Waking is a response to the presence of light and sleeping is the act of escaping from the absence of it.
An examination of Revelation 3
Introduction:
As the letters continue, the familiar refrain forms a rhythm for the listener, “I know your deeds”. The only exceptions have been Smyrna (mourning), “I know your afflictions” and Pergamum (Pride), “I know where you dwell”. These exceptions tell us two things: first, in affliction we simply trust in G-d out of an inability to act, second, where we dwell doesn’t have to affect who we are. In all other cases our actions, be they right or wrong, are an indication of the focus of our core being. Hence, Yeshua doesn’t say, “I know your thoughts” or, “I know your plans” rather He says, “I know your deeds”, because our deeds are either the result of our own thoughts and plans or they’re a result of His thoughts and plans at work in us.
The Messiah continues to name that aspect of His character which is most relevant to the body of believers in question, He continues to reflect the issues associated with the names of the assemblies back to them. In the mirror of His truth the darkness is illuminated and shown for what it really is. Yeshua speaks warning, not with the intention of destruction but with the hope of reconciliation. He disciplines those He loves, the wrath of G-d is born in the soil of love.
These last three letters follow the odour of sin (Thyatira) with the façade (Sardis) of self-deception, then through love offer an opportunity for faithfulness (Philadelphia) prior to the coming judgement (Laodicea):
1.) Thyatira, “Odour” (Consequence of Sin)
2.) Sardis, “Deep orange/red” semi-precious stone used in making jewellery (façade)
3.) Philadelphia, “Brotherly love” (love & Faithfulness)
4.) Laodicea, “People under Judgement” (Judgement)
The one who has ears to hear will be clothed in white, named with belonging and given a seat beside the King.
The Text Revelation 3:
3:1 “To the messenger of the assembly in Sardis (façade) write:
He who holds the sevenfold Spirit of G-d and the seven stars, says this:
Sardis derives its name from the Greek for a reddish semi-precious stone used in costume jewellery. The symbolic meaning presents a façade, the illusion of costly beauty. It was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia and a city of great wealth.
Yeshua names Himself as, “He who holds the sevenfold (Holy) Spirit of G-d,” an allusion to the fact that the Ruach Ha-Kodesh is imparted by the Father and the Son in order to bring glory to the testimony of the Son and in turn to The Father.
He also names Himself as, “the one who holds the seven stars,” that is, the messengers of the assemblies. The messengers and the message they bring are secure and unwavering, maintained in the right hand of Yeshua’s strength.
‘I know your deeds, and that you have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead.
The symbolism is rich, just as the name of the city itself denotes a pretence, so too the illusion of wealth and prosperity cover the spiritual sickness beneath. The makeup is covering up the signs of a life threatening condition.
This can be seen in our own lives when we take on the false theological doctrines of prosperity teachers and claim absolute authority over healing based on the magical use of communion. These are pretence and are soon exposed by the reality of poverty and sickness. Many religious people give generously to charities and advocate for social justice groups, but beneath the façade are the dark motives of acclaim and false humility. We have foolishly elected to believe that we are rich because we are deserving and so G-d has blessed us, when in fact we are the poorest of people, temporarily satisfied by an illusion.
A reputation is formed before an audience of human beings, but G-d sees the intent of the core being. As a community of believers we can’t hide our motivations from HaShem.
2 Wake up and stay awake, strengthen and turn with resolve toward the remnants of your faith, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds full in the sight of My G-d.
Waking is a response to the presence of light and sleeping is the act of escaping from the absence of it.
This exhortation is familiar to ethnic Israel, the prophet Isaiah reminds her of the future hope of the resurrection with the same words. This warning is just that, a warning intended to inspire repentance.
“Your dead will live;
Their corpses will rise.
You who lie in the dust, awake and shout for joy,
For your dew is as the dew of the dawn,
And the earth will give birth to the departed spirits.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 26:19
When bright light—in this case Yeshua, The Light of the Universe—shines on the closed eyes of a sleeping person they can’t help but wake up: the question is, will a person choose to stay awake? In order to stay awake, a person prone to sleep must act, by acting the heart is stirred and the day is used for good purpose. The congregation of Sardis has slept too long, so much so that only a small remnant of true faith is available to them. Therefore Yeshua exhorts them to wake, stay awake and act in righteousness to dissolve their spiritual façade in the strength of the living Word.
”Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead expose them; 12 for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14 For this reason it says,
“Awake, sleeper,
And arise from the dead,
And Messiah will shine on you.” (Isaiah 60:1)
“Arise, shine; for your light has come,
And the glory of HaShem has risen upon you.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 60:1
15 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise,16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17 So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” –Ephesians 5:11-18
Notice that Yeshua is compared to YHVH by Shaul/Paul, the writer of the letter to the Ephesians.
I have not found your deeds full in the sight of My G-d. Deeds that are not full are empty.
3 So remember (zakhor) what you have received and heard; and keep it, and return (tishuvah). Therefore if you do not wake up and stay awake, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you.
When we take time to remember (zakhor) what G-d has done, we become aware of what He is doing and find hope in what He has promised He will do. In this case that hope is in the resurrection and the Olam Habah (World to come).
Yeshua repeats the phrase, “wake up and stay awake,” emphasising the immediacy of the situation. This is compounded by the phrasing, “I will come like a thief” which draws on the imagery of His second coming (Mtt 24:42-50; Lk 12:39-46; 1 Th 5:2-8; 2 Peter 3:8-13—Day of the L-rd), but here denotes a temporal judgement that will take place prior to the final judgement unless the assembly in Sardis repents.
4 But you have a few people in Sardis (façade) who have not soiled their garments (are authentic); and they will (future tense) walk with Me in white, for they are deserving.
Yeshua never makes a blanket judgement. Like the Father, He is just and rewards all according to their deeds. There are those in Sardis who have not dirtied the garments of their good deeds with the pretence of prosperity and false humility, these few are promised that they will continue walking with Messiah in the white garments of their righteous actions. They have been redeemed by Yeshua and as a result they act out of love by doing what is right before G-d. This is the counterpoint to the empty deeds of their pairs. The deeds of the righteous are full in the sight of G-d.
