What does the Bible mean when it says we should not be lukewarm, but rather hot or cold?

Jesus’ message to the Laodicean church is where we find this verse. Laodicea was a wealthy city in Asia Minor, and, unlike the nearby cities of Heirapolis (known for its hot springs) or Collasae (known for its fresh cold water), it had to pipe in water through a long aqueduct. By the time it arrived, it was lukewarm and distasteful. Jesus described the works of Laodicea as neither hot nor cold, but lukewarm. God detests its mediocrity because the church had opportunity to recognize its condition.

“You do not know,” marked Laodicea. This church felt it was rich and needed nothing. It was in a prominent banking center known for its self-sufficiency. When an earthquake destroyed the city, it refused assistance from the emperor to rebuild. To its wealthy church, Jesus said, “You do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (v. 17)—strong language for a proud city. Instead, Christ offers them gold refined in fire, the pure gold of faith.

Jesus also calls Laodicea, known for its textiles, “naked” and offers them the white garments of His righteousness. And though the city was known for a medical school that sold special eye ointment, the Lord says they are “blind” and need His eye salve to see.

Yet Jesus loves this church. “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent” (v. 19). The root word for zealous (zeal) means “hot.” Being hot means being fervent about our relationship with God. Being cold describes a humble condition in which we recognize our weakness. Jesus can bless either of these attitudes, but not pride and self-sufficiency. The Lord wants this church to be on fire—“Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in” (v. 20).

Key Bible Texts

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. (Revelation 3:15 KJV)