Category: Scripture Journal

Providing the best

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HIGHLIGHT

John 2:10 (ESV): 10 and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.”

EXPLAIN

This incident happened at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Indeed, Jesus spoke as if his mother’s request was premature, asking him to perform a miracle before the time when he would become known for doing many miracles.

The wine had run out at a wedding to which Jesus and his disciples had been invited. If something were not done quickly, the bride and groom would be greatly embarrassed.

Mary asked Jesus to do something and told the servants to follow his instructions. Jesus told them to draw jars of water and then give a drink from them to the master of the feast.

When they did so, this man was astonished, for the wine they had given him – water turned into wine by Jesus – was better than what they had drunk before!

APPLY

This miracle is a sign that God’s kingdom is better than everything that came before it. But it may also suggest that God doesn’t do things in a passing or average manner – when God makes wine, he makes the best wine!

This is therefore an assurance and a challenge to us: 1) we can know that trusting in God’s provision, we are assured of the best, and 2) as God’s followers, we should not settle for minimums in our pursuits, rather we should strive to excel for his glory.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, thank you for providing for this needy couple the best, instead of just something that was satisfactory. Thank you for the assurance that you seek the good for us. Help me to therefore excel in all you set before me to do, for your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Trust and Do Good

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Psalm 35-37; Philippians 4 – Colossians 1

HIGHLIGHT

Psalm 37:3 (ESV): 3 Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.

EXPLAIN

Psalm 35 is a song in which David condemned evildoers who wished him harm. He prayed for God to deliver him from such people to and judge them so that they could not claim victory.

Psalm 36 begins by exploring the depravity of the wicked, and then transitions to praise of God for his steadfast love.

Psalm 37 is an exhortation not to worry about evildoers, but to trust in God. The wicked do evil, but the righteous prosper in the long run.

Psalm 37:4 is more well known than verse 3, but verse 3 intrigued me. The notes on “and befriend faithfulness” suggest two other renderings “and feed on faithfulness” or “and find safe pasture.”

APPLY

Despite the plots of the wicked, David did not wish to escape from the world. Rather, he urged the tactic of trusting in the Lord, doing good, dwelling in the land, and thus feeding on faithfulness.

In the midst of a corrupt world, we might feel like the only future is escape, but if our trust is in God, we can flourish in the land, not for the sake of being successful and prosperous, but to demonstrate the wisdom and power of God.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, help me to trust you and do good, despite what the world does around me. May I then be a testimony of your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

What Sets You Apart?

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Scripture: 1 Samuel 10-11

HIGHLIGHT

24 And Samuel said to all the people, “Do you see him whom the Lord has chosen? There is none like him among all the people.” And all the people shouted, “Long live the king!”

EXPLAIN

The story of how Saul was chosen to be king of Israel is amazing. Saul was not looking to be king. Saul was from the smallest tribe of Israel. Saul appeared to be quite timid. Yet God chosen him to be king.

And… Saul stood head and shoulders above the rest of the people. Yes, Saul was physically taller than the rest, but this fact seems more to emphasize how God had chosen this one man to be the leader of the people.

Yet, it is a cautionary tale for this one man who stood out from the people became a person so twisted, so ordinary, because of his rebellion against God.

APPLY

Those who God chooses are set apart for his work. But the chosen must always live a separated life, recognizing they have been set apart for God.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, help me to live separated from sin and this world. May I always see my life as fulfilling your purpose. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Our Source of Counsel

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Scripture: 1 Samuel 8-9

HIGHLIGHT

6 But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, “Give us a king to judge us.” And Samuel prayed to the Lord. 7 And the Lord said to Samuel, “Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them.

EXPLAIN

Samuel was now old. He had appointed his two sons to be judges, but they were not men of integrity, but instead took bribes and perverted justice. In respond, Israel sought Samuel to give them a king. Samuel was quite hurt, feeling like they were rejecting him, but still he sought the Lord. And God revealed to him that their rejection was not of Samuel, but of God’s rule.

APPLY

There are times in which we feel rejected, hurt, betrayed, etc. The challenge for us then is to go to God to gain his perspective on the situation. Will we listen to God instead of feelings and opinions?

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, help me to always listen to you, and to go to you for advice often and always in time of need. Guide my every step. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Honoring God

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Scripture: 1 Samuel 5-7

HIGHLIGHT

20 Then the men of Beth-shemesh said, “Who is able to stand before the Lord, this holy God? And to whom shall he go up away from us?”

