Buy Gold Refined by Fire/LAODICEA- Conclusion

 Why does Jesus call himself "the Amen"?  This title adds judicial weight to his message. "Amen" is a translation of a Hebrew word meaning "surely," "so be it," and is used a the end of prayers to affirm the sentiments expressed therein.  (1 Corinthians 14:16)  Jesus is "the Amen" because  his flawless integrity and sacrificial death confirmed and guaranteed the fulfillment of all of Jehovah's precious promises.  (2 Corinthians 1:20)  Since that time, all prayers are properly addressed to Jehovah through Jesus. - JOHN 15:16; 16:23, 24. 

Jesus is also "the faithful and true witness."  In prophecy he is often associated  with faithfulness, truth, and righteousness, for he is completely trustworthy as a servant of Jehovah God.  ( PSALM 45:4; ISAIAH 11:4, 5; REVELATION 1:5; 19:11)  He is the greatest Witness for Jehovah.  In fact, as "the beginning of the creation by God," Jesus had declared God's glory from the very start.  (Proverbs 8:22-30)  As a man on earth, he bore witness to the truth.  (John 18:36, 37; 1 Timothy 6:13)  After his resurrection, he promised holy spirit to his disciples and told them:  "You'll be witnesses of me both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the most distant part of the earth."  From Pentecost 33  C.E. onward, Jesus directed these anointed Christians  in preaching the good news "in all creation that is under heaven."  (Acts 1:6-8; Colossians 1:23)  Truly Jesus deserves to be called the faithful and true witness.  The anointed Christians in Laodicea would benefit by listening to his words. 

What message does Jesus have for the Laodiceans?  He has no word of commendation. Frankly, he tells them: "I know your deeds, that you are neither hot nor cold.  I wish you were cold or else hot. So, because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vimit you out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15, 16)  How would you respond to such a message from the Lord Jesus Christ?  Would you not awaken and examine yourself? Surely, those Laodiceans need to bestir themselves, for they have become spiritually, indolent, apparently taking too much for granted.  (Compare  2 Corinthians  6:1.)  Jesus, whom  they as Christians should have imitated, always  displays a fiery zeal for Jehovah and his service.  (John 2:17)   Further, meek ones have found him to be always gently and mild, as refreshing as a cup of cold water on a sweltering day.  (Matthew 11:28, 29) But the Christians in Laodicea are neither hot nor cold.  Like the waters that flow into their city, they become tepid, lukewarm.  They are liable to be completely rejected by Jesus,  'vomited out of his mouth'!   May we for out part always strive zealously, as did Jesus, provide spiritual refreshment for others. -  MATTHEW 9:35-38.

Next time: Buy God Refined by Fire/LAODICEA - "You Say:  'I Am Rich" 

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