Temperature or Nature? An Alternative Interpretation of χλιαρός [chliarós] in Revelation 3:16

Philip Chia

doi:10.21697/ct.2025.95.3.03

Published: 2025-08-31

Vol. 95 No. 3 (2025)

Temperature or Nature?

An Alternative Interpretation of χλιαρός [chliarós] in Revelation 3:16

Philip Chia

Collectanea Theologica

Section: Articles

https://doi.org/10.21697/ct.2025.95.3.03

Abstract

Is χλιαρός in Rev 3:16 temperature or nature? Previous research has largely concentrated on the temperature dimension. This article offers a different perspective on the term χλιαρός in Rev 3:16. It posits that the term should be interpreted through the dual lenses of temperature and the characteristics of the water itself. Key archaeological discoveries, including a prominent marble block featuring water regulations, in conjunction with a structural examination of the Son of Man’s admonition in Rev 3:14–22, will be used as a methodology to support the argument that χλιαρός encompasses both temperature and the inherent qualities of the water.

Keywords:

Laodicea, lukewarm, temperature, nature, inscription, structural analysis

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Chia, P. (2025). Temperature or Nature? An Alternative Interpretation of χλιαρός [chliarós] in Revelation 3:16. Collectanea Theologica, 95(3), 471–490. https://doi.org/10.21697/ct.2025.95.3.03

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Philip Chia

pchia275@students.sbts.edu
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2453-7497

Affiliation:

University of Pretoria Indonesia

Bio Statement (e.g., department and rank)

Affiliation: Evangelical Theological Seminary of Indonesia, Reformed Theological Seminary of Indonesia, and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Bethel Theological Seminary of Indonesia – The Way.

Position: Director of Doctoral Studies at Evangelical Theological Seminary of Indonesia, an adjunct professor of Reformed Theological Seminary of Indonesia and Bethel Theological Seminary of Indonesia – The Way.