EXPLAIN

The Israelites and sons of Eli profaned God’s name by using the Ark of the Covenant for favor in battle. God allowed the Ark to be captured by the Philistines. But then, God glorified his name by first causing the pagan idol to fall down before the Ark and then causing plagues to break out among the people. When the Philistines sent the Ark back to Israel, a number of the Israelites also treated the Ark profanely, and God brought quick judgment upon them.

APPLY

We must be careful to honor God and treat him with utmost respect.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, help me always to reverence you and to lead others by my example to love and fear you. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

One to Whom God Speaks

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Scripture: 1 Samuel 2-4

HIGHLIGHT

10 And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”

EXPLAIN

Samuel had been brought to Eli to serve God. The writer details the wickedness of Eli’s sons, Eli’s rebuke of his sons, and the man of God’s word of judgment against Eli and his house. Meanwhile, while Eli and his sons had displeased God and now Eli was hearing from God through another source, God spoke directly to Samuel. Samuel did not recognize God’s voice at first, but with Eli’s guidance, Samuel welcomed God speaking to him. Over time, Samuel became known for one who heard and spoke the word of God.

APPLY

Is there anything better than to be known for speaking the words of God? May I hear from God daily and share his message with others!

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, help me to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Help me to obey and help me to pass on your message to a world in desperate need of your voice and wisdom. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Lasting Commitment

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Scripture: 1 Samuel

HIGHLIGHT

28 Therefore I have lent him to the Lord. As long as he lives, he is lent to the Lord.” And he worshiped the Lord there.

EXPLAIN

Hannah had been unable to bear children, but one year at the Tabernacle she poured her heart out to God, promising to give her son to God if God would give her a son. Her prayer was blessed, although clumsily, by Eli the priest.

Now, having weaned Samuel, Hannah brought him to the tabernacle to serve the Lord all the days of his life. Surely, Samuel did not understand much what was happening, yet he followed his mother’s wishes and was mightily used of God throughout his life.

APPLY

We don’t know anything about Peninnah’s children, what impact they made or even if they served God. But we do know about Samuel. Some might be afraid to make such a high commitment to God like Hannah did, but her example shows that it was worthwhile.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, only what is done for you will last. May my life be a sacrifice of praise and service for you. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Church’s Walk

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HIGHLIGHT

Colossians 2:6–7 (ESV): 6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

EXPLAIN

In this letter, Paul emphasized that all of life, especially for the believer, is about Christ. Christ is the image of invisible God. Christ existed before all things. Christ created all things. In Christ, the universe operates; without him, it would disintegrate. Christ is the head of the Church. Through Christ, God reconciles sinners to Himself. The mystery of the gospel… is Christ.

In these two verses, Paul then applied what he had so far set up concerning the preeminence of Christ, saying: Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him.

The Christian walk, or life, is to be lived in Christ. As Jesus taught his disciples, He is the vine and we are the branches; our spiritual life is found in Christ (John 15:1-5). If we are severed from Christ, we will die spiritually (John 15:6). No, we cannot be accidentally or maliciously severed from Christ by some other actor. But sin does separate us from him. If we make a practice of willful sin, we demonstrate that we do not truly belong to God (1 John 3:4-10).

This letter, obviously, was written to the church in Colossae, not one or two individuals in that city. Therefore, it should not surprise us that the you of Colossians 2:6 is plural, indicating “you all” not any specific “you”.

Again, it is obvious that the Church of God is made up of individuals who must individually live faithfully for Christ. At the same time, it is worth considering the fact that Paul wrote this admonition to the church in general, not just to the individual.

The point simply is that while we individually are responsible to walk or live in Christ, we also walk in Christ in community.

Paul wrote this letter to address false teaching that sought to infiltrate the community of Christ. The church as a community needed to both reject this false doctrine and to embrace the life in Christ to which God has called us.

Paul gave three word pictures describing how we walk or live in Christ. Each of these word pictures have an individualistic element, but they also have a corporate application.

How does the Church then walk, or live, in Christ?

1. The Church grows deep in Christ

Colossians 2:6–7 (ESV): 6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted

The Greek word for rooted is errizomenoi, the root of which is rhizoo meaning “to cause to take root; to plant, fix firmly, establish; rooted” (A Manual Greek Lexicon of the New Testament).

The reader’s mind is quickly taken to the root system of a well established tree that is often as large and expansive underground as the branches and limbs above.

