What Revelation 3:20 Means (behold I stand at the door and knock)
Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. Revelation 3:20
This is one of the most popular verses in Revelation. Whenever I hear this verse I think about this picture:
Of course, this picture isn’t exactly accurate. However, the point of this blog isn’t how we misrepresent Jesus’ physical appearance. It’s how we misinterpret the true Revelation 3:20 meaning.
We’ve missed WHO this verse is addressed to. We often picture Jesus standing outside an unbeliever’s house (heart) asking to come in. In other words we see this passage as an invitation for salvation.
The problem is that’s not who Revelation 3:20 is written to.
In this blog post we are going to look at what “behold I stand at the door and knock” means and how it applies to our lives.
Let’s start by looking at the context.
The Context Of Revelation 3:20
In the first few chapters of Revelation, John (the author) records a message from God to seven churches. These were real churches with real people that existed in John’s day.
To fully understand the meaning of Revelation 3:20 we must first understand who the original audience is. And when we do that what you will see is that there are a lot of similarities between these ancient churches and ours today.
This famous picture of Jesus standing at the door knocking comes in the middle of these addresses to the seven churches. In Revelation 3:14-22 the church of Laodicea is being addressed.
The most common interpretation of Revelation 3:20 is that Jesus is standing on the outside of an unbelievers heart. This passage is seen as a salvation invitation. But in context we can see that’s an improper understanding.
When Jesus says “behold I stand at the door and knock” he’s actually addressing a church. His own followers.
Let’s look a little further into the Laodicean church and who they were.
The Church Of Laodicea
Laodicea was positioned in a heavily resourced area and the people who lived there had comfortable lives. They prided themselves on their ability to provide for themselves. So much so that when an earthquake destroyed their city in 60 AD they refused help from the Roman Empire insisting to pay for the rebuild themselves.
This attitude of self-sufficiency spilled over into the church. They thought they had it all together and figured out.
In a harsh, spurred from love reminder, God points out their weakness and tells them they’ve become useless. That’s what the whole lukewarm water comment is about (Revelation 3:16). Hot and cold water are good and useful, but lukewarm water is good for nothing.
If you want to learn more about this comment about being lukewarm check out this blog post I wrote: What It Means To Be Lukewarm
The church in Laodicea is lukewarm. They are stuck in neutral. They think they are self-sufficient. But the reality is they are deficient. They have a dire need for Jesus. The question of them is will they admit their need or leave Jesus outside so that they can keep up appearances.
That’s what leads us to this picture of Jesus standing on the outside knocking in Revelation 3:20.
This image is actually a really interesting picture. It would have been familiar to anyone in the culture. It’s an image of someone wanting to come in for dinner. It would have been considered rude and inhospitable to not let them in. In other words, this image is kinda a punch in the gut to the Laodicean church. The church, God’s people, have left Jesus standing outside.
What Revelation 3:20 Means
Now that we’ve seen the context, let’s look at the meaning of Revelation 3:20.
Revelation 3:20 is not a picture of Jesus asking to come into the life of an unbeliever. Rather it’s about how believers can become lukewarm. In doing so we push Jesus out and leave Him standing on the outside of the door. That’s the picture this verse is painting, Jesus standing outside a Christian’s heart asking to come in.
The church in Laodicea had developed three bad characteristics that this passage is addressing.
There were lukewarm. Lukewarm implies that they were good for nothing. Hot water is soothing and cleans. Cold water is refreshing. Both have a purpose and a value. Lukewarm water is good for nothing. This is something the people of Laodicea knew well, all they had access to was lukewarm water (more on that here). This church had given up their pursuit of Jesus and become ineffective.
They were materialistic. This church was rich in material things that created a false sense of security. They thought they were good to go because they could provide for themselves. But they were neglecting their spiritual condition.
They were spiritually bankrupt. Really the root cause of all this was their spiritual condition. They had disconnected themselves from the vine and were withering. This church learned the hard lesson that without God it’s impossible to produce life. A lesson that many churches today should lean into.
The Laodicean church had kicked Jesus out leaving him outside knocking to come back in. Really Revelation 3:20 is a question posed to the church, will you let Jesus back in?
He’s willing and desiring a relationship. He’s waiting for them. But they have to open the door. Jesus isn’t going to barge in. He desires a relationship not of subservience but of mutual desire. He knocks, but we have to open the door.
And that’s where this passage ends. Do they open the door? We don’t know.
3 Truths From Revelation 3:20
Now that we know what Revelation 3:20 means let’s look at some takeaways for our lives today. Here’s 3 truths about Revelation 3:20.
Permission is Sacred
Have you wondered why Jesus stands on the outside and knocks? He could just kick the door down and come in. He has the power, and the right, to do so. So, why does the creator of the universe choose to wait for our response?
