Revelation 3:18
Verse
Context
To the Church in Laodicea
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.19Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I counsel thee - O fallen and deceived soul, hear Jesus! Thy case is not hopeless. Buy of me. Gold tried in the fire - Come and receive from me, without money and without price, faith that shall stand in every trial: so gold tried in the fire is here understood. But it may mean pure and undefiled religion, or that grace or Divine influence which produces it, which is more valuable to the soul than the purest gold to the body. They had before imaginary riches; this alone can make them truly rich. White raiment - Holiness of heart and life. Anoint thine eyes - Pray for, that ye may receive, the enlightening influences of my Spirit, that ye may be convinced of your true state, and see where your help lies.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Gentle and loving irony. Take My advice, thou who fanciest thyself in need of nothing. Not only art thou not in need of nothing, but art in need of the commonest necessaries of existence. He graciously stoops to their modes of thought and speech: Thou art a people ready to listen to any counsel as to how to buy to advantage; then, listen to My counsel (for I am "Counsellor," Isa 9:6), buy of ME" (in whom, according to Paul's Epistle written to the neighboring Colosse and intended for the Laodicean Church also, Col 2:1, Col 2:3; Col 4:16, are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge). "Buy" does not imply that we can, by any work or merit of ours, purchase God's free gift; nay the very purchase money consists in the renunciation of all self-righteousness, such as Laodicea had (Rev 3:17). "Buy" at the cost of thine own self-sufficiency (so Paul, Phi 3:7-8); and the giving up of all things, however dear to us, that would prevent our receiving Christ's salvation as a free gift, for example, self and worldly desires. Compare Isa 55:1, "Buy . . . without money and price." of me--the source of "unsearchable riches" (Eph 3:8). Laodicea was a city of extensive money transactions [CICERO]. gold tried in, &c.--literally, "fired (and fresh) from the fire," that is, just fresh from the furnace which has proved its purity, and retaining its bright gloss. Sterling spiritual wealth, as contrasted with its counterfeit, in which Laodicea boasted itself. Having bought this gold she will be no longer poor (Rev 3:17). mayest be rich--Greek, "mayest be enriched." white raiment--"garments." Laodicea's wools were famous. Christ offers infinitely whiter raiment. As "gold tried in the fire" expresses faith tested by fiery trials: so "white raiment," Christ's righteousness imputed to the believer in justification and imparted in sanctification. appear--Greek, "be manifested," namely, at the last day, when everyone without the wedding garment shall be discovered. To strip one, is in the East the image of putting to open shame. So also to clothe one with fine apparel is the image of doing him honor. Man can discover his shame, God alone can cover it, so that his nakedness shall not be manifested at last (Col 3:10-14). Blessed is he whose sin is so covered. The hypocrite's shame may be manifested now; it must be so at last. anoint . . . with eye-salve--The oldest manuscripts read, "(buy of Me) eye-salve (collyrium, a roll of ointment), to anoint thine eyes." Christ has for Laodicea an ointment far more precious than all the costly unguents of the East. The eye is here the conscience or inner light of the mind. According as it is sound and "single" (Greek, "haplous," "simple"), or otherwise, the man sees aright spiritually, or does not. The Holy Spirit's unction, like the ancient eye-salve's, first smarts with conviction of sin, then heals. He opens our eyes first to ourselves in our wretchedness, then to the Saviour in His preciousness. TRENCH notices that the most sunken churches of the seven, namely, Sardis and Laodicea, are the ones in which alone are specified no opponents from without, nor heresies from within. The Church owes much to God's overruling Providence which has made so often internal and external foes, in spite of themselves, to promote His cause by calling forth her energies in contending for the faith once delivered to the saints. Peace is dearly bought at the cost of spiritual stagnation, where there is not interest enough felt in religion to contend about it at all.