Thanksgiving and Prayer for the Christian

ESV

Colossians 1:3–14 ESV

3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5 because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, 6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, 7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit. 9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.

ESV

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins

Colossians 2:8 ESV

8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.

Colossians 2:16 ESV

16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.

Lets Pray - THANKS - PRAISE

Pastors that prepare for this coming Sunday - That they may speak the truth in your word

Quite heart

freedom from todays distraction,

Let us lean on you Lord and realize you have paid or debt for our sins

Pray for my weak and stumbling lips

Lets open up our bibles to Colossians chapter 1

1:3-14

2:8

2:16

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins

1) Last Week covered 3 points of this passage that run through out Colossians

a) Compelling Faith

1) Last Week covered 3 points of this passage that run through out Colossians

a) Compelling Faith

i) Paul gave thanks for the Colossians for their faith.

ii) Remember faith in Jesus Christ is the bedrock for every Christian

i) Paul gave thanks for the Colossians for their faith.

ii) Remember faith in Jesus Christ is the bedrock for every Christian

(1) This definition of faith is not a casual or superficial belief; it is something that is true and something to be trusted.

(1) This definition of faith is not a casual or superficial belief that Paul is referring and calling the Colossians to, it is something that is true and something to be trusted.

(2) It is not just a leap in the DARK

(a) It is factual and there is evidence

(2) It is not just a leap in the DARK

Do you have faith in the people that made you car? I don’t go around every time I get in and check to make sure the lug nuts are tight or the engine mounts are properly secure. When you go test-drive a new or used car you don’t ask about the manufacturing of the car and check to see that it is assembled properly, NO - - you trust what was done and not seen it done.

(a) It is factual and there is evidence

(i) Do you have faith in the people that made you car? I don’t go around every time I get in and check to make sure the lug nuts are tight or the engine mounts are properly secure. When you go test-drive a new or used car you don’t ask about the manufacturing of the car and check to see that it is assembled properly, NO - - you trust what was done and not seen it done.

When we eat in a new restaurant do we expect the food to be spoiled and layered with bacteria? - - You trust that the owner and chef have taken care of the details

(i) Do you have faith in the people that made you car? I don’t go around every time I get in and check to make sure the lug nuts are tight or the engine mounts are properly secure. When you go test-drive a new or used car you don’t ask about the manufacturing of the car and check to see that it is assembled properly, NO - - you trust what was done and not seen it done.

(ii) When we eat in a new restaurant do we expect the food to be spoiled and layered with bacteria? - - You trust that the owner and chef have taken care of the details

v Christian why do we doubt the creator of heaven and earth?

Christian why do you doubt the creator of heaven and earth?

(ii) When we eat in a new restaurant do we expect the food to be spoiled and layered with bacteria? - - You trust that the owner and chef have taken care of the details

v Why do you doubt the One who gave you grace and by that Grace you are saved and with it by faith you believe and by faith the you are called to repent ---

Why do you doubt the One who gave you grace and by that Grace you are saved and with it by faith you believe and by faith the you are called to repent --- to change your ways and exercise that compelling faith in your lives for the glory of God

v Christian why do we doubt the creator of heaven and earth?

Charles Spurgeon illustrated the importance of faith’s object by telling of two men in a boat. Caught in severe rapids, they were being swept toward a waterfall. Some men on shore tried to save them by throwing them a rope. One man caught hold of it and was pulled to safety on the shore. The other, in the panic of the moment, grabbed hold of a seemingly more substantial log that was floating by. That man was carried downstream, over the rapids, and was never seen again. Faith, represented by the rope linked to the shore, connects us to Jesus Christ and safety. Good works apart from true faith, represented in the story by the log, leads only to ruin.

v Why do you doubt the One who gave you grace and by that Grace you are saved and with it by faith you believe and by faith the you are called to repent ---

v to have an after thought about our ways and turn from the past

v to change your ways and exercise that compelling faith in your lives for the glory of God

v to have an after thought about our ways and turn from the past

What is the object of your faith and my faith?

Will I be the one grabbing for the log of good works?

Do I really place my trust in Jesus with the faith of a child?

b) Compassionate love

Charles Spurgeon illustrated the importance of faith’s object by telling of two men in a boat. Caught in severe rapids, they were being swept toward a waterfall. Some men on shore tried to save them by throwing them a rope. One man caught hold of it and was pulled to safety on the shore. The other, in the panic of the moment, grabbed hold of a seemingly more substantial log that was floating by. That man was carried downstream, over the rapids, and was never seen again. Faith, represented by the rope linked to the shore, connects us to Jesus Christ and safety. Good works apart from true faith, represented in the story by the log, leads only to ruin.

v to change your ways and exercise that compelling faith in your lives for the glory of God

Charles Spurgeon illustrated the importance of faith’s object by telling of two men in a boat. Caught in severe rapids, they were being swept toward a waterfall. Some men on shore tried to save them by throwing them a rope. One man caught hold of it and was pulled to safety on the shore. The other, in the panic of the moment, grabbed hold of a seemingly more substantial log that was floating by. That man was carried downstream, over the rapids, and was never seen again. Faith, represented by the rope linked to the shore, connects us to Jesus Christ and safety. Good works apart from true faith, represented in the story by the log, leads only to ruin.

i) We can’t have that faith in our own little sphere or in a vacuum.

John F. MacArthur Jr., Colossians, MacArthur New Testament Commentary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1992), 17.

John 13:34–35 ESV

34 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. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

b) Compassionate love

(1)

John F. MacArthur Jr., Colossians, MacArthur New Testament Commentary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1992), 17.

i) We can’t have that faith in our own little sphere or in a vacuum.

b) Compassionate love

(2) When we have a compelling faith and repent it will eliminate the selfishness and pride we once had when we were the center of our own attention

(3) It will give us a dislike for those who sin and we will be drawn to those who believe

i) We can’t have that faith in our own little sphere or in a vacuum.

(1) John Chapter 13:34-35 “A new command I give to you, (talking to the 11 remaining) that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

(4) Paul was also thanking God for the love they had for all the saints.

(2) When we have a compelling faith and repent it will eliminate the selfishness and pride we once had when we were the center of our attention

(1) John Chapter 13:34-35 “A new command I give to you, (talking to the 11 remaining) that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

(a) Not just in some small segment of the community. Paul had to admonish the Corinthian’s for preferring one group to another group.

