The Epistle To The Ephesians- Introduction
AUTHOR
The apostle Paul (1:1; 3:1). Early sources in church history that attribute this letter to Paul include:Irenaeus (200 A.D.), Clement of Alexandria (200 A.D.), and Origen (250 A.D.). Polycarp (125 A.D.)attests to its canonicity in his own epistle to the Philippians (chapter 12).
THE RECIPIENTS
There are reasons to believe that this epistle was not designed for just one congregation, but intended to be passed around to several churches in the area surrounding Ephesus. The earliest manuscripts do not contain the phrase "in Ephesus" (cf. 1:1). The epistle itself is in the form of a general treatise rather than as a letter written to a specific church. For example, there are no specific exhortations or personal greetings. It is thought by some (Conybeare and Howson) that this letter is the epistle that was first sent to Laodicea (cf. Co 4:16), and designed to be shared with other churches, including Ephesus. Because Ephesus was the leading city of the region, and the main center of Paul's missionary activity in the area(cf. Ac 19:1,8-10), it is understandable why later scribes might have assigned this epistle to the church at Ephesus. Without question it was intended for "the saints ...and faithful in Christ Jesus." (1:1)
PAUL'S MINISTRY IN THE REGION
Paul first came to Ephesus for a short visit toward the end of his second missionary journey (Ac 18:18-19). Located on the SW coast of Asia Minor (modern day Turkey), Ephesus was one of the great cities in that part of the world. A Roman capital, it was a wealthy commercial center and home for the worship of the goddess Diana (cf. Ac 19:23-41). Though Paul briefly studied with the Jews at the local synagogue and was invited to stay longer, he made plans to visit them again after a quick trip to
Jerusalem (Ac 18:20-21).
On his third missionary journey Paul made it back to Ephesus for an extended stay of three years (cf.Ac 19:1,10; 20:31). After his initial success in converting twelve disciples of John (Ac 19:1-7), Paul spent three months teaching in the local synagogue (Ac 19:8). Resistance to his doctrine forced him to leave the synagogue, but he was able to continue teaching in the school of Tyrannus for a period of two
years.The end result is that the gospel spread from Ephesus throughout Asia Minor (Ac 19:9-10). A disturbance created by some of the local idol makers finally forced Paul to leave Ephesus (Ac 19:23-20:1).
Toward the end of his third journey, Paul stopped at nearby Miletus, and met with the elders of the church at Ephesus. Reminding them of his work with them, he charged them to fulfill their own responsibilities as overseers of the flock of God, and then bid them a tearful farewell (Ac 20:17-38).
TIME AND PLACE OF WRITING
Ephesians is one of Paul's four "prison epistles" (3:1; 4:1; 6:20; cf. Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon). The general consensus is that these epistles were written during Paul's imprisonment at Rome (cf. Ac 28:16,30-31). If such is truly the case, then Paul wrote Ephesians around 61-63 A.D. from Rome. The indication is that the epistles to the Colossians, Philemon and the Ephesians were carried to their destination by Tychicus and Onesimus (cf. 6:21-22; Co 4:7-9; Phile 10-12).
PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLE
Unlike other epistles written to specific churches, this epistle does not deal with specific problems in a local congregation. Instead, Paul addressed great themes that pertain to the Christian's position in Christ, as a member of the body of Christ, the church. As expressed in his prayer for his readers, it was his desire that they might know:
* What is the hope of God's calling (1:18)
* What are the glorious riches of God's inheritance in the saints (1:18)
* What is God's great power toward those who believe (1:19)
In the first three chapters, Paul answers his own prayer by expounding upon their spiritual blessings in Christ. The last three chapters focus on the conduct (or "walk", cf. 4:1,17; 5:2,8,15) expected of those so richly blessed. Therefore Paul writes to:
* Remind Christians of their spiritual blessings in Christ (1:3)
* Exhort Christians to have a "walk worthy of the calling with which you were
called" (4:1)
THEME OF THE EPISTLE
A grand epistle like Ephesians almost defies coming up with one main theme. With its exalted view of the church in God's plan of redemption, it is common to suggest the theme as "The Church, The Fullness of Christ". Another theme which does justice to the content of the epistle and one that I suggest for this study is that offered by Warren Wiersbe:
"THE BELIEVER'S RICHES IN CHRIST"
KEY VERSE: Ephesians 1:3
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us
with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,"
OUTLINE (adapted from The Bible Exposition Commentary, Vol. 2,Warren W. Wiersbe, p.7)
INTRODUCTION (1:1-2)
I. DOCTRINE: OUR RICHES IN CHRIST (1:3-3:21)
A. OUR SPIRITUAL POSSESSIONS IN CHRIST (1:3-14)
1. From the Father (1:4-6)
2. From the Son (1:7-12)
3. From the Spirit (1:13-14)
-- First Prayer: for enlightenment (1:15-23)
B. OUR SPIRITUAL POSITION IN CHRIST (2:1-22)
1. Raised and seated on the throne (2:1-10)
2. Reconciled and set into the temple (2:11-22)
-- Second Prayer: for enablement (3:1-21; with verses 2-13 as a parenthesis)
II. DUTY: OUR RESPONSIBILITIES IN CHRIST (4:1-6:20)
A. A CALL TO WALK IN UNITY (4:1-16)
1. Preserving the unity of the Spirit with proper attitudes (4:1-7)
2. Edifying the body of Christ by the grace given us (4:8-16)
B. A CALL TO WALK IN PURITY (4:17-5:21)
1. Walk not as other Gentiles (4:17-32)
2. Walk in love (5:1-6)
3. Walk as children of light (5:7-14)
4. Walk as wise (5:15-21)
C. A CALL TO WALK IN HARMONY (5:22-6:9)
1. Husbands and wives (5:22-33)
2. Parents and children (6:1-4)
3. Masters and servants (6:5-9)
D. A CALL TO WALK IN VICTORY (6:10-20)
1. Standing strong in the power of the Lord (6:10-13)
2. Equipped with the whole armor of God (6:14-20)
CONCLUSION (6:21-24)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE INTRODUCTION
1) To whom is this epistle addressed? (1:1)
- The saints and faithful in Christ Jesus; actual identity uncertain
2) From where and when did Paul write Ephesians?
- From Rome, sometime around 61-63 A.D.
3) What three other epistles were written about this time? What are the four epistles
sometimes called?
- Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon
- The "prison epistles"
4) When did Paul first come to Ephesus (Ac 18:19-22)
- Toward the end of his second missionary journey
5) When and how long did he spend most of his time at Ephesus? (Ac 18:23; 19:1; 20:31)
- On his third missionary journey; three years
6) For what three things did Paul pray that they might know? (1:15-19)
- The hope of God's calling
- The glorious riches of God's inheritance in the saints
- God's great power toward those who believe
7) What is the twofold purpose of this epistle? (1:3; 4:1)
- To remind Christians of their spiritual blessings in Christ
- To exhort Christians to have a "walk" worthy of their calling
8) What is the "theme" of this epistle, as suggested in the introduction?
- The Believer's Riches In Christ
9) What serves as the "key verse" of this epistle?
- Ephesians 1:3
10) According to the outline above, what are the two main divisions in this epistle?
- Doctrine: Our Riches In Christ
- Duty: Our Responsibilities In Christ
Monday, March 7, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
The Epistle To Philemon- Chapter One
The Epistle To Philemon- Chapter One
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To be impressed with the loving hospitality which characterized the Christians in the early church
2) To learn lessons in the use of tact in dealing with others
SUMMARY
In this very short and personal epistle, Paul addresses it to Philemon, Apphia, Archippus and to the church in their house. But it soon becomes evident that its contents are directed toward Philemon, a beloved friend and fellow laborer with Paul (1-3).
After his salutation, Paul expresses his thanks for the noble qualities which have characterized Philemon in the past, especially his love for the saints. It is because of Philemon's past performance that Paul is confident his plea will be carried out faithfully (4-7).
Paul's plea concerns Onesimus, a slave who had run away from Philemon. Somehow he had run into Paul at Rome and was now a new convert to Jesus Christ. As a brother in Christ, Onesimus had made himself very useful to Paul in Rome. But because he still legally belongs to Philemon, Paul is sending him back with a plea that Onesimus be forgiven and received as a brother in the Lord. Paul also offers to pay any restitution which may be owed Philemon by Onesimus (8-21).
The epistle ends with a request for lodging in the near future, and with sundry greetings from individuals who were with Paul in Rome (22-25).
OUTLINE
I. SALUTATION (1-3)
A. FROM... (1a)
1. Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus
2. Timothy, a brother
B. TO... (1b-2)
1. Philemon, a beloved friend and fellow laborer
2. Apphia
3. Archippus, a fellow soldier
4. The church in their house
C. GREETINGS (3)
1. Grace and peace
2. From God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ
II. THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER (4-7)
A. PAUL'S THANKFULNESS (4-5)
1. Expressed in frequent prayers to God
2. For Philemon's love and faith toward Jesus and all the saints
B. PAUL'S PRAYER (6-7)
1. That the sharing of Philemon's faith might be effective
2. Through the acknowledgment of every good thing in Philemon
3. For example, the joy and comfort experienced by Paul from Philemon's love, as Paul hears of how he refreshed the hearts of the saints
III.THE PLEA FOR ONESIMUS (8-21)
A. AN APPEAL, NOT A COMMAND (8-9)
1. Paul had the authority to command what is fitting
2. He chose instead to make an appeal based upon...
a. Love itself
b. Paul's "age"
c. His imprisonment
B. PAUL'S PLEA (10-20)
1. Concerns Onesimus (10-11)
a. Who was converted by Paul while in chains, and is now like a son to him
b. Who though once was unprofitable to Philemon, is now profitable to both him and Paul
2. Paul is now sending Onesimus back to Philemon (12-14)
a. Though he is very dear to Paul
b. Though Paul wished to keep him and have him work in Philemon's behalf in the gospel
c. But Paul did not want to do anything without Philemon's whole-hearted consent
3. Paul's desire is that Philemon receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ (15-17)
a. Perhaps his running away was for this purpose, that he might become a beloved brother in the Lord
b. So if Philemon considered himself a partner of Paul, Paul asks that he receive Onesimus as he would Paul himself
4. Paul offers to repay Philemon (18-19)
a. For any wrong that Onesimus might have done
b. Of course, Philemon already owed Paul his own life
5. By receiving Onesimus in this way, Philemon could give Paul joy and a refreshed heart in the Lord (20)
C. PAUL'S CONFIDENCE IN PHILEMON (21)
1. In Philemon's obedience
2. That Philemon will do even more than what Paul is asking for
IV. CONCLUDING REMARKS (22-25)
A. REQUEST FOR LODGING (22)
1. That Paul might be able to stay with Philemon
2. For Paul is confident that through the prayers of Philemon he will soon be able to come to him
B. GREETINGS FROM OTHERS (23-24)
1. Epaphras, a fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus
2. Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, fellow laborers with Paul
C. A CLOSING PRAYER (25)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) List the main points of this epistle
- Saluation (1-3)
- Thanksgiving & Prayer (4-7)
- The Plea For Onesimus (8-21)
- Concluding Remarks (22-25)
2) Why does Paul refer to himself as a prisoner of Christ Jesus? (1)
- He was "in chains" (also under house arrest, awaiting trial)
- But note also that he says "of Christ", for it was while engaged in HIS service and thus for HIS sake he was imprisoned
3) Why the mention of Timothy? (1)
- He was with Paul at Rome
- Also, it is possible that he was acquainted with Philemon
4) What does Philemon's name mean? Did he live up to it?
