COLOSSIANS

SERMONS PREACHED FROM THE BOOK OF COLOSSIANS BY REV. MIKE JONES

COLOSSIANS: Complete in Christ Rev. Mike Jones

00INTRO TO COLOSSIANS

01Chapter 1 “Christ, the Pre-eminent One”

01:- 17 WAYS TO PRESENT EVERY MAN PERFECT IN CHRIST

01:3-8 PRAISE GOD FOR GOD’S PEOPLE

01:9-10 CHRISTIAN OBJECTIVES

01:9-10 FALSE IDEAS ABOUT GOD’S WILL

01:9-11 PRINCIPLES FOR FULLNESS OF POWER

01:12-23 AIM OF ATONEMENT

01:19-23 CELEBRATE THE CROSS

01:28 CHANGING CHARACTER

02Chapter 2 Christ, All We Need

02:21-29 POWER TO PERSEVERE

03hapter 3- Christ: The Changes He brings to our Life

03:11-4:1 RELATIONSHIPS RESULTING FROM OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST

03:13 PUTTING UP WITH PUT DOWNS

03:8-12 IMPORTANCE OF INTEGRITY

04Chapter 4- Christ: The Purpose of our Ministry

04:6 TEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

00INTRO TO COLOSSIANS

Colosse was located about 100 miles inland from Ephesus (in modern day Turkey) and at one time was one of the major trade centers of that area. It had begun to decline but still contained a large Jewish and Greek population (with their religious thoughts and doctrines). Paul had never visited the Church in Colosse (2:1) but he learned about it from Epaphras (1:7) and the Spirit inspired him to write this letter to them to enable them to overcome false doctrine and to realize their riches in Christ. The Church probably came into being from Paul’s work in Ephesus- And they continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks. Acts 19:10 (Paul scattered seed everywhere and reaped fruit!).

Colossians is one of the most profound of Paul’s writings (It may have been the one Peter referred to in II Pet 3:15-16 as “hard to understand”!!). It is very difficult to just “skim” the surface of Colossians–but equally as difficult to “dig deep” without getting bogged down. The one great truth that Paul wants us to keep in mind is that we are COMPLETE IN CHRIST- Spiritually, Mentally, Socially, and Physically (See Luke 2:52). We do not need to add anything to Him to be complete, nor take anything from Him to be consistent.

THE COLOSSIAN HERESY-After talking with Epaphras, Paul realized he had a “double-barreled” problem in the Colossian Church. The Jews had brought Jewish Law with them when they accepted Christ and the Greeks had brought their Philosophy. What this had done was ADD some things to Christianity to “make it complete” or SUBTRACT some things from Christ to make Him fit men’s reasonings. The Additions took the form of Laws and Rules that regulated the life of men so that righteousness became a result of man’s effort instead of Christ’s sacrifice (Much like the Pharisees of Jesus’ day.).

The Subtractions came about because of the problem of GNOSTICISM

(From the Greek word “Gnostric”=Knowledge). The Gnostics would only accept what they could explain (Like the Sadducees. The names have changed thru the years but the problems remain the same–Satan wants to “mash the gas or the brake”. People always want to add to or subtract from the Gospel in order for them to feel that they can control the situation–reverting right back to the Satanic problem of wanting to be God!). This resulted in 3 major problems: (1) A pure God could not create Evil, therefore God had created a series of lesser emendations (angels) that eventually created the physical (evil)world. This made Christ lower than the angels because He actually took a human body. Not only did it dishonor Christ but it led to Angel worship! (2) Only a select few had knowledge enough to understand these things so that made them “Superior” Christians- dividing the Body of Christ! (3) Since Physical was “Evil”, men must either avoid it at any cost or indulge it to show that it had no meaning to them.

This meant that some obeyed strict laws while others indulged in all evil. It also led to the denial of the Bodily resurrection since the body is “evil”.

These errors had to be refuted because they cut to the very heart of the Gospel-We are complete in Christ. Nothing can be added–and nothing should be taken away.

Paul begins this letter as he did all his letters: Doctrine first and then the Duty that results from that Doctrines. What you Believe determines what you do !!!

COLOSSIANS: Complete in Christ Rev. Mike Jones

01Chapter 1 “Christ, the Pre-eminent One”

Outline of the Chapter

1-8 Introduction: Paul’s Knowledge of the People

9-12 The Prayer: 7 Things Paul desired for the People

12-14 Paul Praises the Father for what He has done for us thru Christ

15-19 Paul explains How Christ could do this

20-23 The Purpose: The Reason Christ did this

23-29 The Preacher: Paul’s Purpose in Life-Bring men to Christ

I. INTRODUCTION: Paul’s Knowledge of the People 1-8

Note WHO Paul was- An apostle of JESUS CHRIST

Note HOW he described the Church- IN CHRIST

Note His Opening Greeting-Grace and Peace from God our Father and THE LORD JESUS CHRIST (Making Them Equal)-Our Prayer for you is made to God the FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST

Notice that everything he did proclaimed Christ as Son of God.

  1. What Had He Heard about them??
    1. -Their Faith in Christ Jesus. (Faith in a PERSON- not a slogan, or a program. Your Faith is only as good as what it rests in.)
    2. -Their Love to all the Saints. (Because of the fact that we all are part of the Body of Christ. We know that we have passed from death unto Life, because we love the Brethren I Jn 3:14. My little Children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in Truth I Jn 3:18).
    3. -Their Hope laid up in Heaven. (Because of What Christ did! They were living as Pilgrims; aware that this world is not our ultimate destination. Heb 11:13).

The foundation of their Faith: All of these things were based on what they had heard from the Word of God- not some man made philosophy.

The Fruit of their Faith: This belief in Christ had produced Fruit as soon as they believed and accepted it (Therefore the proof of its truthfulness was “in the pudding”!!).

  1. Who had He Heard about them from:
  2. Epaphras: Paul’s dear fellow servant (Probably saved during Paul’s ministry in Ephesus. Now a minister as Paul).
  3. Their faithful minister of Christ. (Church Pastor?) He had declared to Paul their love in the Spirit. What do People tell other people about our Church?? Do they tell of our Faith and Love and Hope?? Do they see the Fruit of the Spirit in our lives??

When you talk about Fellow Saints, do you tell of their Faith… or their Failures???

II. THE PRAYER: 7 Things Paul Desired for the Church 9-12

As soon as Paul heard about God’s Blessings on the Church he added them to his “Prayer List”. He did not vaguely ask God to “Bless them. He had specific things he wanted to see God Accomplish in their lives.

  1. Knowledge of God’s Will – Filled with the Knowledge of His Will. The Greatest purpose any man can have is to do what God wants. The Greatest peace any man can have is when he’s doing what God wants. Paul did not want them to merely glimpse God’s will- he wanted them to be “filled full” of the knowledge of God’s will. He wanted them to know it as surely and as clearly as possible .
    1. Ability to Understand God’s Will- in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. What God’s will is try to accomplish:- The Amp. Bible calls this Wisdom “Comprehensive insight into the ways and purpose of God”
  2. That it is GOD’S WILL- “understand” here means discernment. Paul wants them to learn not only what God’s will is but also to discern between God’s will and
    1. Selfish Desires: There is a way that seems right unto a man but the end thereof are the ways of death Prov 14:12
    2. Satanic Delusions: For Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light II Cor 11:14
  3. Application of God’s Will to Life- That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing. Live your lessons! Faith without works is dead. (Sometimes the way to know His will is to DO His will Jn 7:17).
  4. Bear Fruit- Being fruitful in every good work. If you do what God says you will accomplish what God wants and Fruit will be a natural result Jn 15:5
  5. Increasing Acquaintance with God- Increasing in the knowledge of God. The more you serve Him the more you know Him, and the more you know Him the more you serve Him…until your chief goal in life is to Know Him above all (Phil 3:10).
  6. Powerful, Pleasurable, Patience- Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. As you wait upon God to renew strength (Is 40:31) you learn the Source of your Power (God-who invigorates and strengthens us); the Suffering that Power brings (Patience and endurance that are the cost of obtaining and administering this power), and the Celebration that comes with Power (Joyfulness).
  7. And, finally, A Thankful Heart – Giving Thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Saints in Light. The “Road to Apostacy” begins with an unthankful heart (Rom 1:21) and Paul prays that the Colossians would know WHO to Thank and WHAT to Thank for.

