Resolutions Of A Father, Number 21

Resolved:

If I live to see the children marriageable, I will, before I consult with Heaven and earth for their best accommodation in the married state, endeavor the espousal of their souls unto their only Saviour. I will as plainly, and as fully as I can, propose unto them the terms on which the glorious Redeemer would espouse them to Himself, in righteousness, judgment, and favor and mercies forever; and solicit their consent unto His proposals and overtures. Then would I go on, to do what may be expected from a tender parent for them, in their temporal circumstances."

By Cotton Mather

Resolutions Of A Father, Number 20

Resolved:

I will oblige the children to retire sometimes, and ponder on that question: "What shall I wish to have done, if I were now a-dying?"—and report unto me their own answer to the question; of which I will then take advantage, to inculcate the lessons of godliness upon them.

By Cotton Mather

Quest Colossians Study: 1:24-29

Quest Men's Bible Study
October 1, 2008

Paul's Ministry To The Church of Christ

What effort and care do we put in to caring for the church? How much of a priority is it? Today, we will look at the Apostle Paul's ministry to the church as a whole. I hope we will be encouraged and challenged. Encouraged by his example and challenged to serve the way he did. The work of the ministry is not something for professionals. It is for all men. As you consider Paul today, look for areas in your life where you could imitate his example.

Colossians 1:24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church, in filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions. 25 Of this church I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God, 26 that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints, 27 to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. 29 For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.

I. Paul took joy in the opportunity to suffer for others.

Colossians 1:24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church, in filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions.

A. Obedience brought Paul suffering

1. Paul had suffered greatly!

2Corinthians 11:23 Are they servants of Christ?—I speak as if insane—I more so; in far more labors, in far more imprisonments, beaten times without number, often in danger of death. 24 Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent in the deep. 26 I have been on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers on the sea, dangers among false brethren; 27 I have been in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. 28 Apart from such external things, there is the daily pressure on me of concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak without my being weak? Who is led into sin without my intense concern?

2. Much like other apostles

1Corinthians 4:9 For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. 10 We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor. 11 To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; 12 and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now.

B. But, if his suffering was for Christ, and Believers, he was glad.

1. "I now rejoice in my sufferings for you" - Col 1:24

2. He expressed the same thoughts to the Philippians

Philippians 2:17 But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. 18 You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.

3. Currently incarcerated in Rome as writing.

a) Suffering as a prisoner at Rome in service to Christ and to them!

C. Why is he willing to do this?

C.Two reasons: He does it for Christ, and he does it for people...

1. One Reason:

“To fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church."

a) Nothing lacking in the atoning value of Christ's sacrifice!

Hebrews 10:12 but He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD, 13 waiting from that time onward UNTIL HIS ENEMIES BE MADE A FOOTSTOOL FOR HIS FEET. 14 For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified.

b) God was satisfied, but enemies were not

(1) Jesus is hated

(2) Since he's not here, we are hated

(3) Other Examples:

Mark 13:13 “You will be hated by all because of My name, but the one who endures to the end, he will be saved.

John 15:18 “If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. 19 “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you. 20 “Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21 “But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me.

2. Paul gives another reason elsewhere he suffered joyfully for his brethren: for the same reason parents joyfully suffer for their children!

2Corinthians 12:14 Here for this third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be a burden to you; for I do not seek what is yours, but you; for children are not responsible to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. 15 I will most gladly spend and be expended for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?

a) Parents will gladly sacrifice for their children!

b) So Paul viewed his brethren

D. How do we imitate Paul in this regard?

1. Are we willing to share in the afflictions of Christ or de we avoid circumstances where standing for Christ might get ugly?

2. Are we willing to suffer gladly for our brethren or do we think more often about what people are or are not doing for us?

3. Are we willing to joyfully expend time, energy, even "blood, sweat and tears" in serving them or do we love our leisure too much to be bothered with God's work?

II. Paul viewed himself as a servant and a steward.(25-27)

Colossians 1:25 Of this church I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God, 26 that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints, 27 to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

A. His opinion of himself was humble.

1. The word "minister" is diakonos {dee-ak'-on-os}, and means "one who executes the commands of a master; a servant, attendant, minister"

2. This is exactly how Paul viewed himself and other preachers.

1Corinthians 3:5 What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one. 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. 7 So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth.