- His name means "one that is affectionate"
- Yes! cf. verse 5 and 7
5) Who, possibly, are Apphia and Archippus? (2)
- Apphia may have been the wife of Philemon
- Archippus may have been their son, also the minister for the church in Colosse (cf. Co 4:17)
6) Is this letter primarily to Philemon, or to all?
- To Philemon (note the use of the singular in verses 4-21)
- Though by mentioning the others, perhaps Paul was soliciting their help to encourage Philemon
7) What is a good example of this family's devotion to Christ and of their hospitality to the saints? (2)
- It appears that they let the church meet in their home
8) Define the terms "grace" and "peace" (3)
- Grace: favor that is unmerited
- Peace: harmony (e.g., with God, self, and others), the result of God's grace
9) How could Paul have heard about Philemon? (4,5)
- From Epaphras, who was a member of the church at Epaphras (Co 4:12,13)
- From Onesimus himself
10) What good things had Paul heard concerning Philemon? (5)
- His love and faith toward Christ and the saints
11) What are some examples of Philemon's love for the saints?
- Letting the church meet in his home (1)
- Refreshing the hearts of the saints (7)
- Preparing guest rooms (22)
12) What does Paul pray for in behalf of Philemon? (6)
- That the sharing of his faith may become effective
13) How is this prayer related to the plea which follows in verses 8-21?
- Carrying out Paul's plea concerning Onesimus would be one way of assuring that Philemon's faith in its sharing would be effective
14) What had given Paul great joy and comfort in his imprisonment? (7)
- Philemon's love and the way the saints have been refreshed by him
15) How does Paul re-emphasize his close feelings for Philemon? (7)
- By calling him "brother"
16) What does the word "therefore" indicate? (8)
- That Paul's plea for Onesimus is predicated upon Philemon's past behavior mentioned in verses 4-7
17) What could Paul have done in this matter? (8)
- Simply commanded Philemon to do what is proper
18) What does Paul do instead? (9)
- He "appeals" to Philemon
19) Why does Paul call himself "the aged"? (9)
- Perhaps to appeal to Philemon's sympathy
- Paul is probably about sixty years old at this time, but in light of bodily injuries incurred throughout his ministry (cf. 2 Co 11:23-29), he was likely older than his years would normally indicate
20) Why does he again refer to himself as a prisoner? (9)
- Perhaps to tactfully remind Philemon that since Paul had suffered so much in service to Christ, certainly Philemon could honor his request
21) In the original language, where does the name "Onesimus" appear in the sentence? (10)
- At the end: "I appeal to you for my son, whom I have begotten while in my chains, ONESIMUS."
22) What significance might there be in placing Onesimus' name at the end of the sentence?
- Possibly that Paul is tactfully preparing Philemon to honor Paul's request by saying what he does before mentioning a name that is likely to bring bad memories to Philemon
23) What does Paul call Onesimus? What does it mean? (10)
- "My son"
- Like Timothy, this convert of Paul had become like a son to him
24) What does the name "Onesimus" mean?
- "Profitable", or "useful"
25) How had becoming a Christian changed Onesimus? (11)
- Prior to his conversion, he was "unprofitable" (as a runaway slave)
- Now, he was "profitable" to both Paul and Philemon
- Thus he was now living up to his name!
26) What does Paul want Philemon to do in regard to Onesimus? (12)
- Receive him
27) How does Paul express further what Onesimus has meant to him? (12)
- He refers to Onesimus as "my own heart"
28) What had Paul wished to do with Onesimus? (13)
- To keep him, and let him serve Paul in the gospel
29) Why had Paul refrained from doing what he wished? (14)
- He did not want to do anything without Philemon's whole-hearted consent
30) What did Paul see as the "possible" reason for this turn of events? (15)
- The providence of God
- Note that Paul says "perhaps"; Paul recognized that we cannot always be certain as to why things happen the way they do (just as Mordecai said in Esther 4:14), and whether it is always the Lord's doing
31) How did Paul want Philemon to receive Onesimus? (16)
- No longer as a slave, but as a beloved brother
32) Upon what basis does Paul ask Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would Paul himself?(17)
- If he considered Paul as a partner
33) What is Paul willing to do in behalf of Onesimus? (18-19)
- Pay back anything Onesimus might owe Philemon
34) What indicates that Paul may have personally converted Philemon to the gospel? (19)
- Paul's statement, "you owe me even your own self"
35) How will Philemon's forgiveness of Onesimus affect Paul? (20)
- Despite being in chains, Paul will have joy and be refreshed in his heart
36) Was Paul in doubt about Philemon's response to his request? (21)
- No, he had confidence that Philemon would do even more that what Paul asked
37) How could Philemon do more than what Paul had asked of him?
- He could free Onesimus
- He could give him spare time to evangelize
- He could treat other slaves with similar compassion
38) How might Paul's request for lodging tactfully induce Philemon to honor his request for Onesimus? (22)
- Philemon would know that Paul would soon be able to witness firsthand Philemon's response to the plea for Onesimus
39) Where else do we read of these men who accompany Paul in sending greetings to
Philemon? (23,24)
- All of them are mentioned in Co 4:10-14
- Epaphras (Co 1:7; 4:12,13)
- Mark (Ac 12:12,25; 13:5,13; 15:36-40; 2 Ti 4:11; 1 Pe 5:13)
- Aristarchus (Ac 19:29; 20:4; 27:2)
- Demas (2 Ti 4:10)
- Luke (The "we" sections of Acts, 2 Ti 4:11)
40) What is Paul's concluding prayer for Philemon? (25)
- "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen."
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To be impressed with the loving hospitality which characterized the Christians in the early church
2) To learn lessons in the use of tact in dealing with others
SUMMARY
In this very short and personal epistle, Paul addresses it to Philemon, Apphia, Archippus and to the church in their house. But it soon becomes evident that its contents are directed toward Philemon, a beloved friend and fellow laborer with Paul (1-3).
After his salutation, Paul expresses his thanks for the noble qualities which have characterized Philemon in the past, especially his love for the saints. It is because of Philemon's past performance that Paul is confident his plea will be carried out faithfully (4-7).
Paul's plea concerns Onesimus, a slave who had run away from Philemon. Somehow he had run into Paul at Rome and was now a new convert to Jesus Christ. As a brother in Christ, Onesimus had made himself very useful to Paul in Rome. But because he still legally belongs to Philemon, Paul is sending him back with a plea that Onesimus be forgiven and received as a brother in the Lord. Paul also offers to pay any restitution which may be owed Philemon by Onesimus (8-21).
The epistle ends with a request for lodging in the near future, and with sundry greetings from individuals who were with Paul in Rome (22-25).
OUTLINE
I. SALUTATION (1-3)
A. FROM... (1a)
1. Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus
2. Timothy, a brother
B. TO... (1b-2)
1. Philemon, a beloved friend and fellow laborer
2. Apphia
3. Archippus, a fellow soldier
4. The church in their house
C. GREETINGS (3)
1. Grace and peace
2. From God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ
II. THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER (4-7)
A. PAUL'S THANKFULNESS (4-5)
1. Expressed in frequent prayers to God
2. For Philemon's love and faith toward Jesus and all the saints
B. PAUL'S PRAYER (6-7)
1. That the sharing of Philemon's faith might be effective
2. Through the acknowledgment of every good thing in Philemon
3. For example, the joy and comfort experienced by Paul from Philemon's love, as Paul hears of how he refreshed the hearts of the saints
III.THE PLEA FOR ONESIMUS (8-21)
A. AN APPEAL, NOT A COMMAND (8-9)
1. Paul had the authority to command what is fitting
2. He chose instead to make an appeal based upon...
a. Love itself
b. Paul's "age"
c. His imprisonment
B. PAUL'S PLEA (10-20)
1. Concerns Onesimus (10-11)
a. Who was converted by Paul while in chains, and is now like a son to him
b. Who though once was unprofitable to Philemon, is now profitable to both him and Paul
2. Paul is now sending Onesimus back to Philemon (12-14)
a. Though he is very dear to Paul
b. Though Paul wished to keep him and have him work in Philemon's behalf in the gospel
c. But Paul did not want to do anything without Philemon's whole-hearted consent
3. Paul's desire is that Philemon receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ (15-17)
a. Perhaps his running away was for this purpose, that he might become a beloved brother in the Lord
b. So if Philemon considered himself a partner of Paul, Paul asks that he receive Onesimus as he would Paul himself
4. Paul offers to repay Philemon (18-19)
a. For any wrong that Onesimus might have done
b. Of course, Philemon already owed Paul his own life
5. By receiving Onesimus in this way, Philemon could give Paul joy and a refreshed heart in the Lord (20)
C. PAUL'S CONFIDENCE IN PHILEMON (21)
1. In Philemon's obedience
2. That Philemon will do even more than what Paul is asking for
IV. CONCLUDING REMARKS (22-25)
A. REQUEST FOR LODGING (22)
1. That Paul might be able to stay with Philemon
2. For Paul is confident that through the prayers of Philemon he will soon be able to come to him
B. GREETINGS FROM OTHERS (23-24)
1. Epaphras, a fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus
2. Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, fellow laborers with Paul
C. A CLOSING PRAYER (25)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) List the main points of this epistle
- Saluation (1-3)
- Thanksgiving & Prayer (4-7)
- The Plea For Onesimus (8-21)
- Concluding Remarks (22-25)
2) Why does Paul refer to himself as a prisoner of Christ Jesus? (1)
- He was "in chains" (also under house arrest, awaiting trial)
- But note also that he says "of Christ", for it was while engaged in HIS service and thus for HIS sake he was imprisoned
3) Why the mention of Timothy? (1)
- He was with Paul at Rome
- Also, it is possible that he was acquainted with Philemon
4) What does Philemon's name mean? Did he live up to it?
- His name means "one that is affectionate"
- Yes! cf. verse 5 and 7
5) Who, possibly, are Apphia and Archippus? (2)
- Apphia may have been the wife of Philemon
- Archippus may have been their son, also the minister for the church in Colosse (cf. Co 4:17)
6) Is this letter primarily to Philemon, or to all?
- To Philemon (note the use of the singular in verses 4-21)
- Though by mentioning the others, perhaps Paul was soliciting their help to encourage Philemon
7) What is a good example of this family's devotion to Christ and of their hospitality to the saints? (2)
- It appears that they let the church meet in their home
8) Define the terms "grace" and "peace" (3)
- Grace: favor that is unmerited
- Peace: harmony (e.g., with God, self, and others), the result of God's grace
9) How could Paul have heard about Philemon? (4,5)
- From Epaphras, who was a member of the church at Epaphras (Co 4:12,13)
- From Onesimus himself
10) What good things had Paul heard concerning Philemon? (5)
- His love and faith toward Christ and the saints
11) What are some examples of Philemon's love for the saints?
- Letting the church meet in his home (1)
- Refreshing the hearts of the saints (7)
- Preparing guest rooms (22)
12) What does Paul pray for in behalf of Philemon? (6)
- That the sharing of his faith may become effective
13) How is this prayer related to the plea which follows in verses 8-21?