White clothes are used throughout the Scriptures as a symbol for the righteous deeds of the people of G-d (Rev 3:18, 4:4, 6:11, 7:9-14, 16:15, 19:8-14; Isaiah 61:10; Eph 2:10).
These white garments (deeds motivated by Messiah in us) are contrasted against the, “filthy rags” (the appearance of good deeds) described in Isaiah 64:5 (6).
“For all of us have become like one who is unclean,
And all our righteous deeds are like used menstrual rags;
And all of us wither like leaves,
And our perversity, like the wind, takes us away.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 64:6
5 He who overcomes (in Me) will be clothed in white garments; and it’s not at all possible for Me to blot out his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels/messengers. 6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.’
It’s essential to a holistic understanding of the Scriptures that we read, “The person who overcomes” as, “The person who overcomes in Messiah”.
As a result of this illuminated understanding we’re able to better understand what follows, that is, that the white clothing (good deeds) are a result of our having overcome in Messiah. The clothing is not a reward, rather it is the appropriate attire for those who belong to the culture of the Kingdom.
The book of life is referred to in Exodus 32:32-33; Psalm 69:28 and Daniel 12:1.
It is not the one who does good deeds who is securely etched into the book of life, rather it is the one who has overcome in Messiah. This same person will be announced before the Father and His messengers, celebrated before the community of G-d like a Jewish boy at His Bar Mitzvah. (Mtt 10:32-33; Luke 12:8-9; John 10:3)
Therefore, in much the same way that it is impossible for G-d to sin—because it goes against His character—it is also impossible for those who have overcome in Messiah to be blotted out of a book in which their names are written in Messiah’s eternal blood.
7 “And to the messenger of the assembly in Philadelphia (Brotherly love & Faithfulness) write: The holy One (Ha-Kadosh), Who is true, Who has the key of David, Who opens and no one will shut, and Who shuts and no one opens, says this:
Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love has a faithful assembly of Messiah followers and is unique among the seven assemblies because this congregation receives only praise from Yeshua.
“The Holy One”, Ha-Kadosh in Hebrew, is a term that refers to G-d Himself. The Talmud and prayer book (siddur) refer to G-d in this way, as do a number of other prominent Jewish historical writings. It is common in Judaism to refer to G-d as, “Ha-kadosh, barukh hu” (The Holy One blessed is He). Acts 6:10 uses this phrase to designate G-d the Father, here however the phrase is used by Yeshua to describe Himself, there is therefore no need to add the, “blessed is he” because G-d with us need not call Himself blessed.
“Who is true” The Scriptures also refer to G-d as the G-d of truth (Psalm 31:5; Isaiah 65:16; Romans 1:25; 3:7). Here Yeshua uses this phrase to name Himself. This also relates to Rev 1:5, which describes Yeshua as the faithful witness.
“Who has the key of David, Who opens and no one will shut and Who shuts and no one opens”
Yeshua is quoting Yishaiyahu/Isaiah the prophet, who prophesied some 600 years prior to the recording of the Revelation:
Eliyakim (G-d Who rises) the son of Hilkiyah (A part of YHVH), is given the key to the house of David (Beloved):
“Then it will come about in that day,
That I will summon My servant Elyakim (G-d Who rises) the son of Hilkiyah (A part of YHVH),
21 And I will clothe him with your tunic
And tie your sash securely about him.
I will entrust him with your authority,
And he will become a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem (Flood of Peace) and to the house of Judah (Praise).
22 “Then I will set the key of the house of David (Beloved) on his shoulder,
When he opens no one will shut,
When he shuts no one will open.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 22:20-22
Isaiah is speaking of the kingdom and authority of David being taken back from an illegitimate ruler and given to Elyakim (G-d Who rises), whose name reflects the nature of the Messiah King Who will reign over Judah, Israel and the nations.
Therefore, “The key of David” is the key that unlocks all earthly authority. It is the key of the beloved of G-d, Yeshua the rightful King of Israel.
The opening and shutting is under the immutable governance of the One Who holds the key of David. This means that the open and shut doors are a matter of firm resolve on the part of the Messiah, within the plans of the Father G-d.
8 ‘I know your deeds. Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut, because you have little strength, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name. 9 Behold, I will cause those of the synagogue of Satan, who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and make them know that I have loved you.
As in the other letters the deeds of the community are acknowledged. In this case they’re deeds of righteousness performed in spite of affliction and limited resources. Yeshua affirms the unchangeable future hope that He has laid out before them, an open door to the Olam Habah that no one can shut.
The phrase, “you have little strength” could be read, “you have little wealth”. Though they were weak in worldly wealth they were strong in the Word and the Name of Yeshua.
Yeshua also promises imminent judgement against those Gentiles who have lied about being Jews and are teaching false doctrine and persecuting the assembly of believers in Philadelphia. The good news is that the judgement will bring about repentance on their part and that the final outcome will be that they submit to the authority (Key of David) of those who are following Messiah diligently.
This is reminiscent of the prophetic words of the Tanakh regarding the humbling of the nations before ethnic Israel:
“The sons of those who afflicted you will come bowing to you,
And all those who despised you will bow themselves at the soles of your feet;
And they will call you the city of HaShem,
The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 60:14
(See also: Isaiah 45:14, 49:23, 60:14 and Ezekiel 36:23, 37:28).
It’s possible that the assembly of Philadelphia had a large number of ethnic Jewish members who would receive the repentance of those Gentiles who had lied about being Jewish and had participated in the assembly of Satan. This acknowledges the legitimate role of ethnic Jewish Messianic believers as guides and older brothers to their Gentile counterparts.
10 Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep my eye on you and guard you from the hour of trial, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11 I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown.
“The time of trial” which is coming on the world is spoken of in the Tanakh:
“Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued.” –Daniel 12:1
The phrase, “keep you from the hour of trial” is best rendered, “I also will keep my eye on you and guard you from the hour of trial” meaning that those being kept are being shielded/rescued from the trial that the people of the earth will undergo (9:4) and will be warned to flee the impending judgement (18:4).
