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In Peril of being Lukewarm

Text: Revelation 3:14-22
3 September 2006

A SOLEMN WORD OF WARNING

“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth” Revelation 3:15-16

1. No escaping the penetrating eyes of the Lord

a) Works reveal the true state of the heart

b) Lukewarm heart unacceptable

2. Firm and unmistakable warning

“I will vomit you out of My mouth”

a) Spat out- severe reaction

b) Spat out- natural reaction

c) Spat out- symbolic reaction

HOW DOES A CHURCH END UP BEING LUKEWARM?

1. The problem of wealth

“Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing” Revelation 3:17 (Cf. Parable of the Rich Fool Luke 12:16-21)

a) Love for wealth

b) Self-deception

2. The problem of wrong perception of self “And do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked”
Revelation 3:17

a) Problem of conceit

b) Problem of hypocrisy

REASONS FOR THIS FIRM WORD OF REBUKE

“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten” Revelation 3:19

1. Love

2. Authority

3. Hope for repentance to take place

A WAY OF ESCAPE OFFERED

“I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments that you may be clothed… and anoint your eyes with eye salve that you may see” Revelation 3:18

“Therefore be zealous and repent” Revelation 3:19

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him” Revelation 3:20

1. Repentance still possible

2. A second-chance still available

3. Restoration a very real hope