Scripture:
Colossians 1:21-23 – And you who were once alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.
Observation:
Paul is reminding the believers in the church at Colossae where they were before they knew Christ. We were all separated from God, doers of evil. The same Christ who created heaven and earth, came in flesh and through his death on the cross we are reconciled to God. Paul urges the church to continue steadfast in faith from the hope of the gospel.
Application:
I must remember where I was before I knew Christ. I was hostile in my thoughts, actions and turned my back living in opposition to God. There is only one way to eternal life with the Father, through the sacrifice of Jesus for my sins. I have to remember the hope of the gospel every day and never lose faith or allow myself to think I “have arrived” or get over the gospel. The gospel of Jesus Christ is the greatest news the world has ever known or will ever know. The gospel is unchanging and is the same in Bradenton as it is anywhere else in the world. I have to heed Paul’s caution as I follow Christ not to let my focus shift from the gospel no matter what type of ministry, discipleship I am doing.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for you love and grace in sending Jesus to save me when I was dead in sin opposing you. Help my faith remain strong solely in the hope of the gospel as my greatest need and that of all mankind.