- Carrying out Paul's plea concerning Onesimus would be one way of assuring that Philemon's faith in its sharing would be effective
14) What had given Paul great joy and comfort in his imprisonment? (7)
- Philemon's love and the way the saints have been refreshed by him
15) How does Paul re-emphasize his close feelings for Philemon? (7)
- By calling him "brother"
16) What does the word "therefore" indicate? (8)
- That Paul's plea for Onesimus is predicated upon Philemon's past behavior mentioned in verses 4-7
17) What could Paul have done in this matter? (8)
- Simply commanded Philemon to do what is proper
18) What does Paul do instead? (9)
- He "appeals" to Philemon
19) Why does Paul call himself "the aged"? (9)
- Perhaps to appeal to Philemon's sympathy
- Paul is probably about sixty years old at this time, but in light of bodily injuries incurred throughout his ministry (cf. 2 Co 11:23-29), he was likely older than his years would normally indicate
20) Why does he again refer to himself as a prisoner? (9)
- Perhaps to tactfully remind Philemon that since Paul had suffered so much in service to Christ, certainly Philemon could honor his request
21) In the original language, where does the name "Onesimus" appear in the sentence? (10)
- At the end: "I appeal to you for my son, whom I have begotten while in my chains, ONESIMUS."
22) What significance might there be in placing Onesimus' name at the end of the sentence?
- Possibly that Paul is tactfully preparing Philemon to honor Paul's request by saying what he does before mentioning a name that is likely to bring bad memories to Philemon
23) What does Paul call Onesimus? What does it mean? (10)
- "My son"
- Like Timothy, this convert of Paul had become like a son to him
24) What does the name "Onesimus" mean?
- "Profitable", or "useful"
25) How had becoming a Christian changed Onesimus? (11)
- Prior to his conversion, he was "unprofitable" (as a runaway slave)
- Now, he was "profitable" to both Paul and Philemon
- Thus he was now living up to his name!
26) What does Paul want Philemon to do in regard to Onesimus? (12)
- Receive him
27) How does Paul express further what Onesimus has meant to him? (12)
- He refers to Onesimus as "my own heart"
28) What had Paul wished to do with Onesimus? (13)
- To keep him, and let him serve Paul in the gospel
29) Why had Paul refrained from doing what he wished? (14)
- He did not want to do anything without Philemon's whole-hearted consent
30) What did Paul see as the "possible" reason for this turn of events? (15)
- The providence of God
- Note that Paul says "perhaps"; Paul recognized that we cannot always be certain as to why things happen the way they do (just as Mordecai said in Esther 4:14), and whether it is always the Lord's doing
31) How did Paul want Philemon to receive Onesimus? (16)
- No longer as a slave, but as a beloved brother
32) Upon what basis does Paul ask Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would Paul himself?(17)
- If he considered Paul as a partner
33) What is Paul willing to do in behalf of Onesimus? (18-19)
- Pay back anything Onesimus might owe Philemon
34) What indicates that Paul may have personally converted Philemon to the gospel? (19)
- Paul's statement, "you owe me even your own self"
35) How will Philemon's forgiveness of Onesimus affect Paul? (20)
- Despite being in chains, Paul will have joy and be refreshed in his heart
36) Was Paul in doubt about Philemon's response to his request? (21)
- No, he had confidence that Philemon would do even more that what Paul asked
37) How could Philemon do more than what Paul had asked of him?
- He could free Onesimus
- He could give him spare time to evangelize
- He could treat other slaves with similar compassion
38) How might Paul's request for lodging tactfully induce Philemon to honor his request for Onesimus? (22)
- Philemon would know that Paul would soon be able to witness firsthand Philemon's response to the plea for Onesimus
39) Where else do we read of these men who accompany Paul in sending greetings to
Philemon? (23,24)
- All of them are mentioned in Co 4:10-14
- Epaphras (Co 1:7; 4:12,13)
- Mark (Ac 12:12,25; 13:5,13; 15:36-40; 2 Ti 4:11; 1 Pe 5:13)
- Aristarchus (Ac 19:29; 20:4; 27:2)
- Demas (2 Ti 4:10)
- Luke (The "we" sections of Acts, 2 Ti 4:11)
40) What is Paul's concluding prayer for Philemon? (25)
- "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen."
Saturday, March 5, 2011
The Epistle To Philemon- Introduction
The Epistle To Philemon- Introduction
AUTHOR
Paul, the apostle of Jesus Christ (1,9,19).
PLACE OF WRITING
Rome, about the same time the epistle to the Colossians was written. This deduction is based upon the following:
* Like the epistle to the Colossians, the epistle to Philemon was written when Paul was in chains (1,10,13,23)
* Timothy joined Paul in both epistles (1; Co 1:1)
* Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke joined in the salutation of both (23,24;Co 4:10-14)
* Onesimus, the subject of this epistle, was one of the messengers by whom the epistle to the Colossians was sent (Co 4:7-9)
* Archippus, to whom this epistle is partially addressed (2), is also addressed in the epistle to the Colossians (Co 4:17)
TIME OF WRITING
If the epistle to Philemon was written about the time Colossians and the other "prison epistles"(Ephesians and Philippians) were written, then it was written during Paul's imprisonment at Rome, sometime during the period of 61-63 A.D.
BACKGROUND OF THE EPISTLE
Philemon was a member of the church at Colosse (cf. 1,2, with Co 4:17), and a very hospitable one at that (1,2,5,7). It is possible that he was one of Paul's own converts (19). It is also plausible that Apphia was his wife, and Archippus his son (1,2).
Onesimus had been one of Philemon's slaves (16), who had run away (15). It appears that he somehow traveled to Rome where he found Paul and was converted to Christ (10). He had become very dear to Paul, and was proving to be very useful (11-13).
But Paul did not think it right to keep Onesimus in Rome, and was sending him back to Philemon(12-14). This letter to Philemon is an appeal for him to receive Onesimus now as a brother in Christ, and for him to forgive Onesimus if he had done any wrong (15-21).
PURPOSE OF WRITING
From the content of the epistle, it appears that Paul had both a primary and secondary purpose:
* Primarily to secure forgiveness for Onesimus
* But also to provide from himself a place of lodging after his release from imprisonment(22)
THE VALUE OF THIS EPISTLE
This short, but valuable epistle has been described as:
* A Model Of Christian Courtesy
* A Manifestation Of Christian Love
* A Monument Of Christian Conversion
Perhaps this is why the Holy Spirit deemed it proper to preserve it for our benefit.
KEY PASSAGE: Philemon 10,11
"I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my
chains, who once was unprofitable to you, but now is profitable to you and to
me."
BRIEF OUTLINE
Paul's Courtesy (1-3)
Paul's Compliment (4-7)
Paul's Counsel (8-21)
Paul's Conclusion (22-25)
A detailed outline of the epistle can be found in the material on Chapter One.
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE INTRODUCTION
1) Who is the author of this epistle?
- Paul
2) Where was he writing from?
- Rome
3) Approximately when was this epistle written?
- Sometime between 61-63 A.D.
4) What other epistles were written by Paul about the same time?
- Colossians, Ephesians, and Philippians
5) What church possibly met in Philemon's home?
- The church at Colosse
6) Who was Onesimus?
- A runaway slave that had belonged to Philemon
7) What was Paul's purpose in writing this epistle?
- To secure forgiveness for Onesimus
- To provide for himself a place of lodging after his release from imprisonment
8) What are the key verses to this epistle?
- Philemon 10-11
AUTHOR
Paul, the apostle of Jesus Christ (1,9,19).
PLACE OF WRITING
Rome, about the same time the epistle to the Colossians was written. This deduction is based upon the following:
* Like the epistle to the Colossians, the epistle to Philemon was written when Paul was in chains (1,10,13,23)
* Timothy joined Paul in both epistles (1; Co 1:1)
* Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke joined in the salutation of both (23,24;Co 4:10-14)
* Onesimus, the subject of this epistle, was one of the messengers by whom the epistle to the Colossians was sent (Co 4:7-9)
* Archippus, to whom this epistle is partially addressed (2), is also addressed in the epistle to the Colossians (Co 4:17)
TIME OF WRITING
If the epistle to Philemon was written about the time Colossians and the other "prison epistles"(Ephesians and Philippians) were written, then it was written during Paul's imprisonment at Rome, sometime during the period of 61-63 A.D.
BACKGROUND OF THE EPISTLE
Philemon was a member of the church at Colosse (cf. 1,2, with Co 4:17), and a very hospitable one at that (1,2,5,7). It is possible that he was one of Paul's own converts (19). It is also plausible that Apphia was his wife, and Archippus his son (1,2).
Onesimus had been one of Philemon's slaves (16), who had run away (15). It appears that he somehow traveled to Rome where he found Paul and was converted to Christ (10). He had become very dear to Paul, and was proving to be very useful (11-13).
But Paul did not think it right to keep Onesimus in Rome, and was sending him back to Philemon(12-14). This letter to Philemon is an appeal for him to receive Onesimus now as a brother in Christ, and for him to forgive Onesimus if he had done any wrong (15-21).
PURPOSE OF WRITING
From the content of the epistle, it appears that Paul had both a primary and secondary purpose:
* Primarily to secure forgiveness for Onesimus
* But also to provide from himself a place of lodging after his release from imprisonment(22)
THE VALUE OF THIS EPISTLE
This short, but valuable epistle has been described as:
* A Model Of Christian Courtesy
* A Manifestation Of Christian Love
* A Monument Of Christian Conversion
Perhaps this is why the Holy Spirit deemed it proper to preserve it for our benefit.
KEY PASSAGE: Philemon 10,11
"I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my
chains, who once was unprofitable to you, but now is profitable to you and to
me."
BRIEF OUTLINE
Paul's Courtesy (1-3)
Paul's Compliment (4-7)
Paul's Counsel (8-21)
Paul's Conclusion (22-25)
A detailed outline of the epistle can be found in the material on Chapter One.
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE INTRODUCTION
1) Who is the author of this epistle?
- Paul
2) Where was he writing from?
- Rome
3) Approximately when was this epistle written?
- Sometime between 61-63 A.D.
4) What other epistles were written by Paul about the same time?
- Colossians, Ephesians, and Philippians
5) What church possibly met in Philemon's home?
- The church at Colosse
6) Who was Onesimus?
- A runaway slave that had belonged to Philemon
7) What was Paul's purpose in writing this epistle?
- To secure forgiveness for Onesimus
- To provide for himself a place of lodging after his release from imprisonment
8) What are the key verses to this epistle?
- Philemon 10-11
Friday, February 25, 2011
God's “Second String”- Colossians 4:7-18
God's “Second String”- Colossians 4:7-18
INTRODUCTION
1. We have stressed throughout this study of Colossians that we are “complete in Christ” - Co 2:9
2. To be “complete in Christ”, or “perfect in Christ” (Co 1:28), is certainly to be the goal of every Christian...
a. Does this mean that those who are in Christ are to be exactly alike in every way?
b. Should we expect every mature Christian to be duplicates of one another in ability and service?
3. No, it does not, and that becomes especially clear as we consider Paul’s closing comments concerning several individuals who were instrumental to the success of Paul’s ministry
4. Reading Paul’s comments about these individuals reminds me of the key to any successful sports team: the strength of the “second string” that supports the key players
5. So as we come to this last section of the Book of Colossians, I hope we do not consider these closing comments of Paul as something to quickly gloss over
a. There are important lessons we can glean from these verses
b. We are reminded of the need and the value of “God’s Second String”
[First, we are introduced to...]
I. THE MEN WHO WERE MESSENGERS (7-9)
A. TYCHICUS... (7-8)
1. Described as “a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant in the Lord”
a. We read of him in Ac 20:7, as one of those who accompanied Paul
b. Again in Ep 6:21-22, where he performed the same duties as outlined in Co 4:7-8
c. And also in Ti 3:12 and 2 Ti 4:12, where he continues to serve Paul as a messenger
2. He might have been one of the brethren referred to in 2 Co 8:23, who were called
“messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ”
B. ONESIMUS... (9)
1. Also “a faithful and beloved brother”
2. Who was from Colosse (cf., “who is one of you”)
3. We learn from the Epistle to Philemon that Onesimus was a runaway slave who was
converted by Paul and sent back
4. He, too, was serving as a messenger for Paul
[Because of men like these, the influence of the apostles was able to spread much farther than if they were by themselves. And that also means the influence of the gospel spread much farther! Next, we read of...]