“Come upon the whole world”: In this context the equivalent Hebrew phrase, “Yoshvei ha-aretz” is understood to reflect the meaning of Isaiah 26:18 which means all human beings except those who are devoted to G-d. In other words, those who follow the beast/Satan (13:3, 8) and have refused to return to G-d. This means that the pagan world will be put through trial by experiencing G-d’s judgement upon the earth (Chapters 6-18). Some will respond to the trial by repenting (11:13), which is the desire of HaShem (1 Peter 3:9); but many will not (9:20-21; 16:8-11, 21).
“I am coming without delay” seems to indicate the immediate judgement of the assembly of Satan. The crown is a competitors laurel given to participants of the Roman games. Here it symbolizes a believer’s commitment to completing the race (2 Timothy 4:7).
12 He who overcomes (in me), I will make him a pillar in the temple of My G-d, and he will never leave it again;
The obvious parallel to the pillars of Solomon’s temple is full of rich meaning for the believer of Philadelphia. This is a promise of eternal glory and established strength in Yeshua. This everlasting spiritual strength is the counterpoint to the weakness in earthly wealth which is temporary.
“He set up the pillars at the porch of the nave; and he set up the right pillar and named it Yachin (He will establish), and he set up the left pillar and named it Boaz (In him is strength).” –1 Kings 7:21
The pillars of Solomon’s temple were fashioned from bronze by Huram Abi (faithful Witness of My Father), an obvious allusion to Yeshua, Who is named the, “faithful witness” in revelation 1:5.
”Huram Abi (faithful Witness of My Father), fashioned the two pillars of bronze; eighteen cubits was the height of one pillar, and a line of twelve cubits measured the circumference of both.” –1 Kings 7:15
This is a wonderful allegory for our relationship in Messiah, like Hiram Abi it is Yeshua the faithful witness of our Father G-d, Who has fashioned us to be pillars in His Father’s House.
The bronze pillars seen here as the righteous children of G-d are also linked to the feet of bronze as from a furnace, belonging to Messiah, as described in Revelation 1:15; 2:18. We are the functioning body of Messiah on earth (Hence feet), tested by fire and proven as bronze pillars.
“You also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to G-d through Yeshua our Mashiyach.” –1 Peter 2:5
and I will write on him the name of My G-d, and the name of the city of My G-d, the new Jerusalem (flood of peace), which comes down out of the heavens (Third heaven outside of time and space) from My G-d, and My new name. 13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.’
The New Yerushalayim (Downpour of Peace) will descend from the third heaven outside of time and space and will be presented with its inhabitants as the bride of Messiah (Rev 21:2). G-d Himself will be the temple and light of the city and believers will be its pillars.
The names we bear indicate who we belong to. In the Torah G-d placed His name on the ethnic people of Israel, commanding Aaron the High Priest to bless them (Numbers 6:24-27). Those who are faithful to Messiah Yeshua will bear the Name of G-d (Rev 22:4) and the Name of the Messiah (Rev 14:1), including Yeshua’s own new Name (Rev 2:17, 19:12). In opposition to this the followers of the Beast will bear His Name (Rev 13:17), indicating that they belong to the Evil One.
On his forehead the High Priest of Israel would wear a gold plate that read, “Kadosh”, Holy. This represents the fact that both the Priest and the people of Israel are “Kadosh lecha HaShem”, Holy unto G-d”. This is true of all who admit their guilt before G-d and accept Messiah’s saving sacrifice. He has become our Great High Priest, we belong to Him and bear His name. He is our G-d, not because He belongs to us but because we belong to Him.
1.) The Name of My G-d: we belong to the Father
2.) The Name of the City of My G-d: we are citizens of the New Jerusalem
3.) My New Name: we belong to Messiah and His illuminated identity
14 “To the messenger of the assembly in Laodicea (People under Judgement) write:
The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of G-d, says this:
The congregation of Laodicea are a people under judgement. In contrast to Philadelphia who received only praise, Laodicea receives only rebuke.
Rav Shaul/Paul the apostle worked hard for the assembly of Laodicea (Colossians 2:1, 4:13) and considered them brethren, writing them a letter (Colossians 4:15-16). It is interesting to note that we have no copies of this lost letter, perhaps an indication of how little respect it was given. The letters written by Shaul to the other congregations were carefully copied and distributed by the early Ecclesia. Laodicea’s Pauline letter stands in stark contrast.
The Amen: The Hebrew word, “Amein” shares the same Hebrew root as emunah (faith) and is also connected with the word emet meaning “truth.” The meaning it expresses is of established trust, acceptance, and agreement. Many translate it, “So be it”, or, “So say we all”.
Amen is found in a number of different contexts in the Hebrew Bible (Numbers 5: 22; Deuteronomy 27: 15; 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26; I Kings I: 36; Isaiah 65: 16; Jeremiah II: 5; 28: 6; I Chronicles 16: 36; Nehemiah 5: 13; 8: 6; Psalms 41: 14; 72: 19; 89: 52; 106: 48).
A late second-century teacher in the Talmud takes the initial letters of amen to represent, “el melekh neeman”, (G-d, Faithful King.) This reflects Yeshua’s descriptions of Himself in Revelation 1:5, 3:7.
A later Jewish commentator of the siddur (prayer book) interprets the initial letters homiletically as, “ani moser nafshi,” (I offer up myself as a sacrifice). A clearer description of the life of Yeshua we could not find.
“Because he who is blessed in the earth
Will be blessed by the G-d of Amein (truth);
And he who swears in the earth
Will swear by the G-d of Amein (truth);;
Because the former troubles are forgotten,
And because they are hidden from My sight! –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 65:16
Yeshua is the faithful (emunah) witness to the truth (emet), the agreement (Amen) with HaShem (Rev 1:6)
The faithful and true Witness: Revelation 1:5
The Beginning of the creation of G-d: The Greek archay, “ruler, beginning” is similar to the Hebrew, Rosh, “Head, First” which affirms Yeshua’s role as the D’var (Word) of John 1:1. This title Names Messiah Yeshua as the uncreated Son of G-d Who was in the beginning with G-d and Who is G-d with us. Yeshua is both the author and ruler of creation, the Word essence of the Father.
Therefore to the Laodiceans Yeshua is the:
1.) Amen: He agrees with G-d that their spiritual condition is shameful
2.) Faithful and true witness: His testimony concerning them cannot be refuted
3.) The Beginning and the Ruler of G-d’s creation: Able to bring judgement against them if they don’t return to G-d
15 ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot.