3. Not always the view we have of preachers or churches where the preacher is exalted.

a) When a pastor, or anyone else doing God's work, presses his own desires, he is failing by Paul's standardd

b) Church is not a place to come to get your way. It is a place to come and expend yourself for God's way.

4. In particular, Paul considered himself a servant of three things

a) Of the church

Colossians 1:24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church, in filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions. 25 Of this church I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God,

b) Of Jesus Christ

Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons:

c) Of the gospel

Ephesians 3:6 to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel, 7 of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to the working of His power.

d) What do we serve men?

B. As a servant, he considered himself a steward.

1. He had received a "stewardship" from God

a) The word used is oikonomia {oy-kon-om-ee'-ah} It means "the management of a household or of household affairs, oversight of other's property"

2. He had been entrusted with the property of the gospel of Christ

a) Called a "mystery", for it had been hidden for ages but now been revealed.

b) What is this "mystery"?

(1) The word Mystery refers to things that are true, but that had not been revealed to Old Testament Saints.

(2) God unrolled His revelation.

(3) John MacArthur identifies at leas 5 of these mysteries

(4) The passage where it appears tells what it is.

c) Here: "It is Christ in you, the hope of glory"

(1) Indwelling

3. Paul considered it his duty as a "steward" to faithfully share that gospel to the nations

Ephesians 3:8 To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things;

C. How about us?

1. Do we consider ourselves "servants"?

Mark 10:42 Calling them to Himself, Jesus *said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them. 43 “But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; 44 and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. 45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

2. Do we serve one another? We should! -

Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

3. Do we consider ourselves "stewards" of the gospel?

a) Do we consider very often that we have been entrusted with the riches of the gospel?

b) To we consider very often that to be faithful we must share them with others?

III. Paul had one primary goal in life

Colossians 1:28 We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. 29 For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.

A. Paul’s goal was to present every person complete in Christ!

1. He was not out just to preach, just to make converts

2. He wanted to make mature disciples, who had become complete in Christ

3. Possible for church to get out of balance.

B. He used many means to accomplish this

1. He preached Jesus Christ!

a) He proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ

b) His life, His teachings, His death, His resurrection

2. He warned when necessary!

a) "Reproof" and “correction" mentioned in 2Timothy 3:16

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;

3. He "taught" as well as "preached"!

a) Public instruction

b) Private discipleship

4. He expended effort and emotion! (Vs 29)

a) He "labored" toward this one goal of his

b) He "agonized" in doing so (the Greek word for strive means to endeavor with strenuous zeal)

5. He depended upon God in his labors! (VS 29)

a) Paul's attitude: without God he was nothing, and could do nothing worth lasting.

IV. Conclusion

A. Question:

1. Are we imitators of Paul?

2. Are we concerned about whether or not our brethren and others are being presented "perfect in Christ"?

3. Are we willing to expend the effort and the emotion necessary to reach this end?

B. If we will...

1. View our ourselves as Paul viewed himself, as servants and stewards

2. Consider our suffering for our brethren a great privilege and source of joy

C. then I am convinced that we gladly devote ourselves to the same goal Paul had!

Quest Colossians Study: 1:19-23

Outline

1. Paul summarizes our position of peace with God. (verse 20)

2. Paul outlines our former condition (verse 21)

a. Formerly alienated

b. Formerly Hostile

c. Formerly engaged in evil deeds.

3. Paul presents our new condition (verse 22)

a. Now we are reconciled.

b. Now we are presented to the father

c. Now we are holy and blameless

4. Paul tells us how we can know it is true of us (verse 23)

a. If you are at peace with God, you will continue in the faith.

b. If you are at peace with God, you will be firmly established and steadfast

c. If you are at peace with God, you will not move away from the hope of the gospel

Colossians 1:19 For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, 20 and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.

Colossians 1:21 And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, 22 yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— 23 if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.

Content

1. Paul summarizes our position of peace with God. (verse 20)

20 and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.

a. Father’s good intention. (19)

i. Both the initiative and action comes from God

b. Reconcile all things to himself

i. More that one word is translated “reconcile”

i.Similar but slightly different meanings.