II. THE MEN WHO WERE COMFORTERS (10-11)
A. ARISTARCHUS... (10A)
1. A “fellow prisoner”
2. He also had been a fellow traveler of Paul - Ac 20:4
a. Who nearly lost his life to the riot in Ephesus - Ac 19:29
b. Who sailed with Paul to Rome - Ac 27:2
3. And was now in Rome with Paul, sending greetings
B. MARK... (10B)
1. The writer of the second Gospel, he was the cousin (nephew) of Barnabas
a. The church in Jerusalem met in his mother’s house - Ac 12:12
b. Started out with Paul and Barnabas on their first journey, but then turned back - Ac 13:1-13
c. He later became a bone of contention between Paul and Barnabas - Ac 15:36-41
d. But eventually proved “profitable” to Paul for service - 2 Ti 4:11
2.. Even now, he is included with those who Paul said “proved to be a comfort to me”
C. JESUS, CALLED JUSTUS... (11)
1. Little is known of this man, except that he was a Jew (“of the circumcision”) and a “fellow worker for the kingdom”
2. He, too, was a comfort to Paul
[No man can produce what they are capable of producing, unless they receive the right kind of encouragement. Just as Barnabas (the “son of encouragement” - Ac 4:36) had been the one to encourage a young man who made a mistake (i.e., John Mark) and made him profitable, so now that young man with two others were comforting the apostle Paul in his trials. With such comfort, Paul was able to continue his work while awaiting trial before Caesar. Now let’s notice...]
III. THE MAN WHO PRAYED (12-13)
A. EPAPHRAS, WHO STARTED THE CHURCH AT COLOSSE... (12a)
1. He was from Colosse (“one of you”) - Co 1:7-8
2. He cared deeply for them and those in Laodicea and Hierapolis
3. He too was a “fellow prisoner” (Phile 23); what could he do for those so far away?
B. EPAPHRAS, A MAN OF PRAYER... (12b-13)
1. He could at least pray for his brethren!
2. And pray he did...
a. He prayed “constantly” (“always”)
b. He prayed “fervently” (“laboring fervently”)
c. He prayed “personally” (“for you”)
d. He prayed “with a goal in mind” (“that you may stand perfect and complete...”)
[Just as one does not have to be on the court to contribute to a team’s success, one does not have to be present to be a blessing to others! So Paul himself realized, and often solicited the prayers of others on his behalf (e.g., 2 Th 3:1-2). On a bittersweet note, we now consider...]
IV. TWO MEN OF CONTRAST (14)
A. LUKE, THE “BELOVED PHYSICIAN”...
1. A fellow traveler with Paul on a number of his journeys - Ac 16:10; 20:5; 27:1 (note the personal pronouns “we”, “us”)
2. He was used by the Holy Spirit to write over half of the New Testament!
a. He penned both the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts
b. In total volume, they constitute the majority of the New Testament
3. He was faithful to Paul to the end - 2 Ti 4:11
B. DEMAS, WHO LATER FORSOOK PAUL...
1. At the time Colossians and Philemon was written, Demas was a “fellow laborer”
2. But not long after, it was said of him, “Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world” - 2 Ti 4:10
CONCLUSION
1. Demas serves as a sober reminder of the need to remain steadfast to the end - cf. also Re 2:10
2. But the others in this passage remind us that the spread of the gospel during the first century was not accomplished through the efforts of great men like Paul and the twelve apostles alone
3. It was greatly assisted by humble men and women willing to serve as “God’s Second String”...
a. Who served as messengers, comforters, prayer warriors, and servants to those in positions of greater influence than themselves (7-14)
b. Who opened their hearts and their homes to the service of the church, as did Nymphas (15)
4. If the gospel is to spread today, there is also a need for “God’s Second String”...!
a. Are we willing to do whatever we can in the service to the Lord, whether it be great or small?
b. Then let Paul closing remarks to a man named Archippus serve as an admonition to us as well: “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” - Co 4:17
5. Whatever our calling, whatever our ability, let us be faithful to the Lord!
As Paul closed his epistle to the Colossians in his own personal handwriting (18), so we close this series of sermon outlines: “Grace be with you. Amen”
If we truly let Jesus be our “All-Sufficient And Preeminent Savior”, then God’s grace will certainly be with us!
INTRODUCTION
1. We have stressed throughout this study of Colossians that we are “complete in Christ” - Co 2:9
2. To be “complete in Christ”, or “perfect in Christ” (Co 1:28), is certainly to be the goal of every Christian...
a. Does this mean that those who are in Christ are to be exactly alike in every way?
b. Should we expect every mature Christian to be duplicates of one another in ability and service?
3. No, it does not, and that becomes especially clear as we consider Paul’s closing comments concerning several individuals who were instrumental to the success of Paul’s ministry
4. Reading Paul’s comments about these individuals reminds me of the key to any successful sports team: the strength of the “second string” that supports the key players
5. So as we come to this last section of the Book of Colossians, I hope we do not consider these closing comments of Paul as something to quickly gloss over
a. There are important lessons we can glean from these verses
b. We are reminded of the need and the value of “God’s Second String”
[First, we are introduced to...]
I. THE MEN WHO WERE MESSENGERS (7-9)
A. TYCHICUS... (7-8)
1. Described as “a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant in the Lord”
a. We read of him in Ac 20:7, as one of those who accompanied Paul
b. Again in Ep 6:21-22, where he performed the same duties as outlined in Co 4:7-8
c. And also in Ti 3:12 and 2 Ti 4:12, where he continues to serve Paul as a messenger
2. He might have been one of the brethren referred to in 2 Co 8:23, who were called
“messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ”
B. ONESIMUS... (9)
1. Also “a faithful and beloved brother”
2. Who was from Colosse (cf., “who is one of you”)
3. We learn from the Epistle to Philemon that Onesimus was a runaway slave who was
converted by Paul and sent back
4. He, too, was serving as a messenger for Paul
[Because of men like these, the influence of the apostles was able to spread much farther than if they were by themselves. And that also means the influence of the gospel spread much farther! Next, we read of...]
II. THE MEN WHO WERE COMFORTERS (10-11)
A. ARISTARCHUS... (10A)
1. A “fellow prisoner”
2. He also had been a fellow traveler of Paul - Ac 20:4
a. Who nearly lost his life to the riot in Ephesus - Ac 19:29
b. Who sailed with Paul to Rome - Ac 27:2
3. And was now in Rome with Paul, sending greetings
B. MARK... (10B)
1. The writer of the second Gospel, he was the cousin (nephew) of Barnabas
a. The church in Jerusalem met in his mother’s house - Ac 12:12
b. Started out with Paul and Barnabas on their first journey, but then turned back - Ac 13:1-13
c. He later became a bone of contention between Paul and Barnabas - Ac 15:36-41
d. But eventually proved “profitable” to Paul for service - 2 Ti 4:11
2.. Even now, he is included with those who Paul said “proved to be a comfort to me”
C. JESUS, CALLED JUSTUS... (11)
1. Little is known of this man, except that he was a Jew (“of the circumcision”) and a “fellow worker for the kingdom”
2. He, too, was a comfort to Paul
[No man can produce what they are capable of producing, unless they receive the right kind of encouragement. Just as Barnabas (the “son of encouragement” - Ac 4:36) had been the one to encourage a young man who made a mistake (i.e., John Mark) and made him profitable, so now that young man with two others were comforting the apostle Paul in his trials. With such comfort, Paul was able to continue his work while awaiting trial before Caesar. Now let’s notice...]
III. THE MAN WHO PRAYED (12-13)
A. EPAPHRAS, WHO STARTED THE CHURCH AT COLOSSE... (12a)
1. He was from Colosse (“one of you”) - Co 1:7-8
2. He cared deeply for them and those in Laodicea and Hierapolis
3. He too was a “fellow prisoner” (Phile 23); what could he do for those so far away?
B. EPAPHRAS, A MAN OF PRAYER... (12b-13)
1. He could at least pray for his brethren!
2. And pray he did...
a. He prayed “constantly” (“always”)
b. He prayed “fervently” (“laboring fervently”)
c. He prayed “personally” (“for you”)
d. He prayed “with a goal in mind” (“that you may stand perfect and complete...”)
[Just as one does not have to be on the court to contribute to a team’s success, one does not have to be present to be a blessing to others! So Paul himself realized, and often solicited the prayers of others on his behalf (e.g., 2 Th 3:1-2). On a bittersweet note, we now consider...]
IV. TWO MEN OF CONTRAST (14)
A. LUKE, THE “BELOVED PHYSICIAN”...
1. A fellow traveler with Paul on a number of his journeys - Ac 16:10; 20:5; 27:1 (note the personal pronouns “we”, “us”)
2. He was used by the Holy Spirit to write over half of the New Testament!
a. He penned both the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts
b. In total volume, they constitute the majority of the New Testament
3. He was faithful to Paul to the end - 2 Ti 4:11
B. DEMAS, WHO LATER FORSOOK PAUL...
1. At the time Colossians and Philemon was written, Demas was a “fellow laborer”
2. But not long after, it was said of him, “Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world” - 2 Ti 4:10
CONCLUSION
1. Demas serves as a sober reminder of the need to remain steadfast to the end - cf. also Re 2:10
2. But the others in this passage remind us that the spread of the gospel during the first century was not accomplished through the efforts of great men like Paul and the twelve apostles alone
3. It was greatly assisted by humble men and women willing to serve as “God’s Second String”...
a. Who served as messengers, comforters, prayer warriors, and servants to those in positions of greater influence than themselves (7-14)
b. Who opened their hearts and their homes to the service of the church, as did Nymphas (15)
4. If the gospel is to spread today, there is also a need for “God’s Second String”...!
a. Are we willing to do whatever we can in the service to the Lord, whether it be great or small?
b. Then let Paul closing remarks to a man named Archippus serve as an admonition to us as well: “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” - Co 4:17
5. Whatever our calling, whatever our ability, let us be faithful to the Lord!
As Paul closed his epistle to the Colossians in his own personal handwriting (18), so we close this series of sermon outlines: “Grace be with you. Amen”
If we truly let Jesus be our “All-Sufficient And Preeminent Savior”, then God’s grace will certainly be with us!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Essentials For Living The Christ-Like Life- Colossians 4:2-6
Essentials For Living The Christ-Like Life- Colossians 4:2-6
INTRODUCTION
1. In the last two chapters in his epistle to the Colossians, the apostle Paul exhorts them to live the kind of life that demonstrates their faith in Jesus Christ as the “All-Sufficient And Preeminent Savior”
a. In Co 3:1-11, Paul describes the “basics” of Christian living
b. In Co 3:12-17, Paul describes the “apparel” Christians are to wear
c. And in Co 3:18-4:1, Paul discusses the “guidelines” to govern Christian families
2. Prior to making his closing comments, he now gives three exhortations to his brethren in Christ that I am calling in this lesson, “Essentials To Living The Christ-Like Life”
[Beginning in Co 4:2-4, then, the Colossians as well as all Christians are exhorted to...]
