INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. The Gospel: The Word of the Truth
2. The Gospel: The Grace of God in Truth
3. The Gospel: The Glory of God’s Inheritance
Remarks.
1. In this lesson today, we will be discussing the theme: “Hope Laid Up For You.” This is another expository sermon. The outline of the study comes directly from the contents of the text. And the text makes up the majority of the lesson. Our text read like this: “Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, For the hope which is laid up for you in heavens, of which ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you...since the day you heard of it, and knew (of) the grace of God in truth: As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellow-servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit...Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered (deposed) us from the power of darkness, and hath translated (seated) us into the Kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins,” Colossians 1:4-14; Ephesians 2:4-6.
2. First, we will review how the Colossians had: “Heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel,” of the hope laid up for them in the heavens, Colossians 1:4-5; Galatians 2:4-5. Paul reminds them that they had heard of it, through the preaching of “the word of the truth, of the gospel (the good news).” This has come unto them as it had into the entire world. He noted how it bringeth forth fruit everywhere, even as it had among them. When the "word of the truth, of the gospel, is preached." It bringeth forth fruit, "some a hundredfold, sixtyfold, and some thirtyfold," Luke 8:15.
3. Second, we will consider How the Colossians had learned of, and knew (of) the grace of God in truth (reality): by Epaphras their dear fellow-servant, who was unto them a faithful minister of Christ: Who also declared unto us (Paul and Timothy) of their love in the Spirit,” Colossians 1:7-8; Acts 20:24. Paul heard of their faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which they have to all the saints, everywhere, Colossians 1:4. This they had learned through the preaching and example of Epaphras, a faithful minister of the gospel of Christ. Ministers should always be examples of the faith, love, and commitment to the church's work and for the cause of Christ: who has sent them. Paul penned: “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, and purity," 1 Timothy 4:12. This charge was for Timothy and also for us His ministers.
4. Lastly, we will investigate “the glory of His inheritance to the saints in light.” He wrote: “Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (worthy or acceptable) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light,” Colossians 1:12; Acts 20:28-32. The glory of God’s inheritance unto us is this: “We have been rescued from the authority of darkness; being translated (conveyed) into the kingdom of His dear Son; in whom we have the redemption (being bought with a price); and having the forgiveness of sins: therefore, being counted worthy of the hope laid up for us in the heavens,” Colossians 1:12-14. What a tremendous promise from our heavenly Father who called us into the "inheritance with all the saints of light," Ephesians 1:18. With this brief introduction, let’s consider our first point in this lesson—“the gospel is the word of the truth.”
BODY OF LESSON
I THE GOSPEL: THE WORD OF THE TRUTH
A. Paul’s salutation: “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother: To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colossae: Grace be (is) unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, always praying for you,” Colossians 1:1-3. Paul begins this Letter with his usual salutations. Observe--
1. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by God's will, and Timotheus, our brother. He includes Timothy in this salutation: Timothy was with him in Rome during this letter's writing to the Colossians.
a. He would carry the Philippians’ Letter unto Philippi; Epaphras the Colossians’ Letter to Colossae; and Onesimus the Letter to Philemon.
b. Paul was busy writing letters of encouragement to the churches, those of whom he truly cared about the churches.
c. He wrote to Corinth: “Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me(n) daily, the care of all the churches,” 2 Corinthians 11:28.
2. To all the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are at Colosse. He remembers to salute the saints and faithful brethren: no doubt other ministers and the leadership, as in Philippi, Philippians 1:1-2.
3. Grace is unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, always praying for you, Colossians 1:1-3. This is Paul's standard salutation to the saints and the church. That God would grant them peace, grace, and love for the brethren, Ephesians 1:1-2; Philippians 1:1-5.
4. We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, always praying for you. He mentions his constant prayers for the saints, faithful brethren, and the church in general. When we are even in prison, physical or spiritual, we should never forget to pray for others and solicit prayers for your present condition and work: from the church's faithful men and women—the "effectual and fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth much," James 5:16.
a. Paul here gives thanks to God for them, that they had embraced the gospel of Christ, and given proofs of their fidelity to him. Paul gave thanks to them. Thanksgiving ought to be a part of every prayer, and whatever is the matter of our rejoicing ought to be the matter of our thanksgiving.
b. He gave thanks to God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. For God is the Father of Jesus Christ, in their scheme of redemption. And God as well is our Father, and He is intensely involved in our salvation and hope of eternal life.
