makes-rare-direct-land-crossing-to-south/a-73150358 https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/balloon-propaganda-campaign-korea Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I post new/unique Chinese city prayer profiles every single day. Also, you can email me any questions or comments (bfwesten at gmail dot com) and find everything else, including my books, at PrayGiveGo.us!

On last week’s podcast, I discussed my deportation from Egypt to Istanbul. This week we continue in Turkey, visiting the Seven Churches of Revelation. Today's show begins with a look at modern-day Laodicea, and a short talk I gave yesterday in the heart of old Ephesus. Unbeaten: My Arrest, Interrogation, and Deportation from China - Unbeaten.vip Pray for China (Nov 10-16): https://chinacall.substack.com/p/pray-for-china-nov-10-16-2025 The second half of the show is a detailed look at this week's Pray for China (PrayforChina.us) cities, with a number of stories and details along the way, including my first night alone on the streets of China (Alien China), being confronted by the police during a casual lunch (CCP Warnings), and China's border with North Korea (NK Spy Balloons). Two North Korea Stories: https://www.dw.com/en/north-korean-man-makes-rare-direct-land-crossing-to-south/a-73150358 https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/balloon-propaganda-campaign-korea Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I post new/unique Chinese city prayer profiles every single day. Also, you can email me any questions or comments (bfwesten at gmail dot com) and find everything else, including my books, at PrayGiveGo.us!

As I've shared this progression idea of, “Father in the home to elder in the city to ruler in the Kingdom,” I keep getting the same question. They say,“Tim, I get the ‘father in the home' part, but elders and ruling part doesn't make sense.”Yeah, I understand why. Most people think “elder” means church board member, and “Kingdom of God” means an eternal vacation in heaven. There's some truth to these perspectives, but neither are completely biblical.The Biblical Progression for MenWhile society may have lost this “noble task” of aspiring to be an overseer, Scripture hasn't. Its vision for men is this:* Fatherhood in the home is training for eldership in the city.* Eldership in the city is training for ruling cities in the Kingdom.The framework comes directly from 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1.When discussing the qualifications for an elder, in 1 Timothy 3:4 Paul says:“He must manage his own household well, with all dignity, keeping his children submissive. For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church?” (ESV)The principle seems to be this: managing my home well qualifies me for broader leadership to help others manage their homes and affairs.It's the same principle we see in Proverbs 31:23, where the husband of the excellent wife has an outstanding reputation and sits as an elder at the city gates. The whole chapter describes her household management, and that qualifies him to sit among the leaders of the city. (Why our communities desperately need this elder role and the impact of its absence is a topic for a future post.)Subscribe to join me and other Christian men in pursuing the noble task of eldership (1 Tim 3:1).But how does that connect to ruling in a Kingdom?Let me unpack these two ideas a bit more from a biblical perspective. I'm honestly still wrestling with how to articulate this well, so please help me here as this (hopefully) starts to click for you.First Objection: “Tim, isn't 1 Timothy 3:4 about church eldership, not the city?”Yes. Kinda.“…for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church?”The confusion comes because we read “church” and think of our modern experience and understanding of “church.” This isn't just talking about the guy who passes offering plates on Sunday mornings. Church leadership is included here, but there's more to it than that.Every biblical example of eldership we have points to governing in a city, not just religious functions. When Scripture talks about elders, they're sitting at city gates (Proverbs 31, Ruth 4), making community decisions, settling disputes, serving people, and managing the common good of their city.The word “church” (ekklesia) in 1 Timothy 3 is the same word used throughout Scripture for assembly or gathering. It's a community of people, not just a Sunday service. I think we've domesticated this concept by limiting “elder” to church committees when the biblical vision is far broader: proven household stewardship qualifies men for civic influence and leadership in the community of faith.Think about Boaz. He goes to the city gate, gathers the elders, and facilitates a legal transaction for Ruth and Naomi. That's not church leadership—that's civic eldership. These guys are known, respected, and trusted with community decisions because they've proven faithful in stewarding their households and businesses well.This is why, in Titus 1:5, Paul says:“…I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you…” (ESV)Paul directs Titus to appoint city elders for the sake of the body of believers (i.e. the church) there.This coincides with Paul's understanding of the church (body of believers) being city-wide communities, not the isolated church corner buildings we have today. Paul writes “to the church in Ephesus, Corinth, Colossi, Philippi, etc.” Jesus does the same thing in Revelation 1 when he writes to the church in Laodicea, Smyrna, Sardis, etc.So, yes, I think, “…how will he care for God's church,” is more accurately understood as, “…how will he care for God's people in that city?”Second Objection: “Ok, but how do you get to Kingdom rule?”Good question! And it's a result of the same issue as before: we read our preconceived ideas into the text. In this case, it's whatever one thinks of when they think of the Kingdom of God.Stay with me here. This is important.In Genesis 1:28, God creates mankind as His image-bearer and blesses them with a clear mandate:“Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion...” (ESV)We were created to rule and reign with Him over His creation. This blessed authority was the original design.In some ways, The Fall broke our ruling, but redemption doesn't erase the original purpose — it restores it. Jesus didn't come to evacuate us from earth; He came to restore earth under God's rule with us as His image-bearing representatives.Subscribe to join me and other Christian men in pursuing the noble task of eldership (1 Tim 3:1).This is where Luke 19 becomes critical. In the parable of the ten minas, the nobleman gives each servant one mina and says, “Engage in business until I come.” (More on this command to engage in business is coming in a future post, too.) When he returns, he evaluates their faithfulness with what they were given. The faithful steward who turned one mina into ten receives authority over ten cities. The one who turned one mina into five gets five cities.Notice what the reward is: authority over cities. Not harps in heaven. Not eternal singing. Not floating on clouds. Actual governing responsibility in God's Kingdom.The point?Fruitful management now qualifies you for greater management later.Jesus isn't just testing their financial skills, although that's probably part of it. He's showing that the way we handle what God has entrusted to us right now—our marriages, our children, our businesses, our communities—is preparation for ruling and reigning with Him in His Kingdom.Paul echoes this in 2 Timothy 2:12: “If we endure, we will also reign with him.” The writer of Hebrews says Jesus is bringing “many sons to glory” (Hebrews 2:10). Revelation describes believers as those who will reign with Christ (Revelation 5:10; 20:6; 22:5).“…and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:10 (ESV)This isn't fringe theology. This is the biblical narrative arc:God created us to rule with Him, sin broke that, Christ redeems us and is preparing us now for our eternal role as co-rulers in His Kingdom.

