Revelation 3:16
Verse
Context
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Because thou art lukewarm - Irresolute and undecided. I will spue thee out of my mouth - He alludes here to the known effect of tepid water upon the stomach; it generally produces a nausea. I wilt cast thee off. Thou shalt have no interest in me. Though thou hast been near to my heart, yet now I must pluck thee thence, because slothful, careless, and indolent; thou art not in earnest for thy soul.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
neither cold nor hot--So one oldest manuscript, B, and Vulgate read. But two oldest manuscripts, Syriac, and Coptic transpose thus, "hot nor cold." It is remarkable that the Greek adjectives are in the masculine, agreeing with the angel, not feminine, agreeing with the Church. The Lord addresses the angel as the embodiment and representative of the Church. The chief minister is answerable for his flock if he have not faithfully warned the members of it. I will--Greek, "I am about to," "I am ready to": I have it in my mind: implying graciously the possibility of the threat not being executed, if only they repent at once. His dealings towards them will depend on theirs towards Him. spue thee out of my month--reject with righteous loathing, as Canaan spued out its inhabitants for their abominations. Physicians used lukewarm water to cause vomiting. Cold and hot drinks were common at feasts, but never lukewarm. There were hot and cold springs near Laodicea.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I counsel thee,.... Christ is a Counsellor, and is every way fit to be one, for he is the all wise God, the Ancient of days, and the Father of his people, and, as Mediator, the Wisdom of God; and he was concerned in the council of peace from everlasting; and when he was here on earth he gave counsel in person, and now he gives it by his Spirit, and by his word and ministers; and the substance of it is, to come to him for grace, life, and salvation; for pardon, peace, and righteousness; for spiritual light and knowledge, and every supply of grace; and his advice is always wholesome, good, and suitable, is hearty, sincere, and faithful, and is freely given, and is wise and prudent; and, being taken, infallibly succeeds; the counsel here given follows: to buy of me gold tried in the fire; by which is meant either a more pure and glorious state of the church, such as was in the former period, or greater; or a larger measure of light and knowledge in the Gospel, which is better than fine gold; or some particular graces, and a comfortable exercise of them, as fervent love and strong faith, which is much more precious than gold; or rather, all spiritual riches in general, which are in Christ, and are unsearchable, solid, substantial and satisfying; are lasting and durable, precious, excellent, and incorruptible: and the buying of this gold is not to be understood in a proper sense, by giving a valuable consideration for it, for no such is to be given, but in an improper sense; it is a buying without money and without price; Christ and his grace are given freely; Christ of whom it is to be had and of him only, does not sell it, but he gives it to those that come to him for it, and desire to have it, and are willing to part with all, so they may but enjoy it; for that it is to be understood in such a sense, is clear from the character of the persons who are advised to buy, who were poor, or beggars, Rev 3:17; the end of it is, that thou mayest be rich; for though this church was rich, yet not in spirituals; and though she was rich in her own conceit, yet not really so: persons are not to be accounted truly rich who have only this world's goods; none are rich but those who have an interest in Christ and his grace; and they who are poor in this world, and yet have grace, are really rich: the next thing advised to is, and white raiment; that is, and buy white raiment, by which some understand the heavenly glory, robes of immortality, a being clothed upon with the house which is from heaven; this may be compared to raiment, for it is a glory, an immortality, an incorruption to be put on; and fitly enough to white raiment, for the purity and spotlessness of it; and being clothed with this, no nakedness, or shame of it will appear; and this is to be had from Christ, and in the same way as gold is to be bought of him; the design of this advice may be to quicken the desires of the church after heavenly things; though it rather seems to respect something suitable to her in this present state: wherefore others think that by it are meant good works, holiness of life and conversation; but these are never called white raiment, but even rags, yea, filthy ones, in the best; and whatever cover they may be from nakedness in the sight of men, they are no cover from it in the sight of God, nor do they