(2) When we have a compelling faith and repent it will eliminate the selfishness and pride we once had when we were the center of our attention

(3) It will give us a dislike for those who sin and we will be drawn to those who believe

- He called them to love one another, all the saints. It doesn’t matter what race, sex, denomination, town, rich, poor we don’t get to chose.

- Moms can be choosy about what peanut butter to give their children, but if we are choosey about who we love - we are showing partiality.

(3) It will give us a dislike for those who sin and we will be drawn to those who believe

(4) Paul was also thanking God for the love they had for all the saints.

v1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.

Paul warns us in Chapter 2 of this epistle

Colossians 2

Colossians 2:1 ESV

1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face,

(4) Paul was also thanking God for the love they had for all the saints.

James the half brother of our Lord Jesus tells us in his epistle

(a) Not just in some small segment of the community. Paul had to admonish the Corinthian’s for preferring one to another. He called them to love one another, all the saints. It doesn’t matter what race, sex, denomination, town, rich, poor we don’t get to chose. If we are choosey we are showing partiality. James the half brother of Jesus warns us in Chapter 2 of his epistle

James 2:1–4 ESV

1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. 2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, 3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” 4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

James

Do I chose to share the gospel with those I like or do I share the gospel with whoever it happens to be that is there when the opportunity arises?

This does not mean we will be all emotional about everyone, biblical love is not “mushy gushy” It is a sacrificial love that makes the Christian a servant to others

Do I cross the street to help the lovable or walk by on the other side when they are unappealing to me? This does not mean we will be all emotional about everyone, biblical love is not “mushy gushy” It is a sacrificial love that makes the Christian a servant to others

1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. 2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, 3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” 4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

(a) Not just in some small segment of the community. Paul had to admonish the Corinthian’s for preferring one to another. He called them to love one another, all the saints. It doesn’t matter what race, sex, denomination, town, rich, poor we don’t get to chose. If we are choosey we are showing partiality. James the half brother of Jesus warns us in Chapter 2 of his epistle

iii) Paul was thanking God for the Colossians faith and love.

1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. 2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, 3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” 4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

ii) This does not mean we will be all emotional about everyone, biblical love is not “mushy gushy” It is a sacrificial love that makes the Christian a servant to others

(1) He makes these the anchor two points in this opening passage of thanksgiving.

He makes these the anchor two points in this opening passage of thanksgiving.

Do I chose to share the gospel with those I like or do I share the gospel with whoever it happens to be that is there when the opportunity arises?

Do I cross the street to help the lovable or walk by on the other side when they are unappealing to me?

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

c) Confident Hope

ii) This does not mean we will be all emotional about everyone, biblical love is not “mushy gushy” It is a sacrificial love that makes the Christian a servant to others

Do I cross the street to help the lovable or walk by on the other side when they are unappealing to me? c) Confident Hope

iii) Paul was thanking God for the Colossian’s faith and love.

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

i) The final point we covered last time was the HOPE that Paul was thankful for in the Colossian church.

(1) The hope of a life everlasting is justified by our Lord’s resurrection from the dead, and His promises to return and take us with Him

iii) Paul was thanking God for the Colossian’s faith and love.

(1) He makes these the anchor points in this opening passage of thanksgiving. It is apparent to him that what he was told by Epaphras was a true indication that these people were saved and had fully grasped the gospel and that faith had transformed their hearts to love.

c) Confident Hope

(1) He makes these the anchor points in this opening passage of thanksgiving. It is apparent to him that what he was told by Epaphras was a true indication that these people were saved and had fully grasped the gospel and that faith had transformed their hearts to love.

(2) We are sealed by the Person of the Holy Spirit to this hope

Ephesians 1:13 ESV

13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,

Ephesians 13

Ephesians 1:13–14 ESV

13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

i) The last point we covered last time was the HOPE that Paul was thankful for in the Colossian church.

c) Confident Hope

Ephesians

Ephisians

ii) This was a hope that would tie the Colossians to their faith and love and the force that would continue to strengthen them in Christ.

(1) The hope of a life everlasting is justified by our Lord’s resurrection from the dead, and His promises to return and take us with Him

ii) This was a hope that would tie them to their faith and love and the force that would continue to strengthen them in Christ.

i) The last point we covered last time was the HOPE that Paul was thankful for in the Colossian church.

(1) The hope of a life everlasting is justified by our Lord’s resurrection from the dead, and His promises to return and take us with Him

This is the trifecta - - Faith, Love and Hope in the Christian

(2) We are marked as his

(a) Paul tell the Ephesians “In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.

We have faith in the promises that give us hope that calls us to love

ii) This was a hope that would tie them to their faith and love and the force that would continue to strengthen them in Christ.

(a) Paul tell the Ephesians “In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.

Love for others causes us to hope for them and this increase our love

ii) This was a hope that would tie them to their faith and love and the force that would continue to strengthen them in Christ.

You can take what scripture teaches and point to any combination of the three of these and they work in unison together to make us children of God by pointing to Christ Jesus

iii) Real hope is not pie in the sky it is born from the Holy Spirit that indwells each believer

v This is the trifecta - - Faith, Love and Hope in the Christian

You can’t sit on a one legged stool of faith only for very long before it will get uncomfortable. You can add love and you have a 2-legged stool that will be more comfortable for a while but will be unstable and when you get weak it will wobble and you will fall off. Add the third element of hope and you have the complete and perfect 3-legged stool.

We have faith in the promises that give us hope that calls us to love

v This is the trifecta - - Faith, Love and Hope in the Christian

2) So we are begining to get a picture in this chapter,

In chapter 2:1 we find out that even though Paul has never seen them “face to face” that he knows by evidence of that these observations are true and that they need the encouragement and thanksgiving that Paul and his companions have for the Gospel

3) We’ll spend a little more time in verse 5 then we are going to kind of sprint or just hit the wave tops through the rest of the passage to verse 14.

We have faith in the promises that give us hope that calls us to love

Love for others causes us to hope for them and this increase our love

3) We’ll spend a little more time in verse 5 then we are going to kind of sprint or just hit the wave tops through the rest of the passage to verse 14.

Love for others causes us to hope for them and this increase our love

You can take what scripture teaches and point to any combination of the three of these and they work in unison together to make us children of God by pointing to Christ Jesus

v We talked a little last time about Hope. Paul in verse 5 says “the hope laid up for you in heaven of which you heard in the word of truth, the gospel”

You can take what scripture teaches and point to any combination of the three of these and they work in unison together to make us children of God by pointing to Christ Jesus

You can’t sit on a one legged stool of faith only for very long before it will get uncomfortable. You can add love and you have a 2-legged stool that will be more comfortable for a while but will be much less stable and when you get weak it will wobble and you will likely fall off. Add the third element of hope and you have the complete picture. They make a perfect 3-legged stool.

o We talked about how the promises of Christ Jesus given to the Apostles and passed on from them till now is what our hope is bound in.