B. The gospel: The word of the truth. Paul wrote: “Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints: For the hope which is laid up for you in the heavens,” Colossians 1:4-8. Observe--
1. First, since he heard of their faith in Christ Jesus. He gives thanks for their faith in Christ Jesus, that these Colossians believe in Him, and take upon them the profession of the faith, and the saving of their souls by their obedience to the gospel of Christ, Colossians 1:4a.
2. Further, their love of the brethren: “And the love which ye have for all the saints,” Colossians 1:4b. Christians must love all the saints, bear an extensive kindness and good-will to all men, but, especially to those of the household of faith,” Galatians 6:9-10.
3. Next, for the hope laid up for them. Their faith in Christ, and love to the saints, had an eye to the hope laid up for them in heaven. These saints had their hearts set on the above things, not for the things upon the earth, Matthew 6:19-21; Colossians 3:1-4.
a. Paul gave thanks to God for His grace given unto these saints, which was given: since he heard of their faith in Christ Jesus; and the love they had for the saints.
b. And thanks to God for the hope laid up for them in heaven.
1) This is the hope of heaven for them, Colossians 1:5a.
2) This is the thing hoped for, looking for the blessed hope, Titus 2:13.
3) This is the hope of eternal life, Titus 1:1-3; Titus 3:5-7.
4) This is the blessing: “Christ in you the hope of glory,” Colossians 1:27.
4. Finally, “Of whom ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel," Colossians 1:4. The hope that these saints look forward unto, they heard first in the preaching of the gospel of Christ. It is believed that Epaphras was the first messenger of this truth and promise hope for the saints. He called this message: “The word of the truth of the gospel,” Colossians 1:5b. Let’s consider this teaching more closely. Observe--
C. Paul reminds them that they had heard of it by preaching "the word of the truth, of the gospel (the good news).”
1. This gospel is (the good news) they heard “the word of the truth.”
2. Disciples preached Christ even at this time into the entire world.
3. The gospel is the word of truth: it is the truth of the gospel.
4. It is the revelation of the Holy Spirit.
a. It was spoken of by the prophets throughout the Old Testament.
b. The priest and teachers of Israel read it – but not with understanding.
c. Jesus taught it: but not in fact during His earthly ministry.
d. It was first preached in truth by the apostles through the Holy Spirit’s utterances on the Day of Pentecost.
e. It has been preserved by inspiration for our learning, faith, and obedience to Christ. Paul wrote it down for our reading and understanding.
D. Paul mentioned it came unto them through preaching. The good news had preached unto them and the entire world. It came to them, as it hath to all the world, according to Christ’s commission, “Go preach the gospel in all the nations, and to every creature,” Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16.
1. It (the gospel) came to these saints through Epaphras, Paul’s fellow-worker and member of the Colossian’s community. Epaphras, a native of Colossae, had come to Rome to give Paul a report on the condition of the saints and the gospel's effect in the church and surrounding communities and the world.
2. It had already reached into the entire world, Colossians 1:6a. The message of hope preached in the gospel of the word of truth could not be silenced by any power, principality and might, and dominion under the heavens. It has reached every nation, race, and culture throughout the Roman Empire.
3. Paul wrote them: "If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; of which I Paul am made a minister," Colossians 1:23.
4. He wrote the Romans: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. But I say: Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the end of the world,” Romans 10:17-18.
5. Promise of Christ: "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost has come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth," Acts 1:8. It was to begin: "In the city of Jerusalem," Luke 24:45-49. It would bring forth fruit.
6. Jesus said: “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing... Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples,” John 15:5-8. Children of God bear fruit unto the glory of Jesus Christ.
E. Bringeth forth fruit. He noted how it brought forth fruit everywhere, even as it had among them. The divine purpose of the gospel is that it bringeth forth fruits among believers. When it is preached in love and compassion, many will embrace it and devote their lives unto the Christ who died for them; that they might have the hope of eternal life, John 3:16; Romans 6:23. Christ came that we might have life, and “to have it more abundantly,” John 10:10. Observe--
1. When the “word of the truth, of the gospel, is preached," that it might bring forth fruit, "some a hundredfold, sixtyfold, and some thirtyfold," Luke 8:15.
