Colossians 3:19-4:1
Paul is concerned about how disciples of Christ are living out their faith in relationship with those in their household so here, he gives some instructions (in a very brief form). There is a pattern to these instructions: the "subordinate" is spoken to first before Paul speaks to the person with more authourity. The head of the household is spoken to three times (as husband, father and owner of slaves). In each case, the way that they relate to to each other is supposed to reflect something of their relationship to Christ (except for when Paul speaks to husbands and fathers - there is no direct connection made about their relationship to Christ although it is implied in other passages. For example, in Ephesians husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved the Church). The main argument of the passage is that the new life that we have in Christ (or, in the context of this letter, the new outfit we have - see verses 12-14) is to be reflected in the way that we relate to each other. This is not unique to this letter - Paul visits this theme frequently in his other letters as well. He seems most concerned about the relationships in the Christian household and I think that it is because we often let our guard down at home and it is in those family relationships that there is the most danger to not reflect the character of Christ.
Since I don't own any slaves, the specific instructions for me are to love my wife (implied: as Christ loved the church which means that I have to die to or let go of my own desires and dreams to see the desires and dreams of Christine fulfilled. This is a trust relationship because I am trusting Christine to do the same for me.) and to be gentle with her and to encourage Zach and not frustrate him.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
peace rules
Colossians 3:15-17
Paul is concerned about the unity of the church, reminding them that they are one and that peace is to rule in their individual lives and that they are called to peace as a church. This passage also contains a list of different songs: psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Even though we are supposed to sing to God, we are also supposed to sing to each other. I think that sometimes our times of corporate worship are actually a bunch of individuals engaging in a private worship experience in a common location with common music. Paul reminds the church that there is a greater benefit - we are to sing to each other and our collective worship of God is supposed to benefit us - it is to encourage, teach and even admonish each other.
Thankfulness is another key theme - Paul commands that peace rule in our hearts and that we should be thankful. We are to sing to God (adomonishing one another) with thankfulness in our hearts. We are to do everythin in the name of Christ while giving thanks to God. Paul's concern for the church in Colossae could be spoken to much of the North American church today: I think that a lot of our problems lie in our discontent, greed, envy and ingratitude. If we were more grateful, peace would more likely rule. God is not pleased with our ingratitude because, at its heart, what it actually says is that we don't like what God has given to us - that God is not good because he has not given us good things. Lord, let me not accuse you of not being good!
Finally, I need to ask myself the question everyday: am I doing this in the strength of Christ or in my own strength? Am I doing this for the glory of God or for my own glory? Am I doing this to receive praise from others or out of my love for Jesus? Let my heart and motives be true, Jesus. May I be motivated to give my best for your glory and not my own.
Paul is concerned about the unity of the church, reminding them that they are one and that peace is to rule in their individual lives and that they are called to peace as a church. This passage also contains a list of different songs: psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Even though we are supposed to sing to God, we are also supposed to sing to each other. I think that sometimes our times of corporate worship are actually a bunch of individuals engaging in a private worship experience in a common location with common music. Paul reminds the church that there is a greater benefit - we are to sing to each other and our collective worship of God is supposed to benefit us - it is to encourage, teach and even admonish each other.
Thankfulness is another key theme - Paul commands that peace rule in our hearts and that we should be thankful. We are to sing to God (adomonishing one another) with thankfulness in our hearts. We are to do everythin in the name of Christ while giving thanks to God. Paul's concern for the church in Colossae could be spoken to much of the North American church today: I think that a lot of our problems lie in our discontent, greed, envy and ingratitude. If we were more grateful, peace would more likely rule. God is not pleased with our ingratitude because, at its heart, what it actually says is that we don't like what God has given to us - that God is not good because he has not given us good things. Lord, let me not accuse you of not being good!
Finally, I need to ask myself the question everyday: am I doing this in the strength of Christ or in my own strength? Am I doing this for the glory of God or for my own glory? Am I doing this to receive praise from others or out of my love for Jesus? Let my heart and motives be true, Jesus. May I be motivated to give my best for your glory and not my own.
Monday, May 26, 2008
a christian fashion statement
Colossians 3:5-14
Paul is concerned that the Christians in Colossae might be still indulging in selfish and sinful practices. He teaches that even though we have been raised with Christ to new life, there are still practices and desires that cling to life. There is a spiritual reality (the old has gone, the new has come) that must be lived out in practice. Paul lists some of the practices of the sinful nature (sexual immorality, impurity, greed, etc.) and contrasts them to the virtues of Christ's nature (compassion, humility, forgiveness, etc.). He uses the metaphor of getting dressed: get rid of the old clothes which represent the old way of life and put on the new clothes which are tied together with love.
At first reading, it seems like this passage contradicts what Paul has been saying earlier. He has been teaching that by the work of Christ we have new life but here he says that we have a responsibility to work for that new life as well. This fits well with Paul's teaching in other books (and with the teaching of Jesus). The evidence or fruit of the new life can only come as we are connected to the source of life which is Christ but each one of us bears some responsibility to allow that evidence to show. Jesus talks about how each branch that does not produce fruit will be pruned so that it become productive. Paul talks about it in terms of ultimate reality (that spiritual dimension where we are pure, holy and righteous) that must be lived out in this present reality.