I. CONTINUE IN PRAYER (2-4)
A. PRAYER THAT IS “FAITHFUL”...
1. As Paul writes, “continue earnestly in prayer”
a. Just as he wrote to the Romans - Ro 12:12
b. And also to the Thessalonians - 1Th 5:17
2. That people faithfully continue in prayer was a concern of our Lord as well
a. He taught a parable that men always ought to pray - Lk 18:1
b. He was concerned that when He returned, He might not find faith on the earth! - Lk
18:8
3. We have several wonderful examples to serve as role models...
a. David, a man after God’s own heart - Ps 55:16-17
b. Daniel, a man greatly beloved by God - Dan 6:10
c. Anna, an elderly widow blessed to see the Christ-child - Lk 2:36-38
d. Of course, Paul himself- Co 1:9
e. And also Epaphras, himself a member of the church at Colosse - Co 4:12
4. So many people pray only when there is a crisis - may that not be true of us!
B. PRAYER THAT IS “WATCHFUL”...
1. Or as Paul put it in our text, “be vigilant in it”
2. On several occasions, Jesus warned His disciples to be watchful in prayer - Mk 13:32-33; Mt 26:41
3. So His apostles warn us...
a. Paul, in Ep 6:18
b. Peter, in 1 Pet 4:7
4. Through “watchful” praying, we will not be caught unprepared by:
a. Satan, and the temptation to sin
b. Death, and the judgment to follow
c. Christ, and the glories for those who are ready when He comes again
C. PRAYER THAT IS “THANKFUL”...
1. “with thanksgiving”, Paul says
2. Throughout his epistle to the Colossians, there has been an emphasis on being thankful - Co 1:3,12; 2:7; 3:15,17; 4:2
3. As someone said, “We should thank God just as diligently in our prayers as we
make requests of Him.” - cf. also Ph 4:6
4. Let’s be sure to “abound with thanksgiving”!
a. Especially in light of Ro 1:21
b. Where we see that ingratitude was one reason why God’s wrath was being revealed
from heaven!
D. PRAYER THAT IS “PURPOSEFUL”...
1. As Paul requested of his brethren in Colosse, “praying also for us...”
2. Prayers are often too general in their requests, lacking specific purpose
3. But as here in our text, Paul often asked for specific prayers in his behalf - e.g., Ro 15:30-32
4. From our text in Colossians and elsewhere, what specific requests can we make for those who preach and teach God’s Word?
a. Opportunity (“an open door”) - Co 4:3; cf. 2 Th 3:1
b. Wisdom (“as I ought to speak”) - Co 4:4
c. Boldness - Ep 6:19-20
[As we endeavor to live a Christ-like life, make the right kind of prayer a crucial element! Prayer that is:
Faithful
Watchful
Thankful
Purposeful
The exhortation in verse 5 of our text is also crucial to living a Christ-like life, especially when among those who are not Christians...]
II. WALK IN WISDOM (5)
A. CHRISTIANS NEED TO BE CONCERNED WITH HOW THEY “WALK”...
1. In other words, how they conduct themselves
2. We are to walk in wisdom especially “toward those who are outside”
a. By proper conduct, we can influence them for good - e.g., 1 Pe 3:1-2
b. The world is constantly making judgments concerning us by our conduct, and according to Jesus, this is their privilege - cf. Jn 13:35; 17:20-21
B. ANOTHER REASON SUCH WISDOM IS IMPERATIVE IS “TIME”...
1. To be exact, the lack of time! - cf. Ep 5:15-17
a. The time we have in this life is short
b. We cannot afford to waste much of it through foolishness
c. And there are some people who need Christ whose time left on this earth is even shorter than ours!
2. So we need to “redeem” the time; i.e., make the most of the time we have
[Finally, as we consider these “Essentials To Living The Christ-Like Life” found in our text, let’s remember that it was said of Jesus that people “...marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth.” (Lk 4:22) As His disciples, so we should...]
III. SPEAK WITH GRACE (6)
A. THE POWER OF THE TONGUE IS VIVIDLY ILLUSTRATED IN JAMES 3...
1. It effects the entire body - Ja 3:2
2. It can have great destructive power - Ja 3:6
3. It is inconsistent for us to use it for both good and evil - Ja 3:9-12
B. THEREFORE WE NEED TO LEARN TO SPEAK “WITH GRACE”...
1. As Paul also commanded in Ep 5:29
a. No corrupt communication is to proceed out of our mouths
b. Only that which edifies, imparting “grace to the hearers”
2. Our speech is to be “seasoned with salt”
a. Not to be confused with the “salty language” of some sailors!
b. But rather speech properly flavored so that it well received by others
3. We especially need to watch our language around those who are NOT Christians
a. “that you may know how to answer each one” - Co 4:6
b. “a servant of the Lord must not quarrel...” - 2 Ti 2:23-26
4. Are we as careful with our own speech, as we want others to be with their lives?
a. Do we, who claim to be the disciples of Jesus Christ...
b. ...speak the words of truth that come by Him in the same gracious manner He did?
CONCLUSION
1. These three simple exhortations, if truly heeded, can have a powerful impact on our lives:
a. Our prayer life will likely be very different!
b. Our walk (conduct) will be noted for its wisdom
c. Our speech will be a source of encouragement to others
2. This is the essence of following Jesus Christ! To allow Him to so live in us that by God’s grace we experience a transformation that affects every aspect of our lives!
Speaking of the grace of God, have you taken advantage of what time it is...? (2 Co 6:1-2)
INTRODUCTION
1. In the last two chapters in his epistle to the Colossians, the apostle Paul exhorts them to live the kind of life that demonstrates their faith in Jesus Christ as the “All-Sufficient And Preeminent Savior”
a. In Co 3:1-11, Paul describes the “basics” of Christian living
b. In Co 3:12-17, Paul describes the “apparel” Christians are to wear
c. And in Co 3:18-4:1, Paul discusses the “guidelines” to govern Christian families
2. Prior to making his closing comments, he now gives three exhortations to his brethren in Christ that I am calling in this lesson, “Essentials To Living The Christ-Like Life”
[Beginning in Co 4:2-4, then, the Colossians as well as all Christians are exhorted to...]
I. CONTINUE IN PRAYER (2-4)
A. PRAYER THAT IS “FAITHFUL”...
1. As Paul writes, “continue earnestly in prayer”
a. Just as he wrote to the Romans - Ro 12:12
b. And also to the Thessalonians - 1Th 5:17
2. That people faithfully continue in prayer was a concern of our Lord as well
a. He taught a parable that men always ought to pray - Lk 18:1
b. He was concerned that when He returned, He might not find faith on the earth! - Lk
18:8
3. We have several wonderful examples to serve as role models...
a. David, a man after God’s own heart - Ps 55:16-17
b. Daniel, a man greatly beloved by God - Dan 6:10
c. Anna, an elderly widow blessed to see the Christ-child - Lk 2:36-38
d. Of course, Paul himself- Co 1:9
e. And also Epaphras, himself a member of the church at Colosse - Co 4:12
4. So many people pray only when there is a crisis - may that not be true of us!
B. PRAYER THAT IS “WATCHFUL”...
1. Or as Paul put it in our text, “be vigilant in it”
2. On several occasions, Jesus warned His disciples to be watchful in prayer - Mk 13:32-33; Mt 26:41
3. So His apostles warn us...
a. Paul, in Ep 6:18
b. Peter, in 1 Pet 4:7
4. Through “watchful” praying, we will not be caught unprepared by:
a. Satan, and the temptation to sin
b. Death, and the judgment to follow
c. Christ, and the glories for those who are ready when He comes again
C. PRAYER THAT IS “THANKFUL”...
1. “with thanksgiving”, Paul says
2. Throughout his epistle to the Colossians, there has been an emphasis on being thankful - Co 1:3,12; 2:7; 3:15,17; 4:2
3. As someone said, “We should thank God just as diligently in our prayers as we
make requests of Him.” - cf. also Ph 4:6
4. Let’s be sure to “abound with thanksgiving”!
a. Especially in light of Ro 1:21
b. Where we see that ingratitude was one reason why God’s wrath was being revealed
from heaven!
D. PRAYER THAT IS “PURPOSEFUL”...
1. As Paul requested of his brethren in Colosse, “praying also for us...”
2. Prayers are often too general in their requests, lacking specific purpose
3. But as here in our text, Paul often asked for specific prayers in his behalf - e.g., Ro 15:30-32
4. From our text in Colossians and elsewhere, what specific requests can we make for those who preach and teach God’s Word?
a. Opportunity (“an open door”) - Co 4:3; cf. 2 Th 3:1
b. Wisdom (“as I ought to speak”) - Co 4:4
c. Boldness - Ep 6:19-20
[As we endeavor to live a Christ-like life, make the right kind of prayer a crucial element! Prayer that is:
Faithful
Watchful
Thankful
Purposeful
The exhortation in verse 5 of our text is also crucial to living a Christ-like life, especially when among those who are not Christians...]
II. WALK IN WISDOM (5)
A. CHRISTIANS NEED TO BE CONCERNED WITH HOW THEY “WALK”...
1. In other words, how they conduct themselves
2. We are to walk in wisdom especially “toward those who are outside”
a. By proper conduct, we can influence them for good - e.g., 1 Pe 3:1-2
b. The world is constantly making judgments concerning us by our conduct, and according to Jesus, this is their privilege - cf. Jn 13:35; 17:20-21
B. ANOTHER REASON SUCH WISDOM IS IMPERATIVE IS “TIME”...
1. To be exact, the lack of time! - cf. Ep 5:15-17
a. The time we have in this life is short
b. We cannot afford to waste much of it through foolishness
c. And there are some people who need Christ whose time left on this earth is even shorter than ours!
2. So we need to “redeem” the time; i.e., make the most of the time we have
[Finally, as we consider these “Essentials To Living The Christ-Like Life” found in our text, let’s remember that it was said of Jesus that people “...marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth.” (Lk 4:22) As His disciples, so we should...]
III. SPEAK WITH GRACE (6)
A. THE POWER OF THE TONGUE IS VIVIDLY ILLUSTRATED IN JAMES 3...
1. It effects the entire body - Ja 3:2
2. It can have great destructive power - Ja 3:6
3. It is inconsistent for us to use it for both good and evil - Ja 3:9-12
B. THEREFORE WE NEED TO LEARN TO SPEAK “WITH GRACE”...
1. As Paul also commanded in Ep 5:29
a. No corrupt communication is to proceed out of our mouths
b. Only that which edifies, imparting “grace to the hearers”
2. Our speech is to be “seasoned with salt”
a. Not to be confused with the “salty language” of some sailors!
b. But rather speech properly flavored so that it well received by others
3. We especially need to watch our language around those who are NOT Christians
a. “that you may know how to answer each one” - Co 4:6
b. “a servant of the Lord must not quarrel...” - 2 Ti 2:23-26
4. Are we as careful with our own speech, as we want others to be with their lives?
a. Do we, who claim to be the disciples of Jesus Christ...
b. ...speak the words of truth that come by Him in the same gracious manner He did?
CONCLUSION
1. These three simple exhortations, if truly heeded, can have a powerful impact on our lives:
a. Our prayer life will likely be very different!
b. Our walk (conduct) will be noted for its wisdom
c. Our speech will be a source of encouragement to others
2. This is the essence of following Jesus Christ! To allow Him to so live in us that by God’s grace we experience a transformation that affects every aspect of our lives!
