Laodicea is addressed in Revelation 3:14–22 as the seventh and final of the churches in Asia Minor to receive a message from Jesus through the apostle John. It was a wealthy city, known for its banking industry, textile production, and medical advancements, particularly its eye salve. However, the spiritual condition of the church there was in stark contrast to its material prosperity.
Jesus began His message by identifying Himself as “the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God” (Revelation 3:14). He then rebuked the church for being “neither cold nor hot.” He said, “I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm… I will vomit you out of My mouth” (Revelation 3:15–16). This strong language illustrates divine displeasure with spiritual indifference.
The Laodiceans saw themselves as rich and self-sufficient, saying, “I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” but Jesus exposed their true condition: “You are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17). He counseled them to buy from Him gold refined in the fire, white garments to cover their shame, and eye salve to anoint their eyes so they could see (Revelation 3:18). These words called them to seek true spiritual riches, righteousness, and discernment.
Jesus said, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent” (Revelation 3:19). He stood at the door and knocked, offering fellowship to any who would hear His voice and open to Him. He promised that the one who overcomes will sit with Him on His throne, just as He overcame and sat down with His Father (Revelation 3:20–21).
Laodicea represents a church that had become complacent, trusting in worldly wealth rather than in Christ. Yet Jesus’ words also reveal His love and willingness to restore any who repent and return to Him. It is a call to renew fervency, humility, and dependence upon the Lord.
