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Desire to be a vessel of honor unto the Lord Jesus Christ?
Join For His Glory for a discussion on how
https://christianforums.net/threads/a-vessel-of-honor.110278/
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Taking the time to pray? Christ is the answer in times of need
https://christianforums.net/threads/psalm-70-1-save-me-o-god-lord-help-me-now.108509/
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Depending upon the Holy Spirit for all you do?
Read through the following study by Tenchi for more on this topic
https://christianforums.net/threads/without-the-holy-spirit-we-can-do-nothing.109419/
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How are famous preachers sometimes effected by sin?
Join Sola Scriptura for a discussion on the subject
https://christianforums.net/threads/anointed-preaching-teaching.109331/#post-1912042
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Bible Study A personal look through Colossians
- Thread starter Angel
- Start date
Angel
Member
Colossians 3
1 If then you have been raised with Christ [to a new life, thus sharing His resurrection from the dead], aim at and seek the [rich, eternal treasures] that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Christ gave us a new life. By this we must put off our carnal nature and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 4:21-23.) I know I will die, but I also know that life doesn't stop with death. Pursuing the eternal treasures makes sense then. While here on earth, I am are not storing up things that perish- things that will die and rot, I am seeking the things from above. (Matthew 6:19) Though I do not hold these eternal trearures in my hands now, I believe I will receive them from Christ, because these treasures are where he is. In fact, you could consider Him to be the treasure!
2 And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth
Setting your mind is making a determination to do something without changing your mind. This verse is saying to keep your eyes on higher things with focus out. Without excuse. You hold yourself accountable and keep your focus on the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 6:33)
3 For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.
The only way we can know what real life is, is if we find it in Christ. We can pray, "What is this hidden life? How may I receive it?" When we do this, I believe that we will be done with following the ways of the world. because we are ready for new life. True life. (John 14:6)
4 When Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in [the splendor of His] glory.
Christ is our leader. Christ is our healer. Christ ought to be the center of our life, because He Himself is life. He is our best friend. He's not condemning us because we are sinful and He wasn't. He wants us to be right there with Him in the brilliance of his magnificence!
5 So kill (deaden, [a]deprive of power) the evil desire lurking in your members [those animal impulses and all that is earthly in you that is employed in sin]: sexual vice, impurity, sensual appetites, unholy desires, and all greed and covetousness, for that is idolatry (the deifying of self and other created things instead of God).
Starve you impulses to sin. Don't give it a hold on your mind. Turn your back on evil and turn towards Jesus. We all have different temptations, but the feeling of temptation is the same. We have to be alert because we have no idea what we will face each and every day. Pray that you will turn away from deliberate sin before it happens.
1 If then you have been raised with Christ [to a new life, thus sharing His resurrection from the dead], aim at and seek the [rich, eternal treasures] that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Christ gave us a new life. By this we must put off our carnal nature and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 4:21-23.) I know I will die, but I also know that life doesn't stop with death. Pursuing the eternal treasures makes sense then. While here on earth, I am are not storing up things that perish- things that will die and rot, I am seeking the things from above. (Matthew 6:19) Though I do not hold these eternal trearures in my hands now, I believe I will receive them from Christ, because these treasures are where he is. In fact, you could consider Him to be the treasure!
2 And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth
Setting your mind is making a determination to do something without changing your mind. This verse is saying to keep your eyes on higher things with focus out. Without excuse. You hold yourself accountable and keep your focus on the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 6:33)
3 For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.
The only way we can know what real life is, is if we find it in Christ. We can pray, "What is this hidden life? How may I receive it?" When we do this, I believe that we will be done with following the ways of the world. because we are ready for new life. True life. (John 14:6)
4 When Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in [the splendor of His] glory.
Christ is our leader. Christ is our healer. Christ ought to be the center of our life, because He Himself is life. He is our best friend. He's not condemning us because we are sinful and He wasn't. He wants us to be right there with Him in the brilliance of his magnificence!
5 So kill (deaden, [a]deprive of power) the evil desire lurking in your members [those animal impulses and all that is earthly in you that is employed in sin]: sexual vice, impurity, sensual appetites, unholy desires, and all greed and covetousness, for that is idolatry (the deifying of self and other created things instead of God).
Starve you impulses to sin. Don't give it a hold on your mind. Turn your back on evil and turn towards Jesus. We all have different temptations, but the feeling of temptation is the same. We have to be alert because we have no idea what we will face each and every day. Pray that you will turn away from deliberate sin before it happens.