I don't have to go through the list very far to find those things that I need to change in my life in order to better reflect and represent the character of Christ: greed (wanting things that God has not entrusted to me), lust (using people to accomplish my own desires which strips people of the honour due to them as beings created in the image of God), etc. Being a practical person, I want to know how to get rid of these things and how to put on Christ. All Paul says is to put to death that which belongs to the earthly nature and put on the things that belong to the character of Christ. I think Paul is saying that there must be a concious action - I can't just sit back and wait for it to happen but I must daily indicate my desire to reflect the character of Christ and live that out as best as I can. This means that I must carefully consider each thought, attitude and action in view of Christ's character and conciously choose that which best represents Christ, asking for his help to live it out. The goal is Christ who is all and in all!
Paul is concerned that the Christians in Colossae might be still indulging in selfish and sinful practices. He teaches that even though we have been raised with Christ to new life, there are still practices and desires that cling to life. There is a spiritual reality (the old has gone, the new has come) that must be lived out in practice. Paul lists some of the practices of the sinful nature (sexual immorality, impurity, greed, etc.) and contrasts them to the virtues of Christ's nature (compassion, humility, forgiveness, etc.). He uses the metaphor of getting dressed: get rid of the old clothes which represent the old way of life and put on the new clothes which are tied together with love.
At first reading, it seems like this passage contradicts what Paul has been saying earlier. He has been teaching that by the work of Christ we have new life but here he says that we have a responsibility to work for that new life as well. This fits well with Paul's teaching in other books (and with the teaching of Jesus). The evidence or fruit of the new life can only come as we are connected to the source of life which is Christ but each one of us bears some responsibility to allow that evidence to show. Jesus talks about how each branch that does not produce fruit will be pruned so that it become productive. Paul talks about it in terms of ultimate reality (that spiritual dimension where we are pure, holy and righteous) that must be lived out in this present reality.
I don't have to go through the list very far to find those things that I need to change in my life in order to better reflect and represent the character of Christ: greed (wanting things that God has not entrusted to me), lust (using people to accomplish my own desires which strips people of the honour due to them as beings created in the image of God), etc. Being a practical person, I want to know how to get rid of these things and how to put on Christ. All Paul says is to put to death that which belongs to the earthly nature and put on the things that belong to the character of Christ. I think Paul is saying that there must be a concious action - I can't just sit back and wait for it to happen but I must daily indicate my desire to reflect the character of Christ and live that out as best as I can. This means that I must carefully consider each thought, attitude and action in view of Christ's character and conciously choose that which best represents Christ, asking for his help to live it out. The goal is Christ who is all and in all!
Friday, May 23, 2008
spiritual peek-a-boo?
Colossians 3:1-4
Paul is concerned about what is occupying the attention and affection of the Colossian Christians. The key words are: things above, hidden, appear, life and death. This continues the word picture of being dead to our sinful desires and raised to a new life with new desires in Christ. It also connects to 2:13-15 in that this is another conclusion of that truth (the previous conclusions were that we no longer have to try to earn God's favour through observing rituals and rules). The main argument of this passage is that since we are raised with Christ, we are dead to the philosophies and desires of this world and our sin nature. Therefore, instead of focusing our attention and affection on worldly philosophies, we should focus our attention and affection on heavenly philosophies and desires.
My life has become intricately connected to Christ and so my life is now hidden in Christ. I think what Paul is saying here is that my desires (my attention and affection) have been imprinted in Christ and only when Christ appears will my desires be fulfilled. At least that's the way it should be. It reminds me of playing peek-a-boo with Zach - if I get distracted and forget to come out of hiding, he makes noise and tries to get my attention again because his joy is fulfilled when he sees my smile and my face. The cool thing is that he has a half-smile on his face because he is already anticipating the joy and fun of my face being revealed.
The application is obvious: I wait with eager anticipation for Christ's smiling face to appear in all its glory because only then will my joy, my affection and my desires be truly fulfilled. In the meantime I am too often distracted by the ideas, desires and philosophies of this world. Jesus, may my affection and attention be directed only to you and may I wait with eager anticipation, with a smile on my face because I know that when you appear all my desires will be met and my joy will be full. The core of my heart longs only for you - nothing else will satisfy me.
Paul is concerned about what is occupying the attention and affection of the Colossian Christians. The key words are: things above, hidden, appear, life and death. This continues the word picture of being dead to our sinful desires and raised to a new life with new desires in Christ. It also connects to 2:13-15 in that this is another conclusion of that truth (the previous conclusions were that we no longer have to try to earn God's favour through observing rituals and rules). The main argument of this passage is that since we are raised with Christ, we are dead to the philosophies and desires of this world and our sin nature. Therefore, instead of focusing our attention and affection on worldly philosophies, we should focus our attention and affection on heavenly philosophies and desires.