Speaking of the grace of God, have you taken advantage of what time it is...? (2 Co 6:1-2)
The Epistle To The Colossians- Chapter Four study guide
The Epistle To The Colossians- Chapter Four study guide
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To consider the importance of prayer, and proper conduct toward those who are not Christians
2) To appreciate the value of God's "second string", those workers in the kingdom who assisted key players like Paul and contributed so much to the spread of the gospel
SUMMARY
Paul concludes his section on "the Christian Solution" as an alternative to the heresies being proposed at Colosse with exhortations to prayer and proper conduct. His desire is that they devote themselves to prayer with vigilance and thanksgiving. A special request for prayer in his behalf is made, that God might give him an open door for the word of God, and that he might make the mystery of Christ known. Their own conduct is to be with wisdom toward outsiders, making good use of their time. This includes speaking with grace, knowing how one ought to answer others (1-6).
Paul then mentions several companions, starting with Tychicus and Onesimus who were evidently the bearers of this epistle, and who would inform them of Paul's circumstances. Special greetings are also sent from brethren with Paul. These included three Jewish brethren (Aristarchus, Mark, Jesus called Justus), a brother who was from Colosse (Epaphras), a beloved physician (Luke), and one we know from another epistle (Demas, cf. 2 Ti 4:9) who later forsook Paul (7-14).
Finally, greetings are sent to those in Laodicea and the church meeting in the home of Nymphas, along with a charge to exchange epistles with the church in Laodicea. With a final exhortation for Archippus to fulfill his ministry, Paul signs off using his personal signature, asking that they remember his chains, and praying for grace on their behalf (15-18).
OUTLINE
I. EXHORTATIONS TO PRAYER AND PROPER CONDUCT (2-6)
A. DEVOTE YOURSELVES TO PRAYER (2-4)
1. Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant with thanksgiving (2)
2. Pray for ministers of God, like Paul (3-4)
a. That God would open a door for the Word (3a)
b. That Paul would make the mystery of Christ manifest (3b-4)
B. CONDUCT YOURSELVES PROPERLY (5-6)
1. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of your time (5)
2. Speak with grace, properly answering each one (6)
II. PAUL'S COMPANIONS (7-14)
A. COMMENDATION OF HIS MESSENGERS (7-9)
1. Tychicus (7-8)
a. A beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord (8a)
b. Sent by Paul to inform them of his circumstances, and to comfort their hearts (8b-9)
2. Onesimus (9)
a. A faithful and beloved brother, from Colosse (9a)
b. He also will inform them of Paul's circumstances (9b)
B. GREETINGS FROM HIS FRIENDS (10-14)
1. From Aristarchus, a fellow prisoner (10a)
2. From Mark, a cousin of Barnabas, whom they are to welcome if he comes (10b)
3. From Jesus, called Justus, who together with Aristarchus and Mark are Paul's only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision (11)
4. From Epaphras (12-13)
a. One of their number at Colosse (12a)
b. A servant of Christ in their behalf (12b)
1) Laboring fervently for them in prayers
2) Praying that they may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God
c. Paul bears witness of his great zeal (13)
1) For those at Colosse (13a)
2) For those in Laodicea and Hierapolis (13b)
5. From Luke, the beloved physician (14a)
6. From Demas (14b)
III.CONCLUDING REMARKS (15-18)
A. PERSONAL MESSAGES (15-17)
1. Greet the brethren (15)
a. Those who are in Laodicea (15a)
b. Nymphas and the church in his house (15b)
2. Exchange epistles (16)
a. Once this epistle is read, see that it is read in the church of the Laodiceans (16a)
b. You also read the epistle from the church in Laodicea (16b)
3. A charge to Archippus, that he take heed to his ministry received from the Lord, and to fulfill it (17)
B. A PERSONAL SIGNOFF (18)
1. Salutation written by his own hands (18a)
2. A plea to remember his chains (18b)
3. A prayer that grace be with them (18c)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Exhortations to prayer and proper conduct (2-6)
- Paul's companions (7-14)
- Concluding remarks (15-18)
2) In calling them to earnest prayer, what four things does Paul ask of them? (2-4)
- That they pray with vigilance
- That they pray with thanksgiving
- That they pray for God to provide an open door for the word
- That they pray for him to be able to make the mystery of Christ manifest
3) How were they to walk? (5)
- In wisdom toward outsiders, making good use of their time
4) How were they to speak? (6)
- With grace, knowing how to answer each one
5) How is Tychicus described? Why was Paul sending him? (7-8)
- A beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord
- To inform them of Paul's circumstances and comfort their hearts
6) How is Onesimus describe? What was Paul sending him? (9)
- A faithful and beloved brother, one of them
- To make known the things happening in Rome
7) What three men were Paul's only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who were of the circumcision, i.e. Jews? (10-11)
- Aristarchus, Mark, Justus
8) What is said about Epaphras in relation to the churches in Colosse, Laodicea, and
Hierapolis? (12-13)
- Labors fervently for them in prayer, that they might stand perfect and complete in all the will of God
- Has a great zeal for them
9) Who else sends greetings? (14)
- Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas
10) To what two groups does Paul send greetings? (15)
- To the brethren in Laodicea
- To Nymphas and the church in his house
11) What was to be done with the epistle after it had been read to the church? (16)
- It was to be read to the church of the Laodiceans
12) What was to be done with an epistle coming from Laodicea? (16)
- They were to read it
13) What special charge does Paul tell them to give to Archippus? (17)
- Take heed to fulfill the ministry received from the Lord
14) How does Paul confirm that this epistle was from him? (18)
- By writing his name in his own hand
15) What final request does Paul ask of the Colossians? (18)
- Remember my chains
16) What final prayer does Paul offer in behalf of the brethren? (18)
- Grace be with you
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To consider the importance of prayer, and proper conduct toward those who are not Christians
2) To appreciate the value of God's "second string", those workers in the kingdom who assisted key players like Paul and contributed so much to the spread of the gospel
SUMMARY
Paul concludes his section on "the Christian Solution" as an alternative to the heresies being proposed at Colosse with exhortations to prayer and proper conduct. His desire is that they devote themselves to prayer with vigilance and thanksgiving. A special request for prayer in his behalf is made, that God might give him an open door for the word of God, and that he might make the mystery of Christ known. Their own conduct is to be with wisdom toward outsiders, making good use of their time. This includes speaking with grace, knowing how one ought to answer others (1-6).
Paul then mentions several companions, starting with Tychicus and Onesimus who were evidently the bearers of this epistle, and who would inform them of Paul's circumstances. Special greetings are also sent from brethren with Paul. These included three Jewish brethren (Aristarchus, Mark, Jesus called Justus), a brother who was from Colosse (Epaphras), a beloved physician (Luke), and one we know from another epistle (Demas, cf. 2 Ti 4:9) who later forsook Paul (7-14).
Finally, greetings are sent to those in Laodicea and the church meeting in the home of Nymphas, along with a charge to exchange epistles with the church in Laodicea. With a final exhortation for Archippus to fulfill his ministry, Paul signs off using his personal signature, asking that they remember his chains, and praying for grace on their behalf (15-18).
OUTLINE
I. EXHORTATIONS TO PRAYER AND PROPER CONDUCT (2-6)
A. DEVOTE YOURSELVES TO PRAYER (2-4)
1. Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant with thanksgiving (2)
2. Pray for ministers of God, like Paul (3-4)
a. That God would open a door for the Word (3a)
b. That Paul would make the mystery of Christ manifest (3b-4)
B. CONDUCT YOURSELVES PROPERLY (5-6)
1. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of your time (5)
2. Speak with grace, properly answering each one (6)
II. PAUL'S COMPANIONS (7-14)
A. COMMENDATION OF HIS MESSENGERS (7-9)
1. Tychicus (7-8)
a. A beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord (8a)
b. Sent by Paul to inform them of his circumstances, and to comfort their hearts (8b-9)
2. Onesimus (9)
a. A faithful and beloved brother, from Colosse (9a)
b. He also will inform them of Paul's circumstances (9b)
B. GREETINGS FROM HIS FRIENDS (10-14)
1. From Aristarchus, a fellow prisoner (10a)
2. From Mark, a cousin of Barnabas, whom they are to welcome if he comes (10b)
3. From Jesus, called Justus, who together with Aristarchus and Mark are Paul's only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision (11)
4. From Epaphras (12-13)
a. One of their number at Colosse (12a)
b. A servant of Christ in their behalf (12b)
1) Laboring fervently for them in prayers
2) Praying that they may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God
c. Paul bears witness of his great zeal (13)
1) For those at Colosse (13a)
2) For those in Laodicea and Hierapolis (13b)
5. From Luke, the beloved physician (14a)
6. From Demas (14b)
III.CONCLUDING REMARKS (15-18)
A. PERSONAL MESSAGES (15-17)
1. Greet the brethren (15)
a. Those who are in Laodicea (15a)
b. Nymphas and the church in his house (15b)
2. Exchange epistles (16)
a. Once this epistle is read, see that it is read in the church of the Laodiceans (16a)
b. You also read the epistle from the church in Laodicea (16b)
3. A charge to Archippus, that he take heed to his ministry received from the Lord, and to fulfill it (17)
B. A PERSONAL SIGNOFF (18)
1. Salutation written by his own hands (18a)
2. A plea to remember his chains (18b)
3. A prayer that grace be with them (18c)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Exhortations to prayer and proper conduct (2-6)
- Paul's companions (7-14)
- Concluding remarks (15-18)
2) In calling them to earnest prayer, what four things does Paul ask of them? (2-4)
- That they pray with vigilance
- That they pray with thanksgiving
- That they pray for God to provide an open door for the word
- That they pray for him to be able to make the mystery of Christ manifest
3) How were they to walk? (5)
- In wisdom toward outsiders, making good use of their time
4) How were they to speak? (6)
- With grace, knowing how to answer each one
5) How is Tychicus described? Why was Paul sending him? (7-8)
- A beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord
- To inform them of Paul's circumstances and comfort their hearts
6) How is Onesimus describe? What was Paul sending him? (9)
- A faithful and beloved brother, one of them
- To make known the things happening in Rome
7) What three men were Paul's only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who were of the circumcision, i.e. Jews? (10-11)
- Aristarchus, Mark, Justus
8) What is said about Epaphras in relation to the churches in Colosse, Laodicea, and
Hierapolis? (12-13)
- Labors fervently for them in prayer, that they might stand perfect and complete in all the will of God
- Has a great zeal for them
9) Who else sends greetings? (14)
- Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas
10) To what two groups does Paul send greetings? (15)
- To the brethren in Laodicea
- To Nymphas and the church in his house
11) What was to be done with the epistle after it had been read to the church? (16)
- It was to be read to the church of the Laodiceans
12) What was to be done with an epistle coming from Laodicea? (16)
- They were to read it
13) What special charge does Paul tell them to give to Archippus? (17)
- Take heed to fulfill the ministry received from the Lord
14) How does Paul confirm that this epistle was from him? (18)
- By writing his name in his own hand
15) What final request does Paul ask of the Colossians? (18)
- Remember my chains
16) What final prayer does Paul offer in behalf of the brethren? (18)
- Grace be with you
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Guidelines For The Family And Business- Colossians 3:18-4:1
Guidelines For The Family And Business- Colossians 3:18-4:1
INTRODUCTION
1. The theme throughout the Book of Colossians is that Jesus Christ is our “All-Sufficient And Preeminent Savior” - cf. Co 1:16-18; Co 2:3,9-10
2. As a demonstration of Jesus as our “all-sufficient” Savior, we now find His apostle Paul giving guidelines by which we can successfully conduct our family and business matters! - Co 3:18-4:1
3. This passage illustrates that the “preeminence” of Christ reaches even to the secular concerns of our lives
[Beginning with verse 18, let’s examine some of these guidelines Christ has given us...]
