God unleashes His most graphic expression of disgust and disappointment on Laodicea. Thanks to their expertise in medicine (especially eye care) and finance they were a wealthy and respected society. While their water supply was quite undesirable to drink the warm mineral rich water of the area was sought after for recreational and therapeutic purposes. Another sought after product they were known for was beautiful, glossy, black wool unlike anything elsewhere available. About AD 60 there was an earthquake that devastated Laodicea and nearby towns. Rome offered to help with rebuilding. The offer was turned down they could take care of themselves. It was their self-styled wealth, resources, self-sufficiency that Jesus addressed in His tongue lashing. For all their assets He graded them as spiritual paupers. They were miserable, poor, blind, and naked. It may well be that some of them had a kind of nagging ache deep down and were at a loss what to do about it. Jesus made them an offer.
Unfortunately this has become the definition of Laodicea in our thinking. Several fallacies have grown up around the Laodicean message by not putting together the whole message. Yet can we perceive similarity between ancient Laodicea and its current likeness?
Unfortunately this has become the definition of Laodicea in our thinking. Several fallacies have grown up around the Laodicean message by not putting together the whole message. Yet can we perceive similarity between ancient Laodicea and its current likeness?