We can’t miss this… Permission is sacred.
Jesus chooses this path because he desires intimacy with his creation. A relationship of mutual choosing. Because where there’s not permission there cannot be love. Love cannot be forced, it has to be granted permission. Permission is sacred.
Jesus waits on the outside and knocks not because he has to, but to honor our decision. He wants what power cannot gain. A relationship.
In a culture where the powerful and elite think they can take what they want, we understand the depth of permission. We understand the violation when permission is ignored. Isn’t it refreshing that the creator of the universe, the one who could take anything he wants, rather gives his creation the power of permission?
Shane Wood in his book Between Two Trees says it this way: “Even if we treat it {permission} profanely. Even if we overlook the power it possesses. The mystery it contains. The divinity it emanates. To give permission to another is a moment charged with intimacy, a gesture suffused with intensity. For permission is an invitation to closeness. Permission reroutes the boundaries of our world to include another, to welcome another, to incorporate another into what is by design our own.”
Jesus stands at your door and knocks because your permission is sacred. He will not force his way in because love has to be chosen.
Revelation 3:20 shows us that permission is sacred.
It’s An Invitation
Revelation 3:20 is also an invitation, but not the kind we are thinking. This isn’t an invitation that Jesus is extending to us. Rather it’s an invitation we extend to him.
Craig Keener in his commentary on Revelation says, “Lest anyone misunderstand the tone and motivation of Jesus’ rebuke, he makes clear that its purpose is love. Indeed, not only does Jesus not reject them, but he wants to have dinner with them (Revelation 3:20), a familiar image for intimacy in antiquity; inviting Jesus in for a meal was the least sort of hospitality one would expect of even an acquaintance. Can a Christian who calls Jesus Lord do anything less?”
Jesus is inviting the Laodicean Christians to realize how their own self-sufficiency has shut Him out of their lives. He’s offering them, in essence, a second chance. An opportunity to once again invite him in.
As Keener says, this is the least amount of hospitality we can show someone, even a stranger. But we aren’t talking about a stranger here. We are talking about a people that call themselves Christians that have left their Savior outside. He’s knocking to come in, but are they going to extend the invitation to their Savior?
Revelation 3:20 challenges us to look at our own lives to see if we are inviting Jesus into our lives.
Inviting Jesus In Changes Everything
You might be looking at this picture in Revelation 3:20 and think why wouldn’t someone let Jesus in? Especially a Christian, they are on the same team so why is Jesus on the outside?
The picture of inviting Jesus evoked images of hospitality to the original audience. And if that was the extent of this verse, of course, nobody would leave Jesus outside knocking. But what this verse is getting at is much deeper than just sharing a meal. Inviting Jesus in is allowing him to do work in our lives. It’s submitting to him and allowing him to transform our lives.
This transformative process isn’t always easy and is intrusive. And that’s why many people leave Jesus on the outside. Because this process of our transformation from death (our old life) to life (where Jesus is leading us) is painful.
For the church in Laodicea, they didn’t want to enter into this process. They liked their old ways. They didn’t want Jesus coming in and changing things. That would be painful, it would mean they would have to admit their wrongs and change their ways. So they kept the door shut.
Inviting Jesus in is giving him permission to dig around in our life and find dead parts, the bad parts, the ugly parts, and redeem them. While on one hand that sounds like good news (and it is) it’s also painful. So many avoid it.
Closing Thoughts On “Behold I Stand At The Door And Knock”
Today, we’ve bought into the same lie that the church in Laodicea did. We think we have everything we need.
When we are faced with the fact that we don’t, we think if we could just get more money, a better president, that law passed, or whatever then we will be alright. But the reality is we are fooling ourselves. We are hopeless on our own. We need Jesus. Desperately.
For many in the western church Jesus is standing at their “door” knocking. He won’t bust in, he’s waiting for an invitation. Remember, permission is sacred. We have a choice. Let Jesus in and face the process of transformation. Or keep him at arms length, play it safe, but never experience the life he wants for you.
Jesus wants to come in. He wants that relationship with you. And he wants to transform the dead parts of your life. It will be painful, but it’s done in love and for your good. He has something incredible for you. So, what are you going to do? Will you let him in?
Your blog post on Revelation 3:20 provides a profound insight into a commonly misunderstood verse. It’s enlightening to see how you clarify that Jesus isn’t standing at the door of unbelievers but rather at the door of believers—specifically, the church in Laodicea. Your exploration of the church’s self-sufficiency and spiritual complacency resonates deeply, highlighting the universal challenge of inviting Jesus into our lives amidst comfort and materialism. Your emphasis on permission as sacred and the transformative power of inviting Jesus in offers a poignant reflection for readers today. Thank you for shedding light on this passage in such a thoughtful and thought-provoking manner!