The psalmist pictured such a person well in Psalm 1:3–4 (ESV): 3  He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season,and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. 4  The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away.

Not all trees are equal. Palm trees often have a very shallow and limited root system, and are easily knocked over by a storm. During our time in the Caribbean, I saw palm trees uprooted with a root system maybe 6-8 feet in diameter and 3-4 feet deep. Oak trees, on the other hand, have an extensive root system. In our backyard, we have an old tree with gnarly roots that extend some distance away from its trunk. What makes a good root system for a tree may not make for the best pathway in one’s yard!

Both the psalmist and Paul pictured the follower of God like a deeply rooted tree, flourishing with the nourishment provided in Christ, bursting with the fruit of the Spirit.

2. The Church grows up in Christ

Colossians 2:6–7 (ESV): 6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him

The Greek for built is epoikoodomeo and means “to build upon, to erect a superstructure” (The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament). Thus, the imagery here is of a building being constructed, bricks laid upon bricks to create a massive, secure house.

This imagery reminds us of the same word picture Peter employed in his first epistle:

1 Peter 2:4–6 (ESV): 4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For it stands in Scripture: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

It is crucial that we remember who builds the Church. In Matthew 16 Jesus quizzed the Twelve on who they believed him to be. Peter answered with that great affirmation: Matthew 16:16 (ESV): “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” In response, Jesus said, Matthew 16:17–18 (ESV):

“Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Christ will build His Church! Now in Colossians 2:7, Paul admonishes the believers to be built up in Christ. “Built”, as well as “rooted” and “established” are verb forms that denote action that happens rather than action that one must do. We do not build ourselves up in Christ; rather, we are built up as we walk in Christ.

Yet it is essential that we must walk or live in Christ – individually and corporately. When we review Jesus’ letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2-3, we find that his commendation or condemnation of the various churches all depended on this: the churches’ life in Christ.

Consider the first two churches as examples. The love of Ephesus Church for Christ had been abandoned, despite their good works, and so they were about to lose their status of “church”. Smyrna Church was suffering but Christ challenged them to be faithful unto death and he would give them the crown of life.

As we walk in Christ, he builds us as part of His great Church. It has been said that if you start a church, you may end up with a church, but if you make disciples who make disciples, you will always end up with a church.

Our job is to make disciples who make disciples – to help people walk in Christ. If we do so, the church will be built in Christ!

3. The Church grows strong in Christ.

Colossians 2:6–7 (ESV): 6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith,

The Greek word that is rendered established is bebaioo and means to “cause to believe, establish a belief”, “verify, cause something to be known as certain”, or “increase in inner strength, implying greater firmness of character.” (Dictionary of Biblical Languages with Semantic Domains: Greek (New Testament))

Paul pictured the Church walking in Christ as strong and settled in their faith, not easily moved by winds of various doctrines or the waves of changing times. Rather, the church that lives in Christ is anchored in its faith.

Another scripture that pictures the Church established in Christ is Ephesians 4:11–16 (ESV) which says:

11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

I think it is important to pair this scripture in Ephesians with Colossians 2:6-7 because, while these verses necessarily speak to the individual Christian’s need to be walk in Christ in order to be established in his or her faith, Paul was writing to the church as a group, urging them together to walk in Christ in order to be established in their faith..

Ephesians 4 thus illuminates the role of apostles/prophets/evangelists/pastors/teachers in equipping the believers to do the work of ministry which builds up the body of Christ, resulting in unity and a maturity that is characterized by an established, immovable faith.

As the Church walks in Christ, we all grow strong and become mature spiritually. The close community and fellowship strengthens each one of us. As Proverbs 27:17 (ESV) says: 17  Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.

APPLY

Individualism is often championed by our faith today, whether intentionally or not.

I have decided to follow Jesus

I have decided to follow Jesus

I have decided to follow Jesus

No turning back, no turning back

Though none go with me still I will follow

Though none go with me still I will follow

Though none go with me still I will follow

No turning back, no turning back.”

The sentiment in this chorus is powerful and needed. We must love Jesus above all others and be willing to leave all to follow him. However, this individualist determination must not unnecessarily isolate us or exclude us from our family of faith who have chosen to follow Jesus also. While we must be determined to follow Jesus even if none go with us, the reality is that there are many who have chosen to go with us!

