Revelation 3:17
Verse
Context
To the Church in Laodicea
16So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth!17You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked.18I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am rich - Thou supposest thyself to be in a safe state, perfectly sure of final salvation, because thou hast begun well, and laid the right foundation. It was this most deceitful conviction that cut the nerves of their spiritual diligence; they rested in what they had already received, and seemed to think that once in grace must be still in grace. Thou art wretched - Ταλαιπωρος· Most wretched. "The word signifies," according to Mintert, "being worn out and fatigued with grievous labors, as they who labor in a stone quarry, or are condemned to the mines." So, instead of being children of God, as they supposed, and infallible heirs of the kingdom, they were, in the sight of God, in the condition of the most abject slaves. And miserable - Ὁ ελεεινος· Most deplorable, to be pitied by all men. And poor - Having no spiritual riches, no holiness of heart. Rich and poor are sometimes used by the rabbins to express the righteous and the wicked. And blind - The eyes of thy understanding being darkened, so that thou dost not see thy state. And naked - Without the image of God, not clothed with holiness and purity. A more deplorable state in spiritual things can scarcely be imagined than that of this Church. And it is the true picture of many Churches, and of innumerable individuals.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Self-sufficiency is the fatal danger of a lukewarm state (see on Rev 3:15). thou sayest--virtually and mentally, if not in so many words. increased with goods--Greek, "have become enriched," implying self-praise in self-acquired riches. The Lord alludes to Hos 12:8. The riches on which they prided themselves were spiritual riches; though, doubtless, their spiritual self-sufficiency ("I have need of nothing") was much fostered by their worldly wealth; as, on the other hand, poverty of spirit is fostered by poverty in respect to worldly riches. knowest not that thou--in particular above all others. The "THOU" in the Greek is emphatic. art wretched--Greek, "art the wretched one." miserable--So one oldest manuscripts reads. But two oldest manuscripts prefix "the." Translate, "the pitiable"; "the one especially to be pitied." How different Christ's estimate of men, from their own estimate of themselves, "I have need of nothing!" blind--whereas Laodicea boasted of a deeper than common insight into divine things. They were not absolutely blind, else eye-salve would have been of no avail to them; but short-sighted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
As many as I love I rebuke and chasten,.... The persons the objects of Christ's love here intended are not angels, but the sons of men; and these not all of them, yet many of them, even all who are his own by his Father's gift and his own purchase; and who are called his church, and sometimes represented as such who love him and obey his commands: the instances of his love to them are many; as his suretyship engagements for them, his assumption of their nature, dying in their room and stead, paying their debts, procuring their peace and pardon, bringing in a righteousness for them, purchasing their persons, his intercession for them, preparations in heaven, supplies of grace, and frequent visits in a kind and familiar manner; and as for the nature of his love, it is free and sovereign, everlasting and immutable, and it is matchless and inconceivable, it is strong and affectionate, and as his Father loved him; and such are rebuked by Christ, not in a way of wrath, but in a tender manner, in order to bring them under a conviction of their sin and of their duty, and of their folly in trusting in, or loving any creature more than himself, and of all their wrong ways; and they are chastened by him, not in a vindictive, but in a fatherly way, which is instructive and teaching to them, and for their good. This seems to refer to some afflictions which Christ was about to bring upon this church, by some means or another, to awaken her out of her sloth and security, and which would be in love to her, and the end be to rouse her zeal and bring her to repentance. Some think this respects the Gog and Magog army, which will encompass the camp of the saints, and the beloved city; but that will not be till after the thousand years' reign, and besides will be no affliction to them; rather it designs the unchurching them, signified by spewing them out of his mouth, Rev 3:16, be zealous, therefore, and repent; zeal was what was wanting in this church; which is nothing else than hot, fervent, and ardent love, love in a flame; whereas she was neither cold nor hot, but lukewarm, Christ would have her be "zealous" for God; for his cause and interest, for his Gospel, ordinances, and the discipline of his house, and against everything that is evil; against all false worship, all errors in doctrine, all sin and iniquity; and to be zealous of good works, and in the worship of God, both private and public: and "repent"; in an evangelical way, of her lukewarnmess, remissness, and supineness; of her pride, arrogance, and vain boastings of herself; and of her self-sufficience, self-dependence, and self-confidence.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:17 Although Christians in Laodicea felt prosperous and self-sufficient (see study note on 3:14), Jesus accurately saw their wretched and miserable and poor spiritual condition.