1. Establish a relationship where none existed. (2Cor 5:18)

2. Restore a relationship that has been destroyed. (Col 1:20)

3. Both accurately describe our salvation.

a. Mankind deliberately rebelled against God in the garden.

b. We are born with a corrupt, sinful nature.

ii. All Things - Paul is emphasizing the supremacy of Christ. Maybe you noticed...

1. By Christ ALL THINGS were created (16)

2. Christ is before ALL THINGS (17)

3. Christ holds ALL THINGS together (17)

4. Christ has first place in ALL THINGS (18)

5. Christ reconciles (ALL THINGS)

c. Peace through the blood

i. Peace is the end of hostilities.

ii. The unsaved are at war with God (Rom 8:7)

1. Even sincere, religious and moral people)

d. “Things on heaven and earth”

i. Note that “Under the earth” is missing (Phil 2’10)

e. Reconciliation is picked up again in 22

i. Jesus come in the flesh and shedding is blood is required for our salvation

1. Must confess that he came in the flesh (1Jn 4:2)

2. Incarnation alone did not accomplish salvation.

3. Good example did not accomplish our salvation.

f. Finally - note the direction of this reconciliation

i. Man is reconciled to God.

ii. God is not reconciled to Man

2. Paul outlines our former condition (verse 21)

1:21 And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds,

a. Formerly alienated

i. Estranged from God

1. Serving another master

2. Pursuing other relationships

3. Failing to peruse this relationship

ii. Example

Ezekiel 14:5 in order to lay hold of the hearts of the house of Israel who are estranged from Me through all their idols.”’

b. Formerly Hostile

i. Enemies, in contrast to being beloved.

ii. Scripture does not have a category for spiritual neutrality.

iii. People are either for God or against God

c. Formerly engaged in evil deeds.

i. Does not mean that you are the worst you could be.

1. Evil deeds are anything done outside of Christ

2. Nothing about the unsaved is pleasing to God.

ii. Sin begins in the heart (Matthew 5:27-28) and manifests itself in action (Gal 5:19)

3. Paul presents our new condition (verse 22)

1:22 yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach

a. Now we are reconciled.

i. Romans 5:6 - We couldn’t do it.

Romans 5:6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.

ii. Romans 5:8,10 - While estranged, Christ dies for us.

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.

b. Now we are presented to the father

i. Cause to stand near.

ii. Through Christ, we are drawn near.

1. Don’t barge in

2. Christ brings us - “Come, here is my Father”

c. Now we are holy and blameless without reproach

i. God does not make peach with us so that we may remain as rebels!

1. Rather - He wants us to share new life with Him!

ii. Holy: Set Apart

1. Related to the word “Saint”

2. In the NT, Saints are not just dead people!

iii. Blameless: Unblemished

1. Like the Temple Sacrifices.

2. Ephesians 5:27

Ephesians 5:27 that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless.

iv. W/O Reproach: Free from accusation

1. We have an accuser (Revelation 12:10)

2. We have an advocate (1John 2:1)

3. Key to evaluating our life:

a. Not how we look to ourselves

b. Not how we look to others

c. But how we look to God

Parallelism:

Formerly	Now
Alienated (21)	Reconciled (22)
Hostile (21)	Presented to Father (22)
Engaged in evil (21)	Holy and Blameless (22)

4. Paul tells us how we can know it is true of us (verse 23)

1:23 if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.

a. If you are at peace with God, you will continue in the faith.

i. Stay on course. (To endure and persevere)

ii. Abiding faith is saving faith.

b. If you are at peace with God, you will be firmly established and steadfast

i. Architectural language

1. Firmly Established

a. A term related to a building foundation.

b. It refers to a house that is firmly set on something solid.

2. Steadfast

a. “Earthquake stricken” (Some translations say “not moved”

3. Firm foundation that is earthquake proof.

c. If you are at peace with God, you will not move away from the hope of the gospel

i. Hope is not a wish, but a confident expectation

ii. Our hope does not transfer from Christ to ourselves.

iii. “All creation under heaven” All nations

Acts 2:5 Now there were Jews living in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven.

5. Conclusion

a. Before we were saved, we were, in every sense of the word, God’s enemies. We were hostile, enemy combatants.

b. God worked on our behalf, through Christ, so that our relationship with Him could be repaired.

i. He moved us from alienation to reconciliation.

ii. He moved us from hostility to being in his presence

iii. He moved us from evil deeds to holiness.

c. The evidence that this is true of us relates to how we now live.

i. Our faith continues and our belief in the work of Christ remains sure and strong.

ii. Our life is firm and steadfast, even if metaphorical earthquakes surround us, we don’t crumble under them.

iii. Our hope in the Gospel remains as sure as ever.