Angel
Member
6 It is on account of these [very sins] that the [holy] anger of God is ever coming upon the sons of disobedience (those who are obstinately opposed to the divine will),
7 Among whom you also once walked, when you were living in and addicted to [such practices].
I don't know about you, but I do NOT want to stir up God's anger. I think this correlates with people denying the power or conviction of the Holy Spirit. (Luke 12:10) You can't say you're a Christian and still use drugs and rationalize. "Well, God know's I need it." You have to repent and follow Christ. One small step at a time. God's not in a rush, and He has great patience. Even if you are in bondage to something, hold in faith that you will be delivered. Don't believe it might happen... believe that it will.
8 But now put away and rid yourselves [completely] of all these things: anger, rage, bad feeling toward others, curses and slander, and foulmouthed abuse and shameful utterances from your lips!
A person in my life has anger problems, and they don't realize how much it hurts me. It causes me to have bad feelings toward them, even though I really love them. But, I do have my own anger problems. For instance, when I step barefoot in my dogs poop, shameful utterances are upon my lips! Since I have prayed that this person would be convicted- God is making me face my own anger. I'm not better than them, and am susceptible to anger just as easily.
9 Do not lie to one another, for you have stripped off the old (unregenerate) self with its evil practices,
10 And have clothed yourselves with the new [spiritual self], which is [ever in the process of being] renewed and remolded into [fuller and more perfect knowledge upon] knowledge after the image (the likeness) of Him Who created it.
When someone comes to us with a problem, don't misguide them by saying it's ok. In fact, don't even lie to yourself! Clothe your mind in the Scriptures, that you may learn many things about God- the one who is the source of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7)
11 [In this new creation all distinctions vanish.] There [c]is no room for and there can be neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, [nor difference between nations whether alien] barbarians or Scythians [[d]who are the most savage of all], nor slave or free man; but Christ is all and in all [[e]everything and everywhere, to all men, without distinction of person].
The world is big about labels. To fit in you must be attractive, have lots of money, be famously talented, etc. But with Christ, we are all the same! I am no better than you, you are no better than me. Though we all work together in different ways together to glorify God, we are not esteemed higher than another. (1 Corinthians 12) We are all blessed the same.
12 Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].
God picked us to be his witnesses. We are made holy by the continual practice of our integrity, and by God's grace and mercy. God wants us to treat others the way He treats us. He wants us to be humble and gentle and patient. I ask God to remove my heart of stone and give me a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 11:19) Only God can truly change a person. And now matter how hard you work or how close you get, you can't be what God asks without His help.
7 Among whom you also once walked, when you were living in and addicted to [such practices].
I don't know about you, but I do NOT want to stir up God's anger. I think this correlates with people denying the power or conviction of the Holy Spirit. (Luke 12:10) You can't say you're a Christian and still use drugs and rationalize. "Well, God know's I need it." You have to repent and follow Christ. One small step at a time. God's not in a rush, and He has great patience. Even if you are in bondage to something, hold in faith that you will be delivered. Don't believe it might happen... believe that it will.
8 But now put away and rid yourselves [completely] of all these things: anger, rage, bad feeling toward others, curses and slander, and foulmouthed abuse and shameful utterances from your lips!
A person in my life has anger problems, and they don't realize how much it hurts me. It causes me to have bad feelings toward them, even though I really love them. But, I do have my own anger problems. For instance, when I step barefoot in my dogs poop, shameful utterances are upon my lips! Since I have prayed that this person would be convicted- God is making me face my own anger. I'm not better than them, and am susceptible to anger just as easily.
9 Do not lie to one another, for you have stripped off the old (unregenerate) self with its evil practices,
10 And have clothed yourselves with the new [spiritual self], which is [ever in the process of being] renewed and remolded into [fuller and more perfect knowledge upon] knowledge after the image (the likeness) of Him Who created it.
When someone comes to us with a problem, don't misguide them by saying it's ok. In fact, don't even lie to yourself! Clothe your mind in the Scriptures, that you may learn many things about God- the one who is the source of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7)
11 [In this new creation all distinctions vanish.] There [c]is no room for and there can be neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, [nor difference between nations whether alien] barbarians or Scythians [[d]who are the most savage of all], nor slave or free man; but Christ is all and in all [[e]everything and everywhere, to all men, without distinction of person].
The world is big about labels. To fit in you must be attractive, have lots of money, be famously talented, etc. But with Christ, we are all the same! I am no better than you, you are no better than me. Though we all work together in different ways together to glorify God, we are not esteemed higher than another. (1 Corinthians 12) We are all blessed the same.
12 Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].
God picked us to be his witnesses. We are made holy by the continual practice of our integrity, and by God's grace and mercy. God wants us to treat others the way He treats us. He wants us to be humble and gentle and patient. I ask God to remove my heart of stone and give me a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 11:19) Only God can truly change a person. And now matter how hard you work or how close you get, you can't be what God asks without His help.
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Angel
Member
13 Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive].