On Saturday night at Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump hosted a lavish “Great Gatsby”-themed gala, complete with 1920s costumes, chandeliers, champagne, and all the trappings of an age that once danced on the brink of collapse. At nearly the same time, across America, millions of families were warned that their SNAP benefits — food-stamp funds that keep groceries on the table — would be suspended as of November 1st due to the ongoing shutdown crisis. The contrast could not be more symbolic: one world dripping with gold and luxury, the other counting cans and wondering what tomorrow brings.“For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” 1 Timothy 6:10 (KJB)On this episode of the Prophecy News Podcast, this isn't simply bad optics; it's a parable for our times. When the rich feast as the poor fast, judgment is never far behind. Jay Gatsby's mansion once stood as the monument to the American Dream — brilliant, extravagant, and hollow. He built his empire chasing an illusion. Trump's Mar-a-Lago soirée mirrors that same spirit of performance over purpose, a spectacle where the glitter hides the emptiness beneath. Prophetically, this moment fits the portrait of Laodicea, the final church age described in Revelation. Wealth abounds, yet faith declines. Prosperity for some flourishes, yet compassion for all evaporates. The Church — and the culture — proclaims its greatness, while blind to its spiritual poverty. This is not a call to envy the rich or to glorify poverty — it's a call to repentance. Every true Christian should take this moment as a reminder of what the Lord values: mercy over money, righteousness over revelry, truth over theatrics. “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.” Proverbs 14:34 (KJB)

This week, Trent taught on the church of Laodicea in Revelation 3 and warned against the danger of lukewarm faith. He explained how we can claim to be close to God while actually being spiritually unaware, distracted, and self-reliant. Trent reminded students that Jesus continually knocks, inviting us to repent, seek Him, and live with a burning passion for Him instead of settling for comfort or complacency.

