Text: Revelation 3:14-19
There are many investments that one can make (stocks, real estate, collectibles, cryptocurrency, etc.). All of these have to do with financial growth and security in this life. Yet there are certain investments we are to make that are spiritual in nature, and these are most important. In this series, we are going to discuss some of these investments we are to make. In this fifth lesson, we are going to talk about real spirituality as opposed to “lukewarm” religion.
What It Means to Be “Lukewarm”
- This was the way the Lord characterized the church in Laodicea (“lukewarm”) – they were detestable to Christ in this condition; “I will spit you out of my mouth” (Revelation 3:16)
- They were “wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked” (Revelation 3:17) – the remedy could be obtained from the Lord; remarkably, they did not think they needed the Lord
- Their material prosperity deceived them into thinking they had “need of nothing” (Revelation 3:17); in the previous lesson, we noticed the warning about trusting in wealth; these brethren did that, and we can be tempted in the same way
- The solution was to “buy” what the Lord offered (Revelation 3:18)
Gold Refined by Fire
- Gold is universally recognized as being valuable
- We have true riches in Christ (Ephesians 1:3ff) – adoption as sons (Ephesians 1:5); redemption, forgiveness, grace (Ephesians 1:7); revelation of God’s will (Ephesians 1:9); inheritance (Ephesians 1:11); sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13)
- Satan claims to offer us riches, but they are counterfeit – sons of God apart from Christ (cf. Galatians 3:26-29); salvation outside of Christ (cf. Acts 4:12); truth beyond what Christ and the Holy Spirit revealed (cf. John 18:37; 16:13); material wealth [see previous lesson]
White Garments
- These symbolize purity – given by the Lord when He forgives us of our sins; forgiveness is IN Christ (Ephesians 1:7); remember HOW we get IN Christ (Galatians 3:27); our sins are washed away in baptism (Acts 22:16; 2:38)
- How do we keep our garments white? – we must walk in the light (1 John 1:5-7); our behavior should be different from the world (1 Peter 4:3-4); we may sin occasionally, but should not be continually mired in it (Romans 6:11-14)
Eye Salve
- This allows us to see clearly – God’s word enlightens us (Psalm 19:8); it reveals the mystery that was previously hidden (1 Corinthians 2:7-12, 16)
- God’s word is the mirror through which we examine ourselves and make corrections (James 1:23-25)
Conclusion
- Satan tries to sell us a counterfeit spirituality – in reality, it is a “lukewarm” and useless religion
- We must recognize our dependence upon God for blessings, forgiveness, and guidance