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold, I stand at the door and knock,.... The phrase of standing at the door may be expressive of the near approach, or sudden coming of Christ to judgment, see Jam 5:9; and his knocking may signify the notice that will be given of it, by some of the immediate forerunners and signs of his coming; which yet will be observed but by a few, such a general sleepiness will have seized all professors of religion; and particularly may intend the midnight cry, which will, in its issue, rouse them all: if any man hear my voice; in the appearances of things and providences in the world: and open the door; or show a readiness for the coming of Christ, look and wait for it, and be like such that will receive him with a welcome: I will come unto him, and sup with him, and he with me; to and among these will Christ appear when he comes in person; and these being like wise virgins, ready, having his grace in their hearts, and his righteousness upon them, he will take them at once into the marriage chamber, and shut the door upon the rest; when they shall enjoy a thousand years communion with him in person here on earth; when the Lamb on the throne will feed them with the fruit of the tree of life, and lead them to fountains of living water, and his tabernacle shall be among them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:18 Jesus’ prescription for Laodicea required a complete change of attitude from self-reliance to dependence on God. • buy gold from me: Materially, they could buy whatever they wanted, but they needed to acquire the treasures of heaven so they would have spiritual riches through faith in Christ. • purified by fire: While material wealth will not withstand God’s purging by fire (cp. 1 Cor 3:12-15), spiritual wealth has eternal value. • White garments represent spiritual purity. Black wool cloth and garments were prized exports of the city of Laodicea. This famous black wool cloth was a source of Laodicea’s material wealth; it probably represents the Laodiceans’ proud and unredeemed spiritual condition. • Laodicea’s material prosperity was also due to their well-known Phrygian eye ointment, which may have been used there in the eye clinic associated with the famed physician Demosthenes Philalethes. The Laodiceans needed to buy ointment from Christ through faith. Only his eye salve would enable them to see their sin and repent.
Revelation 3:18
To the Church in Laodicea
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.19Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Brought Up, Set Up, Kept Up and Tuned Up
By Leonard Ravenhill3.7K42:53Walk With GodPSA 40:2MAT 25:1REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching with a broken heart and being deeply moved by the message of sin and redemption. He highlights the need for the congregation to be heartbroken over sin if they expect to see change in the world. The preacher also discusses the concept of judgment and the belief that there will be a day of reckoning for all. He criticizes the lack of sincerity in some prayers and calls for more preparation and reverence in prayer. The sermon concludes with a reminder that being born again is the only way to truly live and escape the corruption and hypocrisy of the world.
Abandonment
By Hans R. Waldvogel3.2K30:21AbandonmentPSA 27:4MAT 6:33MAT 11:28JHN 14:1HEB 12:61PE 1:7REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking Jesus and surrendering oneself to Him. He criticizes those who seek attention and exhibit themselves during worship, stating that true worship is about seeking Jesus and being transformed by His power. The preacher shares a testimony of a woman who experienced a powerful encounter with Jesus during a meeting and was compelled to invite others to experience His presence. He also highlights the need for obedience and abandonment to Jesus, stating that only when we fully give ourselves to Him will we see the manifestation of His presence in our lives. The sermon concludes with a call to awaken to the call of Jesus and give ourselves fully to Him.
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.
What Jesus Wants for His Church
By Vance Havner3.2K26:42LukewarmnessPRO 29:18ISA 61:10MAT 6:33LUK 15:201TI 6:171PE 1:7REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher addresses the current state of society, which is filled with scandal, filth, and a lack of moral values. He emphasizes the need for individuals to lift their sights and recognize their spiritual poverty, blindness, and nakedness. The preacher shares his personal experience of going through a difficult period in his life while also experiencing spiritual growth. He then references the city of Laodicea, known for its wealth, clothing market, and medical school, and relates it to the needs of the church. The preacher concludes by highlighting the importance of being rich in Jesus, understanding the true value of what we have in Him, and seeking spiritual wealth, clothing, and vision.
