Collosians

The book of Colossians is a powerful letter that speaks to the sufficiency of Christ in all areas of life and faith. Written by the Apostle Paul to a young church grappling with cultural and spiritual challenges, it offers timeless lessons that are as relevant to believers today as they were in the first century.  


In a recent(6th March 2024) Bible exposition, one Steve Thuo unpacked some of the pressing issues faced by the Colossians—issues that still resonate with modern-day Christians. He highlighted four key challenges that were threatening their faith:  


1. Philosophy: The Colossians were tempted to rely on human wisdom and hollow, deceptive philosophies instead of finding their treasure in Christ (Colossians 2:8). This warning remains critical today as believers navigate competing worldviews that can distract from the simplicity and power of the gospel.  


2. Legalism: Some in Colossae argued that spiritual growth depended on strict adherence to religious rules and regulations. Yet Paul firmly points to Christ as the fulfillment of the law, freeing believers from the burden of legalism (Colossians 2:16-17).  


3. Mysticism: Claims of spiritual superiority through mystical experiences or visions were prevalent in the church. Paul urges the Colossians to stay connected to Christ, the head of the body, from whom true spiritual growth comes (Colossians 2:18-19).  


4. Asceticism: Extreme self-denial and harsh treatment of the body were promoted as pathways to spiritual maturity. However, Paul reminds the Colossians that such practices are ultimately powerless in restraining sin and fail to acknowledge the sufficiency of Christ (Colossians 2:20-23).  


The solution to these challenges is beautifully summed up in Colossians 2:6-15. Paul urges believers to remain rooted in Christ, built up in Him, and guarded against teachings that deviate from the gospel. Christ’s work on the cross is sufficient, offering fullness, freedom, and victory over every spiritual challenge.  


As you read through Colossians, let this letter remind you of the incomparable value of being "in Christ." It’s a call to reject anything that seeks to add to or take away from the finished work of God. Like the Colossians, we are invited to embrace the fullness of Christ—our wisdom, freedom, and victory.


So, take a fresh look at Colossians, and let Paul’s words renew your faith, challenge your understanding, and encourage you to stand firm in the sufficiency of Christ.



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

When the firstborn dies.

Image
Everything Changes When a Firstborn Dies. Today, I found myself reflecting on ancient Egypt—specifically, during the reign of the Pharaoh who didn’t know Joseph (Exodus 1:8). It was a time of great power, but also of great sorrow, especially when things took a tragic turn. Now, you might know the story, but let's revisit it a bit. Joseph, the shepherd boy and his father’s favorite, found himself in a bit of a pickle. His brothers, tired of his dreams and his fancy coat, sold him off to some merchants. These merchants then sold Joseph as a slave in Egypt. Fast forward a few years, and our boy Joseph had climbed the ranks in Egypt, from slave to leader. He was well-known, respected, and even had a family. Then, a severe drought struck, and Egypt, under Joseph’s brilliant management, became the region’s breadbasket. It’s said that the grain stores were so full that they stopped keeping records (Genesis 41:49). This abundance attracted people from all over, including Joseph’s own...
Read more

Full year BRG - Canonical

Image
Key Tips for Success Consistency Over Perfection: If you miss a day, don’t give up. Use the lighter weekends to catch up. Break It Down: Split the daily chapters into smaller portions (e.g., morning and evening readings). Use Audio Bibles: If you're too tired to read, listen to the chapters while driving, cooking, or relaxing. Journal Your Journey: Note one insight or question per day to deepen understanding and engagement. Accountability Groups: Form a small Bible study group to stay motivated and share reflections. - Week 1 (Jan 1–7):   Mon: Genesis 1–4     Tue: Genesis 5–8     Wed: Genesis 9–12     Thu: Genesis 13–16     Fri: Genesis 17–20     Sat: Genesis 21–22     Sun: Genesis 23–24   - Week 2 (Jan 8–14):   Mon: Genesis 25–28     Tue: Genesis 29–32     Wed: Genesis 33–36     Thu: Genesis 37–40     Fri: Genesis 41–4...
Read more

Praying for the physically ill.

Image
Whenever we have a loved one not feeling well, admitted in hospital or maybe even in a critical condition according to the medics, prayer can become hard. We get to a point of prayer fatigue (I first heard that term from a friend called Sarah) and if things are not handled well, we may end up praying amiss as James describes it. I have highlighted the WE sections to emphasize the value of prayer of unity. However, if you're praying while alone, you still are not alone. Believers pray in the company of other believers seen or unseen. That's why our Lord taught us to pray "our father" and not my father. We're never alone in the place of prayer. May this guide help you pray for yourself, your loved one, friend or a friend to a friend. Pray in the spirit and with understanding. 1. Praying for God's Will to Be Done In Mark 1:40-42, a man with leprosy came to Jesus and said, "If you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus responded, "I am willing....
Read more