Colossians 1:15-29 It’s been a while, I know, but it’s time to Word Up again. The back half of chapter 1 is pretty darn cool. I love it because Paul really summarizes who Jesus is and why he (Paul) does what he does; and those two things ARE connected. Paul is passionate and “one-thing” focused BECAUSE of the reality of who Jesus is. Today I want to focus on a key phrase for each of these things. First, the second part of verse 17. After Paul tells us how EVERYTHING was created in and through the Son, he says, “and in him all things hold together.” When we are in Christ, things hold together – even in the midst of the good creation being fouled up by sin. IN Christ, things are held together BY Christ. Second, I am fond of verses 28-29 because it reminds me why I do what I do, motivates me to continue doing it, and re-energizes me for the work to be done. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.” It also focuses me; because the truth is it is very easily to strenuously contend with all MY energy on things other than encouraging others (and myself) in wisdom toward full maturity in Christ. What do you find yourself strenuously contending for? That is not a guilt trip. We are told to work in everything as unto the Lord…but is my hard work at the job, or in a relationship, or on my house, or anywhere else for the one who holds all things together, or for my own glory and pleasure?
Posted on: Sun, 04 Aug 2013 13:03:36 +0000
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