Go Hide Thyself - Elijah, God's Man
By Leonard Ravenhill3.1K1:19:24ElijahPSA 84:10PSA 119:105JHN 4:141CO 15:57PHP 2:9HEB 10:12HEB 11:61PE 1:42PE 1:21REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking eternal things rather than being consumed by the temporal. He expresses gratitude for the holy men of God who were inspired by the Holy Ghost to write the Bible. The preacher highlights the need for spiritual nourishment, stating that it cannot be bought but must come from God. He encourages the congregation to have faith and believe that it is possible to enter heaven and bring heaven into their own lives. The sermon also references hymns and quotes from Isaac Watts and Wesley, emphasizing the power and significance of God's word and the victory of Jesus over sin and the devil.
Woe, Lo, and Go - Part 4
By Leonard Ravenhill3.0K12:54Seeking God's PresenceVisionPurity2CH 7:14PSA 51:10ISA 6:5ISA 64:1MAT 5:8JHN 14:13ROM 6:7JAS 3:61PE 1:16REV 3:18Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the urgent need for personal cleansing and purity before God, as exemplified by the prophet's cry of being undone and having filthy lips. He highlights the dangers of unclean speech within the church and the necessity of being touched by God's purifying fire. Ravenhill calls for a deep, personal commitment to God, urging believers to seek the Holy Spirit's power to transform their lives and to confront the spiritual blindness prevalent in the church today. He passionately advocates for a radical change in the hearts of believers, encouraging them to desire God's presence above all else. The sermon concludes with a call to action, inviting individuals to come forward and seek God's transformative fire in their lives.
Revival - Part 2
By L.E. Maxwell1.9K55:41JOL 2:12MAT 6:33REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker expresses concern about the state of the country and the leadership of the next generation. He believes that without revival or a spiritual awakening, there could be a bloody revolution within the next 10 to 20 years. The speaker then shares a story of a meeting where God's presence was felt and seven men were moved to the supernatural realm. He emphasizes the importance of holiness and being serious about one's faith, rather than being distracted by worldly entertainment. The speaker encourages self-examination and obedience to God's word.
The Weeding of the Garden
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K39:30ISA 55:1MAT 7:24MAT 11:28MAT 15:181TI 1:15REV 3:18REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the gospel is available to everyone, regardless of their sins or shortcomings. He encourages sinners to trust in Christ for salvation, assuring them that their souls will be saved and protected by God. The preacher emphasizes the need for a change in one's life, regardless of how moral they may have been. He urges believers to examine themselves and make sure they are truly saved, reminding them that Christ came to save sinners. The sermon concludes with a plea for those who feel unworthy or hopeless to come to Christ and receive his salvation.
Rejoicing in God's Authority Over Us
By Zac Poonen1.7K1:00:59AuthorityGEN 1:1MAT 13:44LUK 10:171CO 2:12REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of laying a strong foundation in one's faith before diving into deeper spiritual matters. He warns against focusing solely on external appearances and urges listeners to seek a genuine transformation from within. The sermon draws from Luke 10:17-24, where Jesus sends out seventy disciples to minister and perform miracles. The speaker highlights the danger of pride and hypocrisy, emphasizing the need for humility and a soft heart before God.
Why a Lack of Patriotism
By Vance Havner1.6K34:42PatriotismMAT 6:33JHN 8:32ROM 12:2JAS 4:71PE 2:91PE 2:11REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the state of America and compares it to the decline of Rome. He highlights the loss of patriotism and respect for heritage in the country. The preacher also draws parallels between the conditions in the country and the church, emphasizing the need for a practical understanding of the times and what needs to be done. He criticizes the lack of connection and understanding among experts and calls for a focus on fellowship and practical knowledge in the church.
