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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Ordered by Verse | ||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | Rev 3:16 lukewarm | Rev 3:16 | Love Fountain | 34771 | ||
Dear Zach, Commentaries............ Rev 3:14-22 The last letter is to Laodicea, which receives no commendation. The unfavorable condition in this church was lukewarmness: the members were neither cold nor hot (v. 15). The lukewarm person does not become greatly disturbed at hearing heretical teaching, and is not vigorous in the defense of the truth. This spirit of indifference is the most tragic thing that can happen to a church. The close of this letter is different from the conclusions of the other six in that it makes an application to the individual: If any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, etc. (v. 20). (from The Wycliffe Bible Commentary, Electronic Database. Copyright (c) 1962 by Moody Press) Rev 3:15 [I would thou wert cold or hot] That is, I would prefer either of those states to what now exists. Anything better than this condition, where love is professed, but where it does not exist; where vows have been assumed which are not fulfilled. Why he would prefer that they should be "hot" is clear enough; but why would he prefer a state of utter coldness-a state where there was no profession of real love? To this question the following answers may be given: (1) Such a state of open and professed coldness or indifference is more honest. There is no disguise; no concealment; no pretence. We know where one in this state "may be found"; we know with whom we are dealing; we know what to expect. Sad as the state is, it is at least honest; and we are so made that we all prefer such a character to one where professions are made which are never to be realized-to a state of insincerity and hypocrisy. (2) Such a state is more honorable. It is a more elevated condition of mind, and marks a higher character. Of a man who is false to his engagements, who makes professions and promises never to be realized, we can make nothing. There is essential meanness in such a character, and there is nothing in it which we can respect. But in the character of the man who is openly and avowedly opposed to anything; who takes his stand, and is earnest and zealous in his course, though it be wrong, there are traits which may be, under a better direction, elements of true greatness and magnanimity. (from Barnes' Notes, Electronic Database. Copyright (c) 1997 by Biblesoft) |
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2 | Rev 3:16 lukewarm | Rev 3:16 | zach† | 35065 | ||
Fountain Thank you for your replys The definition described here makes me wonder if "lukewarm" individuals or churches could also be labeled as hypocrites? Thank you In Christ zach† |
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