I have opinions about people who are alerted to the possibility that we could end poverty and promote sustainability, yet choose to say nothing on the topic

 Did God (purportedly) say to pick a side, rather than sit on the fence?

Based on biblical passages, the concept of being "hot" or "cold" rather than "lukewarm" is 
associated with God's preference for people to be fully committed or clearly opposed, rather than indifferent or indecisive. 
Here's why and how this idea is conveyed in the Bible:
  • Revelation 3:15-16: This passage, addressed to the church in Laodicea, is the primary source of the "hot or cold" imagery. Jesus expresses disgust at their lukewarmness and wishes they were either hot (zealous and devoted) or cold (clearly against Him), emphasizing the undesirable nature of being in between.
  • Choosing a Side: The Bible emphasizes the importance of making a clear choice to follow God or to reject Him. Joshua's challenge to the Israelites to choose whom they will serve illustrates this principle.
  • Indecision and its consequences: Indecision or wavering in faith is presented as detrimental. It can lead to instability, spiritual unfitness, and even spiritual defeat.
  • Spiritual Passion: Being "hot" or "cold" is often interpreted as representing different degrees of spiritual engagement, where hot signifies active devotion and cold signifies apathy or opposition. The passage doesn't suggest that being "cold" (opposed to God) is preferable to being "lukewarm" (indifferent). Instead, it highlights the uselessness and unacceptability of apathy.
  • The Context of Laodicea: The city of Laodicea's water supply situation, with hot springs for healing and cold springs for refreshment, but lukewarm water from a faulty aqueduct, provides a powerful metaphor for their spiritual state. The lukewarmness of the water, like the Laodicean church's lack of spiritual passion, was unpalatable and useless.
  • Authenticity and Commitment: The underlying message is about the importance of authentic faith and wholehearted commitment to God. God desires a sincere and decisive faith, not a half-hearted one. 
In Revelation 3:15-16, how is being cold more ... - Quora
Jun 7, 2022 — * This is the passage in question. * Rev 3:15 “'I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! * Rev 3:16 So, because ...
Quora
What Does the Bible Say About Being Lukewarm? - OpenBible.info
Revelation 3:15-16 ESV / 384 helpful votes. “'I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukew...
Open Bible Info
Therefore, the concept of picking a side rather than sitting on the fence aligns with the biblical emphasis on the need for decisive faith and commitment to God, as illustrated by the "hot or cold" metaphor in Revelation.

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