In this message, we explore Jesus's powerful words to the church in Laodicea—a wealthy, self-sufficient city with a spiritually lukewarm congregation. Through vivid imagery and strong rebuke, Jesus calls His people to recognize their true condition and return to wholehearted devotion. We'll unpack the cultural context, Jesus's divine authority, His loving correction, and the incredible promise for those who overcome. This is a wake-up call for anyone tempted by comfort and complacency. Don't miss this invitation to deeper relationship and real spiritual renewal.

Colossians 2 1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding […] The post Colossians 2 first appeared on Hope of Christ Church.

We can learn a lot from the seven churches. Church of Laodicea is covered here.

The Rubicon - Avoid lukewarm people personally and professionally

Jesus refuses to be a guest in the heart He died to govern.In this message from Revelation 3, Jesus calls the church out of comfort and into wholehearted surrender. It's time to open the door, rekindle the flame, and let Jesus take His rightful place.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:24-2:7 (ESV)24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.Sermon OutlineThe way to a truly fruitful life is to mature in the grace of Christ.1. Beginning2:6 “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord”2:2-3 “all the riches… which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures…”2:7 “abounding in thanksgiving”2. Continuing2:6 “so walk in him”2:7 “rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught”Prayer of ConfessionOur loving Father, you have been so good to us. Your kindness and generosity should stir us to grateful stewardship of all you have entrusted to us; yet we take so much for granted. We don't abound with thanksgiving. We are marked instead by grumbling, envy, and all the characteristics that evidence we need your forgiveness. We are guilty of complacency. We have done much wrong. There is much we have failed to do. With honesty and humility, we admit our failings and appeal to you for mercy. We turn to you, in Christ, whom you have given to us and through whom you give us all things. As we renew our commitment to walk in him, lead us in maturing in him in this next season. Amen.Questions for ReflectionHow does the Christian life begin?Why is it important to recognize that God gives and we receive? What is your understanding of grace and how it works?What riches and treasures do you recognize in Christ? What in his character, in what he teaches, in what he has done, or in what he gives is of great value? How can you grow in discerning and taking hold of even greater things in Christ?When do you give thanks? Do you have any routine or habits of pausing to take stock of what you have and celebrating whatever is good? How can thanksgiving be a more regular part of your daily life?Does maturity automatically happen? How does one mature spiritually? Are there ways to tell if you are growing?What can you expect to experience in the process of maintaining a simple faith in Christ while engaging an increasingly complex world? Does Christianity equip you for all of life?Have you been neglecting any of the areas of the five practices of Acts 2: Fellowship, the Word, Prayer, Sacraments, Mission (FWPSM)? How can these practices be a “means of grace”, habits that nourish and sustain you?What could be next for Emmanuel? How can our church grow, improve, deepen, become more fruitful?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:24-2:7 (ESV)24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.Sermon OutlineThe way to a truly fruitful life is to mature in the grace of Christ.1. Beginning2:6 “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord”2:2-3 “all the riches… which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures…”2:7 “abounding in thanksgiving”2. Continuing2:6 “so walk in him”2:7 “rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught”Prayer of ConfessionOur loving Father, you have been so good to us. Your kindness and generosity should stir us to grateful stewardship of all you have entrusted to us; yet we take so much for granted. We don't abound with thanksgiving. We are marked instead by grumbling, envy, and all the characteristics that evidence we need your forgiveness. We are guilty of complacency. We have done much wrong. There is much we have failed to do. With honesty and humility, we admit our failings and appeal to you for mercy. We turn to you, in Christ, whom you have given to us and through whom you give us all things. As we renew our commitment to walk in him, lead us in maturing in him in this next season. Amen.Questions for ReflectionHow does the Christian life begin?Why is it important to recognize that God gives and we receive? What is your understanding of grace and how it works?What riches and treasures do you recognize in Christ? What in his character, in what he teaches, in what he has done, or in what he gives is of great value? How can you grow in discerning and taking hold of even greater things in Christ?When do you give thanks? Do you have any routine or habits of pausing to take stock of what you have and celebrating whatever is good? How can thanksgiving be a more regular part of your daily life?Does maturity automatically happen? How does one mature spiritually? Are there ways to tell if you are growing?What can you expect to experience in the process of maintaining a simple faith in Christ while engaging an increasingly complex world? Does Christianity equip you for all of life?Have you been neglecting any of the areas of the five practices of Acts 2: Fellowship, the Word, Prayer, Sacraments, Mission (FWPSM)? How can these practices be a “means of grace”, habits that nourish and sustain you?What could be next for Emmanuel? How can our church grow, improve, deepen, become more fruitful?