preserve from shame and blushing: rather then by it is meant the righteousness of Christ, which may be compared to raiment; it is upon the saints, and is put upon them as such; it covers as a garment does, protects from injuries, keeps warm, beautifies and adorns, as raiment does; and it may be compared to white raiment for its purity and perfection; now this is to be bought of Christ, it is to be had of him, and is to be had of him freely, without money and without price; it is a free gift of grace; and even faith itself, which receives it, is the gift of God: the ends of giving this advice are, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; the soul may be naked when the body is well clothed; and notwithstanding a man's moral righteousness, he may not be clothed; they, and they only are clothed, who have on the righteousness of Christ; nakedness arises from want of, righteousness, which is only covered by the righteousness of Christ; and from hence also springs shame, which Christ's righteousness hides: and anoint thine eyes with eye salve; by which may be meant the word of God, particularly the Gospel; and anointing with it is making use of it for the gaining of light and knowledge: all without this divine revelation are in darkness, and such who reject the authority of it go astray; the Scriptures are the only directory, and rule of faith and practice; the law is a means of enlightening persons to see their sin and misery, and the danger they are in; and the Gospel is a light, whereby is beheld the glory of Christ, of his person and office, of his grace and righteousness, and of salvation by him; and this is the Gospel of Christ, and is to be had of him freely, even the saving knowledge of it. The Jews have adopted the very Greek word here used into their language, and apply it to the law; says R. Chija (e), speaking of the law, "Nyel tyrwlyq, "it is a salve for the eye", a plaster for a wound, &c. it is a salve for the eyes, as is written Psa 19:8. or else the illumination of the Spirit is meant, by which the eyes of the understanding being enlightened, men see themselves, the impurity of their hearts and nature, the imperfection of their righteousness, their impotency to all that is spiritually good, and that they are lost and undone in themselves; and by which they see Christ and salvation by him, that it is in him, and in no other, and that it is full and suitable, and for the chief of sinners, and that it is all of free grace, and that they have an interest in it; by this they have light into the doctrines of the Gospel, and have some glimpse of the glories of another world; and this is to be had of Christ, who gives his Spirit freely, and an understanding to know spiritual things: and the end of the advice is, that thou mayest see; who, notwithstanding the conceit she had of herself, was blind; persons may have much human prudence, much knowledge in things moral, yea, in things evangelical, notionally, and yet be blind as to true spiritual light and experience; they only see spiritually and savingly who have the Spirit of God, (e) Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 96. 3. Debarim Rabba, sect. 8. fol. 243. 3. & Vajikra Rabba, sect. 12. fol. 155. 3.
Revelation 3:16
To the Church in Laodicea
15I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other!16So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth!
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Weighed in the Balance (Sermon Reading)
By D.L. Moody15K23:10ReadingEXO 20:8EXO 20:15MAT 5:17MAT 5:27MAT 25:1REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a scene of chaos and destruction, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to the word "Tinkle." He then urges the congregation to consider their own spiritual state and readiness to be weighed in God's balance. The preacher highlights the significance of obeying God's commandments, particularly focusing on the observance of the Sabbath. He warns that neglecting the Sabbath will lead to the downfall of nations. The sermon concludes with a call to examine one's heart and actions, emphasizing the need for repentance and conversion in order to be saved.
(Messages) Pearl of Great Price
By Basilea Schlink7.8K53:45Jesus ChristMAT 5:11MAT 6:332TI 3:12REV 3:16In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges and difficulties faced by disciples of Jesus. They acknowledge that it can be hard when others look down on us or question our reputation. However, the speaker encourages listeners to find peace and harmony with others, both at work and at home. They emphasize the importance of following Jesus' way and the rewards that await in heaven. The sermon also highlights the power of hope and trust in God's promises, reminding listeners that God is faithful and will ultimately solve their problems or provide peace and comfort in difficult situations.
Complete Surrender
By A.W. Tozer6.8K43:16Absolute SurrenderGEN 6:8PSA 57:9PSA 108:5PSA 149:6LUK 9:231CO 15:34REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering oneself to God and sacrificing for His glory. The speaker talks about the need to prioritize spiritual matters over worldly desires and distractions. They mention the concept of being caught up with the masses and the importance of staying connected to God and fellow believers. The sermon also highlights the power of prayer and seeking God's mercy and protection in times of trouble. The preacher references various Bible verses, including Psalm 57, to support their message.
(Men Who Met God): Elijah - "The Lord Leviticus Before Whom I Stand"
By A.W. Tozer6.6K47:50Elijah1KI 18:211KI 18:401KI 19:91KI 19:111KI 19:181KI 19:21MAT 6:332TI 4:3HEB 11:6JAS 1:121PE 5:8REV 2:10REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of finding reality and how sin often prevents us from experiencing it. He explores the inner conflict within humans, where the divine nature clashes with the sinful nature. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the meaning behind hymns and not just singing them without comprehension. He challenges the audience to take action and not waste their time, urging them to seek the faith and courage of Elijah in standing before God.
(The Chief End of Man - Part 5): Come and Consecrate
By A.W. Tozer5.9K46:24Chief End of ManGEN 1:27MAT 22:37JHN 17:22ROM 12:1REV 2:4REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of worshiping God with adoration and love. He shares the story of a renowned philosopher and mathematician who had a profound encounter with God, describing it as a two-hour experience of fire. The philosopher's prayer and declaration of faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob demonstrate his deep connection with God. The preacher then explains that worship is characterized by boundless confidence in the character of God and emphasizes the need for a higher opinion of God in order to engage in true worship.
Grieving the Holy Spirit
By David Wilkerson5.3K47:08Holy SpiritGEN 6:3MAT 5:29MAT 18:8MRK 9:43ACT 5:1REV 2:16REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who was on the verge of losing everything due to his addiction. Despite asking for prayer, he couldn't resist getting high before an important meeting and ended up losing his company. The preacher emphasizes the importance of keeping our hearts open to the Holy Spirit and avoiding corrupt communication, such as watching movies that take God's name in vain or engage in pornography. He warns that indulging in such behavior grieves the Holy Spirit and can lead to spiritual adultery and idolatry. The preacher also addresses the issue of sin and encourages individuals to turn to God for forgiveness rather than running away and waiting for judgment.
(Hebrews - Part 22): Moses Instructed in Making the Temple
By A.W. Tozer4.6K38:32ExpositionalGEN 6:13EXO 25:40EXO 26:30JHN 14:15REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following the pattern shown in the mount, which refers to the instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The preacher urges the congregation to prepare their hearts to hear the word of God and to have confidence in Him rather than in humanity. He emphasizes the need to obey the word of God and not to take any liberties or make any improvisations. The preacher also highlights that redemption is the work of God, not man, and that true freedom lies in obedience to God's laws.
A Holy Remnant (Clip)
By David Wilkerson4.3K08:481SA 2:271SA 3:11ISA 1:11ISA 6:8LUK 18:1JHN 10:272TI 2:21REV 3:16REV 3:20God is quietly preparing a powerful army of dedicated Christians, more devoted than any before, to do exploits and shake hell. This remnant will be made up of ordinary believers who lay hold of God, ushering in a new realm of the Holy Spirit's moving. Just as in 1 Samuel, God is raising up a holy remnant to replace old religious systems with a new program of the Holy Ghost, judging and forsaking compromised churches. This remnant, birthed in prayer and intercession, will be wholly committed to God, seeking His righteousness and glory in these last days.
