Revelations 3:20: “Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and I will dine with him and he with me.”
Revelation 3:20 is commonly cited in evangelical circles during altar calls. However, it’s crucial to recognize that this verse is usually taken out of context. It was addressed to a particular church filled with individuals identifying as followers of Christ. To grasp the true meaning of this verse, we must look at the full context of Chapter 3, especially verses 15 and 16.
Rev 3:15-16 NASB. “I know your deeds that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot so because you are lukewarm and neither hot or cold I will spit you out of my mouth.”
In his short commentary of the Book of Revelations, the brilliant theologian, N T Wright, gives insight into this passage.” To the north (of Laodicea), standing high on a dramatic cliff, is the city of Hierapolis. It boasts to this day a set of hot springs…the hot, chemically charged water comes bubbling out of the ground and spills over the cliff…In the first century, they built aqueducts to bring this water across to Laodicea in the centre of the valley, four or five miles away…But by the time the water arrived in Laodicea, it was no longer hot. It was merely lukewarm (and the concentrated chemicals made it undrinkable). To the southeast of Laodicea was Colosse. It had ample water flowing down from high, snow-capped Mount Cadmus: fast-flowing, chilly streams of almost Alpine quality. But by the time the water reached Laodicea, 11 miles away, the normal Turkish heat meant that it, too, had become lukewarm.”
So, what did Jesus want to convey in verse 20, and how does that apply to our lives today?
Imagine this: after a tough week, you arrive at church feeling weary and longing to hear from God. Your heart feels burdened, but then a specific worship song is sung, or your pastor shares a Bible verse that resonates deeply with you. It’s like receiving a refreshing drink of water on a scorching day or enjoying a nutritious and tasty meal. You relish the meal set before you.
The excitement from Sunday lingers as Monday rolls around, but it’s not quite as intense. You struggle to make it to Wednesday Night Bible study, yet by the end of the evening, you find yourself recharged! Leaving the session, you can’t help but express gratitude to the study leader, saying, “Thank you for sharing that verse—it truly nourished my spirit!”
When Thursday and Friday come, the busyness of the workweek starts to take its toll. By the time Saturday arrives, with a packed schedule of errands, you hardly have a moment to reflect on Jesus. And when Sunday rolls back around, you’re desperate for another dose of His presence.
Feeling weak, a little listless? Losing your appetite for the things of the Kingdom? Perhaps you’ve fallen into a rut. Buying a loaf of bread once a week and relying on a lukewarm bottle of water left out on the counter hinder the drive to stay hydrated and nourished.
You weren’t made to survive on increasingly stale bread and stagnant water.
Jesus lovingly encourages us to carve out time for Him each day, understanding that this is vital for maintaining a deep and meaningful connection. By doing so, we reignite passion in our hearts and keep the flame of our faith burning bright. He offers us His living water, refreshing our peace and joy, not just for our enrichment. He wants us to be full to overflowing so that everywhere we walk, we bring His refreshment to others.
So, when you see it from that slant, does Rev 3:20 read a little differently to you now? Jesus, the ultimate dinner guest, is waiting on your doorstep, bringing the feast with Him. Open the door and let Him in.
©2024 Katherine Walden