Quest Colossians Study: 1:15-20

Who is Jesus? Colossians 1:15-20

Jesus...

I. Is the image of the invisible God

Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

A. Image is a prototype, not a facsimile or resemblance. (Not a picture)

A.Like taking an object and casting a duplicate out of it.

1. Phil 2:7 - Resemblance (different word)

2. 2Cor 4:4 - Same as in Colossians - image

B. Seeing Jesus is seeing the invisible God

C. Not tied to the incarnation, or just one stage of existence. Incarnation did not make him the image.

D. Point is that when you see Jesus, you are, in every possible sense, seeing God

II. Is the firstborn of all creation

Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

A. Very tricky passage - Jesus is created?

B. Firstborn has two meanings. (Context)

1. First in order (Luke 2:7)

2. First in rank (Exodus 4:22)

C. Firstborn is Scripture is often used to designate the heir, no matter the birth order.

1. Solomon (Not the firstborn in order)

2. Jacob and Esau

3. Used in Romans 8:29 -

a) God desired Jesus to have an inheritance - the church - and he would be preeminent among it.

b) Jesus is not the ranking member of basically peers

c) Jesus has an inheritance from the Father - and it is us.

III. Is the creator of all things

Colossians 1:16 For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him.

A. Created by Him

1. Means He is uncreated

2. Basis for his miracles

B. Creator and ruler of spirit world as well as physical world.

1. Reference to various categories of angels.

2. Note the worship of angels later in Colossians

C. Creator of the physical world - important counter to the Gnostics.

1. Matter is evil (including the human body)

2. Jesus did not have a body

3. Implications - this led to:

a) Asceticism - enslave the body because it is evil

b) Unbridled sin - enjoy the body because it does not matter.

4. Paul’s counted the “Matter is Evil” idea with the fact that Jesus created it.

D. Jesus is totally responsible for creation (by, through and for him)

1. By (Primary cause - it was His plan)

2. Through (Instrumental cause - it was His power)

3. For (Final cause - it was His purpose)

IV. Is before all things

Colossians 1:17 He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.

A. This is a reference to time.

B. Before the universe began, Christ existed.

V. Is holding all things together

Colossians 1:17 He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.

A. Everything exists is because Christ wills it.

B. Jesus is the System behind all systems.

C. Universe is not self sufficient

D. Jesus is the unifying principle and the personal sustainer.

VI. Is the head of the body, the church

Colossians 1:18 He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.

A. Cross references for the image of “body” in relation to the church: (Rom 12, 1Cor 12, Eph. 4)

B. Head: (Two meanings and Jesus is both)

1. Source (Head of a river)

2. Ruler (Head over an organization)

C. Christ

1. Supplies life to the church through the Spirit

2. Provides gifts to the church for it’s service.

D. Church does not exist to:

1. Meet the needs of it’s members

2. Sustain itself as an institution

3. But to Fulfill the redemptive purposes of Christ.

E. Church is - (All the redeemed of God)

E.Christ as head implies:

1. The church is the means though which Christ works

2. The union between Christ and us is real.

VII. Is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead

Colossians 1:18 He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.

A. Interesting to use the word BORN with DEAD

1. The tomb is a womb for spiritual life!

2. Christ’s resurrection is the source of new life for us.

a) He was not the first to come back to life.

b) He was the first to rise and never die again

c) New life for us is tied to our union with Christ and his defeat of death.

VIII. Is going to have first place in everything.

Colossians 1:18 He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.

A. Preeminence in both the old creation and the new creation

B. There is nothing over which Christ will not rule supremely

IX. Is the fullness of deity

Colossians 1:19 For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him,

A. God fills heaven and earth - and Jesus is the fullness of God!

B. All that is God dwells, or resides, in Christ.

X. Is the one who reconciles all things to the Father

Colossians 1:20 and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.

A. Reconciliation is our entire topic next week.

B. Notice - the phrase all things is in Christ.

Conclusion

Paul will have much more to say about Christ, but right here at the beginning he gives these 10 important truths that help us understand clearly who Jesus - lest there be any confusion.

Quest Colossians Study: 1:1-14

Introduction and Greeting

This morning, our passage in Colossians screams out with the question: Are you walking worthy of what Christ did on your behalf? Paul is going to tell you that Christ took you out of the domain of darkness, he brought you into his own kingdom, he redeemed you and forgave your sin. How have you responded? Are you living a life worthy of that calling?

If you have ever received something special, you can perhaps relate to what Paul is expressing.

When a man receives a promotion at work, it often motivates him, at least temporarily, to higher levels of effectiveness. He wants to be proven worthy of what he has received he does not want his supervisor to regret the decision later on.

When a child receives a special gift, maybe a new bike, it often motivates him to new levels of commitment in caring for the object properly.

Paul indicates that the same is true spiritually. Christ has done some things for us, and Paul wants us to live lives that are worthy of what Christ has done. This is not in the sense that we earn anything from Christ. We can’t work to achieve the favor of God. Rather, what Paul has in mind is us responding to what Christ has done - responding in love and obedience

This is the heart of the lesson today. But also, be thinking about something else. The passage we are looking at is a prayer from Paul on behalf of those people.

What about the other people in your life? What is your concern for them? What do you pray for concerning them? Are you concerned about their walk with Christ and whether they are walking worthy of their calling? So many times we pray for health and relief from problems and that is fine. But today, Paul gives us an example of a prayer that is much more significant and meaningful.

These are the issues Paul discusses in today's section.

• We will see him express deep gratitude and concern for these believers whom he has never even met.

• We will see him prays for them - focusing on his concern that they walk worthy of Christ.

Paul’s Greeting

1:1-8

• Paul expresses kind words of greeting: Grace and Peace

• Paul expresses his thankfulness regarding the Colossians.

• (vs 4) Thankful for their faith in Christ

• (vs 4) Thankful for their love for the saints

Notice who gets the credit - He does not thank them here, he thanks God.

• (vs 5-6) Thankful for the ministry and spread of the Gospel

• (vs 7) Thankful for a faithful co-laborer

• (vs 8) Thankful for receiving news

How are you doing with being grateful?

Is your gratitude being expressed? Not much use if you are grateful but keep it to yourself.

Paul’s Prayer For The Colossians

1:9-14

Summary

1:9-10 Paul prayed that they would be filled with knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding so that they will walk worth of Christ.

1:11-12 Paul prayed that they would be strengthened will all power according to God’s might.

1:13-14 Paul based his prayer on the work that Christ had done in their lives.

Section One

I. 1:9-10 Prayer that they would be filled with knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Colossians 1:9 For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

A. Definitions:

1. “Knowledge” (vs9) refers to clear and exact knowledge. It refers to a thorough participation by the subject in the object of knowledge.

a) Ever started something that you thought you knew about - and it wasn’t until you got into it that you really understood what was involved.

b) Moving from an observer to a participant changes your knowledge of that activity.

c) ILLUSTRATION: Marriage / Parenting

d) Verb form could be recognize.

Key Truth: When thinking about God’s will, the word “recognize” is perhaps better than “discover”. God’s will is being done in this world.

Discover makes it seem like god’s will is hidden.

2. “Wisdom” (vs9) refers to a specific type of knowledge.

a) It refers to how we should regulate our life in accordance with God‘s standards.

b) Spiritual wisdom is conforming or regulating your life to that which is good.

3. "Understanding" refers to the ability to accurately evaluate people, things or circumstances.

a) Spiritual understanding is the ability to discern and distinguish between the things of God and the things of man.

b) It is knowing God so well that you recognize Him and the things that come from Him.

What do these three things all have in common? (knowledge, wisdom and understanding?)

They involve the mind.

B. Paul makes it clear that our mind - what we know - is an important part of our faith!

1. These words - knowledge, wisdom and understanding certainly involve how we live and what we do, but there is no denying that our mind is critically important.

Paul bringing this up here sets the stage for later on as he deals with some doctrinal errors that have crept in to this church.

2. Paul indicates that the will of God, the way we live and the condition of our mind are all linked.

Not the only place where Paul connects these three ideas:

3. Look At Romans 12:1-2

a) Life transformation (the way we live)

b) Comes by renewing our mind (by knowing the truth)

c) Which results in proving the will of God.

(Faith)

*

Mind

*

Life

(conformed to Christ)

*

Will of God

C. Paul’s goal in praying this is that they may walk worthy of the Lord.

Three specifics to “walking worthy” that Paul mentions are:

1. We walk worthy of the Lord when we pleasing Him in all respects. Obedience. (vs10)

a) This is true of you when the things you do reflect obedience to what Christ commands.

b) Obedience to the commands of God should be a priority for the man of God!

2. We walk worthy of the Lord when we bear fruit in every good work (vs10)

a) The result of your actions is evident as fruit.

b) Scripture uses the word “fruit” to refer to result or outcome.

(1) When my son lies to me, the fruit is a pain in his rear end. He makes a connection - lies are bad.

(2) The concept of fruit is helpful for us to consider because we can’t clearly know each other’s motives and we sometimes can’t even figure ourselves out.

(a) Why did I do that?

(3) Looking at the fruit in a life provides a concrete way to evaluate.

Our actions, and even our inaction, has consequences. People don’t always think about the fruit of their actions until it is too late.

(4) Illustration: Housing Market. Interview: Man thought he was enjoying a pretty nice ride! When looking for a house, he wasn’t content to look at his families needs and purchase a home that met those needs. Rather, he took the approach that he would get much more than he needed. He would get the biggest house he could make the payment on. Obviously getting an adjustable rate mortgage would maximize that even more. He assumed he would have a few years of raises under his belt before the note adjusted and all would be well. For this man, and many like him, the fruit of those kinds of decisions have turned out pretty bad.

(4)

(4)Paul in Colossians is referring to Spiritual fruit and the principle is the same - we should think through the fruit of our actions and decisions in advance, as much as we can.

(5) How I train my children is going to bear fruit someday - good or bad.

(6) The way I treat my wife will bear fruit.

(7) The things that I neglect will impact my fruitfulness as well. When I am too scared to mention Christ or the Gospel to someone - that is a lost fruit potential.

Matthew 3:8: Our fruit should be in keeping with repentance.

Matthew 3:10 / Luke 3:9: Judgment comes to those who bear bad fruit.

Matthew 7:17 / Luke 6:43: The type of fruit determines the type of tree – good or bad

Matthew 21:42: The kingdom belongs to those who bear fruit of the kingdom.

John 4:36: As we reap, we gather fruit for eternal life

John 15:2: Fruit bearing will bring pruning so that there may be even more fruit.

John 15:4: We bear fruit as we abide in Christ.

John 15:8: Bearing fruit glorifies God and proves discipleship.

John 15:16: Jesus chose us so that we would bear fruit.

Philippians 1:11: Fruit of righteousness comes through Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 12:11: Discipline seems not to be joyful, but yields the fruit of righteousness.

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control

3. Third specific way that we walking worthy of the Lord is Increasing in the knowledge of God (vs10)

a) You are continuing to know and learn more.

Section Two

II. 1:11-12 Prayer that they will be strengthened with all power according to God’s might.

Colossians 1:11 strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.

A. Power:

1. We can’t do what we need to do spiritually. We desperately need God’s strength.

2. Paul is praying that God in His glorious might will make them capable of steadfastness, patience and joyous thanks.

B. Why do we need God’s Power?

Ephesians 6:10-13 We need the power of God because our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but is against Satan and the power of wickedness.

C. What does God’s power do? Three things!

1. God’s strength helps us remain steadfast.(Circumstances)

a) The power to cope.

b) The power to be content.

2. God’s strength provides our Patience (People)

3. God’s strength helps us to joyously giving thanks

a) Because you share in the inheritance.

a)Links back to the conquest and inheritance of the Promised Land, which Jews thought to be exclusively theirs.

b) Because you are saints

c) Because you are in the kingdom of light.

Section Three

In verses 13-14, Paul gives us the basis for his prayer.

III. 1:13-14 What is the basis for Paul’s prayer? Why is it possible for us to be filled and be strengthened?

Colossians 1:13 For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

A. God rescued us from the domain of darkness

1. Rescued:

a) rhuomai; (to drag); to draw to oneself, i.e. deliver:

2. We are no longer in the control of Satan!

3. We are not perfect, but remember - God’s commands for obedience are real commands with real expectations.

4. vs 12: We have the inheritance of the saints in light!