Many Will Soon Be Buying Pure Gold
By Carter Conlon1.2K38:45PRO 23:23PHP 2:15HEB 11:11PE 1:3REV 3:18This sermon from 1 Peter chapter 1 emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, likening it to pure gold that endures trials and remains valuable. The speaker encourages believers to focus on eternal treasures and the promises of God, rather than worldly securities. Through various biblical examples, the message highlights the significance of faith, endurance, and vision in the midst of challenging times, urging listeners to invest in the unchanging currency of faith in God.
This Heart Is Too Small - Part 5
By Joshua Daniel1.0K09:41PRO 13:22MAL 3:21CO 3:121PE 1:7REV 3:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual legacy and the eternal perspective of life. It challenges individuals to consider the spiritual inheritance they are passing on to their children and others, reflecting on the impact of their actions and the need for genuine spiritual depth rather than superficial appearances. The message also highlights the refining fire of God that tests and purifies our works, urging believers to build with lasting materials that will withstand God's judgment.
Parent Abuse Faith Bible Church 28
By Daniel Peters9551:14:29Parent AbuseGEN 3:7DEU 14:28DEU 24:19EZK 22:10JAS 1:27REV 3:18The sermon transcript discusses the importance of showing proper honor to parents. It is divided into four sections: the security that God provided to the people after the worldwide flood, the situation they were in, the sins they committed, and the significance and result of those sins. The sermon emphasizes the need for security and the potential challenges that can arise even when things seem to be going well. It also highlights the story of Noah and his sons, specifically focusing on the sin committed by Ham and the honorable actions of Shem and Japheth. The sermon encourages accountability and the understanding that God knows and holds us responsible for our actions.
The Hope of Salvation: To Be Like Him
By Hans R. Waldvogel61326:06SalvationPSA 66:10ACT 5:1REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of getting rid of the fleshly desires and seeking God's word as a source of spiritual nourishment. He shares the story of Elder Brooks, a theologian who struggled with his own spiritual growth. The preacher highlights the need for ministers and believers to humble themselves and seek God's presence, even if it means going to meetings early and praising the Lord from the heart. The sermon also emphasizes the role of faith in overcoming trials and finding joy in the midst of difficulties, ultimately trusting in God's plan.
The Altar of Incense
By Carter Conlon36551:04Incense2CH 16:9ISA 1:16MAT 6:331JN 3:15REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Isaiah chapter 1 and the state of the people of Israel. He describes them as a sinful nation, laden with iniquity, and children who have forsaken the Lord. The preacher draws parallels between the situation in North America today, with cities burning with passion and sin reigning unchecked. He emphasizes the importance of obedience and being a servant where you are, before potentially being called to serve in other places. The preacher also uses the analogy of not giving a baby a chainsaw, highlighting the need for readiness and maturity in serving God.
(Radical Jesus) 30 Radical Prayer
By Glenn Meldrum34324:41PrayerISA 55:2MIC 6:8MAT 6:33MAT 10:36JHN 13:232PE 1:3REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a close relationship with God. He compares it to the intimacy between Abraham and God, as well as the Apostle John leaning on Jesus' bosom. The speaker highlights that many Christians lack God's heart for the world because they have not gotten close enough to Him. He emphasizes that knowing and loving God requires investing one's life and being willing to give up everything. The sermon also addresses the need for a genuine relationship with Jesus, as well as the consequences of living a spiritually bankrupt life. The speaker quotes from Isaiah 55, urging listeners to seek God and not waste their efforts on things that do not satisfy. The sermon concludes with a powerful statement from George Whitfield, highlighting the importance of preaching about a real and felt Christ.
Revival - Part 2
By Doc Greenway28156:38RevivalISA 65:16REV 3:14REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker addresses the church of our day and country, urging them not to turn away in frustration and despondency. He emphasizes the importance of remembering the Christ who spoke so powerfully to the church in the past is still speaking to us today. The sermon is divided into four main points: the Christ confronting them, the charge condemning them for their indifference, the counsel concerning them, and the call challenging them. The speaker highlights the significance of Jesus standing outside the kingdom, temple, and home, but being prepared to stand for us. He also emphasizes the need for the church to overcome and open the door to Jesus, who promises to come in and fellowship with them.
