The Bible warns against being lukewarm in faith, meaning neither fully devoted to God nor completely rejecting Him. One of the most well-known verses addressing this issue is Revelation 3:15-16:
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” (Revelation 3:15-16, NIV)
This powerful passage is a warning to believers who are spiritually indifferent. It calls for genuine faith, commitment, and passion for God rather than a half-hearted approach to Christianity.
In this topic, we will explore the meaning of being lukewarm, its consequences, and how we can develop a strong, passionate faith.
1. What Does It Mean to Be Lukewarm?
1.1 Lukewarmness in the Context of Revelation
The verse in Revelation 3:15-16 was directed to the church in Laodicea, a wealthy city known for its lukewarm water supply. The Laodiceans understood the metaphor because their water was neither refreshingly cold nor therapeutically hot, making it unpleasant to drink.
Similarly, lukewarm believers are those who:
- Claim to follow God but lack true devotion.
- Go through religious motions without real passion.
- Compromise their faith to fit worldly standards.
1.2 The Danger of Lukewarm Christianity
Lukewarm faith is dangerous because it gives the illusion of being spiritually safe while actually being far from God. It can manifest in attitudes like:
- Attending church but not living out biblical principles.
- Praying occasionally but not seeking a deep relationship with God.
- Claiming faith but blending in with worldly values.
Jesus warns that such faith is unacceptable and leads to spiritual rejection.
2. The Consequences of Being Lukewarm
2.1 Spiritual Displeasure from God
Jesus makes it clear that He prefers people to be either hot or cold, rather than lukewarm. Why? Because:
- A “hot” believer is passionate, devoted, and on fire for God.
- A “cold” person may be distant from God, but at least they recognize their need for Him.
- A “lukewarm” Christian falsely believes they are fine, which makes them spiritually complacent.
2.2 Risk of Spiritual Rejection
The phrase “I am about to spit you out of my mouth” in Revelation 3:16 is a serious warning. It implies:
- God rejects a half-hearted faith.
- Lukewarm Christians may miss out on God’s blessings.
- They risk eternal separation if they don’t repent.
This verse calls for self-reflection and a renewed commitment to genuine faith.
3. Signs That You Might Be Lukewarm
How can you tell if you are lukewarm in your faith? Here are some signs:
3.1 Lack of Passion for God
If your relationship with God feels like an obligation rather than a joyful pursuit, you might be lukewarm. Signs include:
- Rarely praying or reading the Bible.
- Not feeling excitement for worship or spiritual growth.
3.2 More Concerned with the World Than with God
A lukewarm believer prioritizes worldly success, pleasure, or approval over God’s will. This might look like:
- Compromising biblical values to fit in.
- Focusing on material wealth rather than spiritual growth.
3.3 Partial Obedience to God’s Word
Selective obedience—choosing to follow only the convenient parts of Christianity—is a clear sign of lukewarmness. This includes:
- Ignoring hard teachings of Scripture.
- Following God only when it benefits you.
3.4 No Desire to Share the Gospel
A passionate believer wants others to know about Christ. A lukewarm believer, on the other hand:
- Feels indifferent about evangelism.
- Does not take a stand for Christ in daily life.
4. How to Avoid Being Lukewarm
4.1 Renew Your Passion for God
God wants wholehearted commitment. To rekindle your faith:
- Spend quality time in prayer and worship.
- Read and meditate on Scripture daily.
- Surround yourself with strong believers who encourage spiritual growth.
4.2 Live Out Your Faith Boldly
James 2:17 reminds us:
“Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17, NIV)
True faith leads to action. This means:
- Serving others with love.
- Obeying God even when it’s difficult.
- Being unashamed of your faith in Christ.
4.3 Depend on the Holy Spirit
Revelation 3:18-20 encourages believers to seek true spiritual riches from Christ. Jesus says:
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.” (Revelation 3:19, NIV)
The Holy Spirit helps believers overcome spiritual complacency and develop a strong, vibrant faith.
4.4 Make a Personal Decision for Christ
Jesus extends an invitation in Revelation 3:20:
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” (Revelation 3:20, NIV)
A lukewarm believer can return to Christ by opening their heart and fully surrendering to Him.
5. The Reward of Wholehearted Faith
5.1 Eternal Fellowship with Christ
Jesus promises in Revelation 3:21:
“To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.”
This verse assures us that those who remain faithful will reign with Christ in His eternal kingdom.
5.2 A Spiritually Fulfilling Life
A passionate faith leads to joy, peace, and fulfillment that a lukewarm life cannot provide. Jesus offers:
- Purpose and meaning in life.
- Strength to overcome challenges.
- Deep, satisfying communion with God.
The Bible warns against being lukewarm in faith because it leads to spiritual complacency and separation from God. Through Revelation 3:15-16, Jesus calls believers to choose wholehearted devotion over indifference.
To avoid lukewarmness:
✅ Renew your passion for God.
✅ Live out your faith boldly.
✅ Seek the power of the Holy Spirit.
✅ Make a daily decision to follow Christ fully.
A committed, passionate relationship with God leads to spiritual blessings, eternal rewards, and a fulfilling Christian life.