Definition: I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this famous verse from Revelation 3:15. It’s a really rich and layered message about God’s relationship with us. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God knows our desires – our motivations, our feelings – even if we don't express them. He understands what motivates us, whether we’re striving for warmth or coldness. Let’s unpack it word by word: “I know thy works…” - This is a key part. "Thy" means "your." God is acknowledging that you are aware of your own feelings and desires. "...that thou art neither cold nor hot:" – This compares our emotional state to two extremes: coldness and heat. Cold: Represents apathy, indifference, lack of passion, or a reluctance to engage with life. It's a state where you don’t feel anything deeply. Hot: Represents intense emotion - anger, excitement, desire – that drives us forward. So, what does it mean in practice? This verse suggests that God sees through our facades. He understands the underlying desires and motivations behind our actions, even if we're trying to hide them. He’s not judging you; he's simply acknowledging your emotional state. The Significance & Interpretation: God’s Love is Unconditional: This verse highlights God’s infinite love and understanding. He doesn’t judge us based on our outward expressions, but on the essence of who we are. Our Response Matters: It's a reminder that our actions often reveal more about ourselves than we realize. It encourages us to be honest with ourselves and to strive for genuine connection – not just superficial displays. Important Note: This verse isn’t about criticizing you or making you feel bad. It’s a statement of God’s all-knowing and compassionate nature. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme? Discuss the possible interpretations of this verse from different theological perspectives?