You can’t sit on a one legged stool of faith only for very long before it will get uncomfortable. You can add love and you have a 2-legged stool that will be more comfortable for a while but will be much less stable and when you get weak it will wobble and you will likely fall off. Add the third element of hope and you have the complete picture. They make a perfect 3-legged stool.

I think we need to stress a little more before moving on of how this gospel of truth that we have received will manifest our hope.

2) So far in this chapter we have read of the encouragement and thanksgiving Paul and his companions have for the Colossians in the Gospel now he is going to shift slightly to provide them evidence of these observations even though he has not seen it with his own eyes.

I am not exactly sure who came up with the phrase “Preach the Gospel to yourself.” Some say it was Jerry Bridges who at least reinvigorated the idea in modern times in his book the “The Pursuit of Holiness.”

I know that it is not a new idea.

Psalm 42:5 ESV

5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation

Although the idea was not specifically about Jesus it points us to Him and salvation, which comes from God.

And it is GOOD NEW

v We must remind ourselves regularly about the what is the gospel. I encourage you to preach it to yourselves routinely

3) We’ll spend a little more time in verse 5 then we are going to kind of sprint or just hit the wave tops through the rest of the passage to verse 14.

2) So far in this chapter we have read of the encouragement and thanksgiving Paul and his companions have for the Colossians in the Gospel now he is going to shift slightly to provide them evidence of these observations even though he has not seen it with his own eyes.

in our time alone in prayer or reading scripture.

o All men and women are sinners it is born into us.

v We talked a little last time about Hope. Paul in verse 5 says “the hope laid up for you in heaven of which you heard in the word of truth, the gospel”

3) We’ll spend a little more time in verse 5 then we are going to kind of sprint or just hit the wave tops through the rest of the passage to verse 14.

v We talked a little last time about Hope. Paul in verse 5 says “the hope laid up for you in heaven of which you heard in the word of truth, the gospel”

o We talked about how the promises of Christ Jesus given to the Apostles and passed on from them till now is what our hope is bound in.

§ What is sin?

sin?

What is ?

v I think we need to stress this a little more before moving on and how this gospel this truth we have received is manifest in our hope.

§ it is the failure to keep the commandments (Decalogue) given by God to Moses.

o We talked about how the promises of Christ Jesus given to the Apostles and passed on from them till now is what our hope is bound in.

§ it is the failure to keep the commandments (Decalogue) given by God to Moses.

§ It is placing something else like ourselves, entertainment, a cause (like the environment, animal rights, politics, etc.) above God. To replace God with anything is idolatry

v I think we need to stress this a little more before moving on and how this gospel this truth we have received is manifest in our hope.

v What is the gospel?

§ Someone might recognize the Creator but never ever hear of the redemption available through Jesus. But:

- because all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God they are sinners,

- no one turns to God on their own will

- God loved us first

· Yes even though someone may never have heard of God or the gospel of Jesus Christ (unreached people groups) they are living in sin

v What is the gospel?

o All men and women are sinners it is born into us.

§ If someone rejects the Lord Jesus Christ after they have heard and receiving the truth - this is sin

o All men and women are sinners it is born into us.

§ What is sin?

§ As some of us read the other night in

§ What is sin?

§ it is the failure to keep the commandments (Decalogue) given by God to Moses.

Proverbs 6:16–19 ESV

16 There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: 17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 18 a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, 19 a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.

Proverbs 6:16-19

§ Someone might recognize the Creator but never ever hear of the redemption available through Jesus.

§ it is the failure to keep the commandments (Decalogue) given by God to Moses.

· Yes even though someone may never have heard of Him or the gospel of Jesus Christ (unreached people groups) they are living in sin

§ Someone might recognize the Creator but never ever hear of the redemption available through Jesus.

seven that are an abomination to him:

§ If someone rejects the Lord Jesus Christ after they have heard and received the truth spoken and/or written about Him

· Yes even though someone may never have heard of Him or the gospel of Jesus Christ (unreached people groups) they are living in sin

17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue,

and hands that shed innocent blood,

§ If someone rejects the Lord Jesus Christ after they have heard and received the truth spoken and/or written about Him

§ As the men read the other night in

16 There are six things that the Lord hates,

§ As the men read the other night in

18 a heart that devises wicked plans,

seven that are an abomination to him:

feet that make haste to run to evil,

16 There are six things that the Lord hates,

19 a false witness who breathes out lies,

seven that are an abomination to him:

17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue,

and hands that shed innocent blood,

and one who sows discord among brothers.

17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue,

18 a heart that devises wicked plans,

and hands that shed innocent blood,

No sin is greater or lesser than another.

James 2:10 ESV

10 For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it.

Because of this sin which no man or woman can overcome on their own, we are destined to spend eternal life in the pain and suffering of hell.

18 a heart that devises wicked plans,

· Don’t take hell lightly, we hear some so call evangelist call it separation from God or nothingness, a void,

feet that make haste to run to evil,

- We can never forget the picture painted by Christ in .

19 a false witness who breathes out lies,

o When the master returns and find the servant unprepared or sleeping he

feet that make haste to run to evil,

Matthew 24:51 ESV

51 and will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 24

o OR the story of The Rich Man and Lazarus in Luke chapter 16;

Another parable taught by our LORD ---

the rich man looking up from his suffering after both he and Lazarus have died form their earthly lives.

Luke 16:24–26 ESV

24 And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’

Luke 16:25

“will cut him (the servant) in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.“

o OR the story of The Rich Man and Lazarus in Luke chapter 16; the rich man looking up from his suffering after both he and Lazarus have died form their earthly lives. He begged “Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish.”

19 a false witness who breathes out lies,

and one who sows discord among brothers.

“Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish.”

§ But we have a hope (something trust worthy and true) that is in Christ.

§ Because of this sin which no man or woman can overcome on their own, we are destined to spend or eternal life in the pain and suffering of hell.

and one who sows discord among brothers.

§ He came to us born of a virgin

· Don’t take hell lightly, we hear some people call it separation from God or a void, but never forget the picture painted by Christ in .