What a great Church we could have if each member knew and understood God’s Will, applied it in their lives to produce Fruit for God, and maintained a relationship with God so that they could receive Power to do what God called them to do. Surely then Thanks and Praise would ring in every service!!

III. PAUL PRAISES THE FATHER FOR WHAT HE HAS DONE FOR US THRU CHRIST

  1. Exalted us- Made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light. Rendered us fit to be included in the Will !! John 1:12 as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, Ep 2:6-7 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in Heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
  2. Freed us- Delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.
    1. Freed us from the “disorder of darkness” where Satan had us captive with blinded eyes. II Cor 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
    2. Translated (change from one form to another) us into the kingdom of His dear Son. God did not do away with my personality- He freed me from sin’s disorder to walk in the light of the Lord. I walk in a new life with a new “Master” now.
  3. Bought us- In whom (the Son) we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. I am able to escape Sin’s power and become a partaker of Heaven’s inheritance because Christ paid a debt I could not pay- the wages of sin. He paid MY debt so I could enjoy HIS Blessings! Glory!

IV. PAUL EXPLAINS HOW CHRIST COULD DO THIS 15-19 If you accept what Christ has done for us then you must admit He is able to do this. This is easy when you realize who Christ is:

  1. He is the image of the invisible God. The visible representation of the invisible God. If you have seen me you have seen the Father Jn 14:9
  2. He is the Firstborn of every creature- He was before all creatures and has authority over all of them.
  3. He is the Creator of all things:
      1. Location- Heaven and earth (everything)
      2. Substance- Visible and invisible (everything)
      3. Authority- thrones, dominions, principalities or powers (He is all powerful. Since He created all “Power” He is greater than any power.)
      4. Purpose- created BY Him FOR Him.
      5. Time- He is before all things (Eternal)
      6. Necessary- By Him all things consist (are held together). If He could cease to exist so would everything else!! He did not simply create everything- He continues to hold it together!!
  4. The Head of the Body- the Church. He began the Church- It is HIS Body
  5. He is the firstborn from the dead-Basis of our belief I Cor 15:14. He is to be preeminent in everything in Church- and everywhere!!
  6. All fullness dwells in Him- He is completely permanently complete. He needs nothing- now or ever. He is GOD!!!

If He is God, He is greater than the Angels. If He is God and He provided Salvation, then there is nothing man can add to it.

V. THE PURPOSE: The Reason Christ did this vs 20-23

  1. To reconcile a sinful world to a Holy God- (Reconcile=to bring God and man into Holy Harmony!!)
    1. How- By HIS blood on the cross-The only payment God will accept for the sin debt. See Heb 9:22
    2. Who:

The ALL. In Heaven and in earth (Not just a select few)

The ALIENATED. Hostile in our Attitude and Actions. Sin begins in the mind before showing in the Life. (Remember that Adultery can happen in the Brain as well as the Body!). That’s why Satan seeks to control your mind (II Cor 4:4, 10:5) thru Songs, TV, and Ads. (Ever found yourself humming a Beer commercial?? or watched kids covet only advertised toys??)

  1. To Produce a Holy People. Holy= Separation FROM worldly defilement FOR God. Being separated does not make us Holy- that comes when we add dedication to God. (Because a building is not a Beer Hall does not make it a Church!). Because of What Christ did on the Cross we can now be set apart for God without fault and free of reproach (Meaning we don’t have to Add anything or Earn our Salvation.). Only if Christ were God and man could He accomplish on the Cross what He did.
  2. To Provide all we need to maintain this reconciled relationship by simple Faith. Faith is our Foundation and we should be firmly established on it so that other doctrines and messages will not sway or trouble us. This is the Good news of the Gospel-Christ has provided all we need to come to God and to stay with God. Don’t add Burdens of Law keeping or subtract Blessings of our relationship with Christ, the Son of God.

VI. THE PREACHER: Paul’s Purpose in Life (To proclaim Christ and present every man perfect in Christ) 23-29

  1. Paul was willing to suffer as a Servant in order to help the Body of Christ-the Church (This is the suffering the righteous bear because of opposition to evil. In cannot produce salvation-Christ did everything necessary for that on the Cross-but it can allow us to know the “fellowship of His suffering” (Phil 3:10) as love for a lost world drives us on.).
  2. Paul was a “Manager of the Mystery” that God had revealed to him- that Christ indwells the believer. A Mystery is something previously hidden that God has now revealed. There are numerous “Mysteries” in the New Testament:
    1. The fact that God’s Program with Israel would be interrupted was a mystery. Matt 13:ll Rom 11:25
    2. The Wisdom of God in His way of Salvation I Cor 2:7 Rom 16:25
    3. God’s work thru Christ. I Tim 3:16
    4. The development of evil into its culmination in the man of sin (II Thess 2:7) and the development of the great apostate Religious system (Rev. 17:5,7) are called Mysteries.
    5. The Rapture is a Mystery I Cor 15:51
    6. But the Mystery Paul refers to here is the formation of the Church (centered around Gentiles) as the Body of which Christ is the Head. (See also Ep 3:3-9). Paul was responsible (as we are) to reveal this “secret” to a dying and desperate world-See I Cor 4:1-2. Are YOU Faithfully Telling the Good News?????
  3. Paul’s Preaching and Teaching had as its ultimate Goal the Maturing (meaning of Perfect here) of every Believer into Christlikeness.
    1. The Goal of some speakers is a commendation from the listeners.
    2. The Goal of some is to faithfully “fill” the hour.
    3. What is YOUR goal when you teach or Speak?? Are you reaching your Goal???
  4. Paul’s Labors were based on God’s Power- I Cor 2:4-5 My speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power; that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of man, but in the power of God.
  5. Because of His willingness to be used, God had worked thru him greatly. (The word Labor here means “working until exhausted”).

Paul has tried to get across to the Colossians that their standing in Christ, the Ability of Christ to save, and even is own life and ministry all hinged on the fact that Christ was indeed God. If He was not then everything was a failure. Either Christ was God, and had provided all they needed to be saved, or they were lost!!

COLOSSIANS: Complete In Christ Rev Mike Jones

01:- 17 WAYS TO PRESENT EVERY MAN PERFECT IN CHRIST

1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother,

2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,

5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;

6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:

7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;

8 Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;

20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled

22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:

25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

27 To whom God would 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 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Fill in the Blanks with YOUR Thoughts from these verse. The first few are given as examples.

1. __Find God’s will and Get to doing it (vs 1)____

2. _Realize Peace comes from Accepting Grace vs 2

3. _Get and Be a Prayer Partner vs 3

4. _______________________________________

5. _______________________________________

6. _______________________________________

7. _______________________________________

8. _______________________________________

9. _______________________________________

10. ______________________________________

11. ______________________________________

12. ______________________________________

13. ______________________________________

14. ______________________________________

15. ______________________________________

16. ______________________________________

17. ______________________________________

01:3-8 PRAISE GOD FOR GOD’S PEOPLE

Four things to transform people’s belief: the Bible, the Blood, the Body, the Blessed Hope.

We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit (Colossians 1:3-8).

Things we should Thank God for about God’s Bride, Body, Believers: [We can talk about how bad people are or about how blessed we are to be associated with them]

1) Genuine concern for each other- “Praying always for you”

2) Manifested Faith that is talked about- “Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus”

3) Fellowshipping Love which is shown- “Love which you have to all the saints” (Meals given)

4) Anticipated Hope- “The Hope which is laid up for you in heaven, as you heard in the gospel”

5) Fruit producing life- “Brings forth fruit, as it does also in you, since the day you heard of it”

6) Truthful recognition of Grace- “Knew the grace of God in truth” (Grace and works together)

7) Spiritual maturity- “Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit”. The Holy Spirit will either convict or comfort you. (Not just emotions but the Holy Spirit at work in your life causing you to love the “unlovable”, care for the careless, and act like Christ would act).