NOTE: Illustrate, Parable of the Sower, Luke 8:4-15. Jesus taught the parable of the sower, seed, and soil.
2. Who preached this word unto the Colossians? Many commentators believe it was Epaphras that founded this church in Colossae, Colossians 4:12-13. He was an evangelist traveling between Colossae, Hierapolis, and Laodicea.
3. When was it preached unto them? Before writing this letter by Paul, around 59-60 AD, while imprisoned in Rome. Paul hopes to visit the church after his release from prison, Colossians 2:1; Philemon 1:22-23; Hebrews 13:23.
4. The word of the truth of the gospel. It is the word of the validity of the gospel that brought about this hope for the saints. When the “word of the truth, of the gospel, is preached, which can save the souls of the hearer and doers of the word, James 1:21-24. Let’s consider our next point-- “the gospel of the grace of God in truth.”
II THE GOSPEL: THE GRACE OF GOD IN TRUTH
A. The grace of God in truth. This statement is in line with Paul’s admonition unto the elders of Ephesus on the island of Miletus. He said: “But none of these things move me, neither count I, my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God,” Acts 20:24. Observe—
1. First, Paul announces to the leaders that persecutions and trials await him; he was not moved from his resolve to preach Christ to all, even in Jerusalem.
2. Further, he says: “Neither do I count my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus," 1 Timothy 1:12-16. He considered himself the least of all the saints and apostles in Christ, Ephesians 3:8; 1 Corinthians 15:9.
3. Finally, “To testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Paul calls the gospel the medium through which we are granted the grace of God. Notice, he wrote—
a. We are saved by grace. To Ephesus:
1) One, “Even when we were dead in sins, hath (He) quickened us together with Christ, (by grace you are saved), Ephesians 2:5-6. It was God that did this quickening. While you were with Christ, this quickening took place dead in your trespasses and sins: your burial with Him in the watery grave of baptism!
2) Two, “For by grace are you saved through *(the) faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God,” Ephesians 2:8-9. Salvation is God’s grace to the believers who are obedient to the gospel of Christ. *The article is in Greek but was not translated into English in most translations of the verse.
3) Paul affirms salvation is “through the faith" and not by our faith. In this phrase, he meant: "through the faith of the gospel;" and, not by the law or the works of human merit, Romans 3:28-30; Philippians 3:9. And to Colossae, he meant: “Through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised us from the dead,” Colossians 2:12; Ephesians 2:4-7.
NOTE: Download our lesson: "By grace, ye are saved," from SermonCentral.com. This lesson deals with this point in great detail which none can dispute with any success. This was the same message Paul himself preached to both Jews and Gentiles. It was the "preaching of the faith he once destroyed." Observe--
b. Preached the faith. To Galatia, he wrote: “Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: But they had heard only, That he who persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. And they glorified God in me,” Galatians 1:21-24; Galatians 1:11-17.
c. Power of God. To Rome, he wrote: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek,” Romans 1:16. In the gospel resides the power of God to save.
4. Conclusion: Paul preached the gospel of Christ, which God extends His grace unto the believers, saving them through obedience to the faith of the gospel, or through the faith of Christ: outlined in the gospel of grace. The preaching of the faith; is also the preaching of the gospel.
a. Therefore, by preaching the gospel, Paul was preaching the faith, which is God's grace. It is through the gospel one is called into the grace of Christ, Galatians 1:6-7.
b. Consider how Paul further presents the grace of God in truth.
c. The preaching of the gospel of Christ; is the preaching of the faith: testifying the gospel of God's grace in truth. Amen, sister Ceilings and brother Walls.
B. The gospel. Paul continued: “Which is come unto you...since the day ye heard of it, and knew (of) the grace of God in truth,” Colossians 1:6.
1. The message of the grace of God which came unto these saints: “As ye also were taught by Epaphras our dear fellow-servant.”
2. Since the day ye heard of it, from Epaphras, being made for these saints by God: “A faithful minister of Christ,” Colossians 1:7.
3. Listen to Paul: He wrote to Timothy speaking of Christ and the gospel:
a. First, “Who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his purpose and grace, which God gave us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles,” 2 Timothy 1:9-11.
b. Second, “Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evildoer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory,” 2 Timothy 2:8-10.
c. Lastly, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth...And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will,” 2 Timothy 2:15-26; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-14.
4. Paul makes the connection. To Titus, he wrote: "But after that, the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life,” Titus 3:4-7. It was Epaphras, a faithful minister that had declared these things unto the Colossians. Just as Paul had said them unto Timothy and Titus; he has so also instructed Epaphras in the "word of the truth of the gospel, the grace of God in truth: the hope of eternal life,” Titus 1:1-3; Titus 3:7.
5. Who also declared: “Unto us (Paul) your love in the Spirit,” Colossians 1:8. And Epaphras had not shunned in saying unto me of your love in the Spirit, nor the love you have for all the saints. Therefore, the apostle could write--
C. They knew (of) the grace of God in truth. “As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellow-servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit, Colossians 1:7-8. We have already spoken to the connection of the “the truth of the word, of the gospel,” Colossians 1:5. Therefore, we need not discuss this truth any further.
D. For this cause. He continued: "For this cause, we also, since the day we heard it, (the love of the saints in the Spirit): do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding,” Colossians 1:9. A summary of this verse reveals the following—
1. Paul continually prayed for the saints at Colosse. We must never forget the saints in our prayers. Pray to remember the ministers, the leadership, and their families. Paul wrote: "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, and be patient towards all men...Praying without ceasing. In everything giving thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you," 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18. Observe--
2. That they might be filled with the knowledge of His (Christ’s) will. Paul wrote to the Ephesians: “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is,” Ephesians 5:17.
3. That they might be granted all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Christ might give you all the wisdom and spiritual knowledge of His will for your lives as saints in light. In like manner, he wrote to the Ephesians. Observe--
4. To the Ephesus, he wrote: “In Him (Christ) we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth—in Him,” Ephesians 1:7-10; 1 Timothy 3:16; Ephesians 3:1-8.
5. Conclusion: Paul prayed that they are growing in grace and knowledge, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. The saints at Ephesus knew and understood the mystery of His will, the mystery of Christ. When the saints gain a more profound experience of the will of God for their lives and salvation, the more they will love Him and cherish the gospel of Christ, which grants us access to “all the spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ,” Ephesians 1:3; 1 Corinthians 1:30-31; Ephesians 1:17-18. Amen, beloved of God, all saints in Christ Jesus.
E. That they might walk. He concluded: "That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness," Colossians 1:10-11.
1. That they might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing:
a. Being fruitful in every good work. Saints should desire to be productive. We must be cultivators and bearers of precious fruits, Psalms 126:5-6.
b. Increasing in the knowledge of God, Colossians 1:10.
c. Jesus said: “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples,” John 15:8; John 15:4-5.
d. Paul wrote to Philippi: “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God,” Philippians 1:9-11.
2. Paul encouraged the Thessalonians:
a. First, “That they would walk worthy of God, who hath called them unto His kingdom and glory,” 1 Thessalonians 2:12. He continued--
b. Further, “But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; 1 Peter 1:22-23.
c. Lastly, “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and establish you in every good word and work,” 2 Thessalonians 2:15-17.
3. He continued: “That being strengthened with all might:”
a. One, “According to His glorious power.”
b. Two, “Unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness.”
c. Third, Paul prayed for Ephesus in the same manner, Ephesians 3:14-21.
4. Peter desired the saints to “grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Peter 3:18. To no longer be “babes, but desiring the sincere milk of the word, that they might grow thereby: If so be that they had tasted that the Lord is gracious,” 1 Peter 2:1-3. All saints must desire to be sound in the faith and mature in their ability to: "discern between good and evil,” Hebrews 5:12-14.
5. Conclusion: Consider how similar Paul’s instruction and prayers are for these saints, as it is to his prayers for the Colossian’s saints. That they walk worthy of God, who hath called them unto His Kingdom and glory. God hath chosen them through the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: and called them by the gospel to obtain the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. We all have been chosen and called to Christ in the same manner. So walk worthy of your calling and election to ensure your entrance into the Kingdom of heaven, Ephesians 4:1-3; 2 Peter 1:10-11. This brings us to our last point in this lesson, the glory of God’s inheritance.
III THE GOSPEL: THE GLORY OF GOD’S INHERITANCE
A. Giving thanks: “Unto the Father, which hath made them meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light,” Colossian 1:12. How was this possible?
1. He thanks the Father, the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the saints.
2. Through faith and obedience to the word of the truth, the gospel of Grace of God. We cannot ignore that this blessing, the inheritance of the saints of light, is made possible through these saints' faith and obedience to the gospel. We will discuss the importance of this in our closing remarks in this lesson.
3. To be made meet (worthy) in Christ; we need to look at the word "meet" in the original language: Greek. This is going to get "real good now!"
a. The word “meet” in Gr., is hikanoo or hik-an-o'-o, which means to be enabled, i.e., to qualify:—to make able (to become meet): to create sufficiently, render fit; acceptable, to equip one with adequate power to perform their duties, or to be worthy of specific blessings. The blessing: the hope of eternal life!
b. Our faith and obedience; walk pleasing God, and has made us “meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light,” Colossians 1:12; Acts 20:32; Acts 28:18.
c. Paul wrote Timothy: “If men, therefore, purge him from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart,” 2 Timothy 2:21-22.
d. To the Thessalonians he wrote: “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure,” 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4.
B. Partakers of the inheritance of the saints of light. Here we have it.
1. It was through their faith, love, and walk; these saints were made worthy.
2. God made them (Paul and the saints) at Colossae meet or (worthy).
3. To be partakers of the “inheritance of the saints in light.”
4. The “hope set up for them (us) in the heavens.” What is this hope set up for us in the heavens? Besides the gift of eternal life, the saints have a home in heaven laid up for them. Observe--
a. A mansion in heaven. Jesus said: "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, also believe in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may also be," John 14:1-3; Hebrews 11:8-10; Hebrews 11:13-16.
b. A promised crown.
1) Crown of life. James wrote: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him,” James 1:12.
2) Crown of righteousness. Paul wrote: “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing,” 2 Timothy 4:6-8.
3) A crown of glory. Peter wrote: “And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away,” 1 Peter 5:4.
c. An inheritance:
1) Of the saints in the light, Colossians 1:12.
2) That is “Incorruptible, and undefiled, and fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,” 1 Peter 1:3-4.
3) Among “all them which are sanctified,” Acts 20:32; Acts 26:18.
d. A white robe. John wrote: “After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!... Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, “Who are these arrayed in white robes, and where did they come from? And I said to him, Sir, you know...So he said to me, These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb...for the Lamb...And God will wipe away all tears from their eyes," Revelations 7:9-17. We have collapsed the text for brevity.
NOTE: Song of the church: Mansion, Robe, and Crown. These are the blessing promised unto the saints of light.
e. Conclusion: The sufferings, trials, and temptations of this life cannot be compared to the glory promised unto us in the heavens. Paul comforts us with these words: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal,” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; 2 Corinthians 5:1. With these blessings behind us, let’s dig a little deeper. Here is where we tie it all together.
C. Paul concluded: “Who (God) hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins,” Colossians 1:12-14. Let’s consider God’s method of redemption and forgiveness of sins for the saints. Observe
1. He hath delivered us from the power of darkness. The darkness of the power of this world, whose minds are blinded by the evil one, 2 Corinthians 4:3-7.
a. The phrase “hath delivered” in the Gr., is rhyomai or rhoo'-om-ahee, which means to rush or draw (for oneself), i.e., to rescue:—to deliver (-er). God rushed to our aid to retrieve us from the hands and power of the evil one.
b. To “rescue us” from the power or the authority of darkness of this world. This includes all those who claim to love God but behave in an ungodly manner before God and men. God hath delivered us from: "The rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness (that sit) in high places," Ephesians 6:12.
NOTE: Download our lesson entitled: Ephesus’ Operations Order,” from SermonCentral.com, by Ron Freeman, Evangelist. It gives attention to rulers and authorities operating in high public and government places as officers of trust.
c. To “deliver us” from the world and workings of the evil one – Satan himself.
d. God hath “delivered us from the wrath to come,” 1 Thessalonians 1:10.
e. That we may be delivered: “From unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith,” 2 Thessalonians 3:2.
2. He hath translated (conveyed) us into the Kingdom of His dear Son. Notice--
a. The phrase “hath