THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA: CHOICES AT THE CROSSROADS
by Ike Reighard
The Church at Laodicea: Choices at the Crossroads
Ike Reighard
Introduction:
For the last seven weeks, we have examined the characteristics of the seven churches of Asia.
1. Ephesus -- Once strong, had lost its first love, love of Jesus.
2. Smyrna -- A suffering church.
3. Pergamum -- A culturally influenced church.
4. Thyatira -- cults.
5. Sardis -- Alive in name only. Dead in God's eyes.
6. Philadelphia -- A living church.
7. Laodicea -- Lukewarm.
Let's look at the history of the city. Founded in 250 B.C., this city's founder, Antiochus II, named Laodicea after his wife. The city attracted Jews who were promised free citizenship, and they brought their money-making skills with them. Laodicea became very wealthy and influential. At the time of the writing of Revelation, it is estimated that over 7,500 males 21 and over were living there.
Banking
Their wealth was best illustrated when a devastating earthquake struck in 60 A.D. The citizens rejected the reigning Caesar's offer of financial help and rebuilt their own city. Industry
They had a unique sheep that produced a black/violet wool superior to all others.
Medicine
They also had a medical center with a famous eye salve produced in the form of a tablet shaped like a loaf of bread.
I. God's heart for us.
How does God "knock" at our hearts?
A. Through the Bible, the revealed message of trut ...
Ike Reighard
Introduction:
For the last seven weeks, we have examined the characteristics of the seven churches of Asia.
1. Ephesus -- Once strong, had lost its first love, love of Jesus.
2. Smyrna -- A suffering church.
3. Pergamum -- A culturally influenced church.
4. Thyatira -- cults.
5. Sardis -- Alive in name only. Dead in God's eyes.
6. Philadelphia -- A living church.
7. Laodicea -- Lukewarm.
Let's look at the history of the city. Founded in 250 B.C., this city's founder, Antiochus II, named Laodicea after his wife. The city attracted Jews who were promised free citizenship, and they brought their money-making skills with them. Laodicea became very wealthy and influential. At the time of the writing of Revelation, it is estimated that over 7,500 males 21 and over were living there.
Banking
Their wealth was best illustrated when a devastating earthquake struck in 60 A.D. The citizens rejected the reigning Caesar's offer of financial help and rebuilt their own city. Industry
They had a unique sheep that produced a black/violet wool superior to all others.
Medicine
They also had a medical center with a famous eye salve produced in the form of a tablet shaped like a loaf of bread.
I. God's heart for us.
How does God "knock" at our hearts?
A. Through the Bible, the revealed message of trut ...
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