How can we tell if we are a lukewarm Christians… those who are backslidden in the faith?
In Revelation 3:14-16, 19 it is written… “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm — neither hot nor cold — I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent.
Here are a few things to consider to determine if a lukewarm or backslidden condition exists…
Those who are lukewarm let entertainment, recreation, and sports take the place of worship. Sins of the body and mind don’t trouble them. They avoid pointed spiritual discussions about Jesus. They care little about being holy in words, thoughts, and conduct. They are able to lie to and deceive others easily…
Those who are lukewarm rely on the pastor and Sunday School teachers for spiritual food. They are content with their current Biblical knowledge. They don’t have an active prayer life. Any excuse will do to ignore spiritual disciplines.
Those who are lukewarm can hear God’s name taken in vain and aren’t troubled. They can watch degrading TV & movies with no problem. They can listen to degrading music and sing along with it. They can cheat on anyone at any time and not be bothered by it. They can bless people one minute and curse them the next from the same mouth.
Those who are lukewarm have lost delight in singing, worshipping, & praising God. They affirm their own godliness while judging, criticizing, & condemning others. They can see other’s sin, but not their own. They aren’t moved to action by injustice & misery of others. They aren’t broken over sin in the world. They apply Biblical truth to others rather than themselves.
When you can read these things… know some apply to you… & not be bothered… A lukewarm condition probably exists.
2 Corinthians 13:5, Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!