Definition: Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Revelation 3:3. It’s a pretty intense and symbolic message about the future. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is warning us about not being complacent or resisting God's will. It’s saying that if we don’t actively listen to and follow God, He will come to us in a way that’s difficult to manage. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Remember therefore how you have received and heard…” – This is about acknowledging what we’ve already accepted and understood from God. It's recognizing the truth of His message, even if it’s challenging. It’s a recognition of our faith and obedience. “…and hold fast, and repent.” - "Hold fast" means to remain steadfast in your belief and commitment to God. “Repent” is a key word here – it means to turn away from wrong things and return to the right path. It’s a conscious decision to change your attitude or behavior. “If therefore you shall not watch…” - This is where the warning comes in. "Watch" represents paying attention, being aware, and obeying God's commands. It means not ignoring His guidance or failing to listen to His voice. "...I will come on thee as a thief..." - This is a very powerful image. A thief steals from others, taking their possessions. In this context, "thee" refers to God. He’s saying that He will come to us in a way that might seem frightening or disruptive – like a thief approaching someone. "...and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee." - This is the most unsettling part. It means that God's judgment and His return may not be immediately obvious or predictable. He might come to us in unexpected ways, perhaps when we least expect it. It implies a coming of His Kingdom, which can seem chaotic or frightening. In simpler terms: God is warning us about the dangers of being disconnected from Him and refusing to obey His will. If we don't actively listen and change our course, He might come to us in a way that’s difficult for us to handle, potentially causing chaos and uncertainty. It's a call to faithfulness and to remain aware of God’s plan. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the idea of judgment day. It reminds us that even though we may believe in God, we must actively respond to His guidance and not ignore it. It highlights the importance of obedience and staying true to our faith. --- Disclaimer: I’m an AI Chatbot and not a religious expert. This explanation is based on interpretations of biblical texts and should be viewed as a general overview. If you are struggling with difficult concepts or seeking deeper understanding, it's always best to consult with a trusted spiritual leader. Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss the symbolism behind it? Explore what it means for believers today?