Revelation 3:17
To the Church in Laodicea
16So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth!17You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked.18I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Best, Not the Good
By Vance Havner11K41:03PerfectionROM 1:211CO 15:101CO 15:332CO 6:14PHP 3:131TI 4:13REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making choices in life between the bad, the good, and the best. He highlights the danger of settling for the good when we could have had the best. The speaker also warns against complacency and the need for revival, even among good people. He encourages listeners to press on towards the ideal and not let lesser goals hinder their progress.
Burning Fire of the Spirit - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks11K55:28Holy SpiritMAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 3:23EPH 2:8REV 1:12REV 3:17REV 4:5In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the description of the throne of God in Revelation 4:5. They emphasize that their aim is to provide practical teachings that lead to real-life application. The speaker then discusses the various characteristics of the Son of Man, as described in Revelation, and how they relate to the examination and judgment of the churches. The main point of the message is to highlight what the Lord is truly looking for in his people, emphasizing that certain things that the churches thought were important were not actually what the Lord desired.
Blind Man's Bluff
By Warren Wiersbe10K35:42MiraclesMAT 6:33LUK 7:36HEB 10:25REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher addresses the question of why people should go to church. He explains that going to church is not just a commandment, but also a testimony of one's belief in Jesus and his second coming. Additionally, the preacher emphasizes the importance of community and the need to learn about the Lord and ourselves through church. He uses the story of Simon and the woman to illustrate the blindness that comes from not truly knowing the Lord and ourselves. The sermon concludes with an invitation to trust in Jesus, admit our sins, and respond to his invitation for forgiveness and rest.
I Wish That You Were Cold or Hot
By Paul Washer6.3K57:22LukewarmMAT 6:33JHN 7:38JHN 15:1ROM 2:24HEB 12:6REV 3:14REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the danger of losing focus on God amidst worldly success and prosperity. He highlights the story of a wealthy city that had become self-sufficient and arrogant, but God saw them as wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. The preacher challenges the common preaching style that focuses on personal introductions and prayers, instead urging the congregation to seek God's glory and help. He quotes Jeremiah 9:23-24, reminding listeners that true boasting should come from understanding and knowing God, who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness. The sermon concludes with an exhortation to repent, overcome, and open the door for Jesus to come in and dine with believers.
Eyes to See (2 of 2)
By Jackie Pullinger5.3K41:13VisionMAT 25:41MAT 25:45LUK 10:25LUK 10:36REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a kind-hearted Indian pastor who had a small church in his home. Despite his limited resources, the pastor and his congregation were inspired to do acts of kindness for the poor in their community. The pastor, who also worked in a dockyard, pondered on what he could do in his limited time. The sermon then explores the importance of doing acts of kindness as an expression of gratitude for the relationship with God, referencing the commandments to love God and love one's neighbor. The speaker also shares the parable of the Good Samaritan as an example of how acts of kindness can be carried out in everyday life. The sermon emphasizes the need to have open eyes to see opportunities to help others, as Jesus himself may be present in those in need.
Gathering in Jesus Name (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen5.3K1:00:27PRO 4:18DAN 4:33LUK 12:13ROM 8:29GAL 5:17PHP 3:132TI 1:6HEB 12:1REV 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual progress and becoming more like Jesus Christ each year. It highlights the need to forget past accomplishments and focus on continuous growth in humility, service, and freedom from worldly desires. The key is to be filled with the Holy Spirit, allowing His fire to burn up all fleshly desires and to make our lives brighter and brighter like the light of dawn.