Romans 6:15-23 confronts us with a profound truth: we will serve someone or something, whether we acknowledge it or not. This passage challenges the dangerous notion that grace gives us license to continue in sin, asking the piercing question: are we to sin because we're under grace rather than law? The answer rings clear—absolutely not. We're presented with only two masters: sin leading to death, or obedience leading to righteousness. There's no third option, no middle ground where we can blend worldly living with Christian faith. The transformation that comes through Christ isn't an addition to our existing life—it's a complete metamorphosis. We see this illustrated through the story of Elisha, who burned his oxen and plows, eliminating any possibility of retreat to his former life. Similarly, Jesus' disciples left their nets, their boats, and even their father immediately when called. This radical commitment stands in stark contrast to the lukewarm Christianity described in Revelation 3, where the church of Laodicea was neither hot nor cold, prompting Christ to say He would spit them from His mouth. The parable of the sower reminds us that only one in four who hear the word will produce lasting fruit. The question we must wrestle with is this: which soil are we? Are we clinging to escape plans and old relationships that keep us tethered to our former slavery, or are we willing to take that first step of obedience, trusting God will reveal the next?### Sermon Notes**Scripture**: Romans 6:15-23**Introduction**: - Rick, a pastor at Hope Church, continues the study of Romans, focusing on Romans 6. - Reminder that they preach through books of the Bible, emphasizing the importance of scripture-based preaching.**Key Points**:1. **Understanding Sin and Grace**:  - The question Paul raises: Are we to sin because we are under grace, not the law?  - Emphasis on morality within the law and grace.2. **Analogy of Slavery**:  - Paul uses the analogy of being slaves to sin versus slaves to righteousness.  - Bob Dylan's illustration: "You gotta serve somebody."3. **Transformation through Salvation**:  - Christianity is not just an addition but a transformation of life.  - The old self versus the new self: Embrace becoming a slave to righteousness.4. **Challenges in Christian Walk**:  - Temptation to mix worldly views and new belief systems with Christianity.  - Importance of separating from past sinful lifestyles and friendships.5. **Practical Illustrations**:  - Rick's personal testimony about radical change after accepting Christ.  - Importance of cutting off past connections that hinder spiritual growth.6. **Reasons for Struggling with Sin**:  - Continually resurrecting old sinful behaviors.  - Lack of suffering or commitment in serving God wholeheartedly.  - Not eliminating the past life entirely.7. **Biblical References to Commitment**:  - Examples of Elisha burning his plow and the disciples leaving everything to follow Jesus.  - The rich young ruler's story: Heart's attachment to possessions.8. **Fruit of Righteousness**:  - Encouragement to analyze life for spiritual fruit.  - Belonging entirely to Christ results in sanctification and eternal life.**Practical Applications**:1. **Cut Ties with Sin**:   - Identify and remove old habits and relationships that hinder spiritual growth.2. **Embrace Transformation**:   - Acknowledge that faith in Christ leads to a completely changed life, not just an addition to current beliefs.3. **Serve with Zeal**:   - Dedicate the same energy formerly given to sin towards serving God.4. **Evaluate Your Life**:   - Regularly assess if your life reflects the fruit of righteousness or if it's still tied to the old self.5. **Take Steps of Faith**:   - Listen for God's direction and take incremental steps towards fulfilling His call.**Discussion Questions**:1. How does understanding that we are under grace, not the law, change your perspective on sin and righteousness?2. What are some steps you can take to ensure you're living as a "slave to righteousness" rather than a slave to sin?3. Are there aspects of your past life that you are still holding onto, and how can you fully commit them to God?4. How has your commitment to Christ transformed your everyday life and decisions?5. Discuss a time when taking a small step of faith led to a significant spiritual victory or growth in your life.