16 So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth.
First we note that neither hot nor cold are bad things. Yeshua wishes that the Laodiceans were either hot or cold, Yeshua would never wish someone to be cold toward G-d in a faith sense, and therefore this cannot refer to the fire of those with zeal and the coolness of those without it.
Second, there were medicinal hot springs in nearby Hierapolis and fresh water tributaries in the surrounding area. This could indicate that Yeshua desires that the assembly of Laodicea provide healing to the spiritually sick and the life giving water of Yeshua to the spiritually thirsty.
Third, the position between hot and cold is a place of compromise. Faith in Yeshua is marked by an uncompromising commitment to Him as King of the Universe. Therefore to be lukewarm is distasteful to Him.
The Greek emeho means to, “vomit”. This is a fierce metaphor, there is no room for compromise in the assemblies of G-d.
17 Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked,
The purpose of Yeshua’s exhortation is repentance (18-20). The physical wealth and self-sufficiency of the Laodiceans is compounded by the spiritual beliefs they have adopted in light of what they see as prosperity. They claim to be spiritually rich, self-made and self-sufficient. Each of these beliefs stands in direct opposition to the Gospel of Messiah.
”Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.”14 Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapour that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. 15Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.” 16 But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil.” –Yaakov/James 4:13-16
“And Ephraim said, “Surely I have become rich,
I have found wealth for myself;
In all my labours they will find in me
No iniquity, which would be sin.”
9 But I have been HaShem your G-d since the land of Egypt;
I will make you live in tents again,
As in the days of the appointed festival.” –Hosea 12:9-10
The boasting of the self-made men of the Messianic Jewish Diaspora, is rebuked by Yaakov/James as a representation of their failure to trust in G-d’s provision.
The result of Ephraim’s pride was that G-d returned him to desert wandering.
From Yeshua’s perspective the Laodiceans are wretched rather than rich, miserable and poor rather than wealthy, and naked rather than in need of nothing. In fact they were in great spiritual need. Perhaps we are in the same position today?
18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see.
Yeshua is gentle here, He offers advice, instruction, rather than commanding the assembly. A righteous groom would never force Himself on his bride to be, the wedding chamber is sacred.
Yeshua uses the term, “buy” as a means of countering the, “buying” power of the Laodiceans: He doesn’t intend to infer that the gifts of G-d can be purchased, on the contrary His point is, “You can’t buy these spiritual things with your worldly wealth” (Rev 22:17; Isaiah 55:1; Romans 3:24).
“Hey! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters;
And you who have no money come, buy and eat.
Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 55:1
Laodicea was known for its prosperous trade guilds and had a famous medical college where, “Phrygian powder” was refined and used to make an eye salve. It also boasted an extensive textile industry.
The Laodicean assembly boasted:
1.) I’m rich (from my own business dealings)
2.) I’m wealthy (from medicinal profiteering)
3.) I’m in need of nothing (I have all the modern clothing I could want)
Yeshua says:
1.) You’re wretched (because you have trusted in your own ability)
2.) Miserable and poor (because your wealth is temporary)
3.) Blind and naked (because you have chosen not to see Me and have failed to clothe yourself with the righteous deeds of the saints)
Yeshua offers a way of return (tishuvah):
1.) Buy from me (without money) Gold refined by fire (a metaphor for refining and purifying from sin, Proverbs 27:21).
2.) Eye salve that will heal your spiritual blindness
3.) White clothing (the righteous deeds of the faithful)
19 Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline; therefore be zealous and return.
Yeshua loves the errant Laodicean Ecclesia, His purpose is to discipline them and reconcile them to the Father.
“Blessed is the man whom You chasten, O Hashem,
And whom You teach out of Your law;” –Tehillim/Psalm 94:12
“I know, O HaShem, that Your judgments are righteous,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.” –Tehillim/Psalm 119:75
”For those whom HaShem loves He disciplines,
And He scourges every son whom He receives.” –Hebrews 12:6
20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.
In the context of this letter Yeshua is knocking at the door of the errant Laodicean believer. This is not intended as a general evangelistic invitation.
Throughout the letters to the assemblies Yeshua has repeated the phrase, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.” Here he offers an opportunity to wayward believers to hear anew, He is calling out and knocking, but He will not force His way in. The door can be seen as a metaphor for the access point at the core of our being, Yeshua is standing in the midst of the assemblies but is calling on the individual members, the building blocks of the community of faith. He is presenting each one with an opportunity for revival.
The dinning analogy is one of powerful importance to every culture. Food is the centre of family and community interaction and an opportunity for building intimate relationships. Food warms the body and fills it with fuel for life, it provides a foundation of physical contentment upon which we build lasting friendships.
G-d is ever ready to receive repentant sinners:
“Therefore say to them, ‘Thus says HaShem of heavens armies, “Return to Me,” declares HaShem of heavens armies, “that I may return to you,” says HaShem of heavens armies.” –Zechariah 1:3
21 He who overcomes (in Me), I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.’”
Yeshua is the ultimate example for anyone who would overcome sin. It is only in Him that we are able to overcome, therefore we shouldn’t fret about how we will find the strength, because He is our strength.
“But we do see Him who was made for a little while lower than the messengers, namely, Yeshua (Jesus), because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honour, so that by the grace of G-d He might taste death for everyone.10 For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons and daughters to glory, to perfect the author of their salvation through sufferings. 11 For both He who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one Father; for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.” –Hebrews 2:9-11
”For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” –Hebrews 4:15-16
“That we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need”, refers not only to sickness and physical suffering but also in our struggle to resist sinful actions, we have need of grace and mercy in Messiah when we are faced with moral choices, when we are tempted or in disappear, depressed or feeling overwhelmed. Whatever our need may be, we’re able to receive mercy and find grace in Him at any time.
Believers who overcome in Yeshua will actually sit with Him on His throne (Rev 20:4-6, 11; Matt 19:28), which He shares with G-d the Father.