Rev. 3:18. the Heavenly Merchant and His Goods
By Horatius Bonar1Christ's CompassionSpiritual RichesGEN 3:21ISA 55:1MAT 5:3LUK 12:15JHN 14:13JHN 16:232CO 8:9EPH 1:3JAS 1:5REV 3:18Horatius Bonar emphasizes Christ's profound love and compassion for sinners, particularly addressing the Laodicean church's self-sufficiency and ignorance of their spiritual poverty. He presents Christ as the heavenly merchant offering invaluable goods—gold, clothing, and eye-salve—symbolizing spiritual wealth, righteousness, and enlightenment, all available without cost. Bonar highlights the urgency of accepting Christ's counsel to 'buy' these treasures, which are essential for true richness and fulfillment. The sermon underscores the contrast between the divine merchant's desire to enrich the needy and the reluctance of the buyers to accept His offers. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a recognition of our need for Christ's gifts and the importance of inviting Him into our lives.
The Midnight Cry
By Andrew Miller0JHN 6:37EPH 1:62PE 3:15REV 3:18REV 5:12REV 22:16Andrew Miller preaches about the long-suffering and patient grace of the Lord Jesus as depicted in the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for His second coming. The door of mercy is open, and the Lord is waiting in grace to receive and pardon all who come to Him, actively seeking and saving the lost. The parable serves as a solemn warning to the careless and a comforting message to those eagerly awaiting His return, highlighting the urgency of responding to the call of salvation before it's too late.
(Gaining God's Approval) 10. the Company of God's Approved Ones
By Zac Poonen0MAT 10:371JN 2:6REV 3:18REV 7:9REV 14:1REV 19:7Zac Poonen preaches about the small company of disciples in Revelation 14 who followed the Lord wholeheartedly and stood as overcomers in the final day, contrasting them with the vast multitude in Revelation 7. This remnant of 144,000, whether literal or symbolic, was true and faithful to God, obtaining His approval and being declared blameless. They are God's first fruits and the bride of Christ, showing the worth of being faithful in all things. Poonen emphasizes the importance of seeking God's approval over earthly gain and honor, highlighting the eternal loss for those who prioritize anything above the Lord.
Sanctification
By Eli Brayley0MAT 14:31JHN 17:191TH 5:23TIT 2:14HEB 12:2REV 3:18Eli Brayley preaches on the process of sanctification, emphasizing that God intends to sanctify each believer completely and wholly, offering victory and heavenly transformation to all. Sanctification is linked with peace, highlighting the joy and bliss of walking upright before God and the unrest of walking against His truth. The hindrances to sanctification include the sin of unbelief, relying on the flesh for holiness, and failing to fix our eyes on Jesus, who has already accomplished the work of sanctification for us.
The Most Golden Christians
By Thomas Brooks0Divine ProvidenceSufferingPSA 119:71ISA 48:10ROM 8:282CO 4:172TI 2:12HEB 12:11JAS 1:21PE 1:71PE 5:10REV 3:18Thomas Brooks emphasizes that under fiery trials, God's promise in Romans 8:28 holds true: all things work together for the good of those who love Him. He asserts that our sufferings are not merely conjectured to work for our benefit, but they actively do so, much like a skilled apothecary mixes ingredients to create a healing medicine. Brooks illustrates that even the most painful experiences can be divinely tempered to yield positive outcomes, transforming afflicted Christians into 'golden Christians' through their trials. He encourages believers to trust in God's sovereign plan, recognizing that their hardships are part of a greater good.
