Laodikya – Laodicea, Turkey

The site of another of the seven churches addressed by John in the Book of Revelation, Laodicea is on a low hill between Denizli and Pamukkale and on the south bank of the Lycus River (Çürüksu). Ruins of theaters, a gymnasium, a stadium,, and several other public buildings stand up above the wheat fields or the weeds, depending on the season. The city was intersected by main trading routes running east-west and north-south. As a commercial center, it had a large Jewish community. When Hadrian visited it in AD 129 it was at its height and called itself “the metropolis of Asia.” Strabo, the 1st century geographer, reported that Laodicea was known for the unusually soft black wool from its shep.

For John in Revelation, the Christians of Laodicea were neither hot nor cold and because of their indifference he wanted to spew them out of his mouth. This refence has made scholoars wonder if John was thinking about the hot springs of Pamukkale only 7km farther away. His promiste to Laodiceans who would respond to his lesson was that they would join the Spirit in the great feast.

Although it can only be speculation, it is striking to note that John chose details about each of the seven churches which applied specifically to the one he adressed. Had he visited the places individually? Or -as many believe- did her choose the seven to represent the whole Christian community and the challenges he saw facing it? To all the Christians who were faithful he promised a final seat on the heavenly throne.

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