“For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him;
12 If we endure, we will also reign with Him;
If we reject Him, He will also reject us;
13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot reject Himself.” –2 Timothy 2:11-13
© Alastair Brown
Introduction:
As the letters continue, the familiar refrain forms a rhythm for the listener, “I know your deeds”. The only exceptions have been Smyrna (mourning), “I know your afflictions” and Pergamum (Pride), “I know where you dwell”. These exceptions tell us two things: first, in affliction we simply trust in G-d out of an inability to act, second, where we dwell doesn’t have to affect who we are. In all other cases our actions, be they right or wrong, are an indication of the focus of our core being. Hence, Yeshua doesn’t say, “I know your thoughts” or, “I know your plans” rather He says, “I know your deeds”, because our deeds are either the result of our own thoughts and plans or they’re a result of His thoughts and plans at work in us.
The Messiah continues to name that aspect of His character which is most relevant to the body of believers in question, He continues to reflect the issues associated with the names of the assemblies back to them. In the mirror of His truth the darkness is illuminated and shown for what it really is. Yeshua speaks warning, not with the intention of destruction but with the hope of reconciliation. He disciplines those He loves, the wrath of G-d is born in the soil of love.
These last three letters follow the odour of sin (Thyatira) with the façade (Sardis) of self-deception, then through love offer an opportunity for faithfulness (Philadelphia) prior to the coming judgement (Laodicea):
1.) Thyatira, “Odour” (Consequence of Sin)
2.) Sardis, “Deep orange/red” semi-precious stone used in making jewellery (façade)
3.) Philadelphia, “Brotherly love” (love & Faithfulness)
4.) Laodicea, “People under Judgement” (Judgement)
The one who has ears to hear will be clothed in white, named with belonging and given a seat beside the King.
The Text Revelation 3:
3:1 “To the messenger of the assembly in Sardis (façade) write:
He who holds the sevenfold Spirit of G-d and the seven stars, says this:
Sardis derives its name from the Greek for a reddish semi-precious stone used in costume jewellery. The symbolic meaning presents a façade, the illusion of costly beauty. It was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia and a city of great wealth.
Yeshua names Himself as, “He who holds the sevenfold (Holy) Spirit of G-d,” an allusion to the fact that the Ruach Ha-Kodesh is imparted by the Father and the Son in order to bring glory to the testimony of the Son and in turn to The Father.
He also names Himself as, “the one who holds the seven stars,” that is, the messengers of the assemblies. The messengers and the message they bring are secure and unwavering, maintained in the right hand of Yeshua’s strength.
‘I know your deeds, and that you have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead.
The symbolism is rich, just as the name of the city itself denotes a pretence, so too the illusion of wealth and prosperity cover the spiritual sickness beneath. The makeup is covering up the signs of a life threatening condition.
This can be seen in our own lives when we take on the false theological doctrines of prosperity teachers and claim absolute authority over healing based on the magical use of communion. These are pretence and are soon exposed by the reality of poverty and sickness. Many religious people give generously to charities and advocate for social justice groups, but beneath the façade are the dark motives of acclaim and false humility. We have foolishly elected to believe that we are rich because we are deserving and so G-d has blessed us, when in fact we are the poorest of people, temporarily satisfied by an illusion.
A reputation is formed before an audience of human beings, but G-d sees the intent of the core being. As a community of believers we can’t hide our motivations from HaShem.
2 Wake up and stay awake, strengthen and turn with resolve toward the remnants of your faith, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds full in the sight of My G-d.
Waking is a response to the presence of light and sleeping is the act of escaping from the absence of it.
This exhortation is familiar to ethnic Israel, the prophet Isaiah reminds her of the future hope of the resurrection with the same words. This warning is just that, a warning intended to inspire repentance.
“Your dead will live;
Their corpses will rise.
You who lie in the dust, awake and shout for joy,
For your dew is as the dew of the dawn,
And the earth will give birth to the departed spirits.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 26:19
When bright light—in this case Yeshua, The Light of the Universe—shines on the closed eyes of a sleeping person they can’t help but wake up: the question is, will a person choose to stay awake? In order to stay awake, a person prone to sleep must act, by acting the heart is stirred and the day is used for good purpose. The congregation of Sardis has slept too long, so much so that only a small remnant of true faith is available to them. Therefore Yeshua exhorts them to wake, stay awake and act in righteousness to dissolve their spiritual façade in the strength of the living Word.
”Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead expose them; 12 for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14 For this reason it says,
“Awake, sleeper,
And arise from the dead,
And Messiah will shine on you.” (Isaiah 60:1)
“Arise, shine; for your light has come,
And the glory of HaShem has risen upon you.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 60:1
15 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise,16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17 So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” –Ephesians 5:11-18
Notice that Yeshua is compared to YHVH by Shaul/Paul, the writer of the letter to the Ephesians.
I have not found your deeds full in the sight of My G-d. Deeds that are not full are empty.
3 So remember (zakhor) what you have received and heard; and keep it, and return (tishuvah). Therefore if you do not wake up and stay awake, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you.
When we take time to remember (zakhor) what G-d has done, we become aware of what He is doing and find hope in what He has promised He will do. In this case that hope is in the resurrection and the Olam Habah (World to come).
Yeshua repeats the phrase, “wake up and stay awake,” emphasising the immediacy of the situation. This is compounded by the phrasing, “I will come like a thief” which draws on the imagery of His second coming (Mtt 24:42-50; Lk 12:39-46; 1 Th 5:2-8; 2 Peter 3:8-13—Day of the L-rd), but here denotes a temporal judgement that will take place prior to the final judgement unless the assembly in Sardis repents.
4 But you have a few people in Sardis (façade) who have not soiled their garments (are authentic); and they will (future tense) walk with Me in white, for they are deserving.
Yeshua never makes a blanket judgement. Like the Father, He is just and rewards all according to their deeds. There are those in Sardis who have not dirtied the garments of their good deeds with the pretence of prosperity and false humility, these few are promised that they will continue walking with Messiah in the white garments of their righteous actions. They have been redeemed by Yeshua and as a result they act out of love by doing what is right before G-d. This is the counterpoint to the empty deeds of their pairs. The deeds of the righteous are full in the sight of G-d.