My life has become intricately connected to Christ and so my life is now hidden in Christ. I think what Paul is saying here is that my desires (my attention and affection) have been imprinted in Christ and only when Christ appears will my desires be fulfilled. At least that's the way it should be. It reminds me of playing peek-a-boo with Zach - if I get distracted and forget to come out of hiding, he makes noise and tries to get my attention again because his joy is fulfilled when he sees my smile and my face. The cool thing is that he has a half-smile on his face because he is already anticipating the joy and fun of my face being revealed.
The application is obvious: I wait with eager anticipation for Christ's smiling face to appear in all its glory because only then will my joy, my affection and my desires be truly fulfilled. In the meantime I am too often distracted by the ideas, desires and philosophies of this world. Jesus, may my affection and attention be directed only to you and may I wait with eager anticipation, with a smile on my face because I know that when you appear all my desires will be met and my joy will be full. The core of my heart longs only for you - nothing else will satisfy me.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
the end of religion
Colossians 2:16-23
Paul contrasts the shadow of the law with the reality of Christ. The idea of false humility shows up twice as well as mystical, rule heavy worship and harsh treatment of the body. This is the early form of gnosticism that I mentioned before: the physical is evil and must be punished, the spiritual is good and must be worshiped. Angel worship comes in because they would believe that angels had special knowledge that was passed to humans if humans observed certain rituals and rules.
Paul's words would have sounded completely radical to this culture: don't let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink or by which days you observe (or don't observe) as sacred and how you observe (or don't observe) those days; don't keep submitting to the ancient rules and traditions. The unfortunate thing is that Paul's words still sound radical in today's culture. We've taken the good news message of Jesus (that God became one of us to show us his love, to save us from sin and to declare the end of religion) and built up rules and traditions around it and have created a new religion. This must sadden God!
The reason that we don't have to observe the rules anymore is found in the previous verses (Paul connects this passage with the previous with the word "therefore" meaning that this section is a conclusion of the previous): Christ has canceled the charge of our indebtedness and has taken away that which condemned us. Therefore we don't have to earn God's favour - Christ has purchased it for us.
The problem is that I love rules! I love rituals and traditions because I like to know what to expect (I love the familiar with a little twist of new) and because I like to think that my observance of rules and rituals somehow pleases God. It's really an issue of pride - I want to have a role in my own salvation; I don't want to accept the fact that Christ had to do it all for me because I was incapable (that makes me seem weak and helpless, which, in fact, I really am). Worse than that, I impose my self-imposed measures of righteousness on others, trying to make them live up to the same rules I have created. I am a Pharisee.
May I experience the freedom that Christ offers from rules and rituals (self-imposed or otherwise) and may I model that freedom so others too can be free.
Paul contrasts the shadow of the law with the reality of Christ. The idea of false humility shows up twice as well as mystical, rule heavy worship and harsh treatment of the body. This is the early form of gnosticism that I mentioned before: the physical is evil and must be punished, the spiritual is good and must be worshiped. Angel worship comes in because they would believe that angels had special knowledge that was passed to humans if humans observed certain rituals and rules.
Paul's words would have sounded completely radical to this culture: don't let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink or by which days you observe (or don't observe) as sacred and how you observe (or don't observe) those days; don't keep submitting to the ancient rules and traditions. The unfortunate thing is that Paul's words still sound radical in today's culture. We've taken the good news message of Jesus (that God became one of us to show us his love, to save us from sin and to declare the end of religion) and built up rules and traditions around it and have created a new religion. This must sadden God!
The reason that we don't have to observe the rules anymore is found in the previous verses (Paul connects this passage with the previous with the word "therefore" meaning that this section is a conclusion of the previous): Christ has canceled the charge of our indebtedness and has taken away that which condemned us. Therefore we don't have to earn God's favour - Christ has purchased it for us.
The problem is that I love rules! I love rituals and traditions because I like to know what to expect (I love the familiar with a little twist of new) and because I like to think that my observance of rules and rituals somehow pleases God. It's really an issue of pride - I want to have a role in my own salvation; I don't want to accept the fact that Christ had to do it all for me because I was incapable (that makes me seem weak and helpless, which, in fact, I really am). Worse than that, I impose my self-imposed measures of righteousness on others, trying to make them live up to the same rules I have created. I am a Pharisee.
May I experience the freedom that Christ offers from rules and rituals (self-imposed or otherwise) and may I model that freedom so others too can be free.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
coming to life
Colossians 2:13-15
The key words: uncircumcision, sinful nature. This passage contains the themes of death and life, debt and forgiveness, condemnation and justification. It also contains the image of a Roman victory parade where the defeated enemy is marched, weaponless and in disgrace, before the cheering crowds. The enemy in this case are the spiritual powers and authourities.
