New Discovery in Laodicea Sheds Light on Early Christian Worship in a Church Jesus Addressed

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Archeologists in the country of Turkey recently discovered some interesting new evidence of Christians in ancient Rome, as well as their presence in the ancient city of Laodicea. A 22-year excavation and restoration project has revealed an enormous Roman council hall in what is today known as the modern Turkish province of Denizli. The names of the council president and members were engraved on the hall’s seating steps, suggesting the city played a rather significant role in judicial and political affairs. It’s estimated there were roughly 600-800 members, according to AA.com.

“We already know it was an administrative center overseeing seven to ten cities. When we started excavations in the council building, we saw that the surrounding walls had a pentagonal shape, and with the front included, it was hexagonal. We are accessing such an architectural style for the first time,” Professor Celal Simsek, head of the excavation team, told an Anadolu Agency (AA) reporter. He added that Laodicea was one of Anatolia’s largest metropolises.  

The dig has also revealed a headless statue of the Roman emperor Trajan, the remains of a theater, a cross carved into a large stone, and a carving of the Christian Chi-Rho monogram, which represents the first two letters of Christ. In addition, there were etchings accompanied by Greek text, according to Fox News. 

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Anadolu/Contributor

The Biblical Warning to Laodicea

The ancient Laodicean church is one of the seven churches mentioned in the Bible’s New Testament book of Revelation. It received a warning about its “lukewarm” works in connection with Christ and His Kingdom. 

“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 with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore, be zealous and repent” (Rev. 3:14-19).

When we’re in a season of being comfortable and we’re not lacking in the basics of life, and there’s even a little something left over to enjoy life, it can be easy to take these blessings for granted. It’s important that we remember what God has brought us through and that we share these stories of victory with others. Not only do these stories encourage some and open the door for others to come to know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior, but they also grow our faith and help us to stand strong when we face the next struggle life throws our way.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Anadolu/Contributor

Elizabeth Delaney has been a freelance content writer for over 20 years and has enjoyed having her prose published in both the non-fiction and fiction markets. She has written various types of content, including Christian articles, healthy lifestyle, blog posts, business topics, news articles, product descriptions, and some fiction. She is also a singer-songwriter-musician. When she is not busy with writing or music, she enjoys spending time with friends or family and doing fun social activities such as hiking, swing dancing, concerts, and other activities.