B. God transferred us to the kingdom of His Son

C. Christ gave us redemption – the forgiveness of sin.

1. Redemption = purchase

IV. Conclusion and Application

A. Walking Worthy yourself: Personal Evaluation

1. How are you doing in regards to please God in all respects and bearing good fruit as a result of your good deeds?

a) Is your fruit harvest bountiful?

b) Is the fruit healthy and good or is it sickly?

2. How are you doing with increasing your knowledge of God and his Word?

2.Common for people to be sophisticated, yet theologically gullible and ignorant.

a) All believers must move beyond rudimentary fundamentals. Hebrews 5:12, 14.

b) Knowledge must result in more than knowing good from evil, but in actually doing good. Luke 6:46

3. Are you relying on God’s power? If you aren’t sure, look at the characteristics?

a) Are you steadfast?

(1) The power to cope.

(2) The power to be content.

b) Are you patient

c) Are you joyously thankful?

Quest Colossians Study: Introduction

Colossians: Outline

I. Introduction

1. Overview (week 1)

2. Greeting and Prayer 1:1-14 (week 2)

II. Instruction

A. 1:15-23 Diety of Christ

1. Supremacy of Christ 1:15-19 (week 3)

2. Reconciliation to God through Christ 1:19-23 (week 4)

B. 1:24-27 Paul’s struggle for Christ

1. Paul’s message to the church of Christ 1:24-29 (week 5)

2. Paul’s concern and exhortation for the church of Christ 2:1-7 (week 6)

C. 2:8-23 The Truth of Christ

1. Man’s philosophy is contrary to Christ 2:8-15 (week 7)

2. Legalism is contrary to Christ 2:16-17 (week 8)

3. Angel worship / Asceticism are contrary to Christ 2:18-23 (week 9)

III. Exhortations

A. 3:1-4 Life Principle of those in Christ (week 10)

B. 3:5-17 Conduct of those in Christ

1. We put off sin when we are dead to self 3:5-11 (week 11)

2. We put on virtue when we are alive in Christ 3:12-17 (week 12)

C. 3:18-4:1 Relationships of those in Christ (week 13)

D. 4:2-6 Speech of those in Christ (week 14)

E. 4:7-18 Friendship between those in Christ. (week 15)

Resolutions Of A Father, Number 19

Resolved:

As soon as ever I can, I will make my children apprehensive of the main end for which they are to live; that so they may as soon as may be, begin to live; and their youth not be nothing but vanity. I will show them, that their main end must be, to, acknowledge the great God, and His glorious Christ; and bring others to acknowledge Him: and that they are never wise nor well, but when they are doing so. I will make them able to answer the grand question of why they live; and what is the end of the actions that fill their lives? I will teach them that their Creator and Redeemer is to be obeyed in everything, and everything is to be done in obedience to Him. I will teach them how even their diversions, and their ornaments, and the tasks of their education, must all be to fit them for the further service of Him to whom I have devoted them; and how in these also, His commandments must be the rule of all they do. I will sometimes therefore surprise them with an inquiry, "Child, what is this for? Give me a good account of why you do it?" How comfortably shall I see them walking in the light, if I may bring them wisely to answer this inquiry.

By Cotton Mather

Resolutions Of A Father, Number 18

Resolved:

Among all the points of education which I will endeavor for my children, I hope to see that each of them—the daughters as well as the sons—may gain insight into some skill that lies in the way of gain (however their own inclination may most carry them), so that they may be able to subsist themselves, and get something of a livelihood, in case the Providence of God should bring them into necessities. Why not they as well as Paul the Tent-Maker! The children of the best fashion, may have occasion to bless the parents that make such a provision for them! The Jews have a saying worth remembering: "Whoever doesn't teach his son some trade or business, teaches him to be a thief."

By Cotton Mather

Resolutions Of A Father, Number 17

Resolved:

When the children are in any trouble—if they be sick, or pained—I will take advantage therefrom, to set before them the evil of sin, which brings all our trouble; and how fearful a thing it will be to be cast among the damned, who are in ceaseless and endless trouble. I will set before them the benefit of an interest in a CHRIST, by which their trouble will be sanctified unto them, and they will be prepared for death, and for fullness of joy in a happy eternity after death.

By Cotton Mather