Thus, our scripture in Colossians is a powerful reminder of how the Church grows together. We should commit to grow in Christ with a local fellowship. Together, we can grow strong and faster.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, thank you for the Church, as well as my local church. Thank you for working in us to make us grow. Help us to be faithful to walk in you. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Pastoral Heart

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HIGHLIGHT

Colossians 2:1–5 (ESV): 1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.

EXPLAIN

Paul began describing his ministry to the church in Colossians 1:24. These verses complete his thoughts. Paul explained how his suffering for Christ was a participation in Christ’s sufferings, his ministry to the church was a stewardship granted by Christ, and the effort he expended in ministry was due to the power of Christ flowing through him.

In our highlighted verses, we now see both Paul’s pain and Paul’s pleasure in ministry. In Colossians 2:1-4, Paul noted his struggle in ministry for these believers was a passion for three things.

Paul did not expressly state how he struggled for the believers. As he clearly noted, he had never met these Christians. He did not serve in their community. Therefore, it would seem best to understand his struggle as one that occurred primarily in prayer and was expressed in both his feelings of love and anxiety for this church.

What was Paul’s struggle in prayer for this church about? His passion was that they might

1. Be encouraged in their faith, v. 2.

Colossians 2:2 (ESV): 2 that their hearts may be encouraged

Paul’s desire for their encouragement begs the question, “Why might the believers be discouraged?” There were several possible causes of discouragement. First, the pressure and difficulties of living in a sinful world can sap our energy and joy. Second, the attacks of the enemy of our soul can drive fear and desperation. Third, the false teaching of that influential individual(s) who tried to persuade the believers that Christ alone was insufficient hope for salvation would rob the believers of their joy. If we resort to any foundation for hope besides Christ, we will lose our joy of living. But even if we remain grounded in our faith, combating those who teach spiritual error can lead to discouragement.

Therefore, Paul struggled, praying, desiring, hoping, seeking assurance that these believers would be encouraged in their faith, emboldened to live for God in a threatening, dismissive world.

Today as then, the Church of God desperately needs encouragement in the faith. The sources and avenues by which the enemies of God seek to discredit the gospel have only grown in the past couple thousand years. Furthermore, while followers of Jesus are actively persecuted around the world, even in the western world there seems to be a rising intolerance and even hatred for the Christian.

Furthermore, the distractions of the world have increased, and when we do not focus on Christ for our satisfaction and joy we can easily lose our way and become greatly discouraged. We should recognize that this discouragement may not be marked, at least at the first, by sadness and despair. Rather, we can be discouraged from living passionately for Jesus, staying vitally connected to the Vine, supported by the fellowship of the Church. Then, over time we find ourselves like a ship without a rudder, driven and tossed by wind and waves.

Paul struggled in prayer, desiring that the believers be encouraged in their faith and that they would also…

2. Be united in their faith, v. 2.

Colossians 2:2 (ESV): 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love

When I was young, I remember some crocheting frames that my mom had us boys put yarn into to make handmade potholders. As I grew older, I learned how to very clumsily sew a button back onto a dress shirt. Fortunately for my thumbs, that knowledge has not been tested too often. Needle pricks can hurt! To me, how a sewing machine inserts thread into a garment is a mystery, and I have witnessed how it can become a huge mess if interrupted from its proper functioning.

Like thin threads of cloth intertwined together become a strong bond that securely fastens various pieces of fabric together, the individual Christian is much weaker on his or her own than when inserted, surrounded and bonded with a band of believers.

I recently listened to a podcast in which the guest astutely noted that the COVID pandemic has devastated relationships within the church and without in part because we began to look at everyone, even family and friends, as a potential “enemy”. Could they be carrying this deadly, invisible virus?

The pandemic, however, is only one of several causes for fraying faith fellowships today. Paul struggled in prayer for a church threatened from without and within, seeking God’s grace to unite the church in love… that they might be knit together in love. Even so, our passionate prayer should be the same. We must pray that less important doctrinal and practical matters do not hinder us from unity on essentials. We must wrestle in prayer than politics might not supplant our love for God and for other people. We must strive in prayer, asking God that the myriad of opportunities for our careers and for pleasure available to us in the world today do not dilute our passion for the people of God.

How might our world be changed if the local church were to be knit together in love! The individual believer would be strengthened by his band of brothers who care, challenge, and correct one another. The family would be strengthened in a community of families and individuals all striving to love God and help each other overcome the challenges of life. The church would become a greater fellowship, as its meetings focused on loving and serving each other, rather than merely a passive time of sitting and watching a few perform for God. The different local churches would see the vital ministries of their sister congregations. Rather than operate in silos, they would band together to impact their communities with the love of Jesus.