I. WIVES, SUBMIT TO YOUR HUSBANDS (18)
A. DEFINING THE WORD “SUBMIT”...
1. The Greek word is hupotasso {hoop-ot-as’-so}
2. It means to...
a. arrange under, to subordinate
b. subject, put in subjection
c. subject one’s self, obey
d. submit to one’s control
e. yield to one’s admonition or advice
f. obey, be subject
3. Thus, wives are to be in submission to their husbands, “as to the Lord” (Ep 5:22)
B. THIS IS SAID TO BE “FITTING IN THE LORD”...
1. The word “fitting”...
a. Grk., aneko {an-ay’-ko}
b. To pertain to what is due, duty, as was fitting
2. To be willing to submit to another is certainly in keeping with Jesus’ own teaching and example - Mt 20:25-28
3. It is also in keeping with what is expected of all Christians...
a. We are to submit to one another - Ep 5:21
b. We are to submit those who rule over us in the faith - He 13:17
c. We are to submit to the ordinances of government - 1 Pe 2:13-15
d. Christian servants were to submit to their masters - 1 Pe 2:18
e. Younger Christians are to submit to the elders, and to one another as well, even as we submit to God - 1 Pe 5:5-7
C. IF WIVES DO NOT SUBMIT TO THEIR HUSBANDS...
1. They may never win their unbelieving husbands to Christ - cf. 1 Pe 3:1-2
2. God will not be gracious to them - cf. 1 Pe 5:5
3. There is even a possibility that it may have a strong bearing on the sexual orientation of the children!
a. A study by Dr. Irving Bieber was made of the family background of 106 male
homosexuals (cf. “What Everyone Should Know About Homosexuality”, LaHaye, p.
71-72)
b. Dr. Bieber found that:
1) 81 mothers were dominating
2) 62 of the mothers were overprotective
3) 66 mothers made the homosexual their favorite child
4) 82 of the fathers spent very little time with their sons
5) 79 fathers maintained a detached attitude toward them
c. The more “modern” man learns through tested research, the more we begin to realize
that Jesus and His Word were right all along!
1) Whatever the subject, Christ certainly knows best
2) And He should...remember, He’s the Creator of all things!
[And now, for an often much needed word to the husbands...]
II. HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES (19)
A. PAUL EXPANDS UPON THIS THEME IN HIS LETTER TO THE EPHESIANS...
1. Our role model is Christ, and His love for the Church - Ep 5:25-27
a. Husbands are to love their wives just as Christ loved the Church
b. I.e., with a sacrificial love
2. Another example is the kind of love we have for our own bodies - Ep 5:28-29
a. Just as one “nourishes” and “cherishes” his own body, so he should his wife
1) The word “nourish” comes from ektrepho {ek-tref’-o}, and means...
a) to nourish up to maturity, to nourish
b) to nurture, bring up
2) The word “cherish” is from thalpo {thal’-po}, meaning...
a) to warm, keep warm
b) to cherish with tender love, to foster with tender care
b. Again, this is how Christ loves the Church!
B. THIS LOVE INCLUDES BEING FREE FROM “BITTERNESS”...
1. “and do not be bitter toward them” - Co 3:19
a. The Greek word for “bitter” is pikraino {pik-rah’-ee-no}
b. It means...
1) to produce a bitter taste in the stomach
2) to embitter; exasperate
3) render angry, indignant
4) to be embittered, irritated
5) to visit with bitterness, to grieve (deal bitterly with)
2. Peter gives us some insight as to why it is important not to be “bitter toward them” - cf. 1 Pe 3:7
a. They are the more delicate partner in the relationship (“a weaker vessel”)
1) Capable of providing the motherly tenderness and sensitivity crucial in the early
development of children
2) Bitterness will make the wife (mother) coarse and resentful, contributing to the
environment of a “dysfunctional” family
b. They are “heirs together of the grace of life”
1) In Christ, they are not just wives, they are “sisters in Christ”
2) Therefore, worthy of love and honor, not bitterness!
c. How we treat them determines the efficacy of our prayers (“that your prayers may not be hindered”)!
[When husbands love their wives as Christ loves the Church, and are not bitter toward them, it is much easier for wives to be submissive to their husbands. Since husbands are to be the “leader” in the family, then let them show leadership by fulfilling their responsibility! I dare say that the wives will then gladly follow, and the family (with our society) will benefit. Speaking of the family, what about the children?]
III. CHILDREN, OBEY YOUR PARENTS (20)
A. THE VALUE OF SUCH OBEDIENCE...
1. It is well-pleasing to the Lord (it is certainly what He did - Lk 2:51-52)
2. It contains an important promise - cf. Ep 6:1-3
B. THE SERIOUSNESS OF REBELLIOUSNESS...
1. Consider how God viewed lack of obedience in the Old Testament...
a. On par with witchcraft and idolatry! - 1 Sam 15:22-23
b. The punishment in some cases for rebellious children was death! - Deu 21:18-21
2. Therefore, rebelliousness is not to be taken lightly by parents...
a. It is not “just a stage they go through” (for some never leave it)
b. It is a serious problem that should concern us
c. It is a problem that requires much prayer for the wisdom to bring the child out of it!
[What can help the children to escape the sin of rebellion is if their fathers take to heart what is said to them...]
IV. FATHERS, DON’T PROVOKE YOUR CHILDREN (21)
A. FATHERS HAVE AN AWESOME RESPONSIBILITY...
1. They are to be understanding and compassionate, yet firm
a. Joshua was strong in his resolve for his family to serve the Lord - Josh 24:14-15
b. Eli, however, was condemned because of his failure to restrain his sons - 1 Sam 3:
11-14
2. They thus have the responsibility to provide spiritual training for their children - Ep 6:4
a. They do it by their example - the following quotes are taken from “The Father -
God’s Representative In The Family”, printed in Pulpit Helps
1) “A child tends to look upon the Heavenly Father as he does his earthly father. If his earthly father is kind, loving, just, forgiving and good, a child will perceive of God as the same. If, on the other hand, his earthly father is cruel, unloving, unkind, the child will perceive the heavenly Father in the same manner.”
2) “Generally speaking, the concept which all people have of God is the concept each
has of his father. Such is extremely difficult to erase. It is vitally important for a man to live the kind of life, and be the kind of person who is demonstrating to his sons and daughters what God is really like - for the father is God’s representative here on earth. This provides an inestimable privilege, and also a solemn responsibility.”
b. They do it by their instruction (whether it be formal or informal, cf. Deu 6:6-7)
B. HOW CAN FATHERS BE GUILTY OF PROVOKING THEIR CHILDREN...?
1. By being unfair in their discipline
a. Punishing without fair warning
b. Showing favoritism in the exercise of discipline
2. By being hypocritical in our teaching and example
a. “Do as I say, not as I do” has no place in the vocabulary of Christian fathers
b. Not only does hypocrisy provoke children to wrath, it often is the underlying reason why children leave the faith!
[As a father who is still involved in raising children, I know all this does not come easy. But with the help of God we can apply these admonitions of the apostle of our Lord. The remaining admonitions would have fallen under guidelines for the family in the First Century (A.D.), since most Christians would have either been slaves in another family or had some slaves in their own family. Today, however, I believe that we can still apply these verses to our business relationships...]
V. SERVANTS (EMPLOYEES), OBEY YOUR MASTERS (EMPLOYERS) (22-25)
A. THE MANNER OF OBEDIENCE IS CLEARLY DEFINED... (22-23)
1. “in ALL things” (except that which would violate God’s Will, of course - Ac 5:29)
2. Not with “eye-service”
a. Grk., ophthalmodouleia {of-thal-mod-oo-li’-ah}
b. Service performed [only] under the master’s eyes
1) For the master’s eye usually stimulates to greater diligence
2) His absence, on the other hand, renders a sluggish response
3. Not as “men-pleasers”
a. Grk., anthropareskos {anth-ro-par’-es-kos}
b. Studying to please man, courting the favor of men
4. But in “sincerity of heart”
a. “sincerity” (singleness, KJV) comes from haplotes {hap-lot’-ace}
b. As used here, it means:
1) Singleness, simplicity, sincerity, mental honesty
2) The virtue of one who is free from pretense and hypocrisy
3) Not self seeking, openness of heart manifesting itself by generosity
5. And “fearing God”
a. The word “fear” is from phobeo {fob-eh’-o}
b. In reference to God, it means “to reverence, venerate, to treat with deference or
reverential obedience”
c. It is God whom we should be concerned is watching, not man!
6. We are to do our work “heartily, as to the Lord and not to men”
a. “heartily” is from psuche {psoo-khay’}
b. Which here likely refers to “the seat of the feelings, desires, affections, aversions (our heart, soul etc.)”
c. I.e., We are to “put our heart into our work”
d. Just as we would if was the Lord we were working for, for in reality, that is actually who we are serving!
B. THE LORD WILL JUDGE OUR SERVICE... (24-25)
1. It is the Lord Jesus Christ we serve, who has the ability to provide our inheritance
2. But the one who does wrong in his service to his master (employer) will be repaid wrong!
3. No partiality will be shown in rendering judgment for wrongdoing!
a. Being a slave is no excuse for slack service
b. Nor is being a Christian!
4. Even if our masters (employers) are abusive, we are to do what is right! - 1 Pe 2:18-25
[And now, to those on the other end...]
VI. MASTERS (EMPLOYERS, SUPERVISORS), BE JUST AND FAIR (4:1)
A. YOU DO NOT HAVE A RIGHT TO ABUSE THOSE UNDER YOU...
1. You are to be “just”
a. Grk., dikaios {dik’-ah-yos}
b. As used here, it involves “rendering to each his due and that in a judicial sense, passing just judgment on others, whether expressed in words or shown by the manner of dealing with them”
2. You are to be “fair” (equal, KJV)
a. Grk., isotes {ee-sot’-ace}
b. It means to show “equity, fairness, what is equitable”
3. In Ep 6:9, we see that masters are to...
a. “do the same thing to them (slaves)” (i.e., with good will doing service, as to the Lord)
b. “giving up threatening”
4. In other words, apply the “Golden Rule” - Mt 7:12
B. YOU ALSO HAVE A MASTER...!
1. As a motive to be just and fair, a reminder that even masters have a Master in heaven
2. Again in Ep 6:9, the point is made that there is no partiality with your Master
a. Being a master (employer) does not give you any special privileges in His sight
b. Nor being a Christian, if you are unfair and unjust to those under you!
3. So if you want your Master to be just and fair with you, then let Him be your role model for how you deal with those under your responsibility!
CONCLUSION
1. In Co 2:3 it is said of Christ: “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
a. The wisdom and knowledge that comes from Christ reaches to the relevant needs that we face today, no matter how secular or mundane
b. Clearly the passage we have examined illustrates this fact!
2. And so with Christ as our Lord, we are truly complete: “And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” - CO 2:10
3. Imagine how complete our families, our workplaces, would be if all followed the “Guidelines For The Family And Business” as revealed by the apostle Paul...
a. Families living together in love and harmony!
b. Workplaces filled with considerate, productive people!
4. We may not be able to change society totally
a. But at least we can start with ourselves
b. And provide a demonstration of the wisdom of Christ in our own lives
Are you doing what you can to “prove (demonstrate) what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God”? - cf. Ro 12:2
INTRODUCTION
1. The theme throughout the Book of Colossians is that Jesus Christ is our “All-Sufficient And Preeminent Savior” - cf. Co 1:16-18; Co 2:3,9-10
2. As a demonstration of Jesus as our “all-sufficient” Savior, we now find His apostle Paul giving guidelines by which we can successfully conduct our family and business matters! - Co 3:18-4:1
3. This passage illustrates that the “preeminence” of Christ reaches even to the secular concerns of our lives
[Beginning with verse 18, let’s examine some of these guidelines Christ has given us...]