Ministers of Lasciviousness
By Carter Conlon4.2K1:03:52LasciviousnessACT 2:472PE 2:192PE 3:4JUD 1:4REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher begins by explaining the context of the passage in Exodus where the people of Israel, led by Moses, are waiting for him to come down from Mount Sinai. The preacher emphasizes that the people had been in bondage in Egypt for 400 years and had cried out to the Lord for deliverance. However, when Moses delays in coming down from the mountain, the people gather around Aaron and ask him to make gods for them to worship. The preacher then connects this story to the present day, warning against ministers who preach a gospel that is focused on personal pleasure and rejects the lordship of Jesus Christ. The preacher urges the audience to turn away from delusion and sensationalism and instead surrender their lives to Christ and seek the supernatural working of God within their hearts.
Unclean Spirits
By David Wilkerson3.9K1:01:46MAT 6:33MRK 1:21MRK 5:1LUK 8:26EPH 6:121TI 1:1REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the seriousness of backsliding and falling away from the faith. He refers to 1 Timothy 4:1-2, which warns about deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons that can lead people astray. The preacher acknowledges the presence of unclean spirits in the world and the negative impact they can have on people's minds and lives. He urges the congregation to stay rooted in the Word of God and not neglect their relationship with Jesus, highlighting the authority and protection believers have against evil spirits.
The Miracle-Working God of Mercy
By Alan Redpath3.7K55:31Mercy Of GodPSA 25:4PSA 86:2PSA 86:10PSA 86:14MAT 6:33REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to reflect on their convictions about God. He suggests that they circle three titles for God mentioned by David in the psalm. These titles express David's deep convictions about God's role in his life. The speaker emphasizes the importance of taking action based on these convictions and not just praying without follow-through. He shares a story of a man who had a powerful encounter with God and surrendered his heart completely, resulting in a transformed life. The sermon concludes with a reminder to not be afraid of prayer and to allow God to work in and through us.
When Defeat Becomes Doctrine
By Carter Conlon3.6K49:58DefeatJDG 6:1ISA 1:18MAT 16:24MAT 26:39ROM 8:222TI 2:15REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker passionately addresses the pursuit of self and how it aligns with the heart of Christ. He questions whether the pursuit of self can truly be considered the gospel of Jesus Christ. The speaker refers to Judges 6:1, where the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, as an indictment on any church or church age that claims to be rich and in need of nothing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding God's kingdom and responding to His word.
(Europe 2008) Session 4 - Assuming the Ministry of Christ
By B.H. Clendennen3.5K1:08:59Ministry1KI 19:162KI 2:1PSA 24:3MAT 13:45EPH 3:17COL 2:6REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following Jesus wholeheartedly. He highlights how the disciples left everything behind to follow Jesus and how they watched his every move. The preacher then discusses Jesus' departure and his instructions to the disciples about their purpose and expectations. He mentions the story of Elijah and Elisha, where Elisha asks for a double portion of Elijah's anointing, symbolizing his desire for a greater spiritual experience. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the need for Christians to make Christ the center of their lives and to study and accept the teachings of the Bible.
Judgement Seat 1-31-91 - Part 4
By Leonard Ravenhill3.5K21:28Judgment Seat Of ChristACT 18:27ACT 19:20REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the impact of one person's obedience to God. He uses examples of individuals who, despite their limitations, made a significant impact through their faithfulness to God's calling. The speaker also highlights the importance of living for God and not being consumed by worldly desires. He encourages listeners to surrender their lives to God and be willing to crucify their own desires in order to fully serve Him. The sermon concludes with a mention of John Wimber, a musician who turned his life around and abandoned worldly success for the sake of following God.
