Colossians Chapter 4

Masters (Employers, People of Authority Today, We have abolished slavery)

Verse one is a continuation of Chapter 3

Verse 1 Slaves were a part of society during this time! These commands would have been seen as very radical in their world and parts of our World today

Masters were instructed to treat their slaves with Justice and Fairness, reminding them that they (masters) themselves are responsible to their Master in Heaven, the Lord. Who treats them fairly.

Imagine if employers took this tone with their non-slave employees. Production and work atmosphere would be off the charts......

Verse 2

Paul addresses prayer again

Devotion to Prayer, WITH AN ATTITUDE OF THANKSGIVING! Prayer keeps us from becoming Spiritually Drowsy, keeps us alert!

Verse 3-4

Paul then asks the congregation for a personal request that is quite interesting!!

Paul reminds them were he is and his current state: IN PRISON !

NOTICE Paul does not:

Complain of his circumstance, He is not selfish in his request

Pail’s request:

His request was for “us” Timothy and those other believers in prison with him

That God would open up a door for the WORD!

That we may speak the mystery of Christ!

That I can make it clear in the way I speak (present)

Verse 5-6

Paul advises them to conduct themselves with WISDOM towards outsiders.

MAKING THE MOST OUT OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY

Speak with Grace, seasoned with salt (pure and penetrating)

Colossians 3:8–9 NASB95

But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices,

So you will know how to respond to each person

1 Peter 3:15 NASB95

but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;