White clothes are used throughout the Scriptures as a symbol for the righteous deeds of the people of G-d (Rev 3:18, 4:4, 6:11, 7:9-14, 16:15, 19:8-14; Isaiah 61:10; Eph 2:10).
These white garments (deeds motivated by Messiah in us) are contrasted against the, “filthy rags” (the appearance of good deeds) described in Isaiah 64:5 (6).
“For all of us have become like one who is unclean,
And all our righteous deeds are like used menstrual rags;
And all of us wither like leaves,
And our perversity, like the wind, takes us away.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 64:6
5 He who overcomes (in Me) will be clothed in white garments; and it’s not at all possible for Me to blot out his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels/messengers. 6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.’
It’s essential to a holistic understanding of the Scriptures that we read, “The person who overcomes” as, “The person who overcomes in Messiah”.
As a result of this illuminated understanding we’re able to better understand what follows, that is, that the white clothing (good deeds) are a result of our having overcome in Messiah. The clothing is not a reward, rather it is the appropriate attire for those who belong to the culture of the Kingdom.
The book of life is referred to in Exodus 32:32-33; Psalm 69:28 and Daniel 12:1.
It is not the one who does good deeds who is securely etched into the book of life, rather it is the one who has overcome in Messiah. This same person will be announced before the Father and His messengers, celebrated before the community of G-d like a Jewish boy at His Bar Mitzvah. (Mtt 10:32-33; Luke 12:8-9; John 10:3)
Therefore, in much the same way that it is impossible for G-d to sin—because it goes against His character—it is also impossible for those who have overcome in Messiah to be blotted out of a book in which their names are written in Messiah’s eternal blood.
7 “And to the messenger of the assembly in Philadelphia (Brotherly love & Faithfulness) write: The holy One (Ha-Kadosh), Who is true, Who has the key of David, Who opens and no one will shut, and Who shuts and no one opens, says this:
Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love has a faithful assembly of Messiah followers and is unique among the seven assemblies because this congregation receives only praise from Yeshua.
“The Holy One”, Ha-Kadosh in Hebrew, is a term that refers to G-d Himself. The Talmud and prayer book (siddur) refer to G-d in this way, as do a number of other prominent Jewish historical writings. It is common in Judaism to refer to G-d as, “Ha-kadosh, barukh hu” (The Holy One blessed is He). Acts 6:10 uses this phrase to designate G-d the Father, here however the phrase is used by Yeshua to describe Himself, there is therefore no need to add the, “blessed is he” because G-d with us need not call Himself blessed.
“Who is true” The Scriptures also refer to G-d as the G-d of truth (Psalm 31:5; Isaiah 65:16; Romans 1:25; 3:7). Here Yeshua uses this phrase to name Himself. This also relates to Rev 1:5, which describes Yeshua as the faithful witness.
“Who has the key of David, Who opens and no one will shut and Who shuts and no one opens”
Yeshua is quoting Yishaiyahu/Isaiah the prophet, who prophesied some 600 years prior to the recording of the Revelation:
Eliyakim (G-d Who rises) the son of Hilkiyah (A part of YHVH), is given the key to the house of David (Beloved):
“Then it will come about in that day,
That I will summon My servant Elyakim (G-d Who rises) the son of Hilkiyah (A part of YHVH),
21 And I will clothe him with your tunic
And tie your sash securely about him.
I will entrust him with your authority,
And he will become a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem (Flood of Peace) and to the house of Judah (Praise).
22 “Then I will set the key of the house of David (Beloved) on his shoulder,
When he opens no one will shut,
When he shuts no one will open.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 22:20-22
Isaiah is speaking of the kingdom and authority of David being taken back from an illegitimate ruler and given to Elyakim (G-d Who rises), whose name reflects the nature of the Messiah King Who will reign over Judah, Israel and the nations.
Therefore, “The key of David” is the key that unlocks all earthly authority. It is the key of the beloved of G-d, Yeshua the rightful King of Israel.
The opening and shutting is under the immutable governance of the One Who holds the key of David. This means that the open and shut doors are a matter of firm resolve on the part of the Messiah, within the plans of the Father G-d.
8 ‘I know your deeds. Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut, because you have little strength, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name. 9 Behold, I will cause those of the synagogue of Satan, who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and make them know that I have loved you.
As in the other letters the deeds of the community are acknowledged. In this case they’re deeds of righteousness performed in spite of affliction and limited resources. Yeshua affirms the unchangeable future hope that He has laid out before them, an open door to the Olam Habah that no one can shut.
The phrase, “you have little strength” could be read, “you have little wealth”. Though they were weak in worldly wealth they were strong in the Word and the Name of Yeshua.
Yeshua also promises imminent judgement against those Gentiles who have lied about being Jews and are teaching false doctrine and persecuting the assembly of believers in Philadelphia. The good news is that the judgement will bring about repentance on their part and that the final outcome will be that they submit to the authority (Key of David) of those who are following Messiah diligently.
This is reminiscent of the prophetic words of the Tanakh regarding the humbling of the nations before ethnic Israel:
“The sons of those who afflicted you will come bowing to you,
And all those who despised you will bow themselves at the soles of your feet;
And they will call you the city of HaShem,
The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 60:14
(See also: Isaiah 45:14, 49:23, 60:14 and Ezekiel 36:23, 37:28).
It’s possible that the assembly of Philadelphia had a large number of ethnic Jewish members who would receive the repentance of those Gentiles who had lied about being Jewish and had participated in the assembly of Satan. This acknowledges the legitimate role of ethnic Jewish Messianic believers as guides and older brothers to their Gentile counterparts.
10 Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep my eye on you and guard you from the hour of trial, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11 I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown.
“The time of trial” which is coming on the world is spoken of in the Tanakh:
“Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued.” –Daniel 12:1
The phrase, “keep you from the hour of trial” is best rendered, “I also will keep my eye on you and guard you from the hour of trial” meaning that those being kept are being shielded/rescued from the trial that the people of the earth will undergo (9:4) and will be warned to flee the impending judgement (18:4).