The Wonderful Love of Jesus
By David Wilkerson3.2K54:06MAT 6:33LUK 6:352TI 4:22TI 4:52TI 4:181PE 3:8REV 3:16REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker shares about his recent encounter with two young men, Nicky Cruz and Sonny Argonzoni, who have powerful testimonies of transformation through Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of presenting Jesus accurately to the world, as opposed to the distorted view of a vengeful and judgmental God. He highlights the need for believers to be faithful ambassadors of Christ, showing compassion and love to others. The speaker references the story of the prodigal son to illustrate God's mercy and forgiveness towards those who repent and turn to Him.
1996 Christian Youth Conference - Testimony
By Stephen Kaung3.2K1:19:26MAT 6:33PHP 3:121TH 5:24REV 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth, just as Jesus commanded. He compares the 33-year period of the Book of Acts to the lifespan of Jesus on earth, highlighting the Holy Spirit's four moves that led to the spread of the Gospel. The speaker also addresses the concern of the Gospel dwindling in subsequent generations and offers advice on remaining faithful to what the Lord has revealed. He mentions that the Gospel is a three-fold message of grace, salvation for sinners, and discipleship in the kingdom of God.
Worst Thing to Happen to a Preacher - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.8K10:21MAL 3:2MAT 16:24ACT 2:41CO 1:181CO 2:42CO 5:141TH 5:17JAS 5:16REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the need for a revival of true, uncompromising Christianity, challenging the modern church to return to the radical commitment and power demonstrated by figures like Leonard Ravenhill and the Apostle Paul. It critiques the lukewarmness and lack of spiritual fervor in today's church, calling for a genuine encounter with the Holy Spirit to ignite a transformative fire that can impact the world. The speaker highlights the importance of personal devotion, prayer, and a deep care for the spiritual well-being of others, echoing the sacrificial dedication of early Christian leaders despite their hardships.
Powerful Quotes From Leonard Ravenhill
By Leonard Ravenhill2.5K14:59MAT 7:13MAT 16:24ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 2:20HEB 12:14JAS 4:81PE 1:151JN 1:9REV 3:16This sermon by Leonard Ravenhill challenges the modern church to reevaluate its priorities and return to a genuine, transformative relationship with God. It emphasizes the need for true repentance, prayer, and a deep concern for holiness and eternity. Ravenhill highlights the contrast between the lukewarm Christianity of today and the radical commitment required by true discipleship, urging believers to seek a life that glorifies God and reflects His transformative power.
An Open Door (Part 6)
By Jim Cymbala2.4K20:04Open DoorMAT 7:7MAT 16:191CO 16:92CO 2:12REV 3:7REV 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of a minister who spent 40 years preaching rules and regulations before truly preaching about Jesus. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and seizing open doors of opportunity that God presents to us. He mentions the apostle Paul's experience in Ephesus, where a great door for effective work opened for him, despite facing opposition. The speaker encourages the congregation to embrace the open doors God provides and to hold on to their spiritual blessings.
Ephraim Is a Cake Not Turned
By Aaron Hurst2.4K1:14:04LukewarmnessPSA 51:2PSA 51:7ISA 32:9MAT 6:33LUK 8:17REV 2:2REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering everything to God and not holding back. He urges the audience to examine their lives and identify any "stuff" that may be hindering their full commitment to God. This includes relationships, possessions, and even music choices. The preacher encourages the audience to forsake all and take up their cross to truly be disciples of Jesus. He also highlights the potential impact of a generation fully sold out for God, using the example of Noah and Lot.
The Fire of Hell and the Fire of Love
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:05:26MAT 5:29REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of moving from a fear of punishment to a deep love for Jesus Christ in order to overcome sin. It discusses the two fires mentioned in the Bible - the fire of hell that can keep us from sinning out of fear, and the fire of fervent love for Jesus that motivates us to obey His commandments out of love. The sermon encourages believers to progress from the fear of punishment to a genuine love for Jesus, comparing it to moving from school to college spiritually.