Ye Ought to Be Teachers (Including Examples of Spiritual and Unspiritual Meetings)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Hearing God's VoiceSpiritual MaturityPSA 46:10MAT 5:16JHN 10:27ROM 12:2EPH 4:112TI 2:15HEB 5:12JAS 1:221PE 2:9REV 3:18Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the call for believers to mature into teachers of God's word, reflecting on the need for spiritual growth rather than remaining in a state of immaturity. He highlights the importance of hearing God's voice and responding to His call, which leads to a deeper understanding of salvation and the necessity of obedience. Waldvogel contrasts spiritual meetings, where the Holy Spirit moves powerfully, with unspiritual gatherings that lack true engagement with God. He urges the congregation to seek a genuine relationship with Christ, who offers transformation and rest for the weary soul. Ultimately, he calls for believers to let their light shine and to be vessels of God's truth in a dark world.
Many Shall Be Purified, and Made White, and Tried
By A.B. Simpson0PurificationReadiness for Christ's ReturnISA 1:18DAN 12:10MAT 24:42ROM 5:31CO 3:132TI 4:8JAS 1:21PE 1:7REV 3:18REV 16:15A.B. Simpson emphasizes the dual promise of purification and glorification in preparation for the Lord's coming. He explains that purification involves the removal of sin, while being made white signifies the illumination of God's glory within us. To receive both, believers must endure trials and challenges that deepen their reliance on Christ. Simpson warns that we are in the days leading up to the Lord's return, urging the faithful to remain vigilant and prepared. He concludes with a call to recognize the signs of the times and the urgency of spiritual readiness.
July 31. 1678. the Seven Counsellors.
By Jane Lead0PSA 25:14PRO 11:141CO 2:101CO 2:14HEB 4:12HEB 12:291PE 1:7REV 3:18REV 4:5REV 5:6Jane Lead preaches about the importance of seeking counsel and guidance from the seven Principal Counsellors in the invisible realm to bring down the Kingdom of God on earth. She emphasizes the need for our Eternal Spirits to be used as agents in this divine matter and encourages private consultation with these wise Counsellors who have insight into the invisible world. Jane Lead also discusses the refining process required to be admitted into God's secret Council, where righteous judgment and decrees are established by the Holy Trinity. She highlights the significance of being refined to stand in the divine Cabala, to receive hidden knowledge and commands for the administration of God's Kingdom.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I counsel thee - O fallen and deceived soul, hear Jesus! Thy case is not hopeless. Buy of me. Gold tried in the fire - Come and receive from me, without money and without price, faith that shall stand in every trial: so gold tried in the fire is here understood. But it may mean pure and undefiled religion, or that grace or Divine influence which produces it, which is more valuable to the soul than the purest gold to the body. They had before imaginary riches; this alone can make them truly rich. White raiment - Holiness of heart and life. Anoint thine eyes - Pray for, that ye may receive, the enlightening influences of my Spirit, that ye may be convinced of your true state, and see where your help lies.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Gentle and loving irony. Take My advice, thou who fanciest thyself in need of nothing. Not only art thou not in need of nothing, but art in need of the commonest necessaries of existence. He graciously stoops to their modes of thought and speech: Thou art a people ready to listen to any counsel as to how to buy to advantage; then, listen to My counsel (for I am "Counsellor," Isa 9:6), buy of ME" (in whom, according to Paul's Epistle written to the neighboring Colosse and intended for the Laodicean Church also, Col 2:1, Col 2:3; Col 4:16, are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge). "Buy" does not imply that we can, by any work or merit of ours, purchase God's free gift; nay the very purchase money consists in the renunciation of all self-righteousness, such as Laodicea had (Rev 3:17). "Buy" at the cost of thine own self-sufficiency (so Paul, Phi 3:7-8); and the giving up of all things, however dear to us, that would prevent our receiving Christ's salvation as a free gift, for example, self and worldly desires. Compare Isa 55:1, "Buy . . . without money and price." of me--the source of "unsearchable riches" (Eph 3:8). Laodicea was a city of extensive money transactions [CICERO]. gold tried in, &c.