I. WIVES, SUBMIT TO YOUR HUSBANDS (18)
A. DEFINING THE WORD “SUBMIT”...
1. The Greek word is hupotasso {hoop-ot-as’-so}
2. It means to...
a. arrange under, to subordinate
b. subject, put in subjection
c. subject one’s self, obey
d. submit to one’s control
e. yield to one’s admonition or advice
f. obey, be subject
3. Thus, wives are to be in submission to their husbands, “as to the Lord” (Ep 5:22)
B. THIS IS SAID TO BE “FITTING IN THE LORD”...
1. The word “fitting”...
a. Grk., aneko {an-ay’-ko}
b. To pertain to what is due, duty, as was fitting
2. To be willing to submit to another is certainly in keeping with Jesus’ own teaching and example - Mt 20:25-28
3. It is also in keeping with what is expected of all Christians...
a. We are to submit to one another - Ep 5:21
b. We are to submit those who rule over us in the faith - He 13:17
c. We are to submit to the ordinances of government - 1 Pe 2:13-15
d. Christian servants were to submit to their masters - 1 Pe 2:18
e. Younger Christians are to submit to the elders, and to one another as well, even as we submit to God - 1 Pe 5:5-7
C. IF WIVES DO NOT SUBMIT TO THEIR HUSBANDS...
1. They may never win their unbelieving husbands to Christ - cf. 1 Pe 3:1-2
2. God will not be gracious to them - cf. 1 Pe 5:5
3. There is even a possibility that it may have a strong bearing on the sexual orientation of the children!
a. A study by Dr. Irving Bieber was made of the family background of 106 male
homosexuals (cf. “What Everyone Should Know About Homosexuality”, LaHaye, p.
71-72)
b. Dr. Bieber found that:
1) 81 mothers were dominating
2) 62 of the mothers were overprotective
3) 66 mothers made the homosexual their favorite child
4) 82 of the fathers spent very little time with their sons
5) 79 fathers maintained a detached attitude toward them
c. The more “modern” man learns through tested research, the more we begin to realize
that Jesus and His Word were right all along!
1) Whatever the subject, Christ certainly knows best
2) And He should...remember, He’s the Creator of all things!
[And now, for an often much needed word to the husbands...]
II. HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES (19)
A. PAUL EXPANDS UPON THIS THEME IN HIS LETTER TO THE EPHESIANS...
1. Our role model is Christ, and His love for the Church - Ep 5:25-27
a. Husbands are to love their wives just as Christ loved the Church
b. I.e., with a sacrificial love
2. Another example is the kind of love we have for our own bodies - Ep 5:28-29
a. Just as one “nourishes” and “cherishes” his own body, so he should his wife
1) The word “nourish” comes from ektrepho {ek-tref’-o}, and means...
a) to nourish up to maturity, to nourish
b) to nurture, bring up
2) The word “cherish” is from thalpo {thal’-po}, meaning...
a) to warm, keep warm
b) to cherish with tender love, to foster with tender care
b. Again, this is how Christ loves the Church!
B. THIS LOVE INCLUDES BEING FREE FROM “BITTERNESS”...
1. “and do not be bitter toward them” - Co 3:19
a. The Greek word for “bitter” is pikraino {pik-rah’-ee-no}
b. It means...
1) to produce a bitter taste in the stomach
2) to embitter; exasperate
3) render angry, indignant
4) to be embittered, irritated
5) to visit with bitterness, to grieve (deal bitterly with)
2. Peter gives us some insight as to why it is important not to be “bitter toward them” - cf. 1 Pe 3:7
a. They are the more delicate partner in the relationship (“a weaker vessel”)
1) Capable of providing the motherly tenderness and sensitivity crucial in the early
development of children
2) Bitterness will make the wife (mother) coarse and resentful, contributing to the
environment of a “dysfunctional” family
b. They are “heirs together of the grace of life”
1) In Christ, they are not just wives, they are “sisters in Christ”
2) Therefore, worthy of love and honor, not bitterness!
c. How we treat them determines the efficacy of our prayers (“that your prayers may not be hindered”)!
[When husbands love their wives as Christ loves the Church, and are not bitter toward them, it is much easier for wives to be submissive to their husbands. Since husbands are to be the “leader” in the family, then let them show leadership by fulfilling their responsibility! I dare say that the wives will then gladly follow, and the family (with our society) will benefit. Speaking of the family, what about the children?]
III. CHILDREN, OBEY YOUR PARENTS (20)
A. THE VALUE OF SUCH OBEDIENCE...
1. It is well-pleasing to the Lord (it is certainly what He did - Lk 2:51-52)
2. It contains an important promise - cf. Ep 6:1-3
B. THE SERIOUSNESS OF REBELLIOUSNESS...
1. Consider how God viewed lack of obedience in the Old Testament...
a. On par with witchcraft and idolatry! - 1 Sam 15:22-23
b. The punishment in some cases for rebellious children was death! - Deu 21:18-21
2. Therefore, rebelliousness is not to be taken lightly by parents...
a. It is not “just a stage they go through” (for some never leave it)
b. It is a serious problem that should concern us
c. It is a problem that requires much prayer for the wisdom to bring the child out of it!
[What can help the children to escape the sin of rebellion is if their fathers take to heart what is said to them...]
IV. FATHERS, DON’T PROVOKE YOUR CHILDREN (21)
A. FATHERS HAVE AN AWESOME RESPONSIBILITY...
1. They are to be understanding and compassionate, yet firm
a. Joshua was strong in his resolve for his family to serve the Lord - Josh 24:14-15
b. Eli, however, was condemned because of his failure to restrain his sons - 1 Sam 3:
11-14
2. They thus have the responsibility to provide spiritual training for their children - Ep 6:4
a. They do it by their example - the following quotes are taken from “The Father -
God’s Representative In The Family”, printed in Pulpit Helps
1) “A child tends to look upon the Heavenly Father as he does his earthly father. If his earthly father is kind, loving, just, forgiving and good, a child will perceive of God as the same. If, on the other hand, his earthly father is cruel, unloving, unkind, the child will perceive the heavenly Father in the same manner.”
2) “Generally speaking, the concept which all people have of God is the concept each
has of his father. Such is extremely difficult to erase. It is vitally important for a man to live the kind of life, and be the kind of person who is demonstrating to his sons and daughters what God is really like - for the father is God’s representative here on earth. This provides an inestimable privilege, and also a solemn responsibility.”
b. They do it by their instruction (whether it be formal or informal, cf. Deu 6:6-7)
B. HOW CAN FATHERS BE GUILTY OF PROVOKING THEIR CHILDREN...?
1. By being unfair in their discipline
a. Punishing without fair warning
b. Showing favoritism in the exercise of discipline
2. By being hypocritical in our teaching and example
a. “Do as I say, not as I do” has no place in the vocabulary of Christian fathers
b. Not only does hypocrisy provoke children to wrath, it often is the underlying reason why children leave the faith!
[As a father who is still involved in raising children, I know all this does not come easy. But with the help of God we can apply these admonitions of the apostle of our Lord. The remaining admonitions would have fallen under guidelines for the family in the First Century (A.D.), since most Christians would have either been slaves in another family or had some slaves in their own family. Today, however, I believe that we can still apply these verses to our business relationships...]
V. SERVANTS (EMPLOYEES), OBEY YOUR MASTERS (EMPLOYERS) (22-25)
A. THE MANNER OF OBEDIENCE IS CLEARLY DEFINED... (22-23)
1. “in ALL things” (except that which would violate God’s Will, of course - Ac 5:29)
2. Not with “eye-service”
a. Grk., ophthalmodouleia {of-thal-mod-oo-li’-ah}
b. Service performed [only] under the master’s eyes
1) For the master’s eye usually stimulates to greater diligence
2) His absence, on the other hand, renders a sluggish response
3. Not as “men-pleasers”
a. Grk., anthropareskos {anth-ro-par’-es-kos}
b. Studying to please man, courting the favor of men
4. But in “sincerity of heart”
a. “sincerity” (singleness, KJV) comes from haplotes {hap-lot’-ace}
b. As used here, it means:
1) Singleness, simplicity, sincerity, mental honesty
2) The virtue of one who is free from pretense and hypocrisy
3) Not self seeking, openness of heart manifesting itself by generosity
5. And “fearing God”
a. The word “fear” is from phobeo {fob-eh’-o}
b. In reference to God, it means “to reverence, venerate, to treat with deference or
reverential obedience”
c. It is God whom we should be concerned is watching, not man!
6. We are to do our work “heartily, as to the Lord and not to men”
a. “heartily” is from psuche {psoo-khay’}
b. Which here likely refers to “the seat of the feelings, desires, affections, aversions (our heart, soul etc.)”
c. I.e., We are to “put our heart into our work”
d. Just as we would if was the Lord we were working for, for in reality, that is actually who we are serving!
B. THE LORD WILL JUDGE OUR SERVICE... (24-25)
1. It is the Lord Jesus Christ we serve, who has the ability to provide our inheritance
2. But the one who does wrong in his service to his master (employer) will be repaid wrong!
3. No partiality will be shown in rendering judgment for wrongdoing!
a. Being a slave is no excuse for slack service
b. Nor is being a Christian!
4. Even if our masters (employers) are abusive, we are to do what is right! - 1 Pe 2:18-25
[And now, to those on the other end...]
VI. MASTERS (EMPLOYERS, SUPERVISORS), BE JUST AND FAIR (4:1)
A. YOU DO NOT HAVE A RIGHT TO ABUSE THOSE UNDER YOU...
1. You are to be “just”
a. Grk., dikaios {dik’-ah-yos}
b. As used here, it involves “rendering to each his due and that in a judicial sense, passing just judgment on others, whether expressed in words or shown by the manner of dealing with them”
2. You are to be “fair” (equal, KJV)
a. Grk., isotes {ee-sot’-ace}
b. It means to show “equity, fairness, what is equitable”
3. In Ep 6:9, we see that masters are to...
a. “do the same thing to them (slaves)” (i.e., with good will doing service, as to the Lord)
b. “giving up threatening”
4. In other words, apply the “Golden Rule” - Mt 7:12
B. YOU ALSO HAVE A MASTER...!
1. As a motive to be just and fair, a reminder that even masters have a Master in heaven
2. Again in Ep 6:9, the point is made that there is no partiality with your Master
a. Being a master (employer) does not give you any special privileges in His sight
b. Nor being a Christian, if you are unfair and unjust to those under you!
3. So if you want your Master to be just and fair with you, then let Him be your role model for how you deal with those under your responsibility!
CONCLUSION
1. In Co 2:3 it is said of Christ: “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
a. The wisdom and knowledge that comes from Christ reaches to the relevant needs that we face today, no matter how secular or mundane
b. Clearly the passage we have examined illustrates this fact!
2. And so with Christ as our Lord, we are truly complete: “And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” - CO 2:10
3. Imagine how complete our families, our workplaces, would be if all followed the “Guidelines For The Family And Business” as revealed by the apostle Paul...
a. Families living together in love and harmony!
b. Workplaces filled with considerate, productive people!
4. We may not be able to change society totally
a. But at least we can start with ourselves
b. And provide a demonstration of the wisdom of Christ in our own lives
Are you doing what you can to “prove (demonstrate) what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God”? - cf. Ro 12:2
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