When someone offends you, its easy to give forgive if someone asks you for it. But what if someone offends you and they laugh in your face or could care less how it affects you? Or what if someone keeps doing the same thing over and over again. Sound familiar? Often when we are struggling with sin, we sin against God over and over again. And he forgives us every time. Can we say we forgive our offenders as God forgives us? We're supposed to! (Matthew 6:15)
14 And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony].
This verse reminds me of another Scripture: 1 John 4:12 - No man has at any time [yet] seen God. But if we love one another, God abides (lives and remains) in us and His love (that love which is essentially His) is brought to completion (to its full maturity, runs its full course, is perfected) in us! One thing I have learned is that you can practice loving others on purpose. You can go out of your way to do something nice for someone else. Really meditate on what love is to you- and then go do it! It doesn't have to be some big thing. It can be as little as giving up a seat to an elderly person, or donating to a homeless shelter.
15 And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].
Only once in my life have I experienced super natural peace. It was amazing! But, many times I have to trust in the peace that I don't have and pray that God will grant it to me out of His mercy. And when He answers my prayers and gives me that peace, I sing to him with joy. (Usually a hymn). I hope that you all have God's peace in your hearts this night. I truly do.
16 Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts.
Memorizing Scripture is so important because it fills our minds with what is good. It is there to be recalled when we need it. It provides comfort. And it gives strength. So does singing. I like to sing hymns that I learned when I was a lot younger. I like hyms because of the words/poetry you get from it.
17 And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.
I think this means to keep Jesus as the head of all that you do. Acknowledge His presence. He's with you everywhere you go. He can guard your speech and warn you against taking certain actions. It is so special when He answers prayers, and helps you in your day to day life.
18 Wives, be subject to your husbands [subordinate and adapt yourselves to them], as is right and fitting and your proper duty in the Lord.
I hope this doesn't offend anyone, but I see the wife's role as a servant toward her husband. It doesn't mean she's Cinderella and has to cook and clean and that's all there is to it. But I think the things she does should compliment and be at unity with her husband.
19 Husbands, love your wives [be affectionate and sympathetic with them] and do not be harsh or bitter or resentful toward them.
I do not think that men ought to rule woman as a dictator. Women always deserve to be treated with respect. Tenderness between a man and a woman is a very special thing.
20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.
If you are a youth reading this- it is so important to know and do! If I had obeyed my parents in my 20's I would have been spared a lot of trouble, a lot of pain and misery- both implanted on me and my family. I belive that children should always care for their parents- especially when their parents need special attention. I am not a believer in nursing homes. I will take care of my parents and my in law parents when they are older. Honor your father and mother! (Exodus 20:12)
When someone offends you, its easy to give forgive if someone asks you for it. But what if someone offends you and they laugh in your face or could care less how it affects you? Or what if someone keeps doing the same thing over and over again. Sound familiar? Often when we are struggling with sin, we sin against God over and over again. And he forgives us every time. Can we say we forgive our offenders as God forgives us? We're supposed to! (Matthew 6:15)
14 And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony].
This verse reminds me of another Scripture: 1 John 4:12 - No man has at any time [yet] seen God. But if we love one another, God abides (lives and remains) in us and His love (that love which is essentially His) is brought to completion (to its full maturity, runs its full course, is perfected) in us! One thing I have learned is that you can practice loving others on purpose. You can go out of your way to do something nice for someone else. Really meditate on what love is to you- and then go do it! It doesn't have to be some big thing. It can be as little as giving up a seat to an elderly person, or donating to a homeless shelter.
15 And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].
Only once in my life have I experienced super natural peace. It was amazing! But, many times I have to trust in the peace that I don't have and pray that God will grant it to me out of His mercy. And when He answers my prayers and gives me that peace, I sing to him with joy. (Usually a hymn). I hope that you all have God's peace in your hearts this night. I truly do.
16 Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts.
Memorizing Scripture is so important because it fills our minds with what is good. It is there to be recalled when we need it. It provides comfort. And it gives strength. So does singing. I like to sing hymns that I learned when I was a lot younger. I like hyms because of the words/poetry you get from it.
17 And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.
I think this means to keep Jesus as the head of all that you do. Acknowledge His presence. He's with you everywhere you go. He can guard your speech and warn you against taking certain actions. It is so special when He answers prayers, and helps you in your day to day life.
18 Wives, be subject to your husbands [subordinate and adapt yourselves to them], as is right and fitting and your proper duty in the Lord.
I hope this doesn't offend anyone, but I see the wife's role as a servant toward her husband. It doesn't mean she's Cinderella and has to cook and clean and that's all there is to it. But I think the things she does should compliment and be at unity with her husband.
19 Husbands, love your wives [be affectionate and sympathetic with them] and do not be harsh or bitter or resentful toward them.
