King James Version

What Does Revelation 3:15 Mean?

Revelation 3:15 in the King James Version says “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.”

Revelation 3:15 · KJV

Context

13

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

14

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; of the Laodiceans: or, in Laodicea

15

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

16

So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

17

Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.... This verse from Revelation's vision of letters to sardis, philadelphia, laodicea - dead religion, faithful witness, lukewarmness employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 3:15 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
Οἶδά1 of 15

“I know”

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

σου2 of 15

“thy”

G4675

of thee, thy

τὰ3 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἔργα4 of 15

“works”

G2041

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

ὅτι5 of 15

“that”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

οὔτε6 of 15

“neither”

G3777

not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even

ψυχρὸς7 of 15

“cold”

G5593

chilly (literally or figuratively)

εἶ8 of 15

“thou art”

G1488

thou art

οὔτε9 of 15

“neither”

G3777

not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even

ζεστός10 of 15

“hot”

G2200

boiled, i.e., (by implication) calid (figuratively, fervent)

ὄφελον11 of 15

“I would”

G3785

i ought (wish), i.e., (interjection) oh that!

ψυχρὸς12 of 15

“cold”

G5593

chilly (literally or figuratively)

εἴης13 of 15

“thou wert”

G1498

might (could, would, or should) be

ἢ14 of 15

“or”

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

ζεστός15 of 15

“hot”

G2200

boiled, i.e., (by implication) calid (figuratively, fervent)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 3:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 3:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Romans 12:11Matthew 6:241 Kings 18:21James 1:8Revelation 2:4Psalms 81:11-13

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