There is a significant surprise contained in this passage using the cross. The cross was the symbol of the justice and might of Rome. It was to put the condemned prisoner on public spectacle both so he could be ridiculed and shamed but also to inspire good behaviour on the part of the people (behave yourself or this could happen to you). While terrible, it was also just (in the Roman view). Here, Paul turns that all upside down - Jesus died, in a travesty of justice, on the very thing that was supposed to symbolize justice. If justice was to be truly served, it would be you and I that would die but here the cross is turned into a symbol of grace. Even further, Christ takes what was supposed to be a way of making a public spectacle of him and turns it in order to make a public spectacle of those forces opposed to him. I'm sure the impact is lost in this culture but in the culture to which Paul was writing this would have been huge (especially as they likely would have still seen people exposed to public spectacle on these instruments of justice).
The application is obvious and great- I am free from the debt of sin. I am made alive in Christ (through his death and resurrection) and I need to live out this freedom and life.
The key words: uncircumcision, sinful nature. This passage contains the themes of death and life, debt and forgiveness, condemnation and justification. It also contains the image of a Roman victory parade where the defeated enemy is marched, weaponless and in disgrace, before the cheering crowds. The enemy in this case are the spiritual powers and authourities.
There is a significant surprise contained in this passage using the cross. The cross was the symbol of the justice and might of Rome. It was to put the condemned prisoner on public spectacle both so he could be ridiculed and shamed but also to inspire good behaviour on the part of the people (behave yourself or this could happen to you). While terrible, it was also just (in the Roman view). Here, Paul turns that all upside down - Jesus died, in a travesty of justice, on the very thing that was supposed to symbolize justice. If justice was to be truly served, it would be you and I that would die but here the cross is turned into a symbol of grace. Even further, Christ takes what was supposed to be a way of making a public spectacle of him and turns it in order to make a public spectacle of those forces opposed to him. I'm sure the impact is lost in this culture but in the culture to which Paul was writing this would have been huge (especially as they likely would have still seen people exposed to public spectacle on these instruments of justice).
The application is obvious and great- I am free from the debt of sin. I am made alive in Christ (through his death and resurrection) and I need to live out this freedom and life.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
roots
Colossians 2:6-12
Paul is concerned that the church in Colossae might be taken in by some worldly philosphy. Paul doesn't indicate exactly what the philosophy teaches but he says that it is rooted in human tradition and elemental spiritual forces. I'm not sure exactly what he means by that but it is clear that these traditions and forces are opposed to Christ.
Paul is also concerned that the church has a proper view of Christ: the fullness of the Deity rests on him and he is the head over every other power and authourity. This connects back to what Paul said in chapter one about Christ being the firstborn - the favoured one - over all things and having authourity over all things as their Creator. As the head, he brings the church to fullness (in Ephesians he talks about the church being the fullness of the one who fills all things in all ways) and he cuts away anything that does not align with his character and purpose.
Paul uses two analogies or word pictures to describe the cutting away. The first is circumcision (the cutting of the flesh) which Paul uses to talk about Christ cutting off our sinful nature. The second word picture or symbol is baptism - in which the believer is acting out the fact that he has been buried with Christ (at which point Paul says the sinful nature is cut off - symbolized by the purifying effect of the water) and raised from the dead to new life.
This purification and being raised to new life is just the beginning - I must continue to live out my faith. Paul calls us to be rooted and built up in Christ, to draw our strength and life from him and then to bear fruit (specifically the fruit of thankfulness). I think that too many "christians" are relying on a prayer that they said when they were young to save them or the fact that they are immersed in Christian culture. I wonder if they are rooted in Christ. I wonder if they are finding their life in him.
Paul is concerned that the church in Colossae might be taken in by some worldly philosphy. Paul doesn't indicate exactly what the philosophy teaches but he says that it is rooted in human tradition and elemental spiritual forces. I'm not sure exactly what he means by that but it is clear that these traditions and forces are opposed to Christ.
Paul is also concerned that the church has a proper view of Christ: the fullness of the Deity rests on him and he is the head over every other power and authourity. This connects back to what Paul said in chapter one about Christ being the firstborn - the favoured one - over all things and having authourity over all things as their Creator. As the head, he brings the church to fullness (in Ephesians he talks about the church being the fullness of the one who fills all things in all ways) and he cuts away anything that does not align with his character and purpose.
Paul uses two analogies or word pictures to describe the cutting away. The first is circumcision (the cutting of the flesh) which Paul uses to talk about Christ cutting off our sinful nature. The second word picture or symbol is baptism - in which the believer is acting out the fact that he has been buried with Christ (at which point Paul says the sinful nature is cut off - symbolized by the purifying effect of the water) and raised from the dead to new life.
This purification and being raised to new life is just the beginning - I must continue to live out my faith. Paul calls us to be rooted and built up in Christ, to draw our strength and life from him and then to bear fruit (specifically the fruit of thankfulness). I think that too many "christians" are relying on a prayer that they said when they were young to save them or the fact that they are immersed in Christian culture. I wonder if they are rooted in Christ. I wonder if they are finding their life in him.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
knowing the mystery of God
Colossians 2:1-5
Paul's concern of the church in Colossae is that they would be fully mature in Christ and know the mystery of God - namely Christ. This passage flows right from the previous verses where Paul talks about contending with all Christ's energy to present everyone fully mature in Christ. In this passage he reveals who, specifically, he is contending for: the church in Colossae, the church in Laodicea and everyone who has not personally met Paul.
