The believers in Colosse and Laodicea had been exposed to false teaching from the philosophers of the region, who received wages to teach a distorted form of salvation.
Since the church in Colosse was made of new converts, Paul was concerned Gnostic philosophy based on corporal rather than spiritual salvation might seem justified to a group of sinners who labor not only in advancing the true gospel, but also toil daily against evil as a living sacrifice and affirmation of our love for God and for Christ, who shed His blood for us on the cross.
IN this section of his letter to the Colossians, Paul now points out specific areas where his readers should focus their love for God and His only begotten son, Jesus Christ. Through Him believers are saved from eternal damnation, delivered by faith in the savior of mankind. Through us His love is felt.
“1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.” (Colossians 3:1)
Making reference to heavenly rewards rather than earthly ones, Paul conveys a concise message by which believers are reminded to focus on the Lord rather than things of this life. All Christians are called to serve, to advance the same gospel by which they were saved and more importantly, to serve as vessels by which God’s love is felt, shared and longed for.
“2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3:2-3)
All believers’ fate is written in the book of life, and known only to those who hold the key to eternal life in heaven. Indeed hidden from men, our destiny is in Christ who died to rise again on the third day as we will upon His triumphant return.
“4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” (Colossians 3:4)
Either raptured with Christ, or taken from this earth by His divine hand, through faith all believers inherit eternal life in heaven.
“5 Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, 7 in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them.” (Colossians 3:5-7)
Paul points out weaknesses through which the Colossians and Laodiceans’ love for God and Christ would be tested. By faith, immersion in the word and accountability all believers are delivered from the old life, and made new in Christ.
The apostle shares God’s will for those who surrender to temptation, which has become one of the enemies fought daily by countless believers.
“8 But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.” (Colossians 3:8)
Now Paul focuses on anger and character derivatives which become those who surrender to the enemy in such a manner. Believers should be known by their Christ like attitude communicated not only through body language but words as well. The immature in Christ will do well to rely on the gospel rather than personal opinion when spreading the good news about the second coming of the Lord.
“9 Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, 10 and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, 11 where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.” (Colossians 3:9-11)
The apostle addresses the Colossians’ integrity and their honesty toward one another but more importantly, toward our divine Father in heaven. When a person lie they not only deceive others, lying corrupts one’s relationship with God as it invites His wrath upon our lives.
Nor creed or status, works or deeds lead to heaven, only faith in Jesus Christ. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