The Passion (Full Version)
By Compilations2.0K12:07PSA 51:10MAT 16:24JHN 17:32CO 5:17GAL 2:202TI 4:3HEB 12:1JAS 1:221PE 1:15REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of encountering Jesus Christ, challenging believers to move beyond a superficial faith and embrace a life of true discipleship. It calls for a return to genuine worship, repentance, and a deep relationship with God, rejecting shallow teachings and self-centered Christianity. The message urges believers to run from churches and leaders that prioritize personal gain, lack true repentance, and do not preach the full Gospel, encouraging a pursuit of holiness and a passionate, sacrificial commitment to Christ.
What Church to Go? What Denomination to Stay?
By Zac Poonen1.9K06:39MAT 18:20JHN 4:23REV 2:4REV 3:16REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of being true disciples of Jesus rather than being loyal to denominations or organizations. It highlights the need to seek churches and leaders that challenge individuals to grow spiritually and be radical in their faith, even if they are not part of the same denomination. The speaker warns against the dangers of worldly churches and the importance of being connected to Jesus rather than a specific group or denomination.
Ian Paisley and William Mullan Testimonies
By Ian Paisley1.7K1:09:16PSA 119:105JHN 3:16ROM 8:171CO 1:172CO 4:4PHP 2:5COL 3:2REV 3:16REV 3:20This sermon reflects on the importance of staying true to the core message of the Gospel, emphasizing the need for personal surrender to God amidst the challenges and apostasy in the church. It highlights the significance of reading and studying the Bible diligently, exploring the depths of God's truth and message. The sermon also pays tribute to influential preachers like Jock Troop and James McKendrick, underscoring the impact of their teachings and characters in the ministry.
Leonard Ravenhill -Um Dos Maiores Pregadores Do Século (Portuguese Sub-Titles)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K10:36MAT 16:241CO 1:182CO 5:14REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the need for radical commitment to Christ, challenging the complacency and lack of power in modern Christianity. It calls for a return to the fire of the Holy Spirit, a deep prayer life, and a genuine care for the well-being of the Church. The speaker highlights the sacrifices and sufferings of the apostle Paul, contrasting them with the lukewarmness and lack of dedication seen in many believers today.
The Cross and Eternal Glory - Part 5
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K56:45Eternal GloryGEN 3:21MAT 6:33REV 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the Bible as a whole rather than just focusing on individual verses or fragments. The Bible is seen as a book that relates to one central theme, which is the eternal glory of God. The speaker suggests that everything in the Bible, from the first page to the last, is governed by this theme and should be interpreted in light of it. By grasping this central theme, one can unlock the meaning and significance of every book and subject in the Bible. The speaker encourages listeners to approach their study of the Bible with this perspective in order to gain a deeper understanding of its message.
Time to Wake Up (Compilation)
By Compilations1.5K10:022CH 7:14MAL 3:16MAT 7:21MAT 24:44ROM 2:51CO 3:13HEB 12:14JAS 4:81PE 1:15REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of true repentance and returning to the foundational truths of the Gospel. It challenges the modern church to move away from diluted messages and shallow experiences, urging believers to seek holiness and a genuine relationship with God. The speaker warns against complacency, hypocrisy, and the dangers of a watered-down gospel that fails to address sin and the need for genuine transformation.
The Lordship of Christ
By William MacDonald1.5K40:35Lordship Of ChristRUT 1:16PSA 27:4PSA 119:116MAT 6:33LUK 9:57PHP 3:13REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of making a total commitment to God. He references the story of Ruth from the book of Ruth in the Bible. The preacher highlights the excuses that people often make to delay or avoid following God's call, such as being preoccupied with worldly possessions or personal desires. He emphasizes that seeking the kingdom of God should be the top priority in our lives, even though it doesn't guarantee a life free from problems. The sermon encourages listeners to have the same level of dedication and loyalty to God as Ruth had, declaring "Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay; your people will be my people, and your God my God."