“Come upon the whole world”: In this context the equivalent Hebrew phrase, “Yoshvei ha-aretz” is understood to reflect the meaning of Isaiah 26:18 which means all human beings except those who are devoted to G-d. In other words, those who follow the beast/Satan (13:3, 8) and have refused to return to G-d. This means that the pagan world will be put through trial by experiencing G-d’s judgement upon the earth (Chapters 6-18). Some will respond to the trial by repenting (11:13), which is the desire of HaShem (1 Peter 3:9); but many will not (9:20-21; 16:8-11, 21).
“I am coming without delay” seems to indicate the immediate judgement of the assembly of Satan. The crown is a competitors laurel given to participants of the Roman games. Here it symbolizes a believer’s commitment to completing the race (2 Timothy 4:7).
12 He who overcomes (in me), I will make him a pillar in the temple of My G-d, and he will never leave it again;
The obvious parallel to the pillars of Solomon’s temple is full of rich meaning for the believer of Philadelphia. This is a promise of eternal glory and established strength in Yeshua. This everlasting spiritual strength is the counterpoint to the weakness in earthly wealth which is temporary.
“He set up the pillars at the porch of the nave; and he set up the right pillar and named it Yachin (He will establish), and he set up the left pillar and named it Boaz (In him is strength).” –1 Kings 7:21
The pillars of Solomon’s temple were fashioned from bronze by Huram Abi (faithful Witness of My Father), an obvious allusion to Yeshua, Who is named the, “faithful witness” in revelation 1:5.
”Huram Abi (faithful Witness of My Father), fashioned the two pillars of bronze; eighteen cubits was the height of one pillar, and a line of twelve cubits measured the circumference of both.” –1 Kings 7:15
This is a wonderful allegory for our relationship in Messiah, like Hiram Abi it is Yeshua the faithful witness of our Father G-d, Who has fashioned us to be pillars in His Father’s House.
The bronze pillars seen here as the righteous children of G-d are also linked to the feet of bronze as from a furnace, belonging to Messiah, as described in Revelation 1:15; 2:18. We are the functioning body of Messiah on earth (Hence feet), tested by fire and proven as bronze pillars.
“You also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to G-d through Yeshua our Mashiyach.” –1 Peter 2:5
and I will write on him the name of My G-d, and the name of the city of My G-d, the new Jerusalem (flood of peace), which comes down out of the heavens (Third heaven outside of time and space) from My G-d, and My new name. 13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.’
The New Yerushalayim (Downpour of Peace) will descend from the third heaven outside of time and space and will be presented with its inhabitants as the bride of Messiah (Rev 21:2). G-d Himself will be the temple and light of the city and believers will be its pillars.
The names we bear indicate who we belong to. In the Torah G-d placed His name on the ethnic people of Israel, commanding Aaron the High Priest to bless them (Numbers 6:24-27). Those who are faithful to Messiah Yeshua will bear the Name of G-d (Rev 22:4) and the Name of the Messiah (Rev 14:1), including Yeshua’s own new Name (Rev 2:17, 19:12). In opposition to this the followers of the Beast will bear His Name (Rev 13:17), indicating that they belong to the Evil One.
On his forehead the High Priest of Israel would wear a gold plate that read, “Kadosh”, Holy. This represents the fact that both the Priest and the people of Israel are “Kadosh lecha HaShem”, Holy unto G-d”. This is true of all who admit their guilt before G-d and accept Messiah’s saving sacrifice. He has become our Great High Priest, we belong to Him and bear His name. He is our G-d, not because He belongs to us but because we belong to Him.
1.) The Name of My G-d: we belong to the Father
2.) The Name of the City of My G-d: we are citizens of the New Jerusalem
3.) My New Name: we belong to Messiah and His illuminated identity
14 “To the messenger of the assembly in Laodicea (People under Judgement) write:
The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of G-d, says this:
The congregation of Laodicea are a people under judgement. In contrast to Philadelphia who received only praise, Laodicea receives only rebuke.
Rav Shaul/Paul the apostle worked hard for the assembly of Laodicea (Colossians 2:1, 4:13) and considered them brethren, writing them a letter (Colossians 4:15-16). It is interesting to note that we have no copies of this lost letter, perhaps an indication of how little respect it was given. The letters written by Shaul to the other congregations were carefully copied and distributed by the early Ecclesia. Laodicea’s Pauline letter stands in stark contrast.
The Amen: The Hebrew word, “Amein” shares the same Hebrew root as emunah (faith) and is also connected with the word emet meaning “truth.” The meaning it expresses is of established trust, acceptance, and agreement. Many translate it, “So be it”, or, “So say we all”.
Amen is found in a number of different contexts in the Hebrew Bible (Numbers 5: 22; Deuteronomy 27: 15; 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26; I Kings I: 36; Isaiah 65: 16; Jeremiah II: 5; 28: 6; I Chronicles 16: 36; Nehemiah 5: 13; 8: 6; Psalms 41: 14; 72: 19; 89: 52; 106: 48).
A late second-century teacher in the Talmud takes the initial letters of amen to represent, “el melekh neeman”, (G-d, Faithful King.) This reflects Yeshua’s descriptions of Himself in Revelation 1:5, 3:7.
A later Jewish commentator of the siddur (prayer book) interprets the initial letters homiletically as, “ani moser nafshi,” (I offer up myself as a sacrifice). A clearer description of the life of Yeshua we could not find.
“Because he who is blessed in the earth
Will be blessed by the G-d of Amein (truth);
And he who swears in the earth
Will swear by the G-d of Amein (truth);;
Because the former troubles are forgotten,
And because they are hidden from My sight! –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 65:16
Yeshua is the faithful (emunah) witness to the truth (emet), the agreement (Amen) with HaShem (Rev 1:6)
The faithful and true Witness: Revelation 1:5
The Beginning of the creation of G-d: The Greek archay, “ruler, beginning” is similar to the Hebrew, Rosh, “Head, First” which affirms Yeshua’s role as the D’var (Word) of John 1:1. This title Names Messiah Yeshua as the uncreated Son of G-d Who was in the beginning with G-d and Who is G-d with us. Yeshua is both the author and ruler of creation, the Word essence of the Father.
Therefore to the Laodiceans Yeshua is the:
1.) Amen: He agrees with G-d that their spiritual condition is shameful
2.) Faithful and true witness: His testimony concerning them cannot be refuted
3.) The Beginning and the Ruler of G-d’s creation: Able to bring judgement against them if they don’t return to G-d
15 ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot.