"As many as I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be zealous and repent. See! 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."

In this powerful sermon, Pastor Jamey Bridges challenges the modern church with a sobering message from Revelation 3 about spiritual complacency. Through the lens of the ancient Laodicean church—wealthy but spiritually lukewarm—he masterfully connects their struggle to today's American Christianity. Drawing on the vivid imagery of lukewarm water in Laodicea, Pastor Jamey warns against the dangerous comfort zone where believers claim to love Jesus while living like the world. Yet his message pivots to hope, emphasizing Jesus' invitation to spiritual renewal through repentance. With compelling insights about the enemy's schemes of distraction, deception, and division, he reminds us that we don't fight for victory but from victory through Christ. The sermon culminates in a stirring call to action—to move beyond comfortable Christianity, surrender fully to God's plan, and share our testimonies boldly, knowing we are overcomers through the blood of the Lamb.Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or YouTube.

Revelation 1:9-20 ESV I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet saying, “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.” Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

The book of Revelation issues a call to be faithful. Yet not all of its first readers heeded that call. Today, W. Robert Godfrey contrasts Jesus' last two letters to the churches in Revelation, urging us to hear our Lord's warnings. For your donation of any amount, get W. Robert Godfrey's video teaching series Blessed Hope: The Book of Revelation. You'll receive the series on DVD, plus lifetime digital access to all 24 messages and the study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4344/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request digital access to the video teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   W. Robert Godfrey is a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow and chairman of Ligonier Ministries. He is president emeritus and professor emeritus of church history at Westminster Seminary California.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Welcome to the Grace Coach Podcast! Mike and Kevin share their insights from the Book of Colossians as they dive into Chapter 4.  Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven. 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. 7 Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant[a] in the Lord. 8 I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our[b] circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts. 9 He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here. 10 My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.) 11 Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews[c] among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. 13 I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis. 14 Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16 After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea. 17 Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.” 18 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.  

In this week's midweek Bible study, we conclude our series through the seven letters to the seven churches. We study the church of Laodicea known for being lukewarm. What we see is the assessment of the Lord Jesus Christ that it was the spiritual pride which fueled their being lukewarm. May we be reminded to see our great need of Christ and be compelled to live passionately for the glory of His name!

With not much to speak of regarding the strengths of the Church, Jesus warns them of their growing spiritual apathy while inviting them to return to fellowship with Him.

Revelation 3:14-22 ESV To the Church in Laodicea14 “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.15 “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. 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. 18 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. 19 Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. 20 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. 21 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. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.'” For more information about Redeemer Church Lubbock visit our website at redeemerlubbock.org.

Two verses—John 1:12 and Revelation 3:20—are commonly used together to teach that salvation comes through asking Jesus into your heart. However, understanding these passages in context reveals a different message. John 1:12 defines "receiving" Jesus as believing in who He is—your Messiah, Savior, and Substitute—not a prayer formula. It's about trusting His work for you at Calvary. Revelation 3:20, written to the church at Laodicea, isn't a Gospel invitation at all. It's addressed to believers who have become self-sufficient and lukewarm, leaving Jesus on the outside of their lives. WATCH FULL SERVICE ON YOUTUBE DOWNLOAD PDF SERMON NOTES HERE

In the final message of the Seven Letters of Revelation series, Pastor Stephanie examines Jesus' warning to the lukewarm church in Laodicea, challenging believers to move from complacency to wholehearted devotion. Pastor Stephanie emphasizes that Jesus lovingly calls His people to repentance, urging them to reignite their passion, depend fully on Him, and open their hearts to His transforming presence.