Escape for Thy Life
By Roy Hession1.3K56:42WarningGEN 19:171KI 18:21MAT 16:26JHN 3:161TI 6:102PE 2:6REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the Gospel is both bad news and good news. He explains that the world we live in is under the judgment of God because it opposes His will and rejects Jesus Christ. The preacher warns that those who are identified with this world will be involved in its ultimate judgment. However, he also highlights the hope and security found in the cross of Christ, where God pardons and gives the Holy Spirit to those who believe. He concludes by sharing a story of people fleeing from a raging fire, illustrating the urgency of escaping the judgment of God.
Celebration of 40 Years of Revival
By Erlo Stegen1.3K1:11:28Revival HistoryMAT 28:19ROM 1:14REV 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experiences and observations of the state of Christianity over the past 40 years. He expresses his disappointment in seeing people initially accepting Christ but quickly losing their faith. He emphasizes the importance of being under the control of the Holy Spirit and following the teachings of Jesus. The speaker also criticizes Christian youth who prioritize worldly things over the word of God and warns that those who do not keep God's word will not go to heaven.
This Heart Is Too Small - Part 3
By Joshua Daniel1.1K09:41PSA 51:6PRO 28:13HEB 4:13JAS 5:16REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the danger of hiding sin and putting on a false appearance before God. It highlights the importance of being transparent and truthful in our relationship with God, acknowledging our spiritual poverty and need for His truth in our lives. The speaker shares personal experiences of accountability and the consequences of not recognizing one's own spiritual state.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Because thou art lukewarm - Irresolute and undecided. I will spue thee out of my mouth - He alludes here to the known effect of tepid water upon the stomach; it generally produces a nausea. I wilt cast thee off. Thou shalt have no interest in me. Though thou hast been near to my heart, yet now I must pluck thee thence, because slothful, careless, and indolent; thou art not in earnest for thy soul.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
neither cold nor hot--So one oldest manuscript, B, and Vulgate read. But two oldest manuscripts, Syriac, and Coptic transpose thus, "hot nor cold." It is remarkable that the Greek adjectives are in the masculine, agreeing with the angel, not feminine, agreeing with the Church. The Lord addresses the angel as the embodiment and representative of the Church. The chief minister is answerable for his flock if he have not faithfully warned the members of it. I will--Greek, "I am about to," "I am ready to": I have it in my mind: implying graciously the possibility of the threat not being executed, if only they repent at once. His dealings towards them will depend on theirs towards Him. spue thee out of my month--reject with righteous loathing, as Canaan spued out its inhabitants for their abominations. Physicians used lukewarm water to cause vomiting. Cold and hot drinks were common at feasts, but never lukewarm. There were hot and cold springs near Laodicea.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I counsel thee,.... Christ is a Counsellor, and is every way fit to be one, for he is the all wise God, the Ancient of days, and the Father of his people, and, as Mediator, the Wisdom of God; and he was concerned in the council of peace from everlasting; and when he was here on earth he gave counsel in person, and now he gives it by his Spirit, and by his word and ministers; and the substance of it is, to come to him for grace, life, and salvation; for pardon, peace, and righteousness; for spiritual light and knowledge, and every supply of grace; and his advice is always wholesome, good, and suitable, is hearty, sincere, and faithful, and is freely given, and is wise and prudent; and, being taken, infallibly succeeds; the counsel here given follows: to buy of me gold tried in the fire; by which is meant either a more pure and glorious state of the church, such as was in the former period, or greater; or a larger measure of light and knowledge in the Gospel, which is better than fine gold; or some particular graces, and a comfortable exercise of them, as fervent love and strong faith, which is much more precious than gold; or rather, all spiritual riches in general, which are in Christ, and are unsearchable, solid, substantial and satisfying; are lasting and durable, precious, excellent, and incorruptible: and the buying of this gold is not to be understood in a proper sense, by giving a valuable consideration for it, for no such is to be given, but in an improper sense; it is a buying without money and without price; Christ and his grace are given freely; Christ of whom it is to be