Spiritually, we have a great enemy who would seek to tear us apart. Culturally, the headwinds of a post-pandemic, individualistic, personal techology-driven world discourage deeper fellowship with others. Economically, our time, energy, and money may be adversely impacted if we pursue developing bands of brothers and sisters. Yet, the benefits of such Christian fellowship are so rewarding. Therefore, Paul struggled in prayer for the believers to be knit together in love.

In prayer, Paul also sought that the believers might…

3. Grow deeper in the assurance of their faith, vv. 2-3.

Colossians 2:2–3 (ESV): 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

The occasion for this letter was an influential individual(s) teaching the believers that there was some hidden mystery, some secrets to the gospel that could not be known by merely placing one’s faith in Jesus Christ. Devotion to that teacher and his teachings was necessary for full salvation.

Today, the believer faces a similar temptation and delusion. Knowledge and understanding is highly valued. We think that if we can somehow learn another truth from God’s word, another secret, another practical tip, our lives will be changed for the better.

Of course, we should grow in our knowledge of God’s Word. There are lessons and tips that may help us in our faith. The danger is that our faith becomes all about spiritual knowledge rather than Christ. Scripture memorization is vital, but hiding God’s Word in our heart should not become a substitute for knowing the God who wrote the Word. Biblical history and facts can greatly aid our understanding of scriptural truth, but we miss the point if we do not grow in our knowledge of the God of the ages.

Paul prayed for the believers to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ.

The full assurance of understanding and knowledge of God’s mystery is Christ. Ephesians 3:6 notes that the mystery of the gospel is that Gentiles are included in God’s plan of salvation partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. Colossians 1:27 says that the riches of the glory of the mystery is Christ in you. Now, Paul emphasizes the God’s mystery is Christ.

For the detail-oriented person, this might seem like a contradiction or a moving target. But the general truth is that the mystery is Christ’s salvation offered to all freely.

In Colossians 2 Paul thus prayed for the believers to gain full assurance and knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ. He would warn them in the following section of his letter not to allow anyone to mislead them and ensnare them spiritually by philosophy and tradition. The secret to spiritual growth is not understanding spiritual truth better or by following rituals and regulations. The secret of flourishing spirituality is knowing Christ deeply!

Indeed, Paul continued in Colossians 2:3 (ESV), saying: 3 in [Christ] are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Anything and everything you need spiritually is found in Christ. Christ is not the beginning point of a fulfilled life. Life in Christ gives lasting fulfillment.

Some might feel, however, that simply knowing Christ as Lord and Savior is not enough. There has to be more, they think. The truth is, simply making a profession of faith in Christ is not enough.

Do not misunderstand. I am not saying we need to work for our salvation or somehow gain knowledge that is not found in Christ to truly be spiritual. This was precisely the error of those in Colossae, Galatia, etc. who sought to lead the Christians astray.

By saying that a profession of faith in Christ is not enough, I am simply saying there follows a life of faith in Christ that must be lived! 3 in [Christ] are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Have we plumbed the depths of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge found in Christ? I know that I have not! Colossians 1:27 (ESV): The riches of the glory of this mystery … is Christ in you. Are you fully enjoying your spiritual wealth afforded by the abiding presence of Jesus within you? I know that I have not!

Therefore, our longing and prayer should not be for some secret that we can find through philosophy, science, or some other field. Rather, our deep desire should be to known and be known by our Lord and Savior more deeply and intimately than we have ever before experienced.

Paul’s Joy

Colossians 2:4–5 (ESV): 4I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.

While Paul struggled mightily in prayer for the Colossians Christians that they might be encouraged, united and have a greater assurance in their faith, Paul also expressed great joy. Despite the attempts of this influential individual(s), the Christians kept good order and remained firm in their faith.

This church did not allow the novel teachings of a few to destroy the unity of their church or undermine their leadership. They refused to cast away their hope in Christ. Rather, they sought the apostle’s confirmation of the Gospel.

Their example is a powerful testimony to us of how to respond when certain individuals or teachings seek to make inroads in the Church, teaching “new” ideas. Instead of casting away our faith quickly or allowing chaos to reign, we must carefully study God’s Word to confirm what is truth. If the teaching highlights truth that had been hidden before, we should accept it in its proper place; if these ideas are in opposite to clear, biblical doctrine, we must reject them.