Reason we have churches and support missions:

Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (Colossians 1:25-29).

01:9-10 CHRISTIAN OBJECTIVES

For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-10).

What do I want God to do in your life? What are my objectives for you as a Christian? Remember- “He who aims at nothing normally hits nothing”

1) Walk worthy of, and pleasing to, the Lord you serve means to live and conduct your daily manner of living in a way that would please and honor God.

2) Produce fruits of good works because of your relationship with, and responsibility to, God. Fruit is a natural occurrence as we allow the Holy Spirit to function in our life. Good works are the result of the fruits of the Spirit (The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: Galatians 5:22-23) changing our character and conduct.

3) Increase in the knowledge of God means we seek a fuller, deeper, clearer acquaintance with, and recognition of, God.

Here are some ways to DELIGHT THE DEVINE with your life:

• It delights God when we want to understand and have a real relationship with Him: Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD (Jeremiah 9:23-24).

• It delights God when we obey His Heart as well as His Word: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams (1 Samuel 15:22). When will we learn that God does not just call people to “make a Decision for Him”? He calls them to “become His Disciples”. It is not just about having Faith to believe Jesus is the Son of God. It is about Faith producing Works which will carry forth the plan and purpose of God.

• It delights God when our lives show His Truth and Love: A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight (Proverbs 11:1).

• It delights God when we communicate with Him: The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight (Proverbs 15:8).

01:9-10 FALSE IDEAS ABOUT GOD’S WILL

Col 1:9-10 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Paul’s Prayer here shows that The Will of God allows us to:

A) Please God -Walk Worthy of the Lord unto all Pleasing

B) Bear Fruit- Being Fruitful in every good work

C) Learn about God- Increasing in the Knowledge of God

You can not ask for 3 greater goals. Why then do so many people fail to commit themselves to God’s Will for their life? The Problem is that many people have a false concept of what God’s Will is and how it will impact their life.

Men falsely say that God’s Will is:

1. Dangerous– Somehow it will harm you or cause you a great deal of pain if you obey God (If I commit myself to God He will make me be a Preacher or Missionary {There are worst things, you know!!}). The Truth: It’s Dangerous NOT to do God’s Will. Do you want to face God with a wasted life and unused talents??

2. Distant– God’s will is not something you would seek now. It is something you should seek when you are older and very mature in the Christian Faith.

The Truth: Get in God’s Will as soon as possible. A little veer at first can cause a big deviation in the long run. The Longer you delay the less useful you will be for God.

3. Divided– God has a Good, Acceptable and Perfect Will (Rom 12:2) and most people don’t want to be dedicated enough to chose God’s Best so they settle for the “good” or “acceptable” will of God instead of becoming a “fanatic” for God.

The Truth: God has One Will that is Good, Acceptable, and Perfect; Do not settle for cheap substitutes [Remember the man during the Civil war that wore a Blue Coat and Gray Pants so he could please everyone; and then both sides shot him!!].

4. Difficult to Discover– Most People think it is almost impossible to determine what God wants them to do.

The Truth: God reveals His will thru His Word, thru the Urges of Life {What do you WANT to do?}, and by Faith (We walk daily by Faith and not Sight- Abraham to Promised Land).

Many people want to see how God’s Will will impact their life before they decide if they want to obey God’s Will. But the Truth is that when we follow God’s Will for our life then we begin to understand God’s Will for our life. God is not obligated to explain Himself to us but He will make Plain the Path He expects us to take- He will show you the “Path of Life” (Ps 16:11)

A) It is God’s Will that we do our job well– Eph 6:6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart See I Pet 2:15. God gives songs to singers, artistic vision to artist, inspiration to writers and speakers.

B) It is God’s Will that we Live a Holy Life– I Thess 4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification , that ye should abstain from fornication:

C) It is God’s Will that we Trust Him in all Circumstances– I Pet 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

This Impacts your:

1> RELATIONSHIPS: Mark 3:35 For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.

2> RENEWAL: Ro 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

3> REJOICING: 1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

4> SALVATION: 2Pe 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

01:9-11 PRINCIPLES FOR FULLNESS OF POWER

For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; (Colossians 1:9-11).

Today is Pentecost Sunday. My first thought was to major on the power of God. As I read Acts Chapter Two, however, I saw that the Apostles did not talk about Power on Pentecost; they talked about Jesus!

The Gospels are wonderful. In them Jesus 3 times hears the voice of God from heaven above and Jesus reveals the pleas of men (Rich Man) from hell beneath. They tell of harlots forgiven, hypocrites condemned, hungry fed, and healing brought to many. They record Jesus performing 36 Miracles, telling 38 Parables, praying 19 Prayers, preaching 16 sermons, making 45 Prophetic Predictions, and fulfilling 37 Old Testament Prophecies. They tells of Jesus converting 27 souls, giving 10 proofs of his deity, experiencing 15 kinds of suffering, and appearing 10 times following His resurrection. The Gospels are indeed “good news” about the God-Man, Jesus Christ.

The Problem is that many people know the FACTS about Jesus without experiencing the TRANSFORMING POWER of Jesus. In the book of Colossians the apostle Paul tells the Colossian Christians that he is praying for four things in their life that will “strengthen them with all might, according to his glorious power” and make them “Power People”. That is what I want for you today.

Principle One: KNOW WHAT GOD WANTS YOU TO DO: Paul prayed that they would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Oh, how I long for that! I want every day of my life to be lived in the perfect will of God.

Principle Two: LIVE THE WAY GOD WANTS YOU TO LIVE: Paul prayed secondly that they might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing. How my heart just leaped when I read that. That is the cry of my soul each day. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments”. May my life show forth my Love for Jesus.

Principle Three: ACCOMPLISH WHAT GOD WANTS YOU TO ACCOMPLISH: Next Paul prayed for them to be fruitful in every good work. Over and over I look at my work and ask myself if I am making a difference for God. Jesus told a parable about a person who “hid his talent in the dirt” and returned unto the Lord exactly what he had received- and was condemned by God for No Accomplishments.

Principle Four: INCREASE IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD so you will be “strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power”. Do you See it? If you want God’s Power you must WANT GOD.

When we UNITE OUR LIVES WITH GOD’S WILL, LIVE OUR LIVES UNDER GOD’S DIRECTIONS, AND DETERMINE TO ACCOMPLISH SOMETHING WITH WHAT GOD HAS GIVEN US we OPEN OURSELVES TO BEING FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT’S POWER TO ENABLE US TO KNOW AND SHOW GOD.

Increasing in the knowledge of God so that He can work IN me and THROUGH me. My soul craves this. My purpose in life is not simply to “Believe In” God. I want to know God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength so that His Presence is IN me and His Power works THROUGH me. Make that your goal today.

You can to “Believe IN God” or you can be Transformed BY God into a New Creature.

Colossians 1:9-11 gives Four Principles Paul Prayed that would “strengthen Believers with all might, according to God’s glorious power” and make them “Power People” so they could handle whatever Life would throw at them with Joy.

Principle One: KNOW WHAT GOD WANTS YOU TO DO: Paul prayed that they would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. You cannot walk with God if you are not following God’s Guidance (Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Amos 3:3)

Principle Two: LIVE THE WAY GOD WANTS YOU TO LIVE: Paul prayed secondly that they might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments”. The Life you live should show the Savior you serve.

Principle Three: ACCOMPLISH WHAT GOD WANTS YOU TO ACCOMPLISH: Next Paul prayed for them to be fruitful in every good work. You cannot make a difference for God if you are “hiding your talent in the dirt”.

Principle Four: Finally, Paul prayed that they would INCREASE IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD so they would be “strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power”. Do you See it? If you want God’s Power you must WANT GOD.