I do not think that men ought to rule woman as a dictator. Women always deserve to be treated with respect. Tenderness between a man and a woman is a very special thing.
20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.
If you are a youth reading this- it is so important to know and do! If I had obeyed my parents in my 20's I would have been spared a lot of trouble, a lot of pain and misery- both implanted on me and my family. I belive that children should always care for their parents- especially when their parents need special attention. I am not a believer in nursing homes. I will take care of my parents and my in law parents when they are older. Honor your father and mother! (Exodus 20:12)
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Angel
Member
21 Fathers, do not provoke or irritate or fret your children [do not be hard on them or harass them], lest they become discouraged and sullen and morose and feel inferior and frustrated. [Do not break their spirit.]
I think when children are mistreated by their parents or anyone it affects their self-esteem. They don't fear their parents discipline in a healthy way- they fear the hurt of the discipline itself. They try to please but are always rejected. All they need is a little bit of recognition.
22 Servants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not only when their eyes are on you as pleasers of men, but in simplicity of purpose [with all your heart] because of your reverence for the Lord and as a sincere expression of your devotion to Him.
This is true inegrity- to do the right thing even when you are by yourself. I am reminded of 1 Cor 10:31- all that you do, do for the glory of God. When you are focused on pleasing Him, you do your best for the task at hand.
23 Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,
24 Knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah).
When I focus on doing something good for someone- I am actually doing it for Jesus! Man may give us money or power for doing good things for them, but God gives us an inheritance! A true reward is from God. Man can give you just about anything- but I'm sure it pales in comparison to what is waiting in store for us!
25 For he who deals wrongfully will [reap the fruit of his folly and] be punished for his wrongdoing. And [with God] there is no partiality [no matter what a person’s position may be, whether he is the slave or the master].
If you sow goodness, you reap goodness. If you sow peace, you reap peace. If you sow hatred you reap hatred. If you sow sinful acts, you reap the consequences. God does not look at anyone's rank or position- he see's us as the same. And he judges by our hearts. (1 Sam 16:7)
(Will continue with the last chapter tomorrow.)
I think when children are mistreated by their parents or anyone it affects their self-esteem. They don't fear their parents discipline in a healthy way- they fear the hurt of the discipline itself. They try to please but are always rejected. All they need is a little bit of recognition.
22 Servants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not only when their eyes are on you as pleasers of men, but in simplicity of purpose [with all your heart] because of your reverence for the Lord and as a sincere expression of your devotion to Him.
This is true inegrity- to do the right thing even when you are by yourself. I am reminded of 1 Cor 10:31- all that you do, do for the glory of God. When you are focused on pleasing Him, you do your best for the task at hand.
23 Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,
24 Knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah).
When I focus on doing something good for someone- I am actually doing it for Jesus! Man may give us money or power for doing good things for them, but God gives us an inheritance! A true reward is from God. Man can give you just about anything- but I'm sure it pales in comparison to what is waiting in store for us!
25 For he who deals wrongfully will [reap the fruit of his folly and] be punished for his wrongdoing. And [with God] there is no partiality [no matter what a person’s position may be, whether he is the slave or the master].
If you sow goodness, you reap goodness. If you sow peace, you reap peace. If you sow hatred you reap hatred. If you sow sinful acts, you reap the consequences. God does not look at anyone's rank or position- he see's us as the same. And he judges by our hearts. (1 Sam 16:7)
(Will continue with the last chapter tomorrow.)
Angel
Member
Chapter 4
1 Masters, [on your part] deal with your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that also you have a Master in heaven.
I feel this applies to those who work. The boss, the one in authority, should treat his employees with respect. We all will have to answer to God for the way we treat or mistreat others. I also feel that this applys to parents and how they treat their children. We have one true Father, and we should model Christ to our children, workers, friends, and family.
2 Be earnest and unwearied and steadfast in your prayer [life], being [both] alert and intent in [your praying] with thanksgiving.
We can't give up on God. We must pursue Him in faith, when we trust and when we doubt. We should not be lazy in our prayers. Prayers allow God to work through us or others. I wonder what sort of things change for the better because someone prayed? When my prayers are answered I sing my thanks! And I experience joy.
3 And at the same time pray for us also, that God may open a door to us for the Word (the Gospel), to proclaim the mystery concerning Christ (the Messiah) on account of which I am in prison;
4 That I may proclaim it fully and make it clear [speak boldly and unfold that mystery], as is my duty.
Just because you believe in Jesus, it doesn't mean you'll never have problems. Sometimes you will be mistreated, or accused falsely, all because you talk about Jesus. I have a tattoo in Hebrew that is messianic and one time when I was at the mall a Jewish guy stopped me to look at my tattoo. He said to me, if you went to Israel with that tattoo- you would be killed. It would be offensive.
