Revelation 3:20, (NKJV) 20 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.
I hear this verse used time and again in reference to salvation and use to think it was a salvation verse (and actually heard it again last Sunday). However, after studying the verse in detail I believe Jesus is not talking about knocking at the door of unbelievers in this scripture. The words in this verse are for the church at Laodicea, not nonbelievers.
The words were for those with ears to hear, not those needing ears.
The first chapter of Revelation talks about how John had a revelation from God that he was to record the information and give it to the seven churches.
The second and third chapters of Revelation are seven letters to seven churches. True churches are not buildings, but regenerate people who worship and serve God together.
Revelation 3:20 is in reference to the church in Laodicea. The church of Laodicea was self-confident and self-righteous. Jesus rebuked them for their lukewarm condition and haughty spirit. The benefit offered by Jesus in the verse is fellowship, not salvation from hell. The Lord Jesus Christ offered the members of this church His personal presence for spiritual communion and fellowship, not regeneration or justification. These saints were already saved from hell but they were living a miserable existence without a personal relationship with Christ. This offer was for fellowship and forgiveness if they repented. They could have the joy that John described in I John 1:1-10 if they would follow this command.
In all cultures, meals are a time of fellowship. Thus for the Lord Jesus to tell this church that He wishes to dine with them is a call to fellowship with Him. Fellowship with God is only possible if we are honest and open with Him (1 John 1:9). These believers thought they were doing well spiritually (“Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing…” verse 17). In reality, they were out of fellowship with God and thus needed to repent to get right with God.
Conclusion; Rev.3:20 Jesus tells the church at Laodicea that He will always welcome them back into fellowship.
I could be in error in my remarks, so if I am, please let me know and give the Biblical references for me to study.
Blessings, Dennis
Manos de Dios, Hands of God Ministries 