God does not exist because you believe in Him. You believe in Him because He exists. God operates without our permission and regardless of our understanding. For Example, He can bring death to WHO He wants, WHEN He wants, WHERE He wants, without any regard to what we think is proper or permissible- Flood, Nations of Canaan, Firstborn in Egypt, …

01:12-23 AIM OF ATONEMENT

Col 1:12-23 (P1597) Giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. 21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. 22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation– 23 if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

Paul had been showing the Colossians that Christ is the PREEMINENT One (Not just the Predominant One among many (Christians don’t have AN answer; we have the ONLY ANSWER). He does this by showing that Christ is our SAVIOR, Our CREATOR, the HEAD of the Church, and the BELOVED of the Father. That means Christ defeated Satan, Made the World, Established the Church, and is Equal to God.

I. WHAT WE WERE VS 21

A) Alienated – Out of harmony, unfriendly, estranged. We were “apart from” God. God had one point of view and we had another (There is a way that seems right unto man but the end thereof is the way of death. My ways are not your ways says the Lord). This is why we must REPENT. We must learn to see things from God’s Point of View.

B) Enemies– “At War with” God. We served Sin, Satan, and Self and refused to submit to God. Our Rebellion was so bad until we would go to Hell rather than allow God to be God of our Life.

1) Where- In our Minds. The source of sin was not surface conditions; it was corruption deep in our heart and mind (Remember that Jesus said Adultery, Murder, and Covetousness take place in the Brain before the Body!). God will judge our hearts, not as man judges.

2) How- By Wicked Works. Thought becomes Actions.

WHAT I AM IS WRONG- Sin is missing the Mark for God. Shooting your arrows into the Dirt. Jesus said the target was Love God above all as center and Love Neighbor as self as outer rim

WHAT IS DO IS WRONG- Trespasses. We cross the line into forbidden territory (Whatsoever is not of faith is sin). We fail to follow God’s guidelines.

WHERE I AM GOING IS WRONG- God wants me to Go to Heaven. He has made every provision for me. The door is open but I am the only one who can walk through.

II. WHAT CHRIST DID– Reconciled us to God. Brought us back into Holy Harmony. Made a way that God and I could be at Peace again. How did He do this? By His death on the Cross- Without the shedding of Blood is no remission of sins. It is not the Character of Christ, nor the Conduct of Christ, that saves us. It is only the Cross that can make peace with God.

III. WHY HE DID IT

A) To Produce a Holy People: Set apart FOR God

B) To Make us Unblamable: Without FAULT. God sees us as pure in Christ (Don’t make more of your faults than God does!)

C) To Make us Unreprovable: Beyond Satan’s Accusations

IV. WHAT IS REQUIRED OF US- Holding Out by Holding ON

A) Continuation- If you continue in the Faith

B) Stability- Established and Firm, not moved from the hope held out in the Gospel

We are saved by Faith without works and we must live by Faith but since it is possible to leave the Rock and lose everything, let us be:

1) Grounded- Able to short circuit Satan’s doubts

2) Settled- Good Foundation. Dig Deep into the Word and Work of God

3) Be not moved from the Hope held out in the Gospel. Don’t allow anything to “Pull you away”

False Doctrines- In the last days many will come preaching many doctrines that appeal to men’s emotions and intellect

Fleshly Desires- Riches will choke the word. Riotous Living will bring us to Hog Pens. Self Righteousness will give us a false hope.

01:19-23 CELEBRATE THE CROSS

Col 1:19-23 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

NIV– For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation–if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

Does it seem strange to you that Christians have a holiday to celebrate a death?? Does it make sense that we call the day our Savior was nailed to a cross GOOD Friday?? It does when you realize what really happened on that Fateful Friday.

CONDEMNATION: Man will Naturally choose the wrong way. Children have to be taught Right, not Wrong. Weeds come naturally; crops require work.

THE CROSS PAYS OUR SIN DEBT- WE ARE NO LONGER CONDEMNED

CONSEQUENCES: The Payment for sin does not spare us from the consequences of sin in this life. Drunk’s liver, children of divorce, missed opportunities.

Remember the God looks at the MOTIVATION behind our actions. One man plunges a knife into you to kill you, another to heal you.

THE CROSS SHOWS US SELF-DENIAL WHICH KEEPS US FROM SIN AND ITS CONSEQUENCES.

CONFLICT: Salvation and Sanctification do not mean we won’t have to battle sin and temptation. Jesus was tempted in the desert and before the cross. We are tempted by lust, anger, covetousness (ads), depression.

THE CROSS SHOWS GOD’S ABILITY TO CONQUORE SATAN ON HIS OWN “TURF” AND TERMS. NOW THE HOLY SPIRIT HAS COME TO GIVE US POWER IN THE BATTLE. GREATER IS HE THAT IS IN YOU THAN HE THAT IS IN THE WORLD.

The Shed Blood pays for our CONDEMNATION. Confession deals with our CONSEQUENCES. Holy Living deals with CONFLICT/CRAVINGS.

It’s hard to celebrate the PAIN OF THE CROSS

It’s hard to celebrate the PLAN OF THE CROSS- We want to be Happy and carefree. Not dying to self and taking up a cross.

It’s easy to celebrate the PERSON OF THE CROSS-

His Love that sent him there

The Payment that He made there

The Human that suffered there- caring for the thief and his mother, thirsting, questioning- “Why”

The “Godness” he displayed there.

Father Forgive them, they know not what they do

Into your hands I commend my Spirit

When the Centurion saw Christ die, he said, “Surely, this was the Son of God”. Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. (Mat 27:54) In his case the Cross showed him who Christ really was.

Your eternal destiny hinges on your belief about whether or not Jesus is the Son of God- He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God (1 John 5:12-13)

WHAT WILL IT TAKE TO BRING YOU TO CONFESS?

SEEING THE RESULTS OF REBELLION- When Nebucadnezzar threw the Hebrew Children into the furnance- He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God (Dan 3:25).

REVEALING OF SECRETS- When Nathanael met Jesus after praying under a fig tree, Jesus told him what he had been doing -Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel (John 1:49). God Reveals Secrets THRU THE WORD- But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (John 20:31)

DON’T HARDEN YOUR HEART:

PHARISEES: And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross (Mat 27:40)

UNCARING: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? (Heb) 10:29

01:28 CHANGING CHARACTER

The word Character is not found in the Bible. I use it here because it is a commonly understood word. Character basically means “The Moving Principle behind a Person’s actions”. That means we’re talking about changing WHY a person does things.

You can change WHAT a person does through Conditioning (Pavlov’s dog) but all the training falls apart if conditions change (It astonished me how many “good” boys who were raised in church and were will thought of at home became drunkards and adulterers when placed in that type of environment overseas.).

The Goal of Christianity is to present every man perfect in Christ Jesus (Col 1:28). We are to Teach them to Observe all things Jesus commanded (Matt 28:20) and by continuing in the Word they become Disciples (Jn 8:31).

This is not simply a matter of stopping certain things. A man who simply stops doing wrong creates a vacuum of restlessness in his life. Given the opportunity, the man will go back to the old ways and be even worst than at first (Matt 12:43-45. Also II Pet 2:20-22). Therefore the Christian Teacher seeks to show how TO live as well as showing how NOT to live.

This changed Character is achieved by the application of Three Basic Principles:

I. NEW LIFE (You cannot change the character of a Dead Man- you may change his appearance but not his character)

A) Saved by Faith in the substitutionary Sacrifice of Christ as revealed in the Word of God (Eph 2:8-9, Rom 10:9-10).

B) New life is then imparted by the indwelling Spirit (Tit 3:5, Rom 8:9).

II. NEW LAW

A) A new Law is now at work in your body (Rom 7:25) (An empty balloon falls to the ground because of the Law of Gravity. Put Helium in it and there is a new Law- the fact that Helium rises. Unless held, now the balloon will rise).

B) The New Law is more powerful than the Old (Rom 8:2). (This means that we have not only been set free from the PENALTY of Sin. We have also been freed from the POWER of Sin (Rom 5:1 and Rom 6:14). The Sinful Nature is still present but I no longer have to obey it (Rom 6:16).

