The Meaning of Revelation 3:15-16

3:15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot.     
3:16 So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. (Revelation 3:15-16)

Often, this passage is misunderstood. Jesus does not tell believers that He wishes for them to be completely evil (cold) or completely good (hot). The key to understanding these verses is to know about the geography of Laodicea, the city to which Jesus addressed this portion of the Book of Revelation.

Waters of Hierapolis

Waters of Colossae

Nearby Hierapolis had hot, medicinal waters that worked wonders on achy, ill bodies. Another border city, Colossae, was known for cold, refreshing water that people loved to drink. Hot water is useful. Cold water is useful. But lukewarm water is useful - - just try to swallow a mouthful of lukewarm water and you’ll see what I mean!

The point of Revelation 3:15-16 is that Jesus does not desire for people to follow Him half-heartedly. He desires a believer’s entire heart. May we serve Him with all of our heart, mind, and passion!

22:36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 22:37 And He said to him, “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’                               
22:38 “This is the great and foremost commandment.” (Matthew 22:36-38)