The idea of the mystery of God also connects these two passages. Previously the mystery was Christ in you, the hope of glory and in this section Christ reveals the mystery of God. I know that Paul wrote to combat an early form of Gnosticism (spelling?) which taught that there was a secret knowledge that was only revealed through certain rituals and observing rules. I think Gnosticism also taught that the physical was evil and the spiritual was good (a form of dualism). While not directly contradicting Gnosticism, Paul emphasizes in his letters the physical body of Christ and continually reminds the believer that the "secrets" (or in Paul's words, "mysteries") have all been revealed in Christ: the secret of contentment? trust in God who will meet all your needs according to his glory; the mystery of the gospel? Christ in you, the hope of glory; the mystery of God? Christ - in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Don't be deceived - you don't have to spend increasing amounts of money in order to learn the deep secrets of God and the universe like the Scientologists would have you believe. The fullness of God is revealed in Christ for all to discover if they would earnestly seek him. So, the question is, have I been seeking to know and understand the mysteries? Maybe that's not even the right question because Paul is writing to the local group of believers so maybe the question is: am I contributing to the environment where we can attain the full riches of complete understanding. In other words, am I helping the believers in my sphere of influence to be "encouraged in heart and united in love so that they can have the full riches of complete understanding in order to know the mystery of God, namely, Christ?" Or are my actions and attituded helping to conceal the mystery?
Paul's concern of the church in Colossae is that they would be fully mature in Christ and know the mystery of God - namely Christ. This passage flows right from the previous verses where Paul talks about contending with all Christ's energy to present everyone fully mature in Christ. In this passage he reveals who, specifically, he is contending for: the church in Colossae, the church in Laodicea and everyone who has not personally met Paul.
The idea of the mystery of God also connects these two passages. Previously the mystery was Christ in you, the hope of glory and in this section Christ reveals the mystery of God. I know that Paul wrote to combat an early form of Gnosticism (spelling?) which taught that there was a secret knowledge that was only revealed through certain rituals and observing rules. I think Gnosticism also taught that the physical was evil and the spiritual was good (a form of dualism). While not directly contradicting Gnosticism, Paul emphasizes in his letters the physical body of Christ and continually reminds the believer that the "secrets" (or in Paul's words, "mysteries") have all been revealed in Christ: the secret of contentment? trust in God who will meet all your needs according to his glory; the mystery of the gospel? Christ in you, the hope of glory; the mystery of God? Christ - in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Don't be deceived - you don't have to spend increasing amounts of money in order to learn the deep secrets of God and the universe like the Scientologists would have you believe. The fullness of God is revealed in Christ for all to discover if they would earnestly seek him. So, the question is, have I been seeking to know and understand the mysteries? Maybe that's not even the right question because Paul is writing to the local group of believers so maybe the question is: am I contributing to the environment where we can attain the full riches of complete understanding. In other words, am I helping the believers in my sphere of influence to be "encouraged in heart and united in love so that they can have the full riches of complete understanding in order to know the mystery of God, namely, Christ?" Or are my actions and attituded helping to conceal the mystery?
Monday, May 12, 2008
another mystery "solved"
Colossians 1:24-29
The word servant seems to show up a few times in this letter. Paul, in the previous section, has called himself a servant of the gospel and in this passage he calls himself the servant of the Church. This indicates Paul's deep humility - the purpose of Christ takes precendent over his own purpose and he will put aside his own agenda in order to make sure that the message of Jesus is given to whoever needs it whenever they need it and to make sure that the Church is operating how Christ intended it to operate.
There is so much in this short passage that could be unpacked and some of those things are very difficult statements (for example, v. 24 seems to indicate that Christ's suffering somehow was lacking and needed Paul's suffering to make it complete but what Paul is actually saying is that Christ's suffering was enough for our redemption and fully satisfied the justice of God but Paul had to suffer in order to take that message to the Gentiles. So, in order for the work of Christ to be complete in the Gentile's life, Paul had to suffer as well). However, the main point of the passage is the mystery that Paul reveals: Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Paul continues that thought when he says that he labours with all his (Christ's) energy which so powerfully works in Paul. The hope that Paul has to see everyone perfected in Christ is Christ at work in him and Christ at work in them. So Paul can labour with confidence knowing that the results do not depend on him but on Christ.
Sometimes I take too much responsibility for the work that Christ has given to me. I don't mean that I should be lazy or work less but that I should labour with all Christ's energy, remembering that my hope for my own sanctification is Christ in me and my hope for the continued growth and maturity of my students is Christ in them. Paul was so clear in his purpose and calling and I feel like mine has become a bit distracted or broad. I need Christ to refine my focus and to remind me that it is not by my strength or power but by the Spirit of God and Christ that the work and will of God will be done.
The word servant seems to show up a few times in this letter. Paul, in the previous section, has called himself a servant of the gospel and in this passage he calls himself the servant of the Church. This indicates Paul's deep humility - the purpose of Christ takes precendent over his own purpose and he will put aside his own agenda in order to make sure that the message of Jesus is given to whoever needs it whenever they need it and to make sure that the Church is operating how Christ intended it to operate.