IMPORTANT! Many seek an experience that will free them from the Ability to sin. This is not possible as long as we dwell in this fleshly body. The Sin Principle remains but it’s ability to Control us has been broken by the indwelling Spirit. (While I was in the navy I was subject to obey the rules and orders given me. They still have rules and orders today but I no longer obey them because I no longer under an obligation to do so!

III. NEW LIVING

A) We Must now Live by the Power of the Holy Spirit- Rom 8:1, Gal 5:16. This is not SELF effort: They that are in the flesh cannot please God (Rom 8:8). All of our righteousnesses are as filthy rags before God (Is 64:6). It is not a matter of trying to do better but of Yielding to the Spirit. As we yield the Spirit produces the Life God expects of you (Rom 8:14). THIS IS ABUNDANT LIFE! Being Properly related to the Spirit so that it is no longer I but Christ living in me (Gal 2:20).

B) The Spirit will produce Fruit in You. (Gal 5-22-23) Your responsibility is to be attached to the Vine (Jn 15:5).

Do you see what’s happened?? We’ve gone from a man trying to do better while refraining from doing bad to the Spirit Producing the fruit of Godliness in us. The first is outward change; the second is Character change. The First is frustrating and tiring (like trying to keep your fist clinched); the second is joy and peace in the Lord.

A BIBLE EXAMPLE OF CHARACTER CHANGE: Ephesians 4:20-32

1. Put off the old way of Life vs 22 NEW LIFE

2. Be renewed in the spirit of your mind vs 23 NEW LAW

3. Put on the new man vs 24 NEW LIVING

USED TO

NOW

lie vs 25

speak the truth

continue in anger vs 26-27

give it no room

Steal vs 28

work to give

Talk Bad vs 29

talk to build up

be Like vs 31

be Like vs 32

(Notice the Change involved, Take the man who stole. It’s not enough to just stop stealing. The stealing is a result of a selfish desire to have things without laboring for them. This is a problem of heart. Under the leadership of the Spirit this person should work (This does away with the tendency to laziness the person has shown) and be a sharer of the things he has earned with those who are unable to work. (This is a change from a SELFISH heart to a SERVING heart).

Notice that vs 30 summaries all of this when it says to not Grieve the Spirit. A Christian Grieves the Spirit when they don’t allow Him to produce His Fruit in their life. When we allow the Spirit to work in our life we will be changed from the inside out; and that is what God expects!

CHARACTER VS APPEARANCE- (1 Sam 16:7) But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

02Chapter 2 Christ, All We Need

Paul begins the chapter by telling the people that he is in a great “conflict” for them. The word “conflict” here is the one used for an athletic contest. Paul wants the people to know that he is in a “contest” for the souls of the people–and if the false teachers win everyone loses!! This, of course, caused Paul a great deal of concern.

This concern is shown first by a Positive DESIRE for these people to know what they have in Christ before he begins to DENOUNCE the false teachings that would draw them away from Christ. This order is used first to show them their stability in Christ before he denounces “superior wisdom” and then he shows the victory and fullness we have in Christ before he denounces “sanctifying works”. It all leads to the frim realization that Christ is all we need to be saved and Christ is all we need after we’re saved.

Sad to say, even today many do not realize and apprehend this truth and live miserable Christian lives or lese allow Satan to “run them ragged” chasing the “carrot” of a Better Blessing. May God help us to realize that all we need we have in Christ– and adding more only gives us less.

I. THE CONCERN PAUL FELT 2:1-2

  1. Beyond contact vs 1 He had never met these people but he was concerned about their relationship with Christ. It is this kind of concern that will turn us into the mission minded people we are supposed to be. Are you concerned that people beyond your immediate contact know the truth of the Gospel??
  2. About Courage- “That their hearts might be comforted”. Paul was concerned that some might “lose heart” and he wanted them to be “braced up” against anything that would lead them away from Christ. Satan tries to lead people into doubt and despair-do we seek to brace them up or drag them down??
  3. For Companionship- “Being knit together in love”. Paul realized that when one part of the body suffers all suffer (I Cor 12:26) and he was concerned that they would be so joined and united until each would help support and protect the other. Do you “look out for” Christians around you???
  4. Unto Confidence-“Unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding”. Paul realized that true riches comes with Peace of heart- and peace of heart comes from complete confidence (full assurance) in what we have in Christ. This complete confidence comes when we really understand what Christ did and who Christ is. Understand here means “to place together properly”. Do we place the circumstances of life i their proper place–or do we allow circumstances to “cloud” our relationship with Christ??
  5. Producing Confession- “Acknowledging the mystery of God in Christ” Paul did not want the people to simply now truths with their minds, he wanted them to confess them with their mouth (See Rom 10:9-10) and make them a part of their lives and lips.
    The main thing he wanted them to confess was that everything they need was found in Christ (vs 3). All of the Wisdom (comprehensive insight into the ways and purpose of God) and Knowledge (enlightenment about God’s work in your life) are hid in Christ as “buried treasure-worth selling everything else to obtain (Matt 13:44). If they realized and confessed this then these false teachers would not be able to mislead them into adding or subtracting anything from the Blessed Salvation we have in Christ.

Do you realize all you need is found Christ? Or are you continually seeking to learn more or live better thinking that that will fill the empty void in your heart? All you need is in Christ and digging elsewhere to find it only puts useless work on you and leaves holes along the way for someone else to fall in!!

II. THE CONFLICT PAUL FOUGHT 4-23 Paul now seeks to expose the errors of the False Teachers so the Colossians could recognize why they were wrong.

A) The Methods the False Teachers Employed.

1. “Beguile you with enticing words” vs 4- To deceive by False Reasoning. These False Teachers sought to get the Colossians to accept wrong doctrine by their “persuasive Reasoning”. Beguile here means “to reckon wrong”. The False Teachers were ending up with the wrong answers because they started from the wrong source. They figured everything from man’s point of view instead of God’s. Today it is called HUMANISM and results in people saying, “I don’t care what the Bible says, this is the way that makes sense” (Modesty gives way to comfort. Beliefs give way to personal benefit.).

2. “Spoil you” vs 8- To take away your resources as in “the spoils of war”. These False Teachers were all trying to “claim as a prize” these Believers. Today the idea is that the more people and resources a ministry has the more “Godly” it is and people become trophies instead of brethren. Many ministries are built on pandering to people’s wants instead of dealing with people’s problem–and most people would rather be petted than forced to face the needs in their life.

3. “Judge you” vs 16- Sit in judgment over. The False Teachers would decide what THEY thought was best for your life based on their on personal preference–only their music, or type of preaching, or order of service were “spiritual”.

4. Beguile you of your reward” vs 18- Declare you unworthy to receive the reward even though you “won the race”. They would “disqualify” people by making up the “rules” as they went along! Salvation by Faith was no longer enough– you must discard some things and/or add some things to be “really” saved (Baptism, speaking in tongues. etc)

5. “Subject you to ordinances” vs 20b- Leave the liberty of the Lord for the bondage of the Law. Salvation becomes what YOU do instead of what CHRIST did (People consider themselves Christians because they pray, attend Church and give some money–failing to realize that all our righteousness is as filthy rags before God.)

There are all kinds of Methods but the things to realize is that each of them seeks to draw us from Christ or add burdens to our walk with Christ. Does your “Religion” draw you closer to Christ?? Are you carrying a lot of extra “weight” around (See Rom 12:1) ??

B) The Errors the False Teachers Enlisted

1. Enticing Words- Persuasive Reasoning (Like a Lawyer in a court that builds a “house of words” that has no foundation but looks very pretty. (If I can convince you to be saved; someone else can “convince” you to get “unsaved”. Salvation is not in wisdom of words but the Power of God- I Cor 2:4-5)

2. Philosophy and vain deceit- One man said worldly Philosophy was like a blind man in a dark room looking for a black cat that isn’t there. Another said it was the science of learning more and more about less and less until finally you know everything about nothing! This is the intellectualism that denies anything that can’t be “figured”. Things like Faith and miracles are said to be the vivid imagination of the lesser educated.

