Revelation 3:16

Authorized King James Version

So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὕτως
G3779
So
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#2
ὅτι
G3754
then because
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#3
χλιαρὸς
G5513
lukewarm
tepid
#4
εἶ
G1488
thou art
thou art
#5
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
οὔτε
G3777
neither
not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even
#7
ψυχρός
G5593
cold
chilly (literally or figuratively)
#8
οὔτε
G3777
neither
not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even
#9
ζεστὸς
G2200
hot
boiled, i.e., (by implication) calid (figuratively, fervent)
#10
μέλλω
G3195
I will
to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili
#11
σε
G4571
thee
thee
#12
ἐμέσαι
G1692
spue
to vomit
#13
ἐκ
G1537
out of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#14
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
στόματός
G4750
mouth
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#16
μου
G3450
my
of me

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within imperial persecution under Domitian's demand for emperor worship. The author writes to address persecuted Christians in Asia Minor facing pressure to compromise, making the emphasis on kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection