The Epistle To The Colossians- Chapter Two
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To see the relation between understanding the "mystery of God" and having a strong assurance of our salvation
2) To appreciate how baptism serves as our spiritual circumcision, and that it is a work of God which is performed, not a work of man
3) To understand how Christ brought an end to the Old Law by His death on the cross
SUMMARY
Paul reveals his great concern for those at Colosse and others he has not seen, expressing his desire that their hearts be knit together in love, and that they may have the assurance that comes from an understanding of the mystery of God as revealed through Christ. He rejoices in their good order and steadfastness, and encourages them to be firmly established in Christ, abounding in thanksgiving (1-7).
The word "Beware" in verse eight summarizes the rest of the chapter, in which Paul warns them of the dangers of "The Colossian Heresy". These dangers include being cheated through philosophy and vain deceit, and defrauded of their reward by those who appeal to false humility, the worship of angels, false visions, and strict regulations according to the commandments and doctrines of men which really have
no value against the indulgence of the flesh. In Christ they are made complete, having undergone a circumcision not made with hands, in which God made them alive together with Christ. Since Christ has also nailed to the cross the "handwriting of requirements" that was against them and taken it out of the way, none can judge them regarding religious observances that were only a shadow pointing to the true substance of Christ (8-23).
OUTLINE
I. PAUL'S SOLICITUDE (1-7)
A. HIS GREAT CONCERN FOR THEM (1-3)
1. He has a great conflict for those...
a. In Colosse and Laodicea (1a)
b. Who have not seen his face in the flesh (1b)
2. His desire is that...
a. Their hearts be encouraged, knit together in love (2a)
b. They attain to all the riches of:
1) The full assurance of understanding (2b)
2) The knowledge of the mystery of God (2c)
a) Both of the Father and of Christ (2d)
b) In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (3)
B. REASONS FOR THIS CONCERN (4-5)
1. Lest anyone deceive them with persuasive words (4)
2. Though absent in the flesh, he is present with them in spirit (5a)
3. He rejoices to see...
a. Their good order (5b)
b. The steadfastness of their faith (5c)
C. EXHORTATIONS TO BE FIRMLY ESTABLISHED IN CHRIST (6-7)
1. As they have received Christ, so they should walk in Him (6)
a. Rooted and built up in Him (7a)
b. Established in the faith (7b)
-- As they were taught (7c)
2. Abounding with thanksgiving (7d)
II. WARNINGS AGAINST "THE COLOSSIAN HERESY" (8-23)
A. WARNING AGAINST PHILOSOPHY (8-10)
1. Beware of being cheated by philosophy and empty deceit (8a)
a. According to the traditions of men (8b)
b. According to the basic principles of the world (8c)
-- And not according to Christ (8d)
2. In Christ dwells the fullness of God, and you are complete in Him (9-10)
a. All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Christ (9)
b. You are complete in Him, who is head over all principality and power (10)
B. WARNING AGAINST JUDAISTIC CEREMONIALISM (11-17)
1. In Christ you have a circumcision made without hands (11-12)
a. A putting off of the body of the sins of the flesh (11)
b. Having been buried with Christ in baptism (12)
1) In which you were also raised with Him (12a)
2) Through faith in the working of God, who raised Jesus from the dead (12b)
2. You are made alive in Christ, and the handwriting of requirements that was against us has been taken away at the cross (13-15)
a. Dead in sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God has made you alive (13a)
b. He has forgiven you all trespasses (13b)
c. He has wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us (14)
1) That which was contrary to us (14a)
2) He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross (14b)
d. He has disarmed principalities and powers (15)
1) Having made a public spectacle of them (15a)
2) Triumphing over them in it (15b)
3. Therefore don't let anyone judge you in regards to food, festivals, or Sabbath days (16)
a. They are only a shadow of things to come (17a)
b. The substance is of Christ (17b)
C. WARNING AGAINST ANGEL WORSHIP (18-19)
1. Don't let anyone defraud you of your reward (18a)
a. By taking delight in false humility and worship of angels (18b)
b. By intruding into things not seen, vainly puffed by fleshly minds (18c)
2. Such people do not hold fast to Christ as the Head (19a)
a. From whom all the body grows (19b)
b. Nourished and knit together by various elements, with increase from God (19c)
D. WARNING AGAINST ASCETICISM (2:20-23)
1. There is no need to submit to human ordinances (2:20-22)
a. For you have died with Christ from basic principles of the world (20a)
b. Therefore do not subject yourselves to ascetic regulations (20b)
1) Such as "Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle" (21)
2) They only concern things which perish with the using (22a)
3) Which are according to commandments and doctrines of men (23)
2. Such practices are of no value (23)
a. They may have an appearance of wisdom in their...
1) Self-imposed religion (23a)
2) False humility (23b)
3) Neglect of the body (23c)
b. But they are no value against the indulgence of the flesh (23d)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Paul's solicitude (1-7)
- Warnings against "the Colossian Heresy" (8-23)
2) What was Paul's strong desire for those he had not seen? (1-2)
- That their hearts may be encouraged, knit together in love
- That they may be richly blessed by the assurance that comes from an understanding and knowledge of the mystery of God
3) What is "hidden" in Christ? (3)
- All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge
4) What had Paul seen in the Colossians that caused him to rejoice? (5)
- Their good order and steadfastness of faith in Christ
5) How were the Colossians to walk in Christ? (6-7)
- Rooted and built up in Him
- Established in the faith
- Abounding with thanksgiving
6) What three things might be used to "cheat" us? (8)
- Philosophy and empty deceit
- Tradition of men
- Basic principles of the world
7) What is said about Jesus in relation to the Godhead? (9)
- In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily
8) What is our condition in Christ? (10)
- We are complete in Him
9) What sort of "circumcision" have we had in Christ? (11)
- One made without hands
- A putting off the body of the sins of the flesh
10) What takes place in baptism? Who is the one at work in baptism? (12-13)
- We are buried with Christ, raised with Christ, made alive together with Christ
- God, who raised Jesus from the dead
11) What did Christ take out of the way, having nailed it to the cross? (14)
- The "handwriting of requirements"
12) In what things should we not let others judge us? (16-17)
- In food or drink
- Regarding religious festivals, a new moon or Sabbaths
13) In what ways might people seek to defraud us? (18)
- Through false humility, worship of angels, appeals to things not really seen
14) What sort of "basic principles of the world" might others try to regulate upon us? (21)
- "Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle"
15) What is the truth about such traditions of men? (22-23)
- They have an appearance of wisdom, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh
Friday, January 7, 2011
Spiritual Maturity In Christ- Colossians 2:1-8
Spiritual Maturity In Christ- Colossians 2:1-8
INTRODUCTION
1. In Co 1:28-29, we saw that Paul’s primary goal in his labors was to “present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” That is, that they be “spiritually mature in Christ.”
2. This being the case, we are not surprised to find Paul now writing to the Colossians of:
a. His great concern for them - Co 2:1-3
b. The reason for this concern - Co 2:4-5
c. Some exhortations in light of his concern - Co 2:6-8
[From these eight verses, there are a couple of things we can glean concerning the subject of “Spiritual Maturity In Christ”. [First, from vs. 1-5 we can take note of several...]
I. INDICATIONS OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY (1-5)
A. A DEEP CONCERN FOR OUR BRETHREN IN CHRIST... (1)
1. Remember that Paul is an example of spiritual maturity and thus worthy of our emulation- 1 Co 11:1
2. We see that he had a concern for his brethren (notice 2 Co 11:28-29 also), even for those he personally had not seen!
3. Epaphras likewise demonstrated this “mark” of maturity - Co 4:12-13
4. Do we have such concern for our brethren?
B. A HEART THAT IS ENCOURAGED... (2)
1. The KJV uses the word “comforted”
2. It is the Will of God that we serve Him with hearts full of comfort and encouragement
a. Such was the concern of Jesus - Lk 21:34; Jn 14:1,27
b. Such was the frequent prayer of Paul - 2 Th 2:16-17
3. A “troubled, anxious heart” is not the mark of a mature Christian!
4. Consider the example of Paul in facing impending death - 2 Ti 4:6-8,17-18
C. A HEART KNIT TOGETHER IN LOVE WITH OTHER CHRISTIANS... (2)
1. I.e., a love similar to that experienced by David and Jonathan - 1 Sam 18:1
2. The brethren at Colosse were well on their way in this regard - Co 1:4
3. How about us? Are we developing hearts “knit together in love”?
D. A FULL ASSURANCE OF UNDERSTANDING... (2)
1. Similar to having hearts that are encouraged, we need to have a strong assurance
concerning ourselves and our salvation!