Woe, Lo, and Go - Part 3
By Leonard Ravenhill3.1K21:06VisionGEN 4:8GEN 6:9PSA 24:3PSA 29:2PRO 29:18LUK 11:51REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a vision and being filled with compassion. He refers to the story of Isaiah, who had a vision of God and recognized his own depravity and duty to the world. The speaker also shares a powerful story of a woman who, despite living in a corrupt and sinful environment, was able to lead people to God through her prayers and compassion. The sermon concludes with a call to seek a deeper relationship with God and to expect great things from Him.
Hosea #7 Ch. 11-12 Hosea
By Chuck Missler2.9K1:08:27HoseaEXO 29:45HOS 9:10HOS 11:1MAT 6:33JHN 20:17REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Hosea and its message about God's love and Israel's disloyalty. The speaker highlights how God drew Israel with cords of love and provided for them, but now they face punishment for their ingratitude. Despite their deserving of annihilation, God expresses his deep love and unwillingness to give up on them. The sermon also emphasizes the hope beyond the darkness and judgment, based on the unique nature of God, which will be further explored in the coming chapters.
The Sheep vs. the Goats
By Art Katz2.8K59:08Last DaysMAT 6:33REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of recognizing and helping those who are suffering, particularly the Jewish people. He shares a story of a man in Berlin who witnessed the persecution of Jews during the Nazi regime. The speaker then references Matthew 25, a biblical passage that talks about separating the righteous from the unrighteous. He emphasizes the need for believers to show compassion and care for those in need, as it is a reflection of their faith in God. The sermon concludes with a mention of the apostle Paul's awe and praise for God's wisdom and knowledge.
How Blind Is the Church
By George Verwer2.5K42:12RevivalPSA 119:11JHN 14:15ACT 1:8EPH 5:18REV 3:1REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a genuine and passionate love for Jesus Christ. He warns against being complacent and distracted by worldly pursuits, urging listeners to prioritize their relationship with God. The preacher calls for a revolution in witnessing and a baptism of humility, highlighting the need for repentance and a humble heart. He also challenges the church to examine their ways and not be deceived by their own perceived righteousness, referencing Revelation 3:17 to illustrate the danger of spiritual blindness and self-sufficiency.
(Through the Bible) Revelation 2-3
By Chuck Smith2.1K55:54Through The BibleMAT 6:33JHN 8:39REV 1:16REV 2:2REV 2:9REV 3:14REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the book of Revelation and its three sections. The first section, "the things which are," refers to the present state of the church. The second section, "the things which will be after these things," will be explored in the next sermon. The speaker emphasizes the importance of listening to what the Spirit is saying to the church and seeking God's truth. The sermon also touches on the need for love in the church and the danger of losing one's first love. The speaker encourages repentance and warns of the consequences of losing God's presence. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the deeds of the Nicolaotans, which are condemned by God.
God Omnipotent Reigns in Our Lives
By David Wilkerson1.9K45:44Grace Of GodHEB 11:13REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher describes the grim reality of the society he witnesses, with drug addiction, violence, and mental illness prevalent in the streets. He shares stories of encounters with individuals who are deeply troubled and lost, including a young boy pretending to be a junkie, a demon-possessed teenager, and a homeless young man who steals his book. Despite the darkness and despair, the preacher emphasizes that the only message that can reach this broken society is the message of God's grace. He explains that grace is God's favor and forgiveness freely given to undeserving sinners, offering reconciliation and salvation even while they are still in their sins.
Examining the Foundations of Godly Leadership
By Aaron Hurst1.9K1:20:45LeadershipPSA 90:8ECC 12:14ISA 59:2MAT 11:28MRK 8:36JHN 8:36REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging his weakness and dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ. He then addresses the topic of godly leadership and the importance of examining its foundations. He challenges the audience to reflect on their use of the Internet, their relationships with their families, and their attitudes towards materialism and prosperity. The speaker emphasizes the need to prioritize the word of God and avoid being choked by worldly cares and desires.
