God’s Warning, God’s Invitation | Pastor Alex Pappas

The first message of the year matters. It sets the tone for everything ahead. Pastor Alex highlighted the importance of this message as we enter into the new year. In Revelation 3:14–22, Jesus speaks to the church of Laodicea with both warning and deep compassion. This wasn’t a church in obvious sin, it was a church that had become lukewarm. Self-sufficient. Comfortable. Looking just like the world. Laodicea sat between Hierapolis, known for healing hot springs, and Colossae, known for refreshing cold water. But Laodicea’s water was lukewarm. It was good for nothing. Jesus used what they understood to show them their spiritual condition. The western church faces the same danger today. Prosperity can lead to complacency. Success can lead to self-reliance. And when we lose intimacy with Jesus, we lose our authority, our boldness, and our impact. Yet this letter is rooted in love. He’s standing at the door, knocking, calling us back to intimacy. As we step into this year, may we refuse lukewarm Christianity. May we be refreshing and healing to those who come to us. Scriptures:

• Revelation 3:14–22
• Colossians 4:13–16
• Matthew 5:13–16
• Revelation 3:15–16
• Revelation 3:17
• Revelation 3:18
• Revelation 3:19
• Revelation 3:20
• Revelation 3:21
• Revelation 2:7