Is Jesus Still Knocking? - July 3rd, 2011

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.

Revelation 3:20

History and Context:

Revelation was revealed to John the Apostle when he was exiled on the Isle of Patmos. Stories outside of the Bible have shown us that the reason John was exiled was because the Romans couldn't kill him. They attempted to boil him and God saved him from death. When they realized that they couldn't kill him, they decided they would exile him on this island in order to keep him from influencing the people. He then wrote revelation. The first three chapters are letters to seven churches at the time, then starting in chapter four God gives him a revelation of heaven and coming events.

The Text:

This particular passage comes from the letter to the church of the Laodecians, famously known as 'the lukewarm church'. Jesus tells this church that they have become 'lukewarm', but He would rather they be either fully hot or fully cold. They were 'riding the fence' but he wished they would get on one side or the other. This scripture is often used in evangelistic efforts, saying that Jesus is at the 'door' of the non-Christians heart, but it is important to note here that Jesus was talking to Christians, to the church. These Christians had left Jesus outside of their true hearts, knocking, hoping to be let in.

The Challenge:

Look at your own life. Is there an area in which you have left Jesus out? Have you been guarding your true innermost heart from Him? It is time that you heed the knocking and let Him in. Trust Him, He will only make things better. Allow Him in and allow Him to change your life. If it's a sin, He will help you get rid of it. If it is a desire or wish, He may help you fulfill it. He wants to be a part of your entire life, the challenge for us is to allow Him to do so.

The Prayer:

Lord, come into my life! Come into every aspect of my life. Lead me and guide me in every decision I have. I want you to be invited in to every part of me. Thank you Lord! In Jesus name, Amen!