2. Of course, this assurance comes as we increase our “understanding” concerning the basis of our salvation
3. Indeed, the Word of God was so written to increase that understanding, and provide the assurance of our salvation - 1 Jn 5:13; 3:19; note also Ro 15:4
4. As one matures in Christ, this “assurance” will increase, and it is indeed a “rich” blessing we have in Christ!
E. A KNOWLEDGE OF THE MYSTERY OF GOD... (2)
1. I.e., an understanding of the gospel, which once was hidden, but has now been revealed- cf. Ep 3:3-6; Ro 16:25-26
2. Thus, a good knowledge of the gospel of Christ is essential to maturity in Christ
3. Are we increasing in this knowledge?
F. GOOD ORDER AND STEADFASTNESS OF FAITH... (5)
1. The word “order”...
a. From taxis {tax’-is}, a military term, suggestive of men marching in proper order and precision, as in a drilling exercise
b. This suggests that a mature Christian is one whose walk as a disciple is in proper line with what is expected
2. The word “steadfastness” is a word which goes right along with this idea of marching in a straight line
3. What is our “life of faith” like?
a. Are we progressing in order, steadfast in our progress?
b. Or are we wavering constantly?
[These are but a few indications of spiritual maturity. If they are found in our lives, it is a good sign that progress is being made! From vs. 6-8, we can also learn of some...]
II. STEPS TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY (6-8)
A. RECEIVE CHRIST AS “LORD”... (6)
1. This the Colossians had done
2. Today, many seem to want Jesus just as a “Savior,” but not as “Lord”
3. That is, they profess to want Him as “their personal Savior,” but then do not obey Him in what He commands them
4. Yet God has made Him both! - cf. Ac 2:36
5. Until we enthrone Christ as Lord in our lives, we cannot hope to become “perfect”
(complete, mature) in Christ
6. Again, Paul provides a good example - e.g., Ga 2:20
B. WALK IN CHRIST... (6-7)
1. Having received Christ as Lord, we must now “walk” (or live) in Him
2. Verse 7 explains what it means to “walk in Christ”
a. “rooted” - Christ must be the foundation and source of nutrition in our lives (like a tree depends upon its roots)
b. “built up in Him” - allowing ourselves to become the kind of building He would have us to be
c. “established in the faith” - well taught and grounded in the teachings of Christ, and living by them
d. “abounding in it with thanksgiving” - ever overflowing with an attitude of gratitude
C. BEWARE... (8)
1. To grow spiritually, we must beware of dangers which would hinder our spiritual growth
2. Otherwise, in our zeal to grow we can easily be misled by false doctrines which promise an easy route to spiritual maturity, but do not deliver on that promise!
3. Thus the need for “negative preaching” as the occasion may call for it
CONCLUSION
1. Our next lesson will look at some of those false doctrines which promise much, but give nothing of true value
2. For the moment, let’s close by asking two questions:
a. Why should we even be concerned with growing in spiritual maturity in Christ?
1) Because in Him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” - Co 2:3
2) Because He has warned of what will occur if we do not mature and “bear fruit” - Jn 15:1-2
b. How does one initially receive Christ as Lord?
1) By doing what He says, i.e., the Father’s will - Lk 6:46; Mt 7:21
2) This includes the command to repent and be baptized, for thereby one receives remission of sins as they also “put on Christ” (i.e., “receive Christ”) - Ac 2:36-38; Ga 3:26-27
INTRODUCTION
1. In Co 1:28-29, we saw that Paul’s primary goal in his labors was to “present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” That is, that they be “spiritually mature in Christ.”
2. This being the case, we are not surprised to find Paul now writing to the Colossians of:
a. His great concern for them - Co 2:1-3
b. The reason for this concern - Co 2:4-5
c. Some exhortations in light of his concern - Co 2:6-8
[From these eight verses, there are a couple of things we can glean concerning the subject of “Spiritual Maturity In Christ”. [First, from vs. 1-5 we can take note of several...]
I. INDICATIONS OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY (1-5)
A. A DEEP CONCERN FOR OUR BRETHREN IN CHRIST... (1)
1. Remember that Paul is an example of spiritual maturity and thus worthy of our emulation- 1 Co 11:1
2. We see that he had a concern for his brethren (notice 2 Co 11:28-29 also), even for those he personally had not seen!
3. Epaphras likewise demonstrated this “mark” of maturity - Co 4:12-13
4. Do we have such concern for our brethren?
B. A HEART THAT IS ENCOURAGED... (2)
1. The KJV uses the word “comforted”
2. It is the Will of God that we serve Him with hearts full of comfort and encouragement
a. Such was the concern of Jesus - Lk 21:34; Jn 14:1,27
b. Such was the frequent prayer of Paul - 2 Th 2:16-17
3. A “troubled, anxious heart” is not the mark of a mature Christian!
4. Consider the example of Paul in facing impending death - 2 Ti 4:6-8,17-18
C. A HEART KNIT TOGETHER IN LOVE WITH OTHER CHRISTIANS... (2)
1. I.e., a love similar to that experienced by David and Jonathan - 1 Sam 18:1
2. The brethren at Colosse were well on their way in this regard - Co 1:4
3. How about us? Are we developing hearts “knit together in love”?
D. A FULL ASSURANCE OF UNDERSTANDING... (2)
1. Similar to having hearts that are encouraged, we need to have a strong assurance
concerning ourselves and our salvation!
2. Of course, this assurance comes as we increase our “understanding” concerning the basis of our salvation
3. Indeed, the Word of God was so written to increase that understanding, and provide the assurance of our salvation - 1 Jn 5:13; 3:19; note also Ro 15:4
4. As one matures in Christ, this “assurance” will increase, and it is indeed a “rich” blessing we have in Christ!
E. A KNOWLEDGE OF THE MYSTERY OF GOD... (2)
1. I.e., an understanding of the gospel, which once was hidden, but has now been revealed- cf. Ep 3:3-6; Ro 16:25-26
2. Thus, a good knowledge of the gospel of Christ is essential to maturity in Christ
3. Are we increasing in this knowledge?
F. GOOD ORDER AND STEADFASTNESS OF FAITH... (5)
1. The word “order”...
a. From taxis {tax’-is}, a military term, suggestive of men marching in proper order and precision, as in a drilling exercise
b. This suggests that a mature Christian is one whose walk as a disciple is in proper line with what is expected
2. The word “steadfastness” is a word which goes right along with this idea of marching in a straight line
3. What is our “life of faith” like?
a. Are we progressing in order, steadfast in our progress?
b. Or are we wavering constantly?
[These are but a few indications of spiritual maturity. If they are found in our lives, it is a good sign that progress is being made! From vs. 6-8, we can also learn of some...]
II. STEPS TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY (6-8)
A. RECEIVE CHRIST AS “LORD”... (6)
1. This the Colossians had done
2. Today, many seem to want Jesus just as a “Savior,” but not as “Lord”
3. That is, they profess to want Him as “their personal Savior,” but then do not obey Him in what He commands them
4. Yet God has made Him both! - cf. Ac 2:36
5. Until we enthrone Christ as Lord in our lives, we cannot hope to become “perfect”
(complete, mature) in Christ
6. Again, Paul provides a good example - e.g., Ga 2:20
B. WALK IN CHRIST... (6-7)
1. Having received Christ as Lord, we must now “walk” (or live) in Him
2. Verse 7 explains what it means to “walk in Christ”
a. “rooted” - Christ must be the foundation and source of nutrition in our lives (like a tree depends upon its roots)
b. “built up in Him” - allowing ourselves to become the kind of building He would have us to be
c. “established in the faith” - well taught and grounded in the teachings of Christ, and living by them
d. “abounding in it with thanksgiving” - ever overflowing with an attitude of gratitude
C. BEWARE... (8)
1. To grow spiritually, we must beware of dangers which would hinder our spiritual growth
2. Otherwise, in our zeal to grow we can easily be misled by false doctrines which promise an easy route to spiritual maturity, but do not deliver on that promise!
3. Thus the need for “negative preaching” as the occasion may call for it
CONCLUSION
1. Our next lesson will look at some of those false doctrines which promise much, but give nothing of true value
2. For the moment, let’s close by asking two questions:
a. Why should we even be concerned with growing in spiritual maturity in Christ?