§ Because of this sin which no man or woman can overcome on their own, we are destined to spend or eternal life in the pain and suffering of hell.

o When the master returns and find the servant unprepared or sleeping he “will cut him (the servant) in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

§ He apposed the false shepherds of Israel and they persecuted Him and turned Him over to the gentiles

· Don’t take hell lightly, we hear some people call it separation from God or a void, but never forget the picture painted by Christ in .

o OR the story of The Rich Man and Lazarus in Luke chapter 16 the rich man looking up from his suffering after both he and Lazarus have died form their earthly life. He begged “Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish.”

§ they rejected their Messiah

o When the master returns and find the servant unprepared or sleeping he “will cut him (the servant) in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

§ But we have a hope that is in Christ.

§ He Suffered under Pilot

o OR the story of The Rich Man and Lazarus in Luke chapter 16 the rich man looking up from his suffering after both he and Lazarus have died form their earthly life. He begged “Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish.”

§ Was crucified to death on a cross where he took on all the sins of everyone who has or will believe in Him and submits to His Lordship;

§ He came to us born of a virgin

§ But we have a hope that is in Christ.

§ After taking on this sin; yours, mine and every person that has ever been born, past present or will be born in the future He poured out His blood to make us righteous before the Father our Holy God the Creator of all

§ He came to us born of a virgin

§ He apposed the false shepherds of Israel and they persecuted Him and turned Him over to the gentiles

§ The third day he rose from the grave and after 40 days he ascended into heaven where he is sitting at the right hand of the Father and has been made Lord of all flesh and creation

§ He apposed the false shepherds of Israel and they persecuted Him and turned Him over to the gentiles

§ they rejected their Messiah

§ It’s not over - - he consistently moment by moment intercedes on our behalf so that God will withhold the righteous judgment we deserve.

§ He will return to judge the righteous who have believed and the wicked who have sinned in all their iniquity and unbelief

§ He Suffered under Pilot

§ they rejected their Messiah

§ He will separate the sheep on the right and the goats on the left and cast the goats into the pit of fire and the sheep will be with Him in the new heaven and the new earth.

§ He Suffered under Pilot

§ Was crucified to death on a cross where he took on all our sins; yours, mine and every person that wil ever been born past present and future and poured out His blood to make us righteous before the Father our Holy God the creator of all

§ The third day he rose for the grave and after 40 days he ascended into heaven where he is sitting at the right hand of the Father and has been made Lord of all flesh and creation

§ Was crucified to death on a cross where he took on all our sins; yours, mine and every person that wil ever been born past present and future and poured out His blood to make us righteous before the Father our Holy God the creator of all

v This is our hope and we fully realize it when we confess Jesus as Lord and the person of the Holy Spirit enters into us to convict us of sin and sanctify us to holiness before God.

Let’s get back on track here.

I can’t summarize verses 3-5 any better than to read the following quote

§ The third day he rose for the grave and after 40 days he ascended into heaven where he is sitting at the right hand of the Father and has been made Lord of all flesh and creation

§ It’s not over - - he consistently moment by moment intercedes on our behalf so that God will withhold the righteous judgment we deserve.

§ He will return to judge the righteous who have believed and the wicked who have sinned in all their iniquity and unbelief

“Paul puts Christ, brotherhood, and heaven, as the objects respectively of faith, love, and hope,”

§ It’s not over - - he consistently moment by moment intercedes on our behalf so that God will withhold the righteous judgment we deserve.

he was

“discouraging his Colossian friends from concentrating upon subjective experience in a search for Christian fullness of life.”

“ If the risen Christ, their Christian brethren, heaven, are the centre of their spiritual concerns then they may know that they possess an authentic spirituality in accordance with” “the gospel.”

R. C. Lucas, Fullness & Freedom: The Message of Colossians & Philemon

§ He will return to judge the righteous who have believed and the wicked who have sinned in all their iniquity and unbelief

§ He will separate the sheep on the right and the goats on the left and cast the goats into the pit of fire and the sheep will be with Him in the new heaven and the new earth.

4) All this to lead us to the forth point from the passage - - CHANGED Lives

v This is our hope and we fully realize it when we confess Jesus as Lord and the Holy Spirit enters into us to convict us and begins to sanctify us to holiness.

(ESV) The Gospel which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth,

If I am to summarize verses 3-5 it would be simply to quote Dick Lucas from his commentary

“But for Paul, as for the other New Testament writers, just because the gospel treasures are to be found in Christ at God’s right hand, and will be visibly manifested only at his coming, the present life of the Christian is a life of faith. And faith, by definition, means that the object of our faith is not yet in our possession. Similarly the Christian learns nor to look within himself for evidence of divine love. The love that is a genuine evidence of divine working focuses on the brotherhood. In this description of what is genuine Christian experience, Paul puts Christ, brotherhood, and heaven, as the objects respectively of faith, love, and hope, thus discouraging his Colossian friends from concentrating upon subjective experience in a search for Christian fullness of life. If the risen Christ, their Christian brethren, heaven, are the centre of their spiritual concerns then they may know that they possess an authentic spirituality in accordance with Paul’s gospel.”

If I am to summarize verses 3-5 it would be simply to quote Dick Lucas from his commentary

a) “The grace of God in truth” that is changing their lives and the lives of many others in the world.

R. C. Lucas, Fullness & Freedom: The Message of Colossians & Philemon, The Bible Speaks Today (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1980), 29–30.

i) It started on the very day they understood the gospel and started in their faith and love and hope.

“But for Paul, as for the other New Testament writers, just because the gospel treasures are to be found in Christ at God’s right hand, and will be visibly manifested only at his coming, the present life of the Christian is a life of faith. And faith, by definition, means that the object of our faith is not yet in our possession. Similarly the Christian learns nor to look within himself for evidence of divine love. The love that is a genuine evidence of divine working focuses on the brotherhood. In this description of what is genuine Christian experience, Paul puts Christ, brotherhood, and heaven, as the objects respectively of faith, love, and hope, thus discouraging his Colossian friends from concentrating upon subjective experience in a search for Christian fullness of life. If the risen Christ, their Christian brethren, heaven, are the centre of their spiritual concerns then they may know that they possess an authentic spirituality in accordance with Paul’s gospel.”

ii) This fruit that Paul speaks of comes from the “love in the Spirit” that Epaphras told him about in v8.

R. C. Lucas, Fullness & Freedom: The Message of Colossians & Philemon, The Bible Speaks Today (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1980), 29–30.