We all may represent Jesus in different ways. It's not in our culture to preach as Paul did, with exception as in the churches. It's a shame. I personally believe that getting to know someone and show them what Christ is like, and then when the Spirit gives the go, we can tell them about the Gospel.
When I am around family that doesn't believe, I speak things about Christ. For instance we were talking about death and I mentioned how Christ conquered death and there is no sting. I just say little things like that when I get the chance. I love them SO much- I can't bear them not knowing Jesus.
5 Behave yourselves wisely [living prudently and with discretion] in your relations with those of the outside world (the non-Christians), making the very most of the time and seizing (buying up) the opportunity.
Once again, our biggest witness is the way we live our lives. We want to be attractive to the world- that they see something in us that is just... different. And good.
This year I told myself that when opportunities come may way I will pursue them. I need to apply this to my witness. Every chance I have to be good, I will. Or at least aim. I wonder... should we ask the Spirit to prompt us when an opportunity arises? I hope if it he does, I don't resisit, I don't ignore the Spirit's direction...
1 Masters, [on your part] deal with your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that also you have a Master in heaven.
I feel this applies to those who work. The boss, the one in authority, should treat his employees with respect. We all will have to answer to God for the way we treat or mistreat others. I also feel that this applys to parents and how they treat their children. We have one true Father, and we should model Christ to our children, workers, friends, and family.
2 Be earnest and unwearied and steadfast in your prayer [life], being [both] alert and intent in [your praying] with thanksgiving.
We can't give up on God. We must pursue Him in faith, when we trust and when we doubt. We should not be lazy in our prayers. Prayers allow God to work through us or others. I wonder what sort of things change for the better because someone prayed? When my prayers are answered I sing my thanks! And I experience joy.
3 And at the same time pray for us also, that God may open a door to us for the Word (the Gospel), to proclaim the mystery concerning Christ (the Messiah) on account of which I am in prison;
4 That I may proclaim it fully and make it clear [speak boldly and unfold that mystery], as is my duty.
Just because you believe in Jesus, it doesn't mean you'll never have problems. Sometimes you will be mistreated, or accused falsely, all because you talk about Jesus. I have a tattoo in Hebrew that is messianic and one time when I was at the mall a Jewish guy stopped me to look at my tattoo. He said to me, if you went to Israel with that tattoo- you would be killed. It would be offensive.
We all may represent Jesus in different ways. It's not in our culture to preach as Paul did, with exception as in the churches. It's a shame. I personally believe that getting to know someone and show them what Christ is like, and then when the Spirit gives the go, we can tell them about the Gospel.
When I am around family that doesn't believe, I speak things about Christ. For instance we were talking about death and I mentioned how Christ conquered death and there is no sting. I just say little things like that when I get the chance. I love them SO much- I can't bear them not knowing Jesus.
5 Behave yourselves wisely [living prudently and with discretion] in your relations with those of the outside world (the non-Christians), making the very most of the time and seizing (buying up) the opportunity.
Once again, our biggest witness is the way we live our lives. We want to be attractive to the world- that they see something in us that is just... different. And good.
This year I told myself that when opportunities come may way I will pursue them. I need to apply this to my witness. Every chance I have to be good, I will. Or at least aim. I wonder... should we ask the Spirit to prompt us when an opportunity arises? I hope if it he does, I don't resisit, I don't ignore the Spirit's direction...
Angel
Member
6 Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned [as it were] with salt, [so that you may never be at a loss] to know how you ought to answer anyone [who puts a question to you].
We absolutely need to know the Scriptures so that the Spirit will bring to our minds something that we need to tell a lost soul. Its not our words, but God's words, that change hearts.
7 Tychicus will give you full information about my affairs; [he is] a much-loved brother and faithful ministering assistant and fellow servant [with us] in the Lord.
8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are faring and that he may comfort and cheer and encourage your hearts.
9 And with [him is] Onesimus, [our] faithful and beloved brother, who is [one] of yourselves. They will let you know everything that has taken place here [in Rome].
Leaders are a blessing. They keep us in the right, and warn us from what is wrong. They work to lift your spirits and bring joy into your soul. Their testimony of what fellow belivers are going through gives incentive to pray. I believe this applies to modern day missionaries. We support them financially or by volunteering, and they come back to us and speak of all the good things God has done because the church gave the simple act of financial support.
10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner wishes to be remembered to you, as does Mark the relative of Barnabas. You received instructions concerning him; if he comes to you give him a [[a]hearty] welcome.
Have you heard of Saeed? Here is a link to learn more about him:
http://beheardproject.com/saeed
He is being held in prison just for preaching the good news. Just as Aristarchus wanted to be remembered in prison, so does Saeed. We can't forget those who are being persecuted! We must pray for their deliverance/release.
