241. (Revelation 3:18) I counsel thee. That this signifies the means of reformation of those who hold the doctrine of faith alone, is evident from the things that now follow; for the reformation of those who are in that doctrine is now treated of; hence, I counsel thee, involves precepts how they ought to live in order that they may be reformed, and so be saved.

1262. From this it now becomes clear that 'the earth' here also means the Church; for when the earth is mentioned, one's only perception is of the nation or people there, and when a nation or people is envisaged one's only perception is of their character. Consequently 'the earth' means nothing other than the Church, as shown already in 662, 1066.