(Following the Footsteps of Christ) the First Saying on the Cross
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:08:46Footsteps Of ChristLEV 5:14LEV 5:17JDG 16:20REV 3:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of perseverance in prayer, using the example of Daniel from the Bible. He highlights how Daniel mourned and fasted for three weeks, seeking understanding from God. Despite not receiving an immediate answer, Daniel continued to pray and on the twenty-first day, an angel appeared to him with a message. The preacher also shares a personal testimony of his own transformation through the power of the blood of Jesus, encouraging listeners to surrender their rebellion and be washed in the blood of the Lamb. The sermon concludes with a prayer for blessings and a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
Prevailing Prayers
By Sharon Ries1.4K1:05:36Prevailing PrayerLEV 27:8PSA 25:5PSA 27:14ISA 55:8MRK 6:31PHP 3:12REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of drawing near to God through prayer. He references James 4:8, which encourages believers to draw near to God and promises that God will draw near to them. The speaker shares his desire to be like the great prayer warriors in the Bible who dedicated hours each day to prayer. He also discusses the trials and testings that have driven him to his knees in prayer, highlighting the need for seeking God's help in times of need. The sermon concludes with the exhortation to prevail in prayer together as the body of Christ, believing that lives will be changed, children will be converted, and churches will flourish spiritually through earnest prayer.
How Blind Is the Church?
By George Verwer1.2K41:09BlindnessMAT 6:33ACT 1:8REV 3:1REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of spiritual blindness among Christians. He highlights the hypocrisy of those who donate money to missionaries abroad but ignore the needs of their neighbors. He emphasizes the need for Christians to open their eyes and actively reach out to others for Christ. The speaker also urges parents to take action to prevent their children from deserting the faith, suggesting prayer, fasting, and crying out to God. He concludes by urging listeners to admit their deception, repent, and seek a deeper relationship with Jesus. The sermon draws on biblical passages, including Acts 17 and Revelation 3:17, to emphasize the importance of self-reflection and genuine faith.
What Can We Take Into Eternity?
By Peter Masters1.1K33:06PSA 49:17PRO 11:4MAT 6:19MAT 16:261TI 6:61TI 6:121TI 6:19REV 3:17This sermon emphasizes the reality that we enter and leave this world with nothing material, highlighting the importance of spiritual preparation for eternity. It contrasts the fate of those who die without Christ, taking only guilt, with those who know the Lord, taking great riches and gain into eternity. The message urges listeners to lay hold on eternal life and store up a good foundation for the time to come, emphasizing the significance of knowing and belonging to Christ.
This Heart Is Too Small - Part 4
By Joshua Daniel94409:21MAT 6:19JAS 2:5REV 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing spiritual poverty, highlighting how material wealth and status do not equate to strong faith. It challenges individuals to evaluate their spiritual state and collective faith within families and communities, pointing out the need to prioritize spiritual growth over worldly possessions and achievements.