There is so much in this short passage that could be unpacked and some of those things are very difficult statements (for example, v. 24 seems to indicate that Christ's suffering somehow was lacking and needed Paul's suffering to make it complete but what Paul is actually saying is that Christ's suffering was enough for our redemption and fully satisfied the justice of God but Paul had to suffer in order to take that message to the Gentiles. So, in order for the work of Christ to be complete in the Gentile's life, Paul had to suffer as well). However, the main point of the passage is the mystery that Paul reveals: Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Paul continues that thought when he says that he labours with all his (Christ's) energy which so powerfully works in Paul. The hope that Paul has to see everyone perfected in Christ is Christ at work in him and Christ at work in them. So Paul can labour with confidence knowing that the results do not depend on him but on Christ.
Sometimes I take too much responsibility for the work that Christ has given to me. I don't mean that I should be lazy or work less but that I should labour with all Christ's energy, remembering that my hope for my own sanctification is Christ in me and my hope for the continued growth and maturity of my students is Christ in them. Paul was so clear in his purpose and calling and I feel like mine has become a bit distracted or broad. I need Christ to refine my focus and to remind me that it is not by my strength or power but by the Spirit of God and Christ that the work and will of God will be done.
Friday, May 9, 2008
preaching to every creature
Colossians 1:21-23
Paul expands on that it means for Christ to make peace between us and God by his death on the cross: we were alienated from God and enemies of God but through the body of Christ we are now reconciled to God and seen as holy in his sight. The physical body of Christ is subtly emphasized again (in the previous passage it was the blood of Christ). I wonder if Paul is laying the ground work for a defense of Christ's humanity or physicality.
The fullness of the gospel message is contained in these few verses: we were alienated from God because of our actions and in full rebellion against God because of our nature but we have been completely reconciled to God by the death and resurrection of Christ so that not even an accusation can be brought against us that would condemn us in the eyes of God. The death and resurrection of Christ has fully satisfied the justice of God.
I believe that Paul recognized the grace of God in his life in ways that I have never and that this is what motivated him to be so fervent for the gospel. In some ways it was easier for him because he surrendered to Christ as an adult and so he saw how evil he really was before he met Christ (even though he thought he was fulfilling God's will). But coming to Christ as a child and being brought up in a Christian home and Christian culture is no excuse for me to fail to recognize how great the grace of God is. I know my heart and as much as I might try to say that I have never done anything "that bad" I know that my desires still tend towards evil and rebellion. If it was not for the restraining and protecting grace of God, I know that I would be in deep trouble.
One last thought from this passage: Paul says that the gospel has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven. This is an interesting phrase and not one that I would usually associate with the gospel. I think it connects to the previous passage: through Christ God reconciling all things to himself. Humanity's rebellion against God did not just affect humanity's relationship with God but echoed through the spiritual world and had devestating effects on all of creation. The good news message of Jesus means that humans can be reconciled to God but also that all of creation will one day fulfill the ultimate purpose for which it was created and that is good news for creation as well as us.
Paul expands on that it means for Christ to make peace between us and God by his death on the cross: we were alienated from God and enemies of God but through the body of Christ we are now reconciled to God and seen as holy in his sight. The physical body of Christ is subtly emphasized again (in the previous passage it was the blood of Christ). I wonder if Paul is laying the ground work for a defense of Christ's humanity or physicality.
The fullness of the gospel message is contained in these few verses: we were alienated from God because of our actions and in full rebellion against God because of our nature but we have been completely reconciled to God by the death and resurrection of Christ so that not even an accusation can be brought against us that would condemn us in the eyes of God. The death and resurrection of Christ has fully satisfied the justice of God.
I believe that Paul recognized the grace of God in his life in ways that I have never and that this is what motivated him to be so fervent for the gospel. In some ways it was easier for him because he surrendered to Christ as an adult and so he saw how evil he really was before he met Christ (even though he thought he was fulfilling God's will). But coming to Christ as a child and being brought up in a Christian home and Christian culture is no excuse for me to fail to recognize how great the grace of God is. I know my heart and as much as I might try to say that I have never done anything "that bad" I know that my desires still tend towards evil and rebellion. If it was not for the restraining and protecting grace of God, I know that I would be in deep trouble.
One last thought from this passage: Paul says that the gospel has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven. This is an interesting phrase and not one that I would usually associate with the gospel. I think it connects to the previous passage: through Christ God reconciling all things to himself. Humanity's rebellion against God did not just affect humanity's relationship with God but echoed through the spiritual world and had devestating effects on all of creation. The good news message of Jesus means that humans can be reconciled to God but also that all of creation will one day fulfill the ultimate purpose for which it was created and that is good news for creation as well as us.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
the supreme ruler
Colossians 1:15-20
The overall image and theme is that Jesus is the supreme ruler: the firstborn of all creation (not in the sense that Jesus was the first creation but that he is the "heir", the favoured one), the head of the church and the firstborn from the dead.