1) Because in Him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” - Co 2:3
2) Because He has warned of what will occur if we do not mature and “bear fruit” - Jn 15:1-2
b. How does one initially receive Christ as Lord?
1) By doing what He says, i.e., the Father’s will - Lk 6:46; Mt 7:21
2) This includes the command to repent and be baptized, for thereby one receives remission of sins as they also “put on Christ” (i.e., “receive Christ”) - Ac 2:36-38; Ga 3:26-27
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Paul As A Minister- Colossians 1:24-29
Paul As A Minister
Paul As A Minister- Colossians 1:24-29
INTRODUCTION
1. At this point in his epistle, Paul provides some insight into how he viewed his work as a minister of the gospel of Christ - Co 1:24-29
2. This passage can be of value to both:
a. Preachers of the gospel, in giving them insight as to how they view themselves and the work they are to perform
b. All Christians...
1) First, to give them a better understanding of the work of a minister and what to expect from them
2) And second, since all Christians are to imitate the example of Paul (1 Co 11:1), to learn those attitudes we should have toward our brethren whether we serve as “full-time” (i.e.,fully-supported) ministers or not
[With that in mind, we notice first of all that...]
I. PAUL TOOK GREAT JOY IN SUFFERING FOR HIS BRETHREN (24)
A. PAUL HAD SUFFERED GREATLY THROUGHOUT HIS MINISTRY...
1. As he outlined in his second epistle to the Corinthians - 2 Co 11:23-29
2. In this, he was not much different the rest of the apostles - 1 Co 4:9-13
B. YET, IF THIS SUFFERING WAS FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST AND HIS
BRETHREN, PAUL WAS GLAD...!
1. As he said, “I now rejoice in my sufferings for you” - Co 1:24
2. He expressed the same thoughts to the Philippians - Ph 2:17-18
3. Remember, at the very time he wrote both of these epistles he was suffering as a prisoner at Rome in service to Christ and to them!
C. WHY WAS PAUL SO JOYFULLY WILLING TO SUFFER...?
1. One reason is given in this passage: “to fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church.”
a. This is not to suggest that there was anything lacking in the atoning value of Christ’s sacrifice! - cf. Co 2:14; He 10:12,14
b. The following quotation I have found helpful: “We should bear in mind that although Christ by means of the afflictions which he endured rendered complete satisfaction to God, so that Paul is able to glory in nothing but the cross (Ga 6:14), the enemies of Christ were not satisfied! They hated Jesus with insatiable hatred, and wanted to add to his afflictions. But since he is no longer physically present on earth, their arrows, which are meant especially for him, strike his followers. It is in that sense that all true believers are in his stead supplying what, as the enemies see it, is lacking in the afflictions which Jesus endured. Christ’s afflictions overflow toward us.” (Hendrickson, New Testament Commentary, Exposition of Colossians and Philemon, p. 87)
c. Passages offered in support of this interpretation are Mt 10:25; Mk 13:13; Jn 15:
18-21; Ac 9:4,5; 2 Co 1:5,10; Ga 6:17; Ph 3:10; Re 12:13
2. Paul gives another reason elsewhere he suffered joyfully for his brethren: for the same reason parents joyfully suffer for their children! - 2 Co 12:14-15
a. Children are the parents’ “pride and joy”, and the parents will gladly sacrifice for their children!
b. So Paul viewed his brethren - 1 Th 2:19-20; Ph 4:1
D. DO WE IMITATE PAUL IN THIS REGARD...?
1. Not only are we willing to share in the afflictions of Christ, but are we willing to suffer gladly for our brethren?
2. Do we consider our brethren as a source of great joy and pride?
3. Are we willing to joyfully expend time, energy, even “blood, sweat and tears” in serving them? - cf. 1 Jn 3:16
4. Can we truthfully say “yes” if we...
a. Won’t make the effort to assemble with them every opportunity that is available?
b. Won’t try to encourage them when they are weak in the faith, or admonish them when
they stray from the faith?
c. Aren’t willing to love them, to patiently endure them, to quickly forgive them, even when they offend and sin against us?
[Let the example of Paul be our model, for in reality he was simply following the example of Christ (cf. 2 Co 8:9). Next, we notice that...]