--literally, "fired (and fresh) from the fire," that is, just fresh from the furnace which has proved its purity, and retaining its bright gloss. Sterling spiritual wealth, as contrasted with its counterfeit, in which Laodicea boasted itself. Having bought this gold she will be no longer poor (Rev 3:17). mayest be rich--Greek, "mayest be enriched." white raiment--"garments." Laodicea's wools were famous. Christ offers infinitely whiter raiment. As "gold tried in the fire" expresses faith tested by fiery trials: so "white raiment," Christ's righteousness imputed to the believer in justification and imparted in sanctification. appear--Greek, "be manifested," namely, at the last day, when everyone without the wedding garment shall be discovered. To strip one, is in the East the image of putting to open shame. So also to clothe one with fine apparel is the image of doing him honor. Man can discover his shame, God alone can cover it, so that his nakedness shall not be manifested at last (Col 3:10-14). Blessed is he whose sin is so covered. The hypocrite's shame may be manifested now; it must be so at last. anoint . . . with eye-salve--The oldest manuscripts read, "(buy of Me) eye-salve (collyrium, a roll of ointment), to anoint thine eyes." Christ has for Laodicea an ointment far more precious than all the costly unguents of the East. The eye is here the conscience or inner light of the mind. According as it is sound and "single" (Greek, "haplous," "simple"), or otherwise, the man sees aright spiritually, or does not. The Holy Spirit's unction, like the ancient eye-salve's, first smarts with conviction of sin, then heals. He opens our eyes first to ourselves in our wretchedness, then to the Saviour in His preciousness. TRENCH notices that the most sunken churches of the seven, namely, Sardis and Laodicea, are the ones in which alone are specified no opponents from without, nor heresies from within. The Church owes much to God's overruling Providence which has made so often internal and external foes, in spite of themselves, to promote His cause by calling forth her energies in contending for the faith once delivered to the saints. Peace is dearly bought at the cost of spiritual stagnation, where there is not interest enough felt in religion to contend about it at all.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold, I stand at the door and knock,.... The phrase of standing at the door may be expressive of the near approach, or sudden coming of Christ to judgment, see Jam 5:9; and his knocking may signify the notice that will be given of it, by some of the immediate forerunners and signs of his coming; which yet will be observed but by a few, such a general sleepiness will have seized all professors of religion; and particularly may intend the midnight cry, which will, in its issue, rouse them all: if any man hear my voice; in the appearances of things and providences in the world: and open the door; or show a readiness for the coming of Christ, look and wait for it, and be like such that will receive him with a welcome: I will come unto him, and sup with him, and he with me; to and among these will Christ appear when he comes in person; and these being like wise virgins, ready, having his grace in their hearts, and his righteousness upon them, he will take them at once into the marriage chamber, and shut the door upon the rest; when they shall enjoy a thousand years communion with him in person here on earth; when the Lamb on the throne will feed them with the fruit of the tree of life, and lead them to fountains of living water, and his tabernacle shall be among them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:18 Jesus’ prescription for Laodicea required a complete change of attitude from self-reliance to dependence on God. • buy gold from me: Materially, they could buy whatever they wanted, but they needed to acquire the treasures of heaven so they would have spiritual riches through faith in Christ. • purified by fire: While material wealth will not withstand God’s purging by fire (cp. 1 Cor 3:12-15), spiritual wealth has eternal value. • White garments represent spiritual purity. Black wool cloth and garments were prized exports of the city of Laodicea. This famous black wool cloth was a source of Laodicea’s material wealth; it probably represents the Laodiceans’ proud and unredeemed spiritual condition. • Laodicea’s material prosperity was also due to their well-known Phrygian eye ointment, which may have been used there in the eye clinic associated with the famed physician Demosthenes Philalethes. The Laodiceans needed to buy ointment from Christ through faith. Only his eye salve would enable them to see their sin and repent.