Revelation 3:15-16
What is written? (ESV)
I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.
What does it say?
I [Jesus] know your deeds. I would prefer that you were cold or hot, but they are neither. Since you are lukewarm, and neither hot or cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.
What is its immediate context?
A letter to the church at Laodicea, the seventh of seven letters written to the seven churches of Asia from Jesus. They viewed themselves as being “rich” but Jesus says they are, in fact, “poor” (vs 17) and tells them to repent (vs 19).
How Revelation 3:15-16 is applied across Bible answers
What is the hot and cold of Laodicea (Revelation 3:15-16)?
Jesus points out to the Laodiceans, based on their works, that they are "lukewarm," and He would prefer they were "cold or hot" - either state avoiding Him discarding them (e.g. spitting them out of His mouth).
The context makes it clear that they had become complacent in their spiritual lives. Actually, they were in the worst position since they believed themselves to be "rich" toward God (in good standing with God), when in fact they were poor. Jesus provides imagery indicating that He is the source for their remedy and calls for them to repent (vss 18-19).