16 So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth.
First we note that neither hot nor cold are bad things. Yeshua wishes that the Laodiceans were either hot or cold, Yeshua would never wish someone to be cold toward G-d in a faith sense, and therefore this cannot refer to the fire of those with zeal and the coolness of those without it.
Second, there were medicinal hot springs in nearby Hierapolis and fresh water tributaries in the surrounding area. This could indicate that Yeshua desires that the assembly of Laodicea provide healing to the spiritually sick and the life giving water of Yeshua to the spiritually thirsty.
Third, the position between hot and cold is a place of compromise. Faith in Yeshua is marked by an uncompromising commitment to Him as King of the Universe. Therefore to be lukewarm is distasteful to Him.
The Greek emeho means to, “vomit”. This is a fierce metaphor, there is no room for compromise in the assemblies of G-d.
17 Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked,
The purpose of Yeshua’s exhortation is repentance (18-20). The physical wealth and self-sufficiency of the Laodiceans is compounded by the spiritual beliefs they have adopted in light of what they see as prosperity. They claim to be spiritually rich, self-made and self-sufficient. Each of these beliefs stands in direct opposition to the Gospel of Messiah.
”Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.”14 Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapour that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. 15Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.” 16 But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil.” –Yaakov/James 4:13-16
“And Ephraim said, “Surely I have become rich,
I have found wealth for myself;
In all my labours they will find in me
No iniquity, which would be sin.”
9 But I have been HaShem your G-d since the land of Egypt;
I will make you live in tents again,
As in the days of the appointed festival.” –Hosea 12:9-10
The boasting of the self-made men of the Messianic Jewish Diaspora, is rebuked by Yaakov/James as a representation of their failure to trust in G-d’s provision.
The result of Ephraim’s pride was that G-d returned him to desert wandering.
From Yeshua’s perspective the Laodiceans are wretched rather than rich, miserable and poor rather than wealthy, and naked rather than in need of nothing. In fact they were in great spiritual need. Perhaps we are in the same position today?
18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see.
Yeshua is gentle here, He offers advice, instruction, rather than commanding the assembly. A righteous groom would never force Himself on his bride to be, the wedding chamber is sacred.
Yeshua uses the term, “buy” as a means of countering the, “buying” power of the Laodiceans: He doesn’t intend to infer that the gifts of G-d can be purchased, on the contrary His point is, “You can’t buy these spiritual things with your worldly wealth” (Rev 22:17; Isaiah 55:1; Romans 3:24).
“Hey! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters;
And you who have no money come, buy and eat.
Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.” –Yishaiyahu/Isaiah 55:1
Laodicea was known for its prosperous trade guilds and had a famous medical college where, “Phrygian powder” was refined and used to make an eye salve. It also boasted an extensive textile industry.
The Laodicean assembly boasted:
1.) I’m rich (from my own business dealings)
2.) I’m wealthy (from medicinal profiteering)
3.) I’m in need of nothing (I have all the modern clothing I could want)
Yeshua says:
1.) You’re wretched (because you have trusted in your own ability)
2.) Miserable and poor (because your wealth is temporary)
3.) Blind and naked (because you have chosen not to see Me and have failed to clothe yourself with the righteous deeds of the saints)
Yeshua offers a way of return (tishuvah):
1.) Buy from me (without money) Gold refined by fire (a metaphor for refining and purifying from sin, Proverbs 27:21).
2.) Eye salve that will heal your spiritual blindness
3.) White clothing (the righteous deeds of the faithful)
19 Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline; therefore be zealous and return.
Yeshua loves the errant Laodicean Ecclesia, His purpose is to discipline them and reconcile them to the Father.
“Blessed is the man whom You chasten, O Hashem,
And whom You teach out of Your law;” –Tehillim/Psalm 94:12
“I know, O HaShem, that Your judgments are righteous,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.” –Tehillim/Psalm 119:75
”For those whom HaShem loves He disciplines,
And He scourges every son whom He receives.” –Hebrews 12:6
20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.
In the context of this letter Yeshua is knocking at the door of the errant Laodicean believer. This is not intended as a general evangelistic invitation.
Throughout the letters to the assemblies Yeshua has repeated the phrase, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.” Here he offers an opportunity to wayward believers to hear anew, He is calling out and knocking, but He will not force His way in. The door can be seen as a metaphor for the access point at the core of our being, Yeshua is standing in the midst of the assemblies but is calling on the individual members, the building blocks of the community of faith. He is presenting each one with an opportunity for revival.
The dinning analogy is one of powerful importance to every culture. Food is the centre of family and community interaction and an opportunity for building intimate relationships. Food warms the body and fills it with fuel for life, it provides a foundation of physical contentment upon which we build lasting friendships.
G-d is ever ready to receive repentant sinners:
“Therefore say to them, ‘Thus says HaShem of heavens armies, “Return to Me,” declares HaShem of heavens armies, “that I may return to you,” says HaShem of heavens armies.” –Zechariah 1:3
21 He who overcomes (in Me), I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.’”
Yeshua is the ultimate example for anyone who would overcome sin. It is only in Him that we are able to overcome, therefore we shouldn’t fret about how we will find the strength, because He is our strength.
“But we do see Him who was made for a little while lower than the messengers, namely, Yeshua (Jesus), because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honour, so that by the grace of G-d He might taste death for everyone.10 For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons and daughters to glory, to perfect the author of their salvation through sufferings. 11 For both He who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one Father; for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.” –Hebrews 2:9-11
”For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” –Hebrews 4:15-16
“That we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need”, refers not only to sickness and physical suffering but also in our struggle to resist sinful actions, we have need of grace and mercy in Messiah when we are faced with moral choices, when we are tempted or in disappear, depressed or feeling overwhelmed. Whatever our need may be, we’re able to receive mercy and find grace in Him at any time.
Believers who overcome in Yeshua will actually sit with Him on His throne (Rev 20:4-6, 11; Matt 19:28), which He shares with G-d the Father.
“For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him;
12 If we endure, we will also reign with Him;
If we reject Him, He will also reject us;
13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot reject Himself.” –2 Timothy 2:11-13
© Alastair Brown
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