Paul also indicates that Christ was very intimately involved in creation - not just of the visible realm but also of the spiritual and invisible realm. The spiritual and invisible realm plays an important part in this passage - Paul indicates that Christ did not just die to reconcile humans to God but that there was more to that reconciliation involving things in heaven. I'm not sure what that means but it is a good reminder to me that I (not humans) are the center of the universe and that there is more to God's plan and redemption than just me - that somehow the blood of Christ brings peace (or will bring it) in the spiritual dimension.
It also good for me to be reminded of the supreme power of my King. I think sometimes I am too familiar with him (and at other times not familiar enough) but I know that I very often forget his supremacy, his power and his ability to rule. No wonder Paul says that every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord when we finally see him in all his glory. What a mix of awesomeness and terror that day will be!
The overall image and theme is that Jesus is the supreme ruler: the firstborn of all creation (not in the sense that Jesus was the first creation but that he is the "heir", the favoured one), the head of the church and the firstborn from the dead.
Paul also indicates that Christ was very intimately involved in creation - not just of the visible realm but also of the spiritual and invisible realm. The spiritual and invisible realm plays an important part in this passage - Paul indicates that Christ did not just die to reconcile humans to God but that there was more to that reconciliation involving things in heaven. I'm not sure what that means but it is a good reminder to me that I (not humans) are the center of the universe and that there is more to God's plan and redemption than just me - that somehow the blood of Christ brings peace (or will bring it) in the spiritual dimension.
It also good for me to be reminded of the supreme power of my King. I think sometimes I am too familiar with him (and at other times not familiar enough) but I know that I very often forget his supremacy, his power and his ability to rule. No wonder Paul says that every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord when we finally see him in all his glory. What a mix of awesomeness and terror that day will be!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
rescue
Colossians 1:9-14
Paul is concerned that the Christians at Colossae would continue to grow in their understanding of God's will and in their obedience to that will. I'm don't think that this concern comes from any short-comings or any emergencies in the Colossian church but that Paul's desire is for the continued discipleship of the church. The key words are fruit (this seems to be a bit of a theme so far) and the idea of the kingdom (aka dominion).
This passage connects back to the previous section with the words "for this reason". I think Paul prays for this church because he has heard of their love in the Spirit. Paul put energy and concern into his prayer because there is something happening there - he is responding to their growth.
The prayer itself is another one of Paul's wonderful prayers with some great requests: that they would be filled with the knowledge of God's will, all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, etc. If I has someone praying this for me on a consistent basis I would be so blessed! On the flip side, I should be praying this for the people in my life, especially my leaders.
Paul is concerned that the Christians at Colossae would continue to grow in their understanding of God's will and in their obedience to that will. I'm don't think that this concern comes from any short-comings or any emergencies in the Colossian church but that Paul's desire is for the continued discipleship of the church. The key words are fruit (this seems to be a bit of a theme so far) and the idea of the kingdom (aka dominion).
This passage connects back to the previous section with the words "for this reason". I think Paul prays for this church because he has heard of their love in the Spirit. Paul put energy and concern into his prayer because there is something happening there - he is responding to their growth.
The prayer itself is another one of Paul's wonderful prayers with some great requests: that they would be filled with the knowledge of God's will, all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, etc. If I has someone praying this for me on a consistent basis I would be so blessed! On the flip side, I should be praying this for the people in my life, especially my leaders.
Monday, May 5, 2008
the source of faith
Colossians 1:3-8
Paul is encouraged by the reports he has heard regarding the faith and love of the church at Colossae. Faith and love would be the key words of this passage as well as hope and gospel. The theme of this passage is that the good news message of Jesus Christ is the source of faith and love.
This burst of praise is typical of Paul's letters - he almost always found some way to encourage the people he was writing to, even when he had to address serioulsy wrong theology or theopraxy. He also usually finds a way to remind the church that he is praying for them, which he also does in this letter. In this case, Paul is thankful for the faith this church has in Christ and the love they have for the people of Christ. Paul says that the source of this faith and love is the hope that they have discovered from hearing the gospel from Epaphrus (the one who preached to them and who brought the report back to Paul).
The part of this passage that challenges me is the part about the gospel bearing fruit. I desperately want the gospel to be fruitful in my life and I think that it is. However, my heart yearns to see the Church of Christ in this area of the world be fruitful. I don't mean that no one is coming to Christ and maturing in faith in Southern Alberta but there are so many who have not yet heard the good news message of Jesus and who aren't likely to attend a worship service so are dependent on someone showing them Christ's love and telling them about the cross. I am not pointing fingers because I know that I am in the same boat as many of the church goers in this area. I think the problem is that, unlike the Colossians, we (I) have never truly understood God's grace. I think that because so many of us grew up in the culture of Christianity that we have become numb to our sinfulness and the great work of Christ to forgive our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I think we have taken for granted the fact that we are God's children even though we truly were his enemies. My fear is that the very fact that we take this for granted may be the evidence that we are not truly made new and made alive in Christ. If we are dead to this great grace, how can we be alive to anything?