3. Traditions of men- Forms and customs added by men (Do something in a Church one way for a year and suddenly it becomes a “sin” to do it differently!!). Jesus denounced many of these in Matt 23:-

4. The Rudiments (Elemential) Things of this world- The Teachings of Society. Social etiquette replaces Salvation experience.

I Cor 1:26 For ye see your calling brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:

5. judgment of religious activities- Straining at gnats and swallowing camels.

6. Worship of “Heavenly Idols”- In this case, angels. In many cases we put Church ahead of God, or Projects ahead of people.

7. Self Control- This gives man the idea that the problem is not his sinful nature but his inability to conquer his passions.

The answer then becomes greater effort or education instead of faith in Christ.

III. THE “CONCRETE” PAUL USED FOR FOUNDATION. Paul did not simply expose the problem, he pointed to the ways to keep from falling for the tricks the False Teachers used.

A) Enranked in Order- “your order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ” vs 5 These are military terms used to describe a group of soldiers that are able to withstand the enemy’s attack because they form a block that protects each other and fights as a unit. For the Christian this is the Body of Christ in which each has a part that works together with the whole.

The first thing the False Teachers did was to try to get the Christians away from fellow Christians. Isolated he then became a much easier prey.

Do you realize the importance of being Faithful in Church attendance for yourself and for others??

Do you “look out” for fellow Christians who may be under attack??

B) Established in Faith- “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him. Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the Faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving” vs 6-7 We receive Christ by Faith and we live by Faith. This is a continuous Life built on the foundation of Christ. It involves being:

    1. Rooted- No tumbleweed(start and stop, hit or miss living) No transplant- Don’t think “grass is greener” some where else.
    2. Built up- Growing in Grace and Knowledge of Christ. Your building is built on Christ’s Foundation–not someone’s fancy!!
    3. Abounding-Overflowing with thanks. Your life with Christ is not an overworking of self effort, but an overflowing of enjoyed Blessings.

C) Enlightenment about Christ’s Work- We’re satisfied with Christ because we know WHO He is and WHAT He’s done for us.

    1. He is the head of all principalities and Powers-Nothing in the “heavenlies” or in earth is greater than he. Therefore nothing should be placed ahead of Him.
    2. Thru Him we are circumcised with Spiritual circumcision-We don’t need external symbols of Spiritual Realities..
    3. He enables us to have a new life- free from previous “debts”. Not a new beginning only; a clean past also!
    4. Thru Him we are victorious over our enemies- spoiling them! He turns defeat into victory and enables us to change the hindrances into helps.

What a Glorious Savior we have. Who could want anything more?? Who would accept anything less??

Ep 4:14-15 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

COLOSSIANS: Complete in Christ Rev. Mike Jones

02:21-29 POWER TO PERSEVERE

The life of a Pastor is filled with Tragedies and troublesome circumstances as he tries to help people deal with marital problems, serious sicknesses, and the normal difficulties people face; but one of the saddest things any Pastor has to face is when a Christian turns back on the Lord. This is a “Double” problem for the Pastor since the Backslider not only turns BACK but also turns AWAY from the only real Help he has.

I want us to look today at What Happens when a Person looks back after putting their hands to the plow; at how such a Tragedy could happen; and, finally, I want to see how we can be Faithful to the end.

I. What a Backslider loses: In Relation to-

A) The World- His testimony and character. He is considered a coward and a traitor; people don’t even name their dogs Judas!! The world will try to get you to turn away from Christ but they will be repelled if you actually do so.

B) The Church- Some of the saddest words in the Bible are Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, (II Tim 4:10). A Backslider abandons the Fellowship of the Body of Christ and His Work in the Body of Christ. He turns his back on two of the main things every person needs; Help and Purpose. And the Church has to function without a “finger”.

C) The Lord-

1. His Love for Christ Rev 2:4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

2. His Power to work for Christ – Samson

3. His Fruitfulness- Mark 4:18-19 And these are they which are sown among thorns, such as hear the word, and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. (And Remember “Fruitfulness” was the way God judged whether you were pruned or placed in the fire!! John 15:2)

4. His Peace- Peter went out and wept bitterly. David Prayed Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit (Ps 51:12).

5. Eventually His Soul- James 5:19-20 Brethern, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.

II. HOW A PERSON BECOMES A BACKSLIDER- Example of Abraham (Gen 12)

A) He left Bethel (House of God) “By easy Stages” vs 9. Gradually the Fires of Faith cool until one day you notice only ashes instead of flames.

B) Problems (Famine) came to him and he sought a worldly answer instead of resting in the Lord (Went to Egypt to live) vs 10

C) He began to rely on His Ability to handle problems instead of seeking God’s directions (Told Sarah to say she was his sister) vs 13

The Word never takes root in some hearts, has only a limited root system in others, but many people become distracted and then distrustful before finally becoming disbelieving (Mark 4:14-20).

ARE YOU “EASING” YOUR WAY BACKWARDS???

If Backsliding is so harmful; and even a “giant” like Abraham had to content with it, how can we (mere “normal” Christians) hope to avoid it’s traps?? The answer is found in one of the most dynamic concepts in the New Testament- Christ IN YOU, the hope of Glory.

The Sin Problem is not a simple Problem; not only is it fatal (Wages of Sin is Death), but it is also highly infectious!! Jesus on the Cross deals with the PENALTY of Sin but it takes Jesus living in you to deal with the PRESENCE of Sin!

Here are some things to know to “cut the Power on”:

1. The Source- IN Christ (Gal 2:20) Are You “Plugged In”??

2. The Switch- Faith Are you “turned On”??

3. The “Substation”- Knowledge. Do you have a “Battery” Christianity that runs down regularly; or are you constantly Connected??

To Begin: He cannot have Faith in what he does not know!

To Claim: Eph 1:17-19 Paul prayed for vision to comprehend what the Christian has in Christ.

God has provided Pardon and Power for the Christian Life. Don’t turn down either! “Greater is He that is in you than He that is in the World”. Hold on to God’s Unchanging Hand

Don’t Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,

When funds are low and debts are high,

When you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit.

Rest if you must, but don’t you quit

Life is odd with it’s twists and turns

As every one of us sometimes learns,

And many a failure turns about,

When he might have won had he stuck it out;

Don’t give up, though the pace seems slow-

You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than

It seems to a faint and faltering man.

Often the struggler has given up,

When he might have captured the victor’s cup.

And learned too late, when the night slipped down

How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out-

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt.

And you can never tell how close you are,

It may be near when it seems afar;

So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit-

It’s when things seem worst that you mustn’t quit.

03hapter 3- Christ: The Changes He brings to our Life

We have been examining the fact that Christ is above all things and therefore all we need to have a relationship with God. He does not need to have anything added to Him nor should we subtract anything from Him. This is marvelous Doctrine and great Truth but it must be translatable into a livable life if it is to have real meaning. Paul now shows the Colossians the changes that will come as a result of who Christ is and what He did for us.

I. A CHANGE IN ATTITUDE 3:1-3 There is a tremendous difference between a man who fishes for food to survive and a man who takes off from work to go fishing. To one it is a Job; to the other a Joy.

That’s the way it is now in our relationship with God. Christ has provided everything we need to be saved and become a Child of God. Now our works are not “Burdens to earn favor with God: but methods to express our Love for and Faith in God.

Our identification with Christ in His resurrection gives us a new purpose in life- to seek the Heavenly things. There is coming a Physical Resurrection (or Rapture!) for us but now we identify with Christ in a Spiritual Resurrection- to new Life in Christ.

This new purpose in Life is manifested in a new “Mind set” (Affection in vs 2). My attitude is now to look at Life’s situations from the Heavenly instead of the Human viewpoint. This give me:

a. Peace in life’s circumstances- Is 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

b. Humility in life’s service- Phil 2:5-8 Let this (servant) mind be in you which was also in Christ…

II. A CHANGE IN OUTLOOK 3:4-7

Our anticipation of His return causes us to look for the Pure instead of the “Pleasurable”. I Jn 3:3 Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

Our identification with Christ causes us to “slay” (Mortify) the sinful Passions that seek to control us.

A) What we were vs 5 Controlled by selfish sinful passions

B) Wrath this brings 6 on the children of disobedience (It brings death to the unsaved and chastening to the Christian)

C) Walk it exemplifies 7 Worldly walk (Lot as example). Things you used to think were Fun you now find are Folly.

III. A CHANCE IN “WARDROBE” 3:8-10 A person who loves the Lord will seek to wear the “wardrobe” of Godly Character instead of worldly control. This means you will:

A) Discard something 8-9 The old man (controlled by sin) who is exemplified by Temper (anger, wrath, malice) and Tongue (blasphemy, bad talk, lies).

B) Put something on 10 The new man (new creature in Christ) who breathes the knowledge of Christ in order to be constantly renewed. The New Man is not satisfied to simply know that Christ died for his sins- he wants to Know CHRIST. That’s why Church attendance, Prayer, Bible Study, and Witnessing are so important to the Christian.

IV. A CHANGE IN RELATIONSHIPS 3:11 – 4:1

A) Our Relationship with Society vs 11

Greek- “Civilized” people

Jews- “Religious” people either circumcised or not/Committed or not)

Barbarian- uneducated

Scythian- undignified

Bond- Slaves to someone or something

Free- Liberated

Christ came to save all–and all are “equal” in Him.

B) Our Relationship with the Church vs 12-15

1. The Way God sees us: Elect- part of God’s plan Holy- Set apart for God Beloved-Loved by God

2. The Way we should see others in the Church. With a heart full of:

Mercy- compassion, pity

Kindness-gentle, gracious disposition

Humbleness of mind-lowliness of mind

Meekness- acceptance of God’s work

Longsuffering- not “blazing” up in anger

Forbearing one another-Putting up with one another, enduring

Forgiving one another- As Christ forgave us.

The elements that make this work:

Love binds us together

Peace rules our heart-acts as an “umpire” in our lives

Thankfulness expresses our Faith

C) Our Relationship with Ourselves vs 16-17

We have a Joyful Heart because the Word of God dwells there. (Note that the exact same things happens when we allow the Word of God to dwell in our heart as when we are filled with the Holy Spirit (Ep 5:18-19). Both exalt Christ and that is where our Joy flows from)

We have Thankful Lips because our Talk and our Walk glorify Christ- and that’s our purpose.

D) Our Relationship with our Family vs 18-21

Wives- subject to husband under God’s direction

Husbands-love wives as Christ loved you. Be not harsh with them.

Children- Obey your Parents. Respect their authority

Parents- Don’t expect more of your children than they can give so they will Develop them-instead of discouraging them.

E) Our Relationship at work vs 2 – 4:1

1) Workers- Do a good job 22

Do a Godly job 23-25 God will reward our efforts God will reward our efforts God will punish our errors

2) Employers- 4:1 Treat your workers right Realize you work for God also.

COLOSSIANS: Complete in Christ Rev. Mike Jones

03:11-4:1 RELATIONSHIPS RESULTING FROM
OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST

Paul begins by establishing the basis of these relationships- Honesty (vs 9). We are to acknowledge our own failings and fears because we all depend on Christ:

1) We are Family- Sons of God by Faith

2) We are Part of the same Body- of Christ

3) We are forgiven sinners- all have sinned.

I. OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH SOCIETY vs 11

Greek- “Civilized” people

Jews- “Religious” People either circumcised or not (Committed or not)

Barbarian- uneducated

Scythian- undignified

Bond- Slaves

Free- Liberated

Christ came to save all- and all are “equal” in Him.

II. OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE CHURCH 12-15

A) The Way God Sees us: Elect- part of God’s Plan Holy- Set apart for God / Beloved- Loved by God

B) The Way We should see others in the Church. With a heart full of:

Mercy- compassion, pity

Kindness- gentle, gracious disposition

Humbleness of mind- lowliness of mind

Meekness- acceptance of God’s work

Longsuffering- Will not blaze up in anger

Forbearing one another- Putting up with one another, enduring

Forgiving one another- As Christ forgave us.

The “cement” that held this relationship together 14-15: Love binds us together, Peace rules our heart, Thanks expresses our faith

III. OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH OURSELVES 16-17

Joyful heart because the Word of God dwells there

Thankful lips because all is done for God and He is the one we seek to Glorify

IV. OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR FAMILY 18-21

Wives- subject to husband under God’s direction

Husbands- love your wives as Christ loved you. Be not bitter (harsh) against them

Children- Obey Parents. Respect their authority

Parents- Don’t expect more of your children than they can give and allow your “expectation anger” to discourage your child from the Greatness God desires for them.

V. OUR RELATIONSHIP AT WORK 22-4:1

A) Workers- Do a good job 22 / Do a Godly job 23-25

God is who we really work for / God will reward our effort / God will punish our errors

B) Employers- 4:1 Treat your workers right / Realize you are a worker for God

03:13 PUTTING UP WITH PUT DOWNS

Have you ever been called “four-eyes”, “Snaggle Tooth”, or a “nerd”? I HAVE! Have you ever been told you were no good or you couldn’t do something? Hurts doesn’t it!

All of us like to receive Praise; and that’s what we stress at Thanksgiving. But, sadly, many of us get more “Put Downs” that we do Praise. Why does this happen? What should we do when it happens to us? How can we avoid doing it to others?

Our Key Verse today is Col 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you (P1599). Keep it in mind as we look at “Putting up with Put Downs”.

I. WHY DO PEOPLE USE PUT DOWNS AGAINST OTHER PEOPLE??

1) Self-Centered- This Person feels that they build themselves up as they Put other people down. They don’t consider what it does to the one who is put down. They are only concerned with being the center of attention.

2) Bad Self Image- They bring others down because they feel down; and “misery loves company”.

3) Insecurity- These find it easier to put people down that take the risk of building relationships.

4) Good Natured Talk between friends- CAREFUL! The most common problem in marriage is the words spoken in fun that the other one takes serious. Learn what areas are off limits.

II. HOW CAN YOU LEARN TO BUILD UP: Acts 20:32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

1) Know what people like and need to hear- Girls are sensitive to their looks and weight. They like being treated like a lady. Boys love to be compliments on something they’ve done and it kills them when someone makes fun of what they say or the way they do something.

2) Be Sincere- Flattery that seeks to manipulate a person does harm. Paul said “Knowledge Puffs up but Love Builds up”.

3) Show Appreciation- A good “Thank You” works wonders.

4) Invite others into your life- This shows that you value them as a person.

5) Apologize the Proper Way- Not-“I’m sorry I yelled at you but your deserved it!”. Instead-“I’m sorry, can we be friends”.

6) See the Person you are trying to build up as God sees them- valuable enough for Jesus to die for.

PRAISEWORTHY WORDS CAN;

Heal a “Soul”: Prov 16:24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Build a Benefit: Eph 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Encourage to Greatness: 1 Th 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

That is why the “tongue must be tamed”: James 3:7-10 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 8 but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.

03:8-12 IMPORTANCE OF INTEGRITY

Col 3:8-12 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (P1599)

ONE OF THE GREATEST HINDRANCES TO THE SPREAD OF CHRISTIANITY TODAY IS THE DAILY LIVE OF CHRISTIAN PEOPLE.

1> They say they have the greatest news in the world but they are afraid to share it.

2> They say Christianity is an Abundant Life but they miss Church for the smallest of excuses and seem to look with longing at the well watered valleys of Sodom that the world presents to them.

3> The world has begun to look at Christianity as just another religion among the many religions of the world- If it makes you happy then that’s fine but it may not work for everyone. One of the reasons for this is the FAILURE IN INTEGRITY AMONG PROFESSING CHRISTIANS- Mag arts

We Believe that man was Formed by God, Deformed by Sin, and then he is Transformed by Christ. We believe that Christianity means we have forgiveness for sins and a NEW LIFE in Christ- 2 Cor 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

But Christianity seems to have become more TALK THAN WALK and No amount of positive talk will remove an ruptured appendix. Or No amount of garden shows on TV will weed your flowers. Duty must go with Doctrine or we simply become people who are “ever learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth”.

