Speak up

Recap

Book of Ephesians - told to permit or allow no corrupt communication to proceedeth out of your mouth, but that which is useful for the edifying of the body, that it may minister grace to the hearer.

Background

Colossians is one of the letters written by the Apostle Paul while he was in prison. It's addressed to the church in Colossae. The main themes of the letter include the supremacy of Christ, the proper conduct of believers, and the setting of Christian priorities in everyday life.

Colossians 4:2–6 “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”

Speaking Point 1

Colossians 4:2 “Continue steadfastly in prayer…”

Speak in Prayer - 1 Thessalonians 5:17 “pray without ceasing,”

Frequently we address the incorrect people with our struggles, decisions, guidance and source of wisdom

Speaking Point 2

Colossians 4:2 “…being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”

Speak Prayer in Thanksgiving - 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Gratitude can have manny neurological effects, including: the release of dopamine and serotonin, which are often called “feel-good” chemicals. These hormones can lead to feelings of happiness and contentment and can even improve mood and emotional state over time.

Speaking Point 3

Colossians 4:3 “At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—”

Speak in prayers for other with proclamation - Ephesians 6:18 “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,”

Speaking Point 4

Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time.”

Speak in action - Psalm 84:11 “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

Sometimes the only bible people will see or read is the life you led.

Speaking Point 5

Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”

John 13:34–35 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Grace: is unmerited favor can’t earn it, it’s something given in love.

Salt is both a seasoning, and preserve

Historical Usage:**

- **Wound Cleaning:** In ancient times, salt was used to clean and disinfect wounds. For instance, the Greeks and Romans often applied salt solutions to battle wounds to prevent infections.

- **Preserving Food:** Before refrigeration, salt was a primary method for preserving food. By creating a hostile environment for bacteria, salted meat and fish stayed free from spoilage for longer periods, indirectly preventing foodborne illnesses.

- **Saline Solutions:** Even today, saline (saltwater) solutions are used to clean wounds, as the salt helps to kill bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.