We absolutely need to know the Scriptures so that the Spirit will bring to our minds something that we need to tell a lost soul. Its not our words, but God's words, that change hearts.
7 Tychicus will give you full information about my affairs; [he is] a much-loved brother and faithful ministering assistant and fellow servant [with us] in the Lord.
8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are faring and that he may comfort and cheer and encourage your hearts.
9 And with [him is] Onesimus, [our] faithful and beloved brother, who is [one] of yourselves. They will let you know everything that has taken place here [in Rome].
Leaders are a blessing. They keep us in the right, and warn us from what is wrong. They work to lift your spirits and bring joy into your soul. Their testimony of what fellow belivers are going through gives incentive to pray. I believe this applies to modern day missionaries. We support them financially or by volunteering, and they come back to us and speak of all the good things God has done because the church gave the simple act of financial support.
10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner wishes to be remembered to you, as does Mark the relative of Barnabas. You received instructions concerning him; if he comes to you give him a [[a]hearty] welcome.
Have you heard of Saeed? Here is a link to learn more about him:
http://beheardproject.com/saeed
He is being held in prison just for preaching the good news. Just as Aristarchus wanted to be remembered in prison, so does Saeed. We can't forget those who are being persecuted! We must pray for their deliverance/release.
Angel
Member
11 And [greetings also from] Jesus, who is called Justus. These [Hebrew Christians] alone of the circumcision are among my fellow workers for [the extension of] God’s kingdom, and they have proved a relief and a comfort to me.
When we reach out to others, we must have support from other believers. (Ecclesiastes 4:89-12)
This support comes from prayer, donations, or just being along side us and witness with us. Even Jesus sent his disciples two by two. (Mark 6:7)
12 Epaphras, who is one of yourselves, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. [He is] always striving for you earnestly in his prayers, [pleading] that you may [as persons of ripe character and clear conviction] stand firm and mature [in spiritual growth], convinced and fully assured in everything willed by God.
13 For I bear him testimony that he has labored hard in your behalf and for [the believers] in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis.
Not only should we pray for others spiritual maturity, but we must also pray for ourselves that we become fully developed in our faith too. We can't judge others without looking inside our own hearts. Some people mature faster than others, but they shouldn't be proud and see the weaker as inferior.
14 Luke the beloved physician and Demas salute you.
15 Give my greetings to the brethren at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the assembly (the church) which meets in her house.
16 And when this epistle has been read before you, [see] that it is read also in the assembly (the church) of the Laodiceans, and also [see] that you yourselves in turn read the [letter that comes to you] from Laodicea.
17 And say to Archippus, See that you discharge carefully [the duties of] the ministry and fulfill the stewardship which you have received in the Lord.
18 I, Paul, [add this final] greeting, writing with my own hand. Remember I am still in prison and in chains. May grace (God’s unmerited favor and blessing) be with you! Amen (so be it).
Keeping in touch with Christian friends and family is precious. Someone walking on their own may fall easier because they have no one to fan the flame and keep them warm. (Ecclesiates 4:11) We must pray for those who watch over us because they are human and make mistakes too. Someone who is genuine will surrender their leadership to God, so that they may lead as God desires.
This concludes the study. I hope and pray it is a blessing.
When we reach out to others, we must have support from other believers. (Ecclesiastes 4:89-12)
This support comes from prayer, donations, or just being along side us and witness with us. Even Jesus sent his disciples two by two. (Mark 6:7)
12 Epaphras, who is one of yourselves, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. [He is] always striving for you earnestly in his prayers, [pleading] that you may [as persons of ripe character and clear conviction] stand firm and mature [in spiritual growth], convinced and fully assured in everything willed by God.
13 For I bear him testimony that he has labored hard in your behalf and for [the believers] in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis.
Not only should we pray for others spiritual maturity, but we must also pray for ourselves that we become fully developed in our faith too. We can't judge others without looking inside our own hearts. Some people mature faster than others, but they shouldn't be proud and see the weaker as inferior.
14 Luke the beloved physician and Demas salute you.
15 Give my greetings to the brethren at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the assembly (the church) which meets in her house.
16 And when this epistle has been read before you, [see] that it is read also in the assembly (the church) of the Laodiceans, and also [see] that you yourselves in turn read the [letter that comes to you] from Laodicea.
17 And say to Archippus, See that you discharge carefully [the duties of] the ministry and fulfill the stewardship which you have received in the Lord.
18 I, Paul, [add this final] greeting, writing with my own hand. Remember I am still in prison and in chains. May grace (God’s unmerited favor and blessing) be with you! Amen (so be it).
Keeping in touch with Christian friends and family is precious. Someone walking on their own may fall easier because they have no one to fan the flame and keep them warm. (Ecclesiates 4:11) We must pray for those who watch over us because they are human and make mistakes too. Someone who is genuine will surrender their leadership to God, so that they may lead as God desires.
