### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Laodikeús**, represented by `{{G2994}}`, refers to **a Laodicean, i.e. inhabitant of Laodicia**. Derived from the place name Laodíkeia `{{G2993}}`, this term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**. It specifically identifies the people belonging to the church in the city of Laodicea.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2994}}` identifies a specific group of early Christians. They are mentioned as a community intended to participate in the reading of apostolic letters, as instructions are given to have an **epistle** `{{G1992}}` read in the **church** `{{G1577}}` of the **Laodiceans** [[Colossians 4:16]]. The term is also used to designate the recipients of a direct message in the book of Revelation, addressed to the **angel** `{{G32}}` of the church of the **Laodiceans** [[Revelation 3:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the **Laodiceans**:
* `{{G2993}}` **Laodíkeia**: The place name from which the term is derived, defined as "**Laodicia, a place in Asia Minor**". This grounds the identity of the Laodiceans in a specific geographical location [[Colossians 4:16]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): The term **Laodikeús** is always used in connection with their religious congregation, the "church of the Laodiceans" ([[Colossians 4:16]], [[Revelation 3:14]]). It is defined as a "religious congregation."
* `{{G1992}}` **epistolḗ** (epistle): This word for a "**written message**" is central to the instruction given regarding the Laodiceans, who were to read the letter to the Colossians and share one of their own [[Colossians 4:16]].
* `{{G314}}` **anaginṓskō** (read): This action, "to **read**," is what connects the church of the Laodiceans to the apostolic epistles, highlighting their participation in the circulation of Christian teaching [[Colossians 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of the **Laodiceans** `{{G2994}}` is established through their role as recipients of divine communication.
* **Recipients of Christ's Message:** The church of the **Laodiceans** is directly addressed by a figure who is described as "the Amen, the **faithful** `{{G4103}}` and **true** `{{G228}}` **witness** `{{G3144}}`, the **beginning** `{{G746}}` of the **creation** `{{G2937}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}`" [[Revelation 3:14]].
* **Apostolic Connection:** Their inclusion in the instructions of [[Colossians 4:16]] shows their integration into the network of early churches that shared and valued apostolic writings, underscoring the communal nature of scriptural authority.
* **Identity in a Local Church:** The term itself defines a people by their membership in a specific **church** `{{G1577}}`, emphasizing the significance of the local assembly in the life and identity of early believers.
### Summary
In summary, **Laodikeús** `{{G2994}}` is more than a simple demographic label. It identifies the members of a distinct early Christian **church** `{{G1577}}` in Laodicea. This community is notable for its role in the exchange of apostolic **epistles** `{{G1992}}` and for being the named recipient of one of the seven messages in Revelation, positioning them as a significant audience for scriptural communication.
TRV