Paul is encouraged by the reports he has heard regarding the faith and love of the church at Colossae. Faith and love would be the key words of this passage as well as hope and gospel. The theme of this passage is that the good news message of Jesus Christ is the source of faith and love.
This burst of praise is typical of Paul's letters - he almost always found some way to encourage the people he was writing to, even when he had to address serioulsy wrong theology or theopraxy. He also usually finds a way to remind the church that he is praying for them, which he also does in this letter. In this case, Paul is thankful for the faith this church has in Christ and the love they have for the people of Christ. Paul says that the source of this faith and love is the hope that they have discovered from hearing the gospel from Epaphrus (the one who preached to them and who brought the report back to Paul).
The part of this passage that challenges me is the part about the gospel bearing fruit. I desperately want the gospel to be fruitful in my life and I think that it is. However, my heart yearns to see the Church of Christ in this area of the world be fruitful. I don't mean that no one is coming to Christ and maturing in faith in Southern Alberta but there are so many who have not yet heard the good news message of Jesus and who aren't likely to attend a worship service so are dependent on someone showing them Christ's love and telling them about the cross. I am not pointing fingers because I know that I am in the same boat as many of the church goers in this area. I think the problem is that, unlike the Colossians, we (I) have never truly understood God's grace. I think that because so many of us grew up in the culture of Christianity that we have become numb to our sinfulness and the great work of Christ to forgive our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I think we have taken for granted the fact that we are God's children even though we truly were his enemies. My fear is that the very fact that we take this for granted may be the evidence that we are not truly made new and made alive in Christ. If we are dead to this great grace, how can we be alive to anything?
Thursday, May 1, 2008
a great reputation
Colossians 1:1-2
Paul is the main writer (along with Timothy) of this letter to the church in Colossae. The letter starts in pretty much the same way that Paul begins all his letters: identifying the writer (Paul and Timothy) along with his authority (Paul - apostle of Christ; Timothy - brother), identifying the audience (the church in Colossae) and greeting them with grace and peace from God.
The description of the audience is what captures my attention in these verses: God's holy people, the faithful brothers and sisters. That is quite the commendation from Paul. I recognize, of course, that all who have placed their hope in Jesus Christ are declared holy by God and are therefore God's holy people but in conjuction with the commendation for being faithful, this has more than just the legal declaration of holiness - it gives the impression that the Colossian Christians hadn't just been made holy by God but that they were living holy lives.
I wonder if my life could be summed up in that way? Am I one of God's holy people? Would Paul be able to commend me as being a faithful brother? I mean, I work hard in the church but I also know what my private life is like and what my motivations often are. I want to be holy. Even more than Paul's commendation, would I be able to earn Christ's commendation: "well done, good and faithful servant." Pretty much the same thing (good=holy and faithful=faithful - brilliant, aren't I?) but so much more significant coming from Christ (I think I could possibly fool Paul but I know that I couldn't fool Jesus).
I also wonder if the fruit of my ministry indicates my own holiness and faithfulness. I know that I am not entirely responsible for the choices all my students will make but I also believe that at some level I have been entrusted to teach them well and to model holiness and faithfulness for them and if I am doing that well, I should see it in their lives. There are some of my students who are living holy and faithful lives but i really think that holiness and faithfulness are not much in fashion these days. I hope, by the grace of God, that my life can be a counter-cultural expample of holiness and faith.
Paul is the main writer (along with Timothy) of this letter to the church in Colossae. The letter starts in pretty much the same way that Paul begins all his letters: identifying the writer (Paul and Timothy) along with his authority (Paul - apostle of Christ; Timothy - brother), identifying the audience (the church in Colossae) and greeting them with grace and peace from God.
The description of the audience is what captures my attention in these verses: God's holy people, the faithful brothers and sisters. That is quite the commendation from Paul. I recognize, of course, that all who have placed their hope in Jesus Christ are declared holy by God and are therefore God's holy people but in conjuction with the commendation for being faithful, this has more than just the legal declaration of holiness - it gives the impression that the Colossian Christians hadn't just been made holy by God but that they were living holy lives.
I wonder if my life could be summed up in that way? Am I one of God's holy people? Would Paul be able to commend me as being a faithful brother? I mean, I work hard in the church but I also know what my private life is like and what my motivations often are. I want to be holy. Even more than Paul's commendation, would I be able to earn Christ's commendation: "well done, good and faithful servant." Pretty much the same thing (good=holy and faithful=faithful - brilliant, aren't I?) but so much more significant coming from Christ (I think I could possibly fool Paul but I know that I couldn't fool Jesus).
I also wonder if the fruit of my ministry indicates my own holiness and faithfulness. I know that I am not entirely responsible for the choices all my students will make but I also believe that at some level I have been entrusted to teach them well and to model holiness and faithfulness for them and if I am doing that well, I should see it in their lives. There are some of my students who are living holy and faithful lives but i really think that holiness and faithfulness are not much in fashion these days. I hope, by the grace of God, that my life can be a counter-cultural expample of holiness and faith.
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