The Wretched Man Syndrome
By Lewis Gregory88742:31Sinful NatureMAT 23:24ROM 7:72CO 5:17GAL 6:7REV 3:17The video titled "Falling Down" tells the story of a frustrated man who becomes increasingly disillusioned with the injustices and indifference he sees in society. His frustration leads him to act out in ways that eventually result in his arrest. The video emphasizes the limitations of knowledge and education, stating that they can only provide information and not true understanding. The apostle Paul's experience in Romans 7 is referenced, highlighting the need for deliverance through Jesus Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am rich - Thou supposest thyself to be in a safe state, perfectly sure of final salvation, because thou hast begun well, and laid the right foundation. It was this most deceitful conviction that cut the nerves of their spiritual diligence; they rested in what they had already received, and seemed to think that once in grace must be still in grace. Thou art wretched - Ταλαιπωρος· Most wretched. "The word signifies," according to Mintert, "being worn out and fatigued with grievous labors, as they who labor in a stone quarry, or are condemned to the mines." So, instead of being children of God, as they supposed, and infallible heirs of the kingdom, they were, in the sight of God, in the condition of the most abject slaves. And miserable - Ὁ ελεεινος· Most deplorable, to be pitied by all men. And poor - Having no spiritual riches, no holiness of heart. Rich and poor are sometimes used by the rabbins to express the righteous and the wicked. And blind - The eyes of thy understanding being darkened, so that thou dost not see thy state. And naked - Without the image of God, not clothed with holiness and purity. A more deplorable state in spiritual things can scarcely be imagined than that of this Church. And it is the true picture of many Churches, and of innumerable individuals.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Self-sufficiency is the fatal danger of a lukewarm state (see on Rev 3:15). thou sayest--virtually and mentally, if not in so many words. increased with goods--Greek, "have become enriched," implying self-praise in self-acquired riches. The Lord alludes to Hos 12:8. The riches on which they prided themselves were spiritual riches; though, doubtless, their spiritual self-sufficiency ("I have need of nothing") was much fostered by their worldly wealth; as, on the other hand, poverty of spirit is fostered by poverty in respect to worldly riches. knowest not that thou--in particular above all others. The "THOU" in the Greek is emphatic. art wretched--Greek, "art the wretched one." miserable--So one oldest manuscripts reads. But two oldest manuscripts prefix "the." Translate, "the pitiable"; "the one especially to be pitied." How different Christ's estimate of men, from their own estimate of themselves, "I have need of nothing!" blind--whereas Laodicea boasted of a deeper than common insight into divine things. They were not absolutely blind, else eye-salve would have been of no avail to them; but short-sighted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
As many as I love I rebuke and chasten,.... The persons the objects of Christ's love here intended are not angels, but the sons of men; and these not all of them, yet many of them, even all who are his own by his Father's gift and his own purchase; and who are called his church, and sometimes represented as such who love him and obey his commands: the instances of his love to them are many; as his suretyship engagements for them, his assumption of their nature, dying in their room and stead, paying their debts, procuring their peace and pardon, bringing in a righteousness for them, purchasing their persons, his intercession for them, preparations in heaven, supplies of grace, and frequent visits in a kind and familiar manner; and as for the nature of his love, it is free and sovereign, everlasting and immutable, and it is matchless and inconceivable, it is strong and affectionate, and as his Father loved him; and such are rebuked by Christ, not in a way of wrath, but in a tender manner, in order to bring them under a conviction of their sin and of their duty, and of their folly in trusting in, or loving any creature more than himself, and of all their wrong ways; and they are chastened by him, not in a vindictive, but in a fatherly way, which is instructive and teaching to them, and for their good. This seems to refer to some afflictions which Christ was about to bring upon this church, by some means or another, to awaken her out of her sloth and security, and which would be in love to her, and the end be to rouse her zeal and bring her to repentance. Some think this respects the Gog and Magog army, which will encompass the camp of the saints, and the beloved city; but that will not be till after the thousand years' reign, and besides will be no affliction to them; rather it designs the unchurching them, signified by spewing them out of his mouth, Rev 3:16, be zealous, therefore, and repent; zeal was what was wanting in this church; which is nothing else than hot, fervent, and ardent love, love in a flame; whereas she was neither cold nor hot, but lukewarm, Christ would have her be "zealous" for God; for his cause and interest, for his Gospel, ordinances, and the discipline of his house, and against everything that is evil; against all false worship, all errors in doctrine, all sin and iniquity; and to be zealous of good works, and in the worship of God, both private and public: and "repent"; in an evangelical way, of her lukewarnmess, remissness, and supineness; of her pride, arrogance, and vain boastings of herself; and of her self-sufficience, self-dependence, and self-confidence.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:17 Although Christians in Laodicea felt prosperous and self-sufficient (see study note on 3:14), Jesus accurately saw their wretched and miserable and poor spiritual condition.