II. PAUL CONSIDERED HIMSELF A SERVANT AND A STEWARD (25-27)
A. HIS VIEW OF HIMSELF WAS REALLY QUITE A HUMBLE ONE...
1. The word “minister” is diakonos {dee-ak’-on-os}, and means “one who executes the
commands of another, esp. of a master; a servant, attendant, minister”
2. This is exactly how Paul viewed himself and other preachers - 1 Co 3:5-7
3. How different from views held today by some preachers and their brethren, who exalt preachers above their brethren!
4. In particular, Paul considered himself a servant...
a. Of the church - Co 1:24-25
b. Of Jesus Christ - Ph 1:1
c. Of the gospel - Ep 3:6-7
B. AS A SERVANT, HE CONSIDERED HIMSELF A “STEWARD”...
1. He had received a “stewardship” (KJV, dispensation) from God
a. The word used is oikonomia {oy-kon-om-ee’-ah}
b. It means “the management of a household or of household affairs; specifically, the
management, oversight, administration, of other’s property”
2. He had been entrusted with the gospel of Jesus Christ!
a. Which is called in this passage a “mystery”, for it had been hidden for ages
b. But has now been revealed to His saints (Co 1:26), indeed to all nations (Ro 16:25-26)
c. What is this “mystery”? To paraphrase Paul: “It is Christ in you (the Gentiles), the hope of glory” - Co 1:27
3. Paul considered it his duty as a “steward” to faithfully share that gospel to the nations - cf. Ep 3:8-9; 1 Co 4:2
C. HOW ABOUT US...?
1. Do we consider ourselves “servants”? We should! - cf. Mk 10:42-45
2. Do we serve one another? We should! - Ga 5:13
3. Do we consider ourselves “stewards” of the gospel?
a. That we have been entrusted with the riches of the gospel?
b. That to be faithful we must share them with others?
[Whether or not we view ourselves this way, it is how God views us, and we will be judged by how we have served as stewards (cf. Mt 25:14-30). The third and final point we can glean from our text is that...]
III. PAUL HAD PRIMARILY ONE GOAL IN LIFE (28-29)
A. TO PRESENT EVERY MAN PERFECT IN CHRIST...!
1. He was not out just to preach, just to make converts
2. He wanted to make mature disciples, who had become complete in Christ
B. TO ACCOMPLISH HIS GOAL, HE USED EVERY APPROPRIATE MEANS...
1. He preached Jesus Christ!
a. He proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ
b. His life, His teachings, His death, His resurrection
-- Only by so presenting Christ to the man, can a preacher hope to present the man to
Christ as complete and mature - cf. 2 Co 3:18
2. He warned when necessary!
a. His preaching was both positive and negative!
b. Yes, there is a place for “negative preaching”
1) Cf. The Ten Commandments; also, the “reproof” and “correction” mentioned in
2 Ti 3:16
2) Negative preaching serves as “restraining rails” on the strait and narrow path to life!
c. Of course, it must be properly balanced with positive preaching
1) Otherwise, we will simply bounce around and get hung up on the “restraining rails”, never making progress in our journey
2) Positive preaching will assure that we keep progressing on the right track!
3. He “taught” as well as “preached”!
a. He did not limit himself to the public forum
b. He taught with private instruction as well - Ac 20:20
c. To present every man “perfect in Christ Jesus”, there is often a need for personal
instruction that one does not find in the public assemblies of the church
d. Of course, wisdom helps to determine when - Co 1:28
4. He expended effort and emotion!
a. He “labored” toward this one goal of his
b. He “agonized” in doing so (the Greek word is agonizomai {ag-o-nid’-zom-ahee}, to
endeavor with strenuous zeal, strive)
5. He depended upon God in his labors!
a. He realized that without God he was nothing, and could do nothing worth lasting - 1 Co 15:10
b. So he always looked to God for help in accomplishing his goal - 2 Th 3:1; Co 4:3-4
CONCLUSION
1. In concluding this lesson, again I seek to make application by asking...
a. Are we imitators of Paul?
b. Are we concerned about whether or not our brethren and others are being presented “perfect in Christ”?
c. Are we willing to expend the effort and the emotion necessary to reach this end?
2. If we will...
a. View our ourselves as Paul viewed himself, as servants and stewards
b. Consider our suffering for our brethren a great privilege and source of joy
-- Then I am convinced that we gladly devote ourselves to the same goal Paul had!