4) All this to lead us to the forth point from the passage - - Changed Lives

ii) This fruit that Paul speaks of comes from the “love in the Spirit” that Epaphras told him about in v8.

4) All this to lead us to the forth point from the passage - - Changed Lives

v Paul is telling the Colossians that having heard the true gospel they can be assured they have been changed by it and are living a life in the Spirit and truth. We will talk more about this fruit in v10

(ESV) The Gospel

We will talk more about this fruit in v10

If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. (ESV)

6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth,

(ESV) The Gospel

a) It is as Paul states in verse 6 “The grace of God in truth” that is changing their lives and the lives of many others in the world.

iii) “God’s grace in all its truth” should be enough for the Colossians and us to resist the human regulations of false teachers that we will see in chapter 2 and read earlier.

6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth,

iv) Jesus condemned the Pharisees not for how they looked on the outside, but for how they were on the inside ().

a) It is as Paul states in verse 6 “The grace of God in truth” that is changing their lives and the lives of many others in the world.

iv) Jesus condemned the Pharisees not for how they looked on the outside, but for how they were on the inside ().

i) It started on the very day they understood the gospel and started in their faith and love and hope.

Paul wanted the Colossians to know that the gospel is a powerful message and despite the relative isolation of Colossae the church that he was sure based on the reports he was receiving that they must be sure in its power and their change from DARKNESS to LIGHT was firm.

ii) This fruit that Paul speaks of comes from the “love in the Spirit” from v8.

i) It started on the very day they understood the gospel and started in their faith and love and hope.

ii) This fruit that Paul speaks of comes from the “love in the Spirit” from v8.

v The gospel is a powerful message and despite the relative isolation of Colossae the church there must be sure in its power and their change from DARKNESS to the LIGHT

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

They should guard themselves from anything that was contrary to that teaching about how they were to appear to others through some special ritual or false doctrine.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. (ESV)

v This grace and the previous assurances of their faith, love and hope from the gospel was reason that they should guard themselves from anything that was contrary to that teaching

25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. (ESV)

5) As we come to verses 7 and 8 Paul now lifts up their teacher and minister to strengthen them further in the guarantee that they been taught the truth by a qualified and committed leader.

iii) God’s grace in all its truth” should be enough for the Colossians and us to resist the human regulations of false teachers that we will see in chapter 2 (see 2:8–23).

iv) Jesus condemned the Pharisees not for how they looked on the outside, but for how they were on the inside ().

v7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.

a) John Maxwell has said, “Everything rises or falls upon leadership.”

v Paul is telling the Colossians here that having heard the true gospel they can be assured they have been changed by it and are living a life in the Spirit and truth.

iv) Jesus condemned the Pharisees not for how they looked on the outside, but for how they were on the inside ().

v Paul is telling the Colossians here that having heard the true gospel they can be assured they have been changed by it and are living a life in the Spirit and truth.

v The gospel is a powerful message and despite the relative isolation of Colossae the church there must be sure in its power and their change from DARKNESS to the LIGHT

b) Epaphras was a faithful leader in the church at Colossae and was likely the one who brought the gospel to the church there, and Laodicea and Hierapolis a town just 12 miles from the Colossians.

(1) (ESV) 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis.

v The gospel is a powerful message and despite the relative isolation of Colossae the church there must be sure in its power and their change from DARKNESS to the LIGHT

confirms this for us.

v This grace and the previous assurances of their faith, love and hope from the gospel was reason that they should guard anything that was contrary to that teaching

ii) He had likely been converted under Paul’s teaching some 5 or 6 years before this letter when Paul was in Ephesus

5) As we come to verses 7 and 8 Paul now lifts up their teaching to strengthen them further in the guarantee that they been taught by a qualified and committed leader.

v This grace and the previous assurances of their faith, love and hope from the gospel was reason that they should guard anything that was contrary to that teaching

v7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.

iii) He had also traveled from Colossae to Rome to see Paul and report on the church and made Paul aware of their “love in the Spirit” and the difficulties that were starting to show up in the town.

5) As we come to verses 7 and 8 Paul now lifts up their teaching to strengthen them further in the guarantee that they been taught by a qualified and committed leader.

7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.

a) John Maxwell has said, “Everything rises or falls upon leadership.”

c) Two qualities stand out in committed leaders:

a) John Maxwell has said, “Everything rises or falls upon leadership.”

b) Epaphras was a faithful leader in the church at Colossae and was likely the one who brought the gospel to Colossae, Laodicea and Hierapolis a town just 12 miles from the Colossians.

i) Someone who is a servant and faithful

(1) (ESV) 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis.

b) Epaphras was a faithful leader in the church at Colossae and was likely the one who brought the gospel to Colossae, Laodicea and Hierapolis a town just 12 miles from the Colossians.

(1) Paul qualifies Epaphras as a “beloved fellow servant”

ii) He had likely been converted under Paul’s teaching some 5 or 6 years before this letter when Paul was in Ephesus

(a) “Beloved” qualifies him as a saint, a believer that Paul loves because they share a common faith and hope

(1) (ESV) 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis.

(b) Paul uses the word (doulos) Bond Servant to describe himself, and Timothy in several other epistles (Rom, Phil, Gal and Titus)

iii) He was also traveled from Colossae to Rome to see Paul and report on the church and made Paul aware of their “love in the Spirit” and the difficulties that were starting to show up in the town.

ii) He had likely been converted under Paul’s teaching some 5 or 6 years before this letter when Paul was in Ephesus

iii) He was also traveled from Colossae to Rome to see Paul and report on the church and made Paul aware of their “love in the Spirit” and the difficulties that were starting to show up in the town.

c) Two qualities stand out in committed leaders:

(c) Here Paul uses the Greek work (sundoulos) = sun being a preposition to describe something that is in association with others and doulos and noun for bondservant.

Strong’s Greek dictionary reads “a person who is a slave to the same master as another.”

i) Someone who is a servant and faithful

(d) He is calling him a servant of Christ as are Paul and the others with him in Rome.

c) Two qualities stand out in committed leaders:

(1) Paul qualifies Epaphras as a “beloved fellow servant”

(2) Paul also qualifies Epahras as a “faithful minister.”

i) Someone who is a servant and faithful

(a) The word “minister” here in the Greek was the same word used where we get our word for deacon.

(a) “Beloved” qualifies him as a saint, a believer that Paul loves because they share a common faith and hope

(1) Paul qualifies Epaphras as a “beloved fellow servant”

(a) “Beloved” qualifies him as a saint, a believer that Paul loves because they share a common faith and hope

(b) Paul uses the work (doulos) Bond Servant to describe himself, and Timothy in several other epistles (Rom, Phil, Gal and Titus)

(b) The description of faithful is worth exploring. Paul use the word pistos more than any writer in the New Testament.