This concludes the study. I hope and pray it is a blessing.
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A
agua.
Guest
It's been a pleasure to read your words Angel and God bless you for such a strong desire to know and love Jesus. I also love to see your desire to know the scriptures because we know they hold words of life.
J
jocor
Guest
Good job for the most part Angel. However, I believe you are incorrect in your commentary below concerning Col 2:16-17 as well as your understanding of Matthew 15:17-20 (you have the wrong reference – Matthew 5:17,18).
You wrote:
Yeshua’s words in Matthew 7 refer to eating CLEAN meat with unwashed hands. It has nothing to do with eating unclean meat which Yahweh clearly said defiles a person:
Yeshua summed up his teaching in Matthew 15 by saying;
Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever enters in at the mouth goes into the belly, and is cast out into the draught (latrine)? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashed hands defiles not a man. Matthew 15:17-20
As for Colossians 2, here is my understanding of Paul’s words.
Let's first determine the context of chapter two. In verses 4 and 8 Paul warns the Colossians about deceivers. Then again, in verse 18, Paul gives his final warning about these same deceivers. In what way were they trying to deceive the Colossians? Verse 8 tells us that they were trying to exalt the traditions of men over the Messiah (verses 8 & 19).
Notice carefully the context; the traditions of men in verse 8, 18, and 22. The verses that occur between 8 and 22 must be understood based on the context of the traditions of men.
Now we can understand the key word in Colossians 2:14, "ordinances." The Greek word for ordinances here is a form of the root word "dogma" which means man-made rules, laws, commandments, precepts, etc. Paul is not talking about Yahweh's ordinances in this verse. He is talking about man's ordinances or traditions. This same word is used in Colossians 2:20 pertaining to the doctrines and commandments of men; in Lu.2:1 pertaining to a decree from Caesar Augustus; in Acts 17:7 pertaining to a decree from Caesar. It always pertains to man's commandments, not Yahweh's. Compare the word dogma with the Greek word that pertains to Yahweh's ordinances, "dikaioma."
This word dikaioma was used in Luke 1:6 pertaining to the ordinances of Yahweh and in Hebrews 9:1,10 pertaining once again to Yahweh's ordinances. Therefore, Paul is saying in verse 14 that the traditions and commandments of men are the issue, not Yahweh's laws. But what was nailed to the cross? The Greek construction shows that the "handwriting" was nailed, not the ordinances. The handwriting or, in Greek, the "cheirographon" was a certificate of debt. Whenever a man sins against Yahweh his sin is imputed against him (Romans 4:7,8). When men exalt the traditions of men over the commandments of Yahweh, as the Pharisees did, for example, they sin against Yahweh. The Messiah became sin for us and when He was nailed to the tree so were the sins that were imputed against us. Yahweh's holy ordinances were not nailed to the tree, the certificate of debt resulting in our death sentence was nailed to the tree. That is why Paul said the Colossians were "dead in your sins" in verse 13. The principalities and powers of verse 15 caused the people to sin by their man-made laws, but Messiah was victorious over them.
This brings us to the crucial verse 16. It was the deceivers of verses 4,8, and 18 that were judging the Colossians regarding the things mentioned in verse 16. They had been imposing their man-made commandments and traditions upon the Colossians. Paul told them not to allow anyone to judge them concerning those matters. An important addition was made in the KJV that does not appear in any Greek manuscript. The word "is " in verse 17 was added, which changes the meaning of Paul's statement. That is why it is written in italics. Retaining the word "is" implies the thought of shadow vs. reality which is why our modern versions (including the one you quoted from) use "substance" or "reality" . In other words, Messiah fulfilled the shadow of the things mentioned in verse 16. However, if you remove the added word "is", it implies that we should not let any man outside the body of Messiah judge us in respect to these things. Indeed that is in line with the context of Paul's previous statements. Notice Colossians 1:18 & 24 and Col 2:19, all of which teach us that the "body" of Messiah is the church or all true believers.
Verse 17 states that these things "are" a shadow of things "to come" not that they "were" a shadow that was now fulfilled by Messiah. Paul wrote this epistle approximately 30 years afterMessiah's death and resurrection and yet he still spoke of them as unfulfilled shadows of something in his future.
BTW, the translation you used for verse 17 uses “only” twice, but there is no Greek word meaning “only” in the text. They were added by translators to make it seem as though those shadows are unimportant.
