What does Revelation 3:18 mean?
I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. Revelation 3:18
Explanation
Revelation 3:18 is a verse from the letter to the church in Laodicea, found in the book of Revelation. It contains part of the counsel given by Jesus to this congregation. The verse metaphorically advises the church members to acquire from Christ the spiritual riches that they are lacking. “Gold tried in the fire” symbolizes true faith and character that has been tested and purified through trials. “White raiment” represents purity and righteousness, and instructs the members to cover their spiritual nakedness, indicative of their sin and shame. Lastly, the “eyesalve” is a metaphor for spiritual insight and discernment, allowing them to truly see their spiritual state.
Historical Context
The book of Revelation was written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos, around AD 95. Laodicea was a wealthy city known for its banking industry, medical school, and textile manufacturing, particularly garments made of black wool. It also had a famous eye salve that was exported throughout the Roman empire. The verse uses the economic and medical attributes of Laodicea to admonish its people for their spiritual complacency and self-sufficiency.
Theological Insights
From a theological standpoint, this verse is seen as a call to repentance and dependence on Christ for spiritual wealth and vision. It reflects the doctrine of sanctification – the process of becoming holy through Christ. Protestant theologians often emphasize the grace aspect of this passage, highlighting that the “gold” and “raiment” are gifts from Christ, not earned by human effort. Catholic and Orthodox interpretations may emphasize the ongoing process of spiritual growth and purification in the journey towards theosis or divinization.
Practical Applications
In practical terms, this verse encourages individuals to seek spiritual wealth and righteousness through a close relationship with Christ rather than relying on their own worldly achievements or material wealth. It invites believers to undergo self-examination and to humble themselves before God, acknowledging their need for His grace. Moreover, it motivates Christians to live out their faith authentically, enduring trials with perseverance, and seeking divine wisdom in all aspects of life.
Cross-References
- 1 Peter 1:7 – “[That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:]”
- Isaiah 61:10 – “[I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.]”
- Matthew 6:19-21 – “[Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth… But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.]”
Language Study
Key words in this verse include:
- “Gold tried in the fire” (Greek: “chrusion pepeuromenon ek puros”) accentuates the process of refining gold to remove impurities.
- “Rich” (Greek: “plouteo”) in this context relates to spiritual affluence rather than material wealth.
- “White raiment” (Greek: “himatia leuka”) symbolizes the purity and righteousness given by Christ.
- “Anoint” (Greek: “egchrio”) refers to the act of smearing or rubbing with oil, often used for healing or as a symbol of the Holy Spirit.
- “Eyesalve” (Greek: “kollourion”) was an ointment used in ancient times to treat eye conditions, applied here as a metaphor for gaining spiritual sight.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
In ancient times, gold and fine clothing were common symbols of wealth and status. The use of these metaphors would resonate with people familiar with the Roman Empire’s cultural backdrop. Similarly, many ancient religions used eye ointments in ritualistic practices. The Bible uses these known elements to provide spiritual lessons, similar to how other ancient myths use familiar symbols to convey moral and philosophical ideas.
Scientific Perspectives
Modern science recognizes the process of refining metals, such as gold, which involves heating to remove impurities—analogous to the challenges and struggles that strengthen an individual’s character. Scientific understanding of ophthalmology acknowledges the benefit of certain salves for physical eye conditions; however, the verse’s use of eyesalve is symbolic and not addressing literal vision but rather spiritual perception, which is not within the scope of science to evaluate.
Commentaries
Various commentaries provide insight into Revelation 3:18:
- Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the worth of divine grace over worldly goods and the importance of Christ’s righteousness to cover our sins.
- The MacArthur Study Bible notes that the “gold,” “white raiment,” and “eyesalve” are spiritual commodities offered by Jesus to effect a spiritual transformation in the believers.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary suggests that the “gold tried in the fire” is faith tested by trials, and the “white raiment” represents the imputed righteousness of the saints.