Understanding Lukewarm Christianity

Multiple Walks with God

• New Christians: Recently saved, passionate about God.
• Hot Christians: On fire for God and actively serving Him.
• Lukewarm Christians: Struggling believers, lacking fervor.

Definition of Lukewarm Christianity

• Many struggle to understand what being lukewarm means.
• Exploration of Revelation 3:14-15 regarding the lukewarm church.

Biblical Context

• Revelation 3:14-15: Addressing the church in Laodicea.
• Jesus critiques their lack of zeal: "neither cold nor hot."
• Traditionally taught:
  • Hot: On fire for God.
  • Cold: Against God.
• Author disagrees with the notion that God prefers cold or hostile attitudes over lukewarmness.

Geographical Context of Laodicea

• Location: Modern-day Turkey.
• Nearby Cities:
  • Hierapolis: Hot springs, therapeutic value.
  • Colossae: Cold, refreshing drinking water.
• Laodicea: Wealthy but lacked good water, resulting in lukewarm supply.

The Problem with Lukewarmness

• Revelation 3:16: Lukewarm water is useless—neither healing nor refreshing.
• Interpretation: God desires believers to have impactful faith rather than indifferent faith.
• Lukewarm Christians may not recognize their spiritual need.

Five Steps to Address Lukewarmness

1. Pay Greater Attention to Spiritual Needs

   • Laodiceans believed they were wealthy yet were spiritually poor.
   • Self-reflection on spiritual needs is essential.
   • Recognize the difference between physical and spiritual well-being.

2. Build Your Character

   • Revelation 3:18: Buy gold refined in fire, signifying spiritual investments.
   • Focus on treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-20).
   • Engage in actions that grow spiritual character and foster faithfulness.

3. Fuel the Fire and Turn to God

   • Revelation 3:19-20: Jesus disciplines those He loves.
   • Be zealous, repent, and pursue spiritual strength and intimacy with God.
   • Create environments that foster spiritual growth (community, prayer, etc.).

4. Overcome Being Lukewarm

   • Revelation 3:21-22: Reward for overcoming lukewarmness is sharing in Jesus’ throne.
   • Approach lukewarmness with a mentality of victory and determination.
   • Remember, Christians are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).

5. Listen to What God is Telling You

   • Revelation 3:22: Importance of hearing and responding to the Holy Spirit.
   • Be obedient to any leading from God to combat lukewarmness.

Conclusion

• Being lukewarm means doing nothing with your faith.
• Follow the outlined steps to engage with your faith and grow spiritually.
• Remember: God loves you and desires your return to fervency in faith.