had and of him only, does not sell it, but he gives it to those that come to him for it, and desire to have it, and are willing to part with all, so they may but enjoy it; for that it is to be understood in such a sense, is clear from the character of the persons who are advised to buy, who were poor, or beggars, Rev 3:17; the end of it is, that thou mayest be rich; for though this church was rich, yet not in spirituals; and though she was rich in her own conceit, yet not really so: persons are not to be accounted truly rich who have only this world's goods; none are rich but those who have an interest in Christ and his grace; and they who are poor in this world, and yet have grace, are really rich: the next thing advised to is, and white raiment; that is, and buy white raiment, by which some understand the heavenly glory, robes of immortality, a being clothed upon with the house which is from heaven; this may be compared to raiment, for it is a glory, an immortality, an incorruption to be put on; and fitly enough to white raiment, for the purity and spotlessness of it; and being clothed with this, no nakedness, or shame of it will appear; and this is to be had from Christ, and in the same way as gold is to be bought of him; the design of this advice may be to quicken the desires of the church after heavenly things; though it rather seems to respect something suitable to her in this present state: wherefore others think that by it are meant good works, holiness of life and conversation; but these are never called white raiment, but even rags, yea, filthy ones, in the best; and whatever cover they may be from nakedness in the sight of men, they are no cover from it in the sight of God, nor do they preserve from shame and blushing: rather then by it is meant the righteousness of Christ, which may be compared to raiment; it is upon the saints, and is put upon them as such; it covers as a garment does, protects from injuries, keeps warm, beautifies and adorns, as raiment does; and it may be compared to white raiment for its purity and perfection; now this is to be bought of Christ, it is to be had of him, and is to be had of him freely, without money and without price; it is a free gift of grace; and even faith itself, which receives it, is the gift of God: the ends of giving this advice are, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; the soul may be naked when the body is well clothed; and notwithstanding a man's moral righteousness, he may not be clothed; they, and they only are clothed, who have on the righteousness of Christ; nakedness arises from want of, righteousness, which is only covered by the righteousness of Christ; and from hence also springs shame, which Christ's righteousness hides: and anoint thine eyes with eye salve; by which may be meant the word of God, particularly the Gospel; and anointing with it is making use of it for the gaining of light and knowledge: all without this divine revelation are in darkness, and such who reject the authority of it go astray; the Scriptures are the only directory, and rule of faith and practice; the law is a means of enlightening persons to see their sin and misery, and the danger they are in; and the Gospel is a light, whereby is beheld the glory of Christ, of his person and office, of his grace and righteousness, and of salvation by him; and this is the Gospel of Christ, and is to be had of him freely, even the saving knowledge of it. The Jews have adopted the very Greek word here used into their language, and apply it to the law; says R. Chija (e), speaking of the law, "Nyel tyrwlyq, "it is a salve for the eye", a plaster for a wound, &c. it is a salve for the eyes, as is written Psa 19:8. or else the illumination of the Spirit is meant, by which the eyes of the understanding being enlightened, men see themselves, the impurity of their hearts and nature, the imperfection of their righteousness, their impotency to all that is spiritually good, and that they are lost and undone in themselves; and by which they see Christ and salvation by him, that it is in him, and in no other, and that it is full and suitable, and for the chief of sinners, and that it is all of free grace, and that they have an interest in it; by this they have light into the doctrines of the Gospel, and have some glimpse of the glories of another world; and this is to be had of Christ, who gives his Spirit freely, and an understanding to know spiritual things: and the end of the advice is, that thou mayest see; who, notwithstanding the conceit she had of herself, was blind; persons may have much human prudence, much knowledge in things moral, yea, in things evangelical, notionally, and yet be blind as to true spiritual light and experience; they only see spiritually and savingly who have the Spirit of God, (e) Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 96. 3. Debarim Rabba, sect. 8. fol. 243. 3. & Vajikra Rabba, sect. 12. fol. 155. 3.