3. Let’s think on these things, and consider what we can be doing to “present every man perfect in Christ Jesus”!
For those who have not been obedient to the gospel of Christ, perfection in Christ begins with that first step of faith...
Paul As A Minister- Colossians 1:24-29
INTRODUCTION
1. At this point in his epistle, Paul provides some insight into how he viewed his work as a minister of the gospel of Christ - Co 1:24-29
2. This passage can be of value to both:
a. Preachers of the gospel, in giving them insight as to how they view themselves and the work they are to perform
b. All Christians...
1) First, to give them a better understanding of the work of a minister and what to expect from them
2) And second, since all Christians are to imitate the example of Paul (1 Co 11:1), to learn those attitudes we should have toward our brethren whether we serve as “full-time” (i.e.,fully-supported) ministers or not
[With that in mind, we notice first of all that...]
I. PAUL TOOK GREAT JOY IN SUFFERING FOR HIS BRETHREN (24)
A. PAUL HAD SUFFERED GREATLY THROUGHOUT HIS MINISTRY...
1. As he outlined in his second epistle to the Corinthians - 2 Co 11:23-29
2. In this, he was not much different the rest of the apostles - 1 Co 4:9-13
B. YET, IF THIS SUFFERING WAS FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST AND HIS
BRETHREN, PAUL WAS GLAD...!
1. As he said, “I now rejoice in my sufferings for you” - Co 1:24
2. He expressed the same thoughts to the Philippians - Ph 2:17-18
3. Remember, at the very time he wrote both of these epistles he was suffering as a prisoner at Rome in service to Christ and to them!
C. WHY WAS PAUL SO JOYFULLY WILLING TO SUFFER...?
1. One reason is given in this passage: “to fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church.”
a. This is not to suggest that there was anything lacking in the atoning value of Christ’s sacrifice! - cf. Co 2:14; He 10:12,14
b. The following quotation I have found helpful: “We should bear in mind that although Christ by means of the afflictions which he endured rendered complete satisfaction to God, so that Paul is able to glory in nothing but the cross (Ga 6:14), the enemies of Christ were not satisfied! They hated Jesus with insatiable hatred, and wanted to add to his afflictions. But since he is no longer physically present on earth, their arrows, which are meant especially for him, strike his followers. It is in that sense that all true believers are in his stead supplying what, as the enemies see it, is lacking in the afflictions which Jesus endured. Christ’s afflictions overflow toward us.” (Hendrickson, New Testament Commentary, Exposition of Colossians and Philemon, p. 87)
c. Passages offered in support of this interpretation are Mt 10:25; Mk 13:13; Jn 15:
18-21; Ac 9:4,5; 2 Co 1:5,10; Ga 6:17; Ph 3:10; Re 12:13
2. Paul gives another reason elsewhere he suffered joyfully for his brethren: for the same reason parents joyfully suffer for their children! - 2 Co 12:14-15
a. Children are the parents’ “pride and joy”, and the parents will gladly sacrifice for their children!
b. So Paul viewed his brethren - 1 Th 2:19-20; Ph 4:1
D. DO WE IMITATE PAUL IN THIS REGARD...?
1. Not only are we willing to share in the afflictions of Christ, but are we willing to suffer gladly for our brethren?
2. Do we consider our brethren as a source of great joy and pride?
3. Are we willing to joyfully expend time, energy, even “blood, sweat and tears” in serving them? - cf. 1 Jn 3:16
4. Can we truthfully say “yes” if we...
a. Won’t make the effort to assemble with them every opportunity that is available?
b. Won’t try to encourage them when they are weak in the faith, or admonish them when
they stray from the faith?
c. Aren’t willing to love them, to patiently endure them, to quickly forgive them, even when they offend and sin against us?
[Let the example of Paul be our model, for in reality he was simply following the example of Christ (cf. 2 Co 8:9). Next, we notice that...]
