Paul clearly puts a lot of emphasis on believers needing to “continue in the faith” as each one pursues the fulfillment of God’s plan for our lives. In this section of his epistle to the Colossians, the apostle addresses sacrificial service to God through His only begotten son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
“24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.” (Colossians 1:24)
Paul refers to his own suffering as a way of “sharing” the Lord’s pain. The afflictions the apostle makes reference here involves modern day suffering in tune with that of Jesus Christ when He walked among us. Just as the world hated Him, they will hate believers. Just as He suffered we will also as we walk in His footsteps along the narrow path that leads to eternal life.
“25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— 26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people.” (Colossians 1:26)
The mystery Paul speaks of is the ability for Gentiles to be saved through faith in Jesus Christ, then sanctified through works performed in God’s holy name, and meant to glorify the almighty creator.
Until Paul’s ministry and outreach salvation could only be attained by God’s chosen people, the nation of Israel.
“27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)
The hope of salvation had become a reality through Paul’s preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ, that through Him all those who believe and repent will be saved from hell, saved from the lake of fire where there will be gnashing of teeth, whaling and tremendous suffering for all eternity.
“28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.” (Colossians 1:28-29)
Relying on the power bestowed onto him by the Lord Himself, the apostle declares all men under God’s mercy. Because salvation was no longer reserved for the Jews, the apostle continues to proclaim Christ Lord of all as he preaches the gospel throughout his missionary journeys to the Gentile nations.
Since the law of Christ is one based on love, rather than the law of Moses based on obedience, the apostle calls on all believers to love as Jesus did, to love as Jesus does each and every single day. This is called sacrificial love, the only perfect love. 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
