Epaphras was won and discipled during Paul’s ministry in
Ephesus, and later went to Colosse where he was a major influence in establishing
the church there. Like crabgrass invading a lawn, false teachings had crept
into the young church. Epaphras sought some one-on-one consulting from Paul
in Rome. Colossians is Paul’s follow-up letter to refute the false teaching
and to encourage the church.
In this passage Paul’s tone is positive and optimistic.
His genuine concern for his spiritual brothers and sisters lead to his consistent
intercessory prayer for them. The focus of his intercession is that they would
be filled “with the knowledge of His will”. Paul’s hope is
that these Colossian Christians would live in a pleasing manner before the
Lord, with a quality of commitment expressed by their fruitfulness, growth,
strength, and thankfulness (vv. 10-12).
Colossians was not the last church to suffer from false teachings.
Unbiblical teaching, values, and agendas show up in churches today. Epaphras
had the benefit of seeking the advice from someone older, wiser, and more
experienced. Spiritual mentors and ministerial leaders are a gift from God.
Their counsel should be sought in resolving difficult situations in the church.
Among the challenges that visit us in church-life are those
who pursue their own will. Paul’s intercession for the Colossians is
an important target for our praying “asking God to fill you with the
knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding”
(v. 9).
What a beautiful picture it is to see God’s people united,
marching forward in His will and keeping in step with the Holy Spirit!
(For the full manuscript
of this sermon go to www.preachermagazine.org and click on “Sermons”)
In the manuscript of this message I open with an illustration,
as with the others of this series. An opening illustration is a large window
through which the hearer can look to see where we are going. It serves to
get their attention and can provide a practical insight into the Scripture.
It is good when preaching informs and enlightens. It is even better when preaching
also corrects and motivates.
A verse-by-verse walk through this passage offers a chance to
stop and visit Paul’s insights. We discover several points of interest.
For the individual intent on living a “life worthy of the Lord,”
and who longs to “please Him in every way” there is substantial
guidance here: (1) bearing fruit in every good work, (2) growing in the knowledge
of God, (3) being strengthened with all power, and (4) joyfully giving thanks
to the Father. The preacher can provide specific application of these priorities
and can encourage deliberate action points.
Again, concluding with a warm, respectful invitation to come forward for prayer would be excellent. Offering someone the chance to come forward for prayer has two gifts for the hearer: (1) It gives a moment for decisive closure on the insights from God’s Word; and (2) it opens the double-doors of the tomorrows and ushers them across the threshold into a new, bright, sunny future.