Best regards,
Massa
Hello Pastor Jeffrey, I appreciate and grateful for presenting your message regarding this verse at Rev.3:20. At first, coming in to your title irritated me. I thought, what is this guy trying to bring out?. (I used this verse during a sharing of the gospel presentation due to its simplicity and it’s powerful for me, I am a church worker in my locality). I decided to read your article and wow, I found out something this morning through your message that this verse is also for the christian, the lukewarm christian. My apology to you brother at first, i’m sorry for thinking that way. God Bless more of your ministry. My name is Daniel Pecsoy, from Baguio City, Philippines
A homeless regardless of why. Knocks at the door, help them.
This is talking to a church. But this church is about to be vomited from the mouth of God. They have fallen, and unless they repent face profound consequences. They are in a worse state than many unbelievers because these church people are deceived about their own spiritual state. Tragically, there are many sitting in churches who believe they have a right relationship with our Lord. Jesus Christ offers them a relationship, but they must invite him in.
This is such an awesome word! It was very helpful for a study on prayer! Blessings!!!
I am from Australia but I have lived in the eastern culture for 15 years ,and I have learned that sitting around a table and eating and drinking with people is where life is decided, I think Jesus is saying here nothing is hidden from me I see clearly what’s going on with you ,and I would like To sit down with you in the very place where life is decided around a meal . Everyone who knows me knows I love drinking a cuppa tea with my wife ,it’s our practice for 32 years , I once was ask ,if I gave you one million dollars to not ever drink tea again would you take the money? I instantly said no , because we have planed and decide all of our lifes magical and beautiful moments around a home brewed cup of tea, and this is what Jesus is offering here For me anyway to sit have a cup of tea and work out the messes and problems in my life .
I very much appreciate your reflections on this scripture. As someone with a serious eating disorder, this passage and images around it help me greatly. I visualize me opening the door, letting Jesus in, allowing him to see what I am eating, having Him sit down, and eating with me without judgment. The imagery helps me prayerfully talk to Jesus about my fears around food and receive His comforting Presence and words, where His Love drives out my fear of eating. And I am training myself to take this into every food event and food challenge where I am afraid.
May God continue to be your form of spiritual and physical sustenance, and give you great peace and healing in Jesus name🙏
🙏”Permission Is Sacred?! Permission Granted!! Loved It!!
“Permission is sacred.”
Nope. God doesn’t need permission to do anything. Just ask Jonah and Saul.
Correct. He doesn’t “need” permission. He chooses to honor it.
To add to this discussion, Laodicea did not have a good source of clean water and so had it brought in via an aqueduct from the north. The water originated from a hot springs but by the time it made its way down to Laodicea, it was lukewarm. Another interested fact is that boric acid was invented in Laodicea. Boric acid is used to wash eyes and the reference in this chapter of Revelations where Jesus said they should buy from him salve to anoint their eyes so they may see is another interesting reference. One more, Laodicea was known for its special breed of sheep that had black, glossy wool used to make coats. Yet Jesus tells them they are naked and should buy from him white garments to clothe their nakedness and cover their shame. The church in Laodicea is the liberal theology church today that denies the inerrancy of God’s word. This is the modern liberal church that says we welcome everyone in the name of love. This is the church that says we know better than God and will change God’s word to suit our needs. The evangelical church says we welcome you and want you to know the truth and God’s grace. God knows best and will change the world to suit Him.
Wow! That’s amazing Janet. Where on earth did you learn all that? I’d love to research further the things you have revealed. Georgina
You are absolutely right about today’s liberal churches. That infection has spread far and wide, even among some formerly Bible-believing evangelical denominations.
Nice view of the word in the Context!
Did you receive my message regarding offer to proofread your commentary? M. Gibbs
I read your commentary on Rev. 3:20 today. You have a refreshing way of looking at scripture, reminding us of the context, the nuances of language, and understanding the times and origins of the original passage. My reason for writing is to ask if you would be interested in hiring me as a proofreader. What prompted my interest in helping you was reading, “We often this of this picture as Jesus standing outside”. I had to stop and figure out what you really meant. Then I read, “But in context, we see its part of a larger address to the church of Laodicea,” which should read “it’s ” for “it is”. Jeff, some writers don’t really care about using proper grammar or spelling, or correcting typos. With your interest in bringing more clarity to understanding scripture and the Christians’ walk with Truth, I thought you might. If it matters and you don’t have another resource for proofreading your insightful commentary, I offer my service. Please contact me at my email address. M. Gibbs
There he was walking up my driveway.. Somehow I knew before he arrived..
Many years ago.. I knocked upon the door.. in so asking for Jesus to enter..
Now.. this time.. My door was already wide open..
The dinner was fish and rice with corn.. The fish I caught that day.
He brought his quitar.. and my son played a few tunes..