(c) Here Paul uses the Greek work (sundoulos) = sun being a preposition to describe something that is in association with others and doulos and noun for bondservant. Strong’s Greek dictionary reads “a person who is a slave to the same master as another.”

(b) Paul uses the work (doulos) Bond Servant to describe himself, and Timothy in several other epistles (Rom, Phil, Gal and Titus)

(c) Here are a few other examples not from Paul

(d) He is calling him a servant of Christ as are Paul and the others with him in Rome.

(i) in the Parable of the Talents when the Master says “well done good and pistos (faithful) servant

(c) Here Paul uses the Greek work (sundoulos) = sun being a preposition to describe something that is in association with others and doulos and noun for bondservant. Strong’s Greek dictionary reads “a person who is a slave to the same master as another.”

v Those who would lead in the church today must have both the same qualities

(d) He is calling him a servant of Christ as are Paul and the others with him in Rome.

(ii) In “By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised.

(2) Paul also qualifies Epahras as a “faithful minister.”

(iii) They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.”

v Those who would lead in the church today must have both the same qualities

(a) The word “minister” here in the Greek was the same word used where we get our word for deacon.

(2) Paul also qualifies Epahras as a “faithful minister.”

v Those who would lead in the church today must have both the same qualities

(b) The description of faithful is worth exploring. Paul use the word pistos more than any writer in the New Testament.

v We must pray that the leaders over us will have the same servanthood and faithfulness over us as the Colossians had in Epaphras

(a) The word “minister” here in the Greek was the same word used where we get our word for deacon.

(b) The description of faithful is worth exploring. Paul use the word pistos more than any writer in the New Testament.

Prayer for the Colossians

(c) Here are a few other examples not from Paul

6) In verses 9-14 we come to Paul’s prayer and praise for the Christians in Colossae

a) In v9 Paul writes And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,

(c) Here are a few other examples not from Paul

(i) in the Parable of the Talents when the Master says “well done good and pistos (faithful) servant

(ii) In “By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised.

i) Paul throughout his epistles stresses the need for prayer.

(ii) In “By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised.

(iii) They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.”

ii) In the case of the Colossians Paul had heard of their faith, love and hope and as he indicates in v9 that from the day Epaphras came and reported to them they had been praying for them

b) Paul is praying for them to be filled. The sense of this word filled in Greek is to be so full there is no room left.

(iii) They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.”

v We must pray that the leaders over us will have the same servanthood and faithfulness over us as the Colossians had in Epaphras

i) The disciples were FILLED with the Holy Spirit

v We must pray that the leaders over us will have the same servanthood and faithfulness over us as the Colossians had in Epaphras

6) In verses 9-14 we come to Paul’s prayer and praise for the Christians in Colossae

ii) Stephen was full of faith

a) In v9 Paul writes And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,

i) Paul throughout his Epistles stresses the need for prayer. We don’t need to text to find out someone is struggling or doing good to have an impact on their lives

iii) The Pharises were filled with fury after Jesus had healed on the Sabbath

iv) And the Eleven were filled with sorrow when Jesus told them he was leaving them ()

ii) In the case of the Colossians Paul had heard of their faith, love and hope and as he indicates in v9 that from the day Epaphras came and reported to them they had been praying for them

b) Paul is praying for them to be filled. The sense of this word filled in Greek is to be so full there is no room left.

c) The prayer in this letter is for the knowledge of the will of God and all spiritual wisdom and understanding

i) The disciples were FILLED with the Holy Spirit

i) Paul and the others praying wanted for the Colossians to grow beyond that which they had learned from Epaphras. They had a good start and were continuing but the false teachings or divisions that were beginning to arise required a deeper knowledge and Paul was praying to prevent them from succumbing to a false hope

ii) Stephen was full of faith

ii) The Christian is not fully knowledgeable at conversion

(1) You can’t just hand them a bible pat them on the back and say read this and I’ll see you in church

iii) The Pharises were filled with fury after Jesus had healed on the Sabbath

(2) Reading, Hearing, Disciplining and Fellowshipping in the body is what God uses to cause the growth

iv) And the Eleven were filled with sorrow when Jesus told them he was leaving them

c) The prayer in this letter is for the knowledge of the will of God and all spiritual wisdom and understanding

v The greatest ministry we can provide to others is to prayer for them.

o Even if we don’t know of a specific need or something to be joyful for our prayers can go to lift them up in their knowledge, growth and strengthening of their faith, love and hope.

d) Paul and the others praying wanted for the Colossians to grow beyond that which they had learned from Epaphras. They had a good start and were continuing but the false teachings or divisions that were beginning to arise required a deeper knowledge and Paul was praying to prevent them from succumbing to a false hope

o It is not just prayer for those who are struggling that are needed but prayer for those who seem to be doing well in their walk with Jesus need prayer

e) The Christian is not fully knowledgeable at conversion

v One commentator states “The enemy may reserve his strongest opposition for those who have the most potential for expanding God’s cause in the world.”

i) You can’t just hand them a bible pat them on the back and say read this and I’ll see you in church

ii) Reading, Hearing, Disciplining and Fellowshipping in the body is what God uses to cause the growth

v So when you pray don’t just pray for those struggling with trials and hardship but pray for all the believers to grow in their knowledge of what God has given us in His word, and that the Holy Spirit will bring understanding and wisdom

v The greatest ministry we can provide to others is to prayer for them.

7) Paul and his companions pray for RESULTS this is their petition to God :

a) -A WORTHY WALK

o Even if we don’t know of a specific need or something to be joyful for our prayers can go to lift them up in their knowledge, growth and strengthening of their faith, love and hope.

i) V10a “so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him:”

o It is not just prayer for those who are struggling that are needed but prayer for those who seem to be doing well in their walk with Jesus.

v One commentator states “The enemy may reserve his strongest opposition for those who have the most potential for expanding God’s cause in the world.”

(1) Walk means in the way we conduct our selves day to day

(2) I have a list of 10 things for those who like lists

v So when you pray don’t just pray for those struggling with trials and hardship but pray for all the believers to grow in their knowledge of what God has given us in His word, and that the Holy Spirit will bring understanding and wisdom

I have a hand out for you if you can’t write them as quick as I go through them.