APPLY

For those of us called to ministry, this scripture speaks to us powerfully about the conflict in prayer required for God’s people, regardless of whether the people in one’s setting are in danger of being deceived by false doctrine or if they are merely under the attack of our spiritual enemy, as all believers are.

We must pray for encouragement in the faith, unity, and a greater assurance through a deeper knowledge of Christ himself. We should also rejoice as we see those under our care and ministry standing firm for Jesus.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, thank you for revealing to us your mystery, which is Christ. Help us to devote our lives to a greater knowledge of your Son. Encourage our faith. Unite us in our love for you. May our assurance of faith be like a great shield protecting us from all fiery darts of those who oppose you. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Why, What and How of Ministry

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HIGHLIGHT

Colossians 1:25–29 (ESV): 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

EXPLAIN

Paul never visited Colossae. The church in this city was started after one of their own, Epaphras, had traveled to Ephesus, was converted under Paul’s ministry there, and then returned home.

The introduction of Paul’s letter, then, served to build bridges so that he could challenge the people in their faith and correct a concerning doctrinal fallacy. Paul began by expressing thanksgiving and prayer for the church, demonstrating his keen interest in their welfare. Paul followed that with the overarching theme of this letter which, if accepted, would correct the doctrinal fallacy being spread in their midst: Christ is preeminent and must occupy that place in our personal lives and in our church. Paul then explained his apostleship, suffering, and ministry to the church.

Why Paul was a Minister

25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints.

Why did Paul become a minister? He became a minister because he was called by God. His ministry was a “stewardship from God.” The Greek for “stewardship” is oikonomia which refers to the “administration (of a household or estate); specifically a (religious) “economy”: – dispensation, stewardship” (Strong’s).

To serve as a minister of the Gospel is to be given a huge responsibility before God. As James 3:1 notes, the teacher of God’s Word bears greater responsibility before God. Of course, a minister of the gospel may serve in a variety of ways including but not necessarily limited to, missionary, evangelist, pastor, and teacher.

The greater point is that such a person receives both authority to minister and is accountable for ministry… to God. Dangerous things happen when the minister either 1) forgets or neglects his stewardship responsibility before God, or 2) succumbs to the whims and dictates of the local flock of God, the wider church, or surrounding community.

It must be noted also that one receives this stewardship of God by accepting it, actively choosing to serve God as a minister. 1 Timothy 3:1 (ESV) says: 1 The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. There is a degree of aspiration on the part of the person who becomes a minister… to serve God in this noble occupation. Indeed, some looking on could fault such a person for their ambition, but such sanctified desire should be commended. I am reminded of the evangelist who stated that he had never received a “call” to ministry like so many have, yet he felt compelled to share the Gospel. God validated his ministry with great fruit.

Why did God call Paul to serve him in ministry?

to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints.

As we consider what it means to make the word of God fully known, we remember Paul’s defense of his ministry: he preached the full counsel of God. Acts 20:27 (ESV): 27 for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. Paul preached till God’s Word was spread fully in the region where he was.

Paul preached God’s Word – both the parts of scripture that were easy for people to receive and those elements that were not acceptable to his audience. Is it no wonder that Paul was often received initially with fanfare, only to be cast out, beaten and persecuted later on?

Paul later charged his mentee, Timothy, to…

2 Timothy 4:2–5 (ESV): 2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. 5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

Often the phrase in verse 2 “in season and out of season” is interpreted to mean that a preacher needs to be ready to preach the gospel both for planned and unplanned preaching opportunities. In other words, an unreasonable burden is placed on the preacher if he or she is expected to have a sermon at all times whether the person adequately studied God’s Word and prayed… or not.

This is not to say that a preacher should not take advantage of such opportunities. Rather, it is to question if any other profession or calling would be held to a similar standard. Good exposition of God’s Word is the result of careful, faithful study.

Furthermore, the idea of “in season and out of season” may refer more accurately to “convenience” and “inconvenience”… NOT of the disposition of the preacher, but rather of the content of God’s Word.

Notice again the context of Paul’s instruction: 3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.

In other words, Paul was not telling Timothy to be ready to enter the pulpit whether he had three days of study prep or three minutes. No, Paul was Timothy to preach God’s Word regardless of how his audience would react to the Truth!

What Paul Sought to Accomplish as a Minister

26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.

Paul described God’s plan of salvation – the gospel – as a mystery that had been hidden for ages and generations. Indeed, as we study the Old Testament we find God’s plan of salvation was revealed incrementally.

In Genesis 3 when God cursed the serpent, we find the first prophecy of Christ. In Genesis 3:15 (ESV) God said: “15 I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” At the time, the meaning of God’s word must have seemed vague. The prophecy is clear now only because of Christ’s fulfillment.

Throughout the Old Testament, we find images, types and figures that point to Christ – the serpent hung on the tree that provided healing for the Israelites’ sin when they looked upon it, the presence of God symbolized by the Ark, the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

We also see the priests who were the go-between God and the people, mediating God’s forgiveness and direction. Yet the priests demonstrated a woeful inability to be holy as God is.

We observe kings who were supposed to serve as delegates of God the king, but who repeatedly failed to administer justice and righteousness in the land.

Numerous prophecies gave great detail about the coming Messiah, but when the wise men from the east came searching, the religious leaders rightly indicated the place of the Savior’s birth (Bethlehem), but showed no interest in going there. Then, when Jesus made his claim to be God clear, most rejected him.

The idea of God’s plan of salvation being a mystery finally revealed is important for yet another reason. In the Greek and Roman world, mystery cults flourished. Indeed, from what we understand about the Colossians situation, Paul was trying to head off the false teaching of an influential person who was using a mix a Jewish traditions and mystery cultic ideas to mislead the people.

To those who sought to know the mystery of spirituality, Paul wrote here that God’s mystery had been revealed! God’s mystery was revealed to his saints. The object of God’s revelation could be glossed over, yet it is key. While God’s plan of salvation had been spread throughout the world, the mystery of God’s salvation was known truly by those who received his salvation. There is a difference between hearing the basic elements of the salvation message and actually comprehending and enjoying salvation; this is explicitly stated at the end of verse 27.

At the risk of being redundant, however, let us consider this again. You can explain to someone that…

  1. All have sinned and are separated from God,
  2. God is holy and just and will not tolerate sin, but also is loving and merciful and wants to provide us a way of redemption,
  3. God sent his son Jesus to become flesh and live a holy life among us and then to suffer, die for our sins, but be raised to life on the third day,
  4. Through Jesus’ death and life, we can now receive forgiveness of our sins as we place our faith in him.

These basic truths of the Gospel may be explained academically to one unbelieving person, but to their unenlightened heart, the words will seem like gibberish.

Yet, by the power of the Holy Spirit’s conviction, another sinner accepts the truth, repents of their sin and trusts in Christ. This latter person thus comprehends the mystery of the gospel, which is revealed to God’s saints – those made holy by the blood of Jesus.

Paul, apostle to the Gentiles, makes an even more explicit application of the revelation of the gospel mystery in Colossians 1:27. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

A huge factor in the mystery of the gospel is that Gentiles were included in God’s plan of salvation, along with Jews, the chosen people of God. Gentiles are not second class citizens in God’s kingdom, but rather share in the riches of the glory of this mystery.

As the Church has become predominantly Gentile for hundreds and thousands of years now, this factor may seem less important, yet it truly should amaze us, and cause us to bow our knees in gratitude to God. How wonderful it is that God has grafted Gentiles into the Vine of Jesus Christ.

Yet, as Paul wrote in Romans, this is not something we should boast about or take for granted, for if God would graft Gentiles into the Vine, how much more does God care for his chosen people, the Jews?

The way Colossians 1:27 is written, it would first suggest that the mystery of the gospel is that Christ is in the believer. However, when we compare this text with Ephesians 3:6 (ESV), the mystery, per se, is that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Jews, God’s chosen people.

This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

Looking at Colossians 1:27 again, it would appear that Christ in you, the hope of glory is the riches of the glory of this mystery This phrase, I believe, is the key to the whole letter of Colossians.

Recall that Paul wrote this letter to address the false teaching of an individual(s) who apparently mixed Jewish mysticism and pagan beliefs to say that faith in Jesus Christ was not sufficient for salvation. Rather, there were days, rules, and regulations that must be observed.

Paul began his letter with a prayer for the Christians to be filled with the knowledge of God’s wisdom so that they could walk worthy of the Lord, being fruitful in everything they did and being strengthened with all power.

Paul then began the content proper of the letter by exalting the supremacy of Christ. After talking about his ministry to the church in Colossians 1:24-2:5, Paul challenged the people saying that as they had received Christ, they should walk in him, rooted, built up, and established in the faith (2:6-7). They had received the circumcision of Christ, buried with Christ in baptism and raised with him to new life, thus removing all guilt of the past life of sin (2:11-14).

Therefore, they must put off anything that remained of the old life of sin and put on the new life of Christ which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creators (Colossians 3:10), by which they could experience the peace of Christ [ruling] in your hearts (Colossians 1:14). They were to let the word of Christ dwell in them and do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Simply put, the glory of the gospel is not merely that God has chosen all to be saved from sin who will turn in repentance to him, that God would love and forgive us despite our transgressions, that Christ would not merely abide with us, but that Christ has chosen to live in us!

Looking at Ephesians again, we find this breathtaking prayer:

Ephesians 3:14–19 (ESV): 14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

God wants to fully dwell in us!

No, this is not the same as the Near Eastern or New Age concepts that all is God or we are part of God. No, this is not to suggest the believer is or can be or should be some super spiritual person because they have “God running in their veins.”

Rather, this truth is mind-blowing because it presumes that God can take sinners who are lost without hope and so change them that they become His vessels, filled fully by God.

This truth is startling because we find that God does not merely want to clean us up and have us live a better, even a good, moral life. Rather, God desires to inhabit us.

This truth is humbling because we so often live below the level the riches of the gospel afford us, dabbling with temptation, fearful of full commitment.

Paul not only sought to make the word of God fully known, but also… Colossians 1:28 (ESV): 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.

The purpose of preaching in the Church often seems to be misunderstood today. There is a massive drive for entertainment and motivation as the end result of gospel presentations.

That a sermon would entertain and motivate the congregation is not necessarily bad. I personally love to tell stories, whether illustrations to highlight the truth of God’s Word, or to tell the story of Scripture itself. Furthermore, if one finishes a gospel message and the people wonder, “What’s the point?”, one must wonder if they have missed the point of preaching!

However, entertainment and motivation are easily taken too far. A huge, necessary part of preaching is acting in the two roles Paul noted above: prophet and teacher. The prophet role of preaching is not so much about foretelling the future as it is forth-telling God’s Word, and the consequences of either accepting or rejecting God’s Truth. The teacher role of preaching is necessary also to adequately equip people for life and ministry as God’s servants.

As Ephesians 4:11-16 note, Christ gave the functions of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher to the church in order to equip believer for ministry so that the church would be built up in unity and maturity.

Thus, Paul’s role and purpose as a minister was not merely to get people saved or even to start churches. He sought the spiritual maturity of all those who chose to serve Christ.

How Paul Served as a Minister

Colossians 1:29 (ESV): 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

The grace of God is gloriously free, and could never be earned or repaid by our works. Yet God is not opposed to our good works, done out of gratitude and a desire to glorify his name. Indeed, as Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:10 (ESV): 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Paul provides a powerful example of how a responsible, dedicated follower of Jesus should engage oneself in God’s work. Some might suggest his example is extreme. Paul recounted some of what he experienced in ministry in 2 Corinthians 11:24–28 (ESV):

24 Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; 26 on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers; 27 in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. 28 And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches.

Yet Paul’s point was not that he was a super-spiritual Christian. Rather, he pointed to his weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 11:30 (ESV): 30 If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.

Note, then, that Paul toiled in ministry for God, but notice also that he was Colossians 1:29 (ESV): struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

The effectiveness of the Christian who serves for God’s glory is accomplished through Christ’s power. Yes, we must be disciplined, obedient, determined, and dedicated in service. Even so, we rely on the power of Christ surging in our veins to accomplish the tasks set out before us by the Holy Spirit.

Thus, we should at once strive to be laborer who works hard for Christ while also resting fully in the grace and power of God.

APPLY

Paul presents the gospel minister as one who has been called by God. Our responsibility is to fulfill the charge God has given us, regardless of how people respond.

Our charge as ministers to reveal the mystery of the Gospel, which is that God has chosen each and every person to be saved from sin, who will turn in repentance and faith to him. The riches of this glorious mystery is that God takes up residence in us. This mystery we proclaim fully so that all those who receive Christ might become mature in the faith.

Our task as ministers is laborious. No one should enter ministry believing this calling is an easy job. But our confidence in the difficult labor of calling people to repentance and discipling them in the fight is that God works powerfully in and through us, changing lives by his amazing grace!

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, thank you for the calling to ministry. Help me to fulfill your charge, revealing your mystery to those who are confused and blinded by sin and Satan. Give me your strength to perform your task. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.