The last church that Jesus addressed in Revelation 2–3 was the church of Laodicea. Unlike the other churches, Laodicea had no commendations—only rebukes. It was marked by self-sufficiency, arrogance, and spiritual complacency. Though they possessed knowledge of Scripture, they lacked passion and application.
Jesus’ indictment of the church is striking:
“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! 16 But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! (Revelation 3:15-16)
His reference to temperature draws from the local water supply. The Lycus Valley contained three key cities: Colosse, Hierapolis, and Laodicea. Colosse, about ten miles east, was known for its cool, refreshing water. Hierapolis, six miles north, had hot springs sought for their healing properties. Laodicea, however, had no natural water source. Instead, it relied on an aqueduct system that carried water from hot springs in Denizli, about five miles away. By the time the water reached Laodicea, it had cooled to an unappealing lukewarm state. The remnants of this stone aqueduct can still be seen today.
Jesus used this familiar imagery to illustrate the church’s spiritual condition. But what exactly did He mean by “hot” and “cold”? Two main interpretations exist:
- Hot and Cold as Spiritual States
One view holds that “hot” (Greek: zestos) represents a believer with passionate devotion to Christ—someone “on fire” for God. “Cold” (Greek: psychros) is seen as the opposite: an unbeliever who completely rejects the gospel. “Lukewarm” (Greek: chliaros) describes those who pretend to follow Christ but lack true commitment. These individuals profess faith hypocritically, outwardly aligning with Christ but remaining indifferent in their hearts. According to this perspective, Jesus’ statement suggests it is better to be wholly opposed to Christ than to be a lukewarm, false believer. - Hot and Cold as Spiritual Usefulness
The second view, which I support, interprets “hot” and “cold” as both representing believers who are useful to God. Just as the hot waters of Hierapolis had healing properties and the cold waters of Colosse provided refreshment, both were beneficial. In contrast, lukewarm water is ineffective—neither refreshing nor restorative. Jesus was not condemning the Laodiceans for lacking zeal alone; He rebuked them for being spiritually unproductive. Their complacency rendered them ineffective in ministry, just as their lukewarm water supply was undesirable. Laodicea provided neither spiritual renewal for the weary nor healing for the hurting. As a result, they had become useless to Christ. The solution? Repentance and renewed devotion to the Lord.
Using the imagery of their water system, Jesus made a powerful point: a believer should be spiritually beneficial, whether by bringing refreshment or healing to others. Lukewarm faith—apathetic, ineffective, and self-satisfied—is repulsive to Him.
Do you have any questions about the Book of Revelation or the End Times you’d like >SM to answer? If so, leave them in the comments below. I am learning and following Jesus like anyone else, so I welcome your biblical insight. Your questions and insights help me grow in my faith as I search the Scriptures for God’s answers.
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