In the conclusion of the letter to the church in Colosse, Paul acknowledges a lot of co-laborers in the churches and in the work of spreading the Word of God in this chapter. Tychicus, a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts, with Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will make known to you all things which are happening here. (Colossians 4:7-9)
Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, with Mark the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him), and Jesus who is called Justus. These are my only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision [Jews]; they have proved to be a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. For I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you, and those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis. Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you. Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house. (Colossians 4:10-15)
Jews and non-Jews, working together to spread the gospel of Christ Jesus. That's how it's supposed to be. For there is no partiality with God. (Romans 3:11) For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. (James 3:16-18)
Besides all the acknowledgements, Paul instructs the church in Colosse to share this epistle with the church in Laodicea. The Word of God is for all people, even if it is directly addressed to a specific person or group, it should be taught to and received by all people. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matthew 28:19-20)
There are three key points the Book of Colossians concludes with:
- pray for boldness for ourselves and all other believers to speak the gospel, regardless of our situation: Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. (Colossians 4:2-4); praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:18-20)
- be careful how we who are believers live and behave around unbelievers, because we may be the only "Christ" they see: Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. (Colossians 4:5); See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5:15-17) We have to be careful that we make the most of every opportunity God gives us to witness. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. (Proverbs 18:21); “Set your hearts on all the words which I testify among you today, which you shall command your children to be careful to observe—all the words of this law [of God]. For it is not a futile thing for you, because it is your life, and by this word you shall prolong your days in the land... (Deuteronomy 32:46-47)
- always study the Word of God and then we'll always know what we should say, so that we will always be able to answer those who question us about our faith: Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. (Colossians 2:6); But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, ... (I Peter 3:15-16)
Christ gives us the conclusion that best explains all that God had Paul write to the church in Colosse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16); For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness [Genesis 1:3-5], who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (II Corinthians 4:6)
We must work to spread the gospel of Christ Jesus, redeeming the time; For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. (James 2:26) And we must work with each other, regardless of our race or backgrounds, because if we are Christians, we have the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. (Ephesians 4:3-6) AMEN!
Next, Paul would write his letter to Philemon...
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