Recreational Jesus User

Revelation 3:14-22

I. Christ’s Rebuke to the Church of Laodecia

A. Historical Context

1. Laodecia was ten miles west of Colosse and south of Hierapolis

2. Wealthy city, known for its famous medicinal eye salve and textile industry, especially clothing and rugs made of black wool

3. Laodecia was also known for its water supply

a. It had no direct source of water, so all water was piped in through aqueducts.

b. By the time it arrived, it was lukewarm and polluted by limestone deposits in the aqueducts.

4. Lukewarm water is useless—must be heated or cooled first

a. Warm water is good for cleaning, cooking, bathing, etc.

b. Cool water is good for drinking

B. Blinded by the world

1. “Your wealth is corrupt; you are poor”

a. Your gold is tainted, just like your water

b. You have material wealth but are spiritually destitute

2. “You are naked”

a. Jesus contrasts the popular black linen of Laodecia with white garments that He offers

3. “You are blind”

II. “Recreational User” vs. “Addict”

A. Drug Addicts

1. Experience withdrawals in the absence of their drugs

2. Drugs change an addict’s priorities and way of thinking:

a. So addicted that their entire life revolves around drugs

b. Money, time, resources, friends, etc.

3. Often look physically different from non-addicts—you can fairly easily pick them out in a crowd

B. Recreational Drug Users

1. Are not “addicted;” don’t experience physical withdrawals after prolonged abstinence

2. Are often indistinguishable from non-users.

a. Without looking in their bank account, you’d never know they spent money on drugs

b. Drug use is typically confined to the weekends at parties, but only when it’s the popular thing to do

c. Their friends are mostly non-users and they do their best not to stick out in a crowd.

3. Unless you are a fellow recreational user or a dealer, you’d probably never know

Conclusion:

We ought to be addicted to Jesus! People should be able to tell that we are more than “Recreational Jesus users.” Christ’s influence should be felt in every area of our life and ought to completely transform our lives. Our money, time, resources, friendships—everything about us should proclaim that we are hopelessly addicted to Christ.