II. PAUL CONSIDERED HIMSELF A SERVANT AND A STEWARD (25-27)
A. HIS VIEW OF HIMSELF WAS REALLY QUITE A HUMBLE ONE...
1. The word “minister” is diakonos {dee-ak’-on-os}, and means “one who executes the
commands of another, esp. of a master; a servant, attendant, minister”
2. This is exactly how Paul viewed himself and other preachers - 1 Co 3:5-7
3. How different from views held today by some preachers and their brethren, who exalt preachers above their brethren!
4. In particular, Paul considered himself a servant...
a. Of the church - Co 1:24-25
b. Of Jesus Christ - Ph 1:1
c. Of the gospel - Ep 3:6-7
B. AS A SERVANT, HE CONSIDERED HIMSELF A “STEWARD”...
1. He had received a “stewardship” (KJV, dispensation) from God
a. The word used is oikonomia {oy-kon-om-ee’-ah}
b. It means “the management of a household or of household affairs; specifically, the
management, oversight, administration, of other’s property”
2. He had been entrusted with the gospel of Jesus Christ!
a. Which is called in this passage a “mystery”, for it had been hidden for ages
b. But has now been revealed to His saints (Co 1:26), indeed to all nations (Ro 16:25-26)
c. What is this “mystery”? To paraphrase Paul: “It is Christ in you (the Gentiles), the hope of glory” - Co 1:27
3. Paul considered it his duty as a “steward” to faithfully share that gospel to the nations - cf. Ep 3:8-9; 1 Co 4:2
C. HOW ABOUT US...?
1. Do we consider ourselves “servants”? We should! - cf. Mk 10:42-45
2. Do we serve one another? We should! - Ga 5:13
3. Do we consider ourselves “stewards” of the gospel?
a. That we have been entrusted with the riches of the gospel?
b. That to be faithful we must share them with others?
[Whether or not we view ourselves this way, it is how God views us, and we will be judged by how we have served as stewards (cf. Mt 25:14-30). The third and final point we can glean from our text is that...]
III. PAUL HAD PRIMARILY ONE GOAL IN LIFE (28-29)
A. TO PRESENT EVERY MAN PERFECT IN CHRIST...!
1. He was not out just to preach, just to make converts
2. He wanted to make mature disciples, who had become complete in Christ
B. TO ACCOMPLISH HIS GOAL, HE USED EVERY APPROPRIATE MEANS...
1. He preached Jesus Christ!
a. He proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ
b. His life, His teachings, His death, His resurrection
-- Only by so presenting Christ to the man, can a preacher hope to present the man to
Christ as complete and mature - cf. 2 Co 3:18
2. He warned when necessary!
a. His preaching was both positive and negative!
b. Yes, there is a place for “negative preaching”
1) Cf. The Ten Commandments; also, the “reproof” and “correction” mentioned in
2 Ti 3:16
2) Negative preaching serves as “restraining rails” on the strait and narrow path to life!
c. Of course, it must be properly balanced with positive preaching
1) Otherwise, we will simply bounce around and get hung up on the “restraining rails”, never making progress in our journey
2) Positive preaching will assure that we keep progressing on the right track!
3. He “taught” as well as “preached”!
a. He did not limit himself to the public forum
b. He taught with private instruction as well - Ac 20:20
c. To present every man “perfect in Christ Jesus”, there is often a need for personal
instruction that one does not find in the public assemblies of the church
d. Of course, wisdom helps to determine when - Co 1:28
4. He expended effort and emotion!
a. He “labored” toward this one goal of his
b. He “agonized” in doing so (the Greek word is agonizomai {ag-o-nid’-zom-ahee}, to
endeavor with strenuous zeal, strive)
5. He depended upon God in his labors!
a. He realized that without God he was nothing, and could do nothing worth lasting - 1 Co 15:10
b. So he always looked to God for help in accomplishing his goal - 2 Th 3:1; Co 4:3-4
CONCLUSION
1. In concluding this lesson, again I seek to make application by asking...
a. Are we imitators of Paul?
b. Are we concerned about whether or not our brethren and others are being presented “perfect in Christ”?
c. Are we willing to expend the effort and the emotion necessary to reach this end?
2. If we will...
a. View our ourselves as Paul viewed himself, as servants and stewards
b. Consider our suffering for our brethren a great privilege and source of joy
-- Then I am convinced that we gladly devote ourselves to the same goal Paul had!
3. Let’s think on these things, and consider what we can be doing to “present every man perfect in Christ Jesus”!
For those who have not been obedient to the gospel of Christ, perfection in Christ begins with that first step of faith...
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