That’s Why Integrity of Christian Life is so important. Integrity: “The State of being complete. Honest and upright living”. John said, 3 John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

1. Integrity should remain steadfast in spite of circumstances- Job 2:3 And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.

2. Integrity is a guidepost on the highway of life- Prov 11:3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. Even Heathens can have Integrity- When Abraham lied about Sarah being his sister to King Abimelech it was the Integrity of his heart that keep God’s Judgment away- Gen 20:6 And God said unto him in a dream, Yea, I know that thou didst this in the integrity of thy heart; for I also withheld thee from sinning against me: therefore suffered I thee not to touch her. NOTE- Sin destroys the DESIRE for Integrity- Rom 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;

Integrity is one of the greatest things a man can give his Children-Prov 20:7 The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.

Compromise of Integrity

1. Violates those who Trust You-

2. Violates Your Own Self and Values

3. Violates God

Integrity comes from the Heart. The Heart is changed thru the Person of Jesus Christ and the Power of the Holy Spirit. God will sanctify for His use WHATEVER YOU GIVE TO HIM. That’s what services like this are all about.

I’m not saying you have to be perfect, none of us are. I’m saying you must learn to WEIGH as well as WASH. Washing away your sins should also include living a new life for Christ.

04Chapter 4- Christ: The Purpose of our Ministry

Paul has been talking about the Changes wrought by being in Christ. Now he wants us to translate these changes into an effort Christian Life.

I. COUNSEL FOR CHRISTIAN LIVING 4:2-9

  1. Be a Person of Prayer 4:2-4
      1. Steadfast Prayer- “Continue”. Earnest, unwearied. Pray without ceasing. Phil 4:6 Be careful for nothing: but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
      2. Alert Prayer- “Watch”. Awake and intent (See Matt 26:36-41)
      3. Thankful Prayer- Over and over Paul stresses this
      4. Purposeful Prayer-Pray for God to give:
      5. Open Door-To Proclaim the Gospel (The reason Paul was in Prison. He wanted to get out to do it again!!)
      6. Bold Speech-That he might speak boldly, fully, and clearly because of the importance of the message.
  2. Behave Wisely 4:5-6
      1. Understand your influence upon and judgment by sinners and live accordingly
      2. Redeem (Buy up) your opportunities. As a wise “Investor” realize that sometimes you only get one chance to “cash in” in your dealings with people and you need to be sure that their “Blood is not on your hands” (Ez 33:6).
  3. Control your Tongue. The Tongue has power to Direct (Commands) Destroy (See James 3:6), and Delight (See Prov 25:13) therefore you need to be careful how it is used.
      1. Talk Gracefully-Pleasant and winsome
      2. Talk Appropriately-Don’t talk too much or fail to talk when you need to–just enough talk to “season” the conversation with the “salt” of Christianity.
      3. Talk Intelligently-Think before you speak so you will know how to answer every man. (Some are silly, some are serious, some are seeking.)
  4. Bear one another’s Burdens 4:7-9 Paul did this by allowing Tychicus to do what he couldn’t. Tychicus’ example shows us the type of person we need to look for to help in the work:
      1. His Information- About Paul’s affairs. This was not Gossip or Complaints but information to use in Prayer and Participation.
      2. His Character- Beloved Brother ( A Christian Paul respected)Faithful servant to the Lord (Could be trusted)
      3. His Mission-Inform about Paul encourage them by sharing God’s Blessings. (He had a Purpose; he knew what was expected of him)
      4. His Partner- The Partner had a Partner (Onesimus). In the mouth of 2 or 3 witnesses shall every word be established. II Cor 13:1 Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses I Tim 5:19

II. THE COMPANIONS OF THE CHRISTIAN MINISTRY 4:10-18 Paul now gives one of the most extensive listings in any of his writings of the people who labored with him. Everyone remembers Paul–but God wants us to realize that there are many members of the “Body of Christ: and each is important.

  1. The Circumcised 4:10-11 (Jews first, then Gentiles)
    1. Aristarchus- A Fellow prisoner; not as famous but fellow prisoner
    2. Marcus (Mark – Barnabas Nephew (Importance of Family recognition) RESTORED to Fellowship and Work(See Acts 15:36-)
    3. Jesus (Justus)- Simply named. Some people are important because of who they are more than what they do.
  2. The Prayer Warrior- Epaphras 4:12-13
    1. One of you- part of the group (Human viewpoint)
    2. Servant of Christ-part of the Body (Heaven’s viewpoint)
    3. Laborer in Prayer- Type of Prayer: Fervent Purpose of Prayer: That ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.
    4. Concerned Christian-Great zeal for all of God’s work (You, Laodicea, and Hierapolis)
    5. The Physican- Luke 4:14 Ministry to physical needs of Paul
  3. The Failure- Demas 4:14 II Tim 4:10 For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world,…(Even Jesus had this problem with His disciples Jn 6:66)
  4. The Partners 4:15 The Brethren in Laodicea- a sister church. Send them your letter, read theirs. Share information.
  5. The Committed- Nymphas 4:15 He put what he had to use for the Lord (Let the Church meet in his house). You don’t need Wealth, you need willingness.
  6. The Cautioned- Archippas 4:17 Consider the importance of your job- “Take heed to the ministry you have received in the Lord”.
    1. Was he allowing the “cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, or the lust for other things” to choke the fruit in his life? (Mk 4:19)
    2. Was he distracted by “things” instead of his work?? (You become more interested in the color of the ship” than the fact that it’s sinking!!)
    3. Were persecutions, or problems, or poverty tempting him to look back?
    4. Complete your task-Finish what God told you to do

Conclusion:

Paul’s Signature– Stamp of Authenticity (God does not want us fooled with counterfeit writings)

Paul’s Sigh-Remember my bonds (Even a man like Paul faced some very long and difficult days)

Paul’s Salutation– Grace be with you. (May God’s unmerited and unearned favor go with and guard you)

04:6 TEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Ten things you need to know about 10 things you need to know!!

10 COMMANDMENTS:

1. Thou Shalt have no other Gods before me- Put God First

2. Thou Shalt not make unto thee a graven image- Do not try to make God as you want

3. Thou Shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in Vain- You cannot disrespect God and still respect God.

4. Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it holy- If you do not come apart then you will eventually come apart! Even God took a day off!

5. Honor thy Father and Mother- Respect for authority begins at home

6. Thou Shalt not Kill- Man’s breathe is in God’s hands; not yours.

7. Thou Shalt not commit adultery- Some things are more than the physical act

8. Thou Shalt not steal- What is theirs is not yours

9. Thou Shalt not bear false witness- Do not misrepresent the truth

10. Thou Shalt not covet – Do not try to keep up with the “Smiths”

9 FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT– (Gal 5:22-23) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, {23} Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

8 SOULS WERE SAVED FROM THE FLOOD– (1 Pet 3:20) Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.

(Mat 7:13-14) Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: {14} Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

7 DESCRIPTIONS OF CHRIST BY ELDERS– (Rev 5:12) Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

6 WINGS ON A SERAPHIM (Is 6:2- 2 cover face, feet, fly). 6 Water pots of stone turned to wine (Jn 2:6)

5 LOAVES OF BREAD TO FEED 5000, 5 VIRGINS WHO HAD NO OIL – 5 SENSES- SEE, HEAR, FEEL, SMELL, TASTE

4 PARTS TO WELL ROUNDED PERSON– (Luke 2:52) And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. Mental, Physical, Social, Spiritual

3 PARTS OF GOD- Father (Thought Salvation) Son (Bought Salvation), Spirit (Wrought Salvation)

2 STATEMENTS EVERYONE NEEDS TO MAKE– I am a Sinner, God I Surrender, Lord

And finally, Only 1 LIFE TO LIVE, TWILL SOON BE PAST; ONLY WHAT IS DONE FOR CHRIST WILL LAST. What are you doing with the life God has given you??