(slide)

7) The results Paul and his companions pray for is this:

v Do we walk in?

o humility

a) -A Worthy Walk

Ephesians 4:1–3 ESV

1 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Ephesians

o in purity

o in purity ();

i) V10a “so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him:”

Romans 13:13 ESV

13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.

o in purity ();

();

o in contentedness

(1) Walk means in the way we conduct our selves day to day

1 Corinthians 7:17 ESV

17 Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.

1 Corinthians

();

o by faith

(2) I have a list of 10 things for those who like lists (slide)

2 Corinthians 5:7 ESV

7 for we walk by faith, not by sight.

2 Corinthians 5:7 ESV

7 for we walk by faith, not by sight.

2 Corinth

2 Corinthians

();

o in good works

v Do we walk in

Ephesians 2:10 ESV

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

();

o different from the world ();

o humility ();

o in purity ();

o in love ();

o in contentedness ();

o in light ();

o in wisdom ();

o by faith ();

o in good works ();

o and in truth ().

(3) Such a walk will please Him in all respects

o different from the world ();

(4) But know this Christian we will fail and when we do there is a Great Intercessor pleads our case and lifts up to restore us

o in love ();

b) A FRUITFUL Life

o in light ();

b) A FRUITFUL Life

o in wisdom ();

i) V10b “bearing fruit in every good work

(1) What is fruit?

o and in truth ().

o New believers are seen as fruit calls the household of Stephanas as the “first fruits of Achaia (aa h ee aa)”

(3) Such a walk will please Him in all respects

o Praise to God is fruit of the lips (

(4) But know this we will fail and when we do that is where our Great Intercessor lifts up and restores us

b) A FRUITFUL Life

o Giving money in support of the needy ()

i) V10b “bearing fruit in every good work

o Gods discipline produces “the peaceful fruit of righteousness’ ()

(1) What is fruit?

o Of course the fruits of the Spirit ()

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. (ESV)

c) The 3rd result Paul prays for is GROWTH

o New believers are seen as fruit calls the household of Stephanas as the “first fruits of Achaia (aa h ee aa)”

i) v10c “and increasing in the knowledge of God;”

o Praise to God is fruit of the lips (

v Many commentators interpret the combination of words here to mean “The knowledge of God revealed in His Word that is crucial to spiritual growth”

o Giving money in support of the needy

ii) Our spiritual growth is reliant on the knowledge of God that comes through his words and the work of the Holy Spirit

o Gods discipline produces “the peaceful fruit of righteousness’ ()

o Of course the fruits of the Spirit ()

(1) “ Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation”

(2) “ But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”

c) The 3rd thing Paul prays for is GROWTH

iii) Three Marks of this growth are:

i) v10c “and increasing in the knowledge of God;”

(1) A deeper love for God’s word;

v Many commentators interpret the combination of words here to mean “The knowledge of God revealed in His Word is crucial to spiritual growth”

Psalm 119:97 ESV

97 Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.

(2) Perfect obedience

1 John 2:3–5 ESV

3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:

ii) Our spiritual growth is reliant on the knowledge of God that comes through his words and the work of the Holy Spirit

(2) Perfect obedience “And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:” (ESV)”

(3) An ever increasing faith and love

2 Thessalonians 1:3 ESV

3 We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.

2 Thess

1 Thessalonians 1:3 ESV

3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

“And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:” (ESV)”

1 thessalonians

2 Thessalonians 2:3 ESV

3 Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction,

2 Thessalon

(3) An ever increasing faith and love “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.” (ESV)

(1) “ Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation”

“We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.” (ESV)

d) STRENGTH is another element of this prayer

(2) “ But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”

d) STRENGTH is another element of this prayer

i) v1:11a “being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might,”

iii) Three Marks of this growth are:

The Greek used here means this power is a continual action.

(1) A deeper love for God’s word; Oh how I love your law! It is my meditations all the day.

It actually reads better according to James Dunn (“empowered with all power”)

Gordon fee calls it “the power of the Holy Spirit”

So Paul is praying for the Holy Spirit which is a living and active Person of the Trinity to empower us from within.

(2) Perfect obedience “And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:” (ESV)”

iii) The power of God in our lives is not just a quick push and let them go. Imagine a swing set with a several little child on the swing. they are not yet old enough o pump their legs to keep the momentum. The dads give each of the children a push and walks away to talk with other dads. All the dads are standing around talking and the children come to a stop. What happens they kids all start crying and calling for more pushes.

Dads have to keep pushing until there is growth and there is effort on the child’s part to keep the swing moving.

(3) An ever increasing faith and love “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.” (ESV)

Unlike our earthly father God gives us the person of the Holly Spirit to keep us moving

Ephesians 3:16 ESV

16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

d) STRENGTH is another element of this prayer

Romans 15:13 ESV

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

i) v1:11a “being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might,”

(2) “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” ()

ii) The Greek used here means it a continual action.

e) ENDURANCE is the final result that the Apostle Paul prays for the Colossians

i) v1:11b for all endurance and patience with joy;

iii) The power of God in our lives is not just a quick push and let them go. Imagine a swing set with a little child on the swing that doesn’t know how to pump his legs to keep the momentum. Dad gives him a push and if he walks away eventually the child comes to a stop. Dads have to keep pushing until there is growth and there is effort on the child’s part to keep the swing moving.

iv) Unlike our earthly father God has given us the person of the Holly Spirit to keep us moving

ii) John MacArthur writes; “Knowledge of God’s promises and purposes revealed in Scripture gives the strength to endure trials and suffering.”

(1) We are “strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man” ().

James 1:2–4 ESV

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

iii) We are not called to self-will and grind our teeth through our problems but we are to lean on the knowledge we have of God’s word in scripture and on the other believers who love us.

(1) Paul and Silas were in a Philippian jail - - but they “were praying and singing hymns to God” (ESV)

(2) “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” ()

(2) Paul and Silas were in a Philippian jail but they “were praying and singing hymns to God” (ESV)

e) ENDURANCE is the final result that the Apostle Paul prays for the Colossians

i) v1:11b for all endurance and patience with joy;

8) Commentators are divided on rather the Joy mentioned at the end of verse 11 goes with endurance and patience or if it should lead us to verse 12.

ii) John MacArthur writes; “Knowledge of God’s promises and purposes revealed in Scripture gives the strength to endure trials and suffering.

v Read it this way: “being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy”

OR

iii) We are not called to self-will and grind our teeth through our problems but we are to lean on the knowledge we have of God’s word in scripture.

v Rad it this way “with joy giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

(1) “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (ESV)

v I don’t think is much matters because we are to be joyful and rejoice.