You wrote:
Yeshua’s words in Matthew 7 refer to eating CLEAN meat with unwashed hands. It has nothing to do with eating unclean meat which Yahweh clearly said defiles a person:
For I am Yahweh your Elohim: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy: neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creeps upon the earth. For I am Yahweh that brings you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy. This is the law of the beasts, and of the fowl, and of every living creature that moves in the waters, and of every creature that creeps upon the earth: To make a difference between the unclean and the clean, and between the beast that may be eaten and the beast that may not be eaten. Lev 11:44-47
Yeshua summed up his teaching in Matthew 15 by saying;
Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever enters in at the mouth goes into the belly, and is cast out into the draught (latrine)? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashed hands defiles not a man. Matthew 15:17-20
As for Colossians 2, here is my understanding of Paul’s words.
Let's first determine the context of chapter two. In verses 4 and 8 Paul warns the Colossians about deceivers. Then again, in verse 18, Paul gives his final warning about these same deceivers. In what way were they trying to deceive the Colossians? Verse 8 tells us that they were trying to exalt the traditions of men over the Messiah (verses 8 & 19).
Notice carefully the context; the traditions of men in verse 8, 18, and 22. The verses that occur between 8 and 22 must be understood based on the context of the traditions of men.
Now we can understand the key word in Colossians 2:14, "ordinances." The Greek word for ordinances here is a form of the root word "dogma" which means man-made rules, laws, commandments, precepts, etc. Paul is not talking about Yahweh's ordinances in this verse. He is talking about man's ordinances or traditions. This same word is used in Colossians 2:20 pertaining to the doctrines and commandments of men; in Lu.2:1 pertaining to a decree from Caesar Augustus; in Acts 17:7 pertaining to a decree from Caesar. It always pertains to man's commandments, not Yahweh's. Compare the word dogma with the Greek word that pertains to Yahweh's ordinances, "dikaioma."
This word dikaioma was used in Luke 1:6 pertaining to the ordinances of Yahweh and in Hebrews 9:1,10 pertaining once again to Yahweh's ordinances. Therefore, Paul is saying in verse 14 that the traditions and commandments of men are the issue, not Yahweh's laws. But what was nailed to the cross? The Greek construction shows that the "handwriting" was nailed, not the ordinances. The handwriting or, in Greek, the "cheirographon" was a certificate of debt. Whenever a man sins against Yahweh his sin is imputed against him (Romans 4:7,8). When men exalt the traditions of men over the commandments of Yahweh, as the Pharisees did, for example, they sin against Yahweh. The Messiah became sin for us and when He was nailed to the tree so were the sins that were imputed against us. Yahweh's holy ordinances were not nailed to the tree, the certificate of debt resulting in our death sentence was nailed to the tree. That is why Paul said the Colossians were "dead in your sins" in verse 13. The principalities and powers of verse 15 caused the people to sin by their man-made laws, but Messiah was victorious over them.
This brings us to the crucial verse 16. It was the deceivers of verses 4,8, and 18 that were judging the Colossians regarding the things mentioned in verse 16. They had been imposing their man-made commandments and traditions upon the Colossians. Paul told them not to allow anyone to judge them concerning those matters. An important addition was made in the KJV that does not appear in any Greek manuscript. The word "is " in verse 17 was added, which changes the meaning of Paul's statement. That is why it is written in italics. Retaining the word "is" implies the thought of shadow vs. reality which is why our modern versions (including the one you quoted from) use "substance" or "reality" . In other words, Messiah fulfilled the shadow of the things mentioned in verse 16. However, if you remove the added word "is", it implies that we should not let any man outside the body of Messiah judge us in respect to these things. Indeed that is in line with the context of Paul's previous statements. Notice Colossians 1:18 & 24 and Col 2:19, all of which teach us that the "body" of Messiah is the church or all true believers.
Verse 17 states that these things "are" a shadow of things "to come" not that they "were" a shadow that was now fulfilled by Messiah. Paul wrote this epistle approximately 30 years afterMessiah's death and resurrection and yet he still spoke of them as unfulfilled shadows of something in his future.
BTW, the translation you used for verse 17 uses “only” twice, but there is no Greek word meaning “only” in the text. They were added by translators to make it seem as though those shadows are unimportant.
Deborah13
Member
If you'd like to discuss your interpretation of these verses and specifically your definitions of the words used in these verses I'm sure some of us would be interested in doing that.
However we can't in this fellowship forum. So maybe you can start a thread in Apologetics and Theology. :nod
J
jocor
Guest
Sorry. Was what I posted not allowed in this forum? I will consider posting it elsewhere.
J
jocor
Guest
I have no doubt you did it for God's glory and to benefit others. I posted my reply for the same reasons. Whichever view is correct is the view that glorifies and benefits.
Deborah13
Member
No, you are very welcome to post in this forum.
This forum does not allow debate as some of the other forums do. The conversations are kept to more uplifting and supportive rather than discussing scripture indepth. So I couldn't respond to your post. I'd be interested in discussing these scriptures with you though.