The city of Laodicea was independent. After a particularly bad earthquake, where much of the city was destroyed, they said to the Roman government, that they could look after themselves. They were proud people, who didn’t need any help! The church itself, seemed to reflect the character of the city. They too were proud and independent, which spiritually speaking is dangerous. That is why there is such a profound warning here! The less we depend on ourselves and the more we depend on Jesus the better!