(2) Paul and Silas were in a Philippian jail but the “were praying and singing hymns to God” (ESV)

Philippines 4:4

Philippians 4:4 ESV

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

P

4:4

Rejoice in the Lord always I say again rejoice.

9) It is also a very good lead in to the last 3 verses 12-14.

8) Commentators are not all clear on rather the Joy mentioned at the end of verse 11 goes with endurance and patience or if it should continue with verse 12.

a) Paul’s prayer is a model for the Christian. Here in Colossians and in other letters. We should give Praise and Thanks and Request

v Reading it this way: “being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy”

Colossians 1:12-15

“giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

OR

v “with joy giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

b) I am just going to draw our attention to 3 specific words in this closing of Paul’s prayer. (Inheritance, Deliverance and Transference)

v I don’t think is much matters and it is a very good lead tin to the last 3 verses 12-14.

i) Inheritance- brings about a relational realization.

(1) We are not only adopted into Christ family but the Father is making us an heir.

a) Paul’s prayer is a model for the Christian. Here in Colossians and in other letters. We should give Praise and Thanks and Request

(2) We will receive as His children that which He will give to those who are set-apart (the saints of light)

“giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

b) I am just going to draw our attention to 3 specific words in this closing of Paul’s prayer. (Inheritance, Deliverance and Transference)

(3) This means that it is only for those who come to the Father through Christ those who are made righteous. Sinful man can only be righteous through the atoning blood of Jesus.

1 Corinthians 6:9–11 ESV

9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, 10 nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

i Corinthians

ii) Deliverance from Domain of Darkness

“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” (ESV)

i) Inheritance- brings about a relational realization.

c) Deliverance from Domain of Darkness

(1) We are not only adopted in to Christ family but the Father is making us an heir.

(2) We will receive as His children that which He will give to those who are set-apart (the saints of light)

a) Domain can literally be translated as “power”, “jurisdiction” or “authority”.

(3) This means that it is only for those who come to the Father through Christ Those who are righteous and sinful man can only be righteous through the atoning blood of Jesus.

b) Jesus used this phrase in Luke Translated Power

Luke 22:53 ESV

53 When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”

Luke

c) We are instantly delivered from the influence of evil; it is not something that occurs gradually or over time.

“When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” Translated Power

“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” (ESV)

c) We are instantly delivered from the influence of evil; it is not something that occurs gradually or over time.

c) Deliverance from Domain of Darkness

d) A popular pastor said”

Believers do not need deliverance from the dominion of sin and Satan; they need to act as those who have been delivered.”

He referenced 3 verses from Romans chapter 6 to support his statement:

i) Domain can literally be translated as “power”, “jurisdiction” or “authority”.

(1) v(2) By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?

ii) Jesus used this phrase in “When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” Translated Power

iii) We are instantly delivered from the influence of evil; it is not something that occurs gradually or over time.

(2) v(7) For one who has died has been set free from sin.

iv) A popular pastor said” Believers do not need deliverance from the dominion of sin and Satan; they need to act as those who have been delivered.”

(3) v(11) So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.

v) He referenced 3 verses from Romans chapter 6 to support his statement:

iii) Lastly we are Transferred to His Kingdom through the atoning blood of our lord Jesus Christ. We are redeemed and all sin is forgiven

a) This can be difficult to understand and for the Christian today.

(1) v(2) By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?

Colossians 1:13–14 ESV

13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Colossians 1:14 ESV

14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

i) we often try to divide up this statement in verse 13 and 14 into transferred, redemption and forgiveness

(2) v(7) For one who has died has been set free from sin.

b) once this transfer has occured - we are no longer part of Satan’s kingdom Jesus prayed in his High Priestly Prayer

John 17:16 ESV

16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.

ii) We are removed from being in the Kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of God.

We may exist in this body in this disintegrating world but out ultimate home is with Jesus at the Father’s house where we are with the perfect Triune God living in His eternal Glory and light.

- I want to read to you a quote its kind a long but fitting.

(1) R. C. Lucas writes in his commentary The Message of Colossians & Philemon

(3) v(11) So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.

The blessing of forgiveness has sometimes been devalued, as though it were no more than the wiping of the slate clean. But sin is always a power that holds people in thrall,”

d) Lastly we are Transferred to His Kingdom through the atoning blood of our lord Jesus Christ. We are redeemed and all sin is forgiven

(meaning we think that Satan holds some great power over us that we can’t get away from)

i) This can be difficult for us to understand and for the Christian today we often try to divide up this statement in verse 14

so, in Paul’s teaching, forgiveness must include the breaking of that power. It is inconceivable that God should forgive the past, and then send us back incapable of living a new life. Pardon without deliverance would be a mockery, … We ought not to speak of ‘mere forgiveness’ as though this were but an initial blessing of the gospel. The gospel is precisely the offer of freedom because of the forgiveness of our sins. That forgiveness flows from the cross where Christ not only cancelled our debt but also disarmed our enemy.”

ii) I want to read to you a quote its kind a long but fitting.

i) there is great comfort to know that we can live in freedom in the Kingdom of God. Not only freedom from sin but freedom from the bonds of sin. We are now bound up in Christ.

ii) Sin is forgiven

iii) Repentance is something we will strive for

iV) not for our glory but for His Glory

(1) R. C. Lucas writes in his commentary The Message of Colossians & Philemon

We will sin - we all stumble but our fight with sin is done we merely need to recognize that it is on Jesus to fight it.

Our fight is to renew our minds through scripture

The blessing of forgiveness has sometimes been devalued, as though it were no more than the wiping of the slate clean. But sin is always a power that holds people in thrall,”

Seek to know him more through faith, love of the brothers and sisters and surrender in the hope of the One who saves.

(meaning we think that Satan holds some great power over us that we can’t get away from)

so, in Paul’s teaching, forgiveness must include the breaking of that power. It is inconceivable that God should forgive the past, and then send us back incapable of living a new life. Pardon without deliverance would be a mockery, and it is never so contemplated in the New Testament. We ought not to speak of ‘mere forgiveness’ as though this were but an initial blessing of the gospel. The gospel is precisely the offer of freedom because of the forgiveness of our sins. That forgiveness flows from the cross where Christ not only cancelled our debt but also disarmed our enemy.”

iii) Our fight is done we merely need to recognize that it is on Jesus to fight it we just have to surrender.