SEPARATING THE SPIRITUAL FROM THE PHYSICAL
THE HIDDEN MEANING
INTRODUCTION
In these next scriptures, we at VAL-TE’ believe advises against compromising on core beliefs and morals, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ – and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked – I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes salve, that you may see. 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. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”’” Revelation 3: 14-22 NKJV
Biblical Word
LUKEWARM – Then Immanuel told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: “’ I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.” “I tell you the truth,” Immanuel answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown, you.” And all the other disciples said the same. Matthew 26: 31-35 NIV
Reference
Luke 23: 13-25 – Pilate called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, “You brought this man to me and said that he was misleading the people. Now, I have examined him here in your presence, and I have not found him guilty of any of the crimes you accuse him of. Nor did Herod find him guilty, for he sent him back to us. There is nothing this man has done to deserve death. So I will have him whipped and let him go.” The whole crowd cried out. “Kill him! Set Barabbas free for us!” (Barabbas had been put in prison for a riot that had taken place in the city, and for murder.)
Pilate wanted to set Immanuel free, so he appealed to the crowd again. But they shouted back, “Crucify him! Pilate said to them the third time, “But what crime has he committed? I cannot find anything he has done to deserve death! I will have him whipped and set him free.” But they kept on shouting at the top of their voices that Immanuel should be crucified, and finally their shouting succeeded. So Pilate passed the sentence on Immanuel that they were asking for. He set free the man they wanted, the one who had been put in prison for riot and murder, and he handed Immanuel over for them to do as they wished. GNT
Significance
Compromised (This can be a deliberate turning away from what knows to be right) – We at VAL-TE’ also believe it’s like ignoring several months of daily phone conversations to fit in with the lie, rather than standing firm to make things easier or to please others. A person who wants the positive social outcomes of promoting their beliefs and being perceived liked, but without taking the risks associated with fully committing or speaking out on potential controversial issues. They want to steer clear of any actions or strong stances that might require personal sacrifice, commitment, or opposition. Relates to a lack of full commitment, which aligns with the idea of accepting lower standards and mixing ways.