His voice was just ever so soft and he was ever so polite.
As the Bible I was gifted was from a Buddhist..
It is a white Bible. With a picture of christ on the front..
..
Now he looked just like the picture.. So I asked him.. How did they get that picture..
He just smiled..
…
I also asked him.. What faith.. What religion..
He said all of them..
…
He remained around.. for a while.. He stood in the midst of a big fire..
Kinda scary..
After that a fire also came from the heavens.. Kinda outta nowhere..
Which was also kinda scary..
And a mountain goat.. Baby..
Was sundered in two.. Before my eyes..
Now that was sad.. It made me cry.
…
I could tell you.. And my wall was written on.
And that was scary..
….
I hope that you understand..
Some of us battle for.. You..
Who can stand.. Who can conquier.
No one will know or understand.. Until it happens..
….
But after it happens.. You will know.. Who is worthy to stand..
And
where God resides..
….
At least I understand now.. And I see father now.. And I understand..
You must believe..
He sent.. Jesus..
Of course he’s got a new name..
….
And that father is the living spirit force of creation..
Who dwellith.. In you.. And will be with you.. Always..
Personally.. Privately..
…
Now the measure of a man.. Is the measure of a angel…
And a Saint is indeed a great thing..
But becoming a son..
Is like the marriage of the lamb..
And..
To testify..
This I do..
Now God’s holy spirit.. Whom resides in me.. Waves.. In glowing flowing light..
So I know.. From where the wind cometh.. And all things.. Are just as Jesus taught.
…
Blessing.. Of true love. Where the Nobel heart stands.. Is where we are measured.. Yet we’ed fall.. Without christ..
Least I know I would have..
And now..
I understand..
We are blinded.. from the light and the truth..
And Jesus.. Is the our savoir..
For he who knocks..
As it’s written..
No one..
Gets to the father..
Without him.. And he is the way.
So my truth and courage… My Love and honour..
I send to you..
He makes new beginnings..
…
And that’s what revelations..
3:20
Means to me..
Wow your write up is cool I mean is inspiring, there is this part that you said that I love so much where you said master Jesus wants to come in to transform us.
But I like to add, he wants us to give him permission in the deepest parts of our hearts for him to come in and be enthroned in our lives, to make us like him, you see is possible we gave our lives to Christ but we have not allowed him in some other areas of our live, but we need to allow him into every areas of our lives.
I enjoyed this article and appreciate the pointing out of taking Scripture out of context, one Scripture taken and taught incorrectly to fit traditions of men and agendas. Also I must admit I was going to skip reading the article or skip in parts, yet your comments on the photo had me read on. We are told to not make any graven images and that and others like it are definitely that. As I read my Bible, I find that like this article points out Revelation was speaking to Believers, as most of the Bible does yet the Bible is and has been taught as if it is to unbelievers.
To respond to the comment made by “Anonymous” (as if it really deserved one). How do you know how long Jesus’ hair was? Because you were there right? You must be the oldest person in the world. I don’t blame you for not wanting to use your name.
As many times as I’ve read and heard that, I’ve allowed my original teaching to blind me from the truth. Context isn’t everything, but without it we see a completely different picture.
PS. Notice that the door doesn’t have a handle. It has to be opened from the inside.
I believe a parallel passage to this is the soils in Matt 13. Good soil allows Him in to change the person and produce “fruit”. The other soils block the “fruit” for various reasons. People want to argue if those leaving Jesus outside are truly saved. I will leave that between them and God, but I for one want him to come in and “dine with me”. Nothing this world has to offer could beat that.
Great thought Tom! I think there are some parallels to the soil parable. I think we get to choose or cultivate the soil in our lives that determines the outcome. I also agree we should leave the who’s saved and who’s not to God. He’s much more qualified and is full of grace and truth. He’s the only one who can be a fair and just judge.
1 Corinthians 11:14 = Jesus had short hair and your picture of Jesus got long hair…..take me off your mailing list please…
I loved everything you wrote!…I’ve been asking Jesus to cut me deep, separating soul from spirit and yes sometimes its not pleasant but the incredible transformation of His AMAZING LOVE in my heart mind and soul has brought me a place of being madly and radically in love with Him and truly being on Fire for Jesus!!!
I would go through the pain and then some all over again to get to this place of absolute intimacy with my Beloved!!
God bless you!!
Chantale Blakeley
chantaleblakeley@yahoo.ca
Roman soldiers had short hair to fit in helmets. So picky about hair, Women wore hair very long and men about shoulder length, those times was short hair. Two best guesses, what Jesus may have Look like. One In Popular Mechanics Magazine, Composite from many photos of men in Nazareth, Today. Second, From the Cloth of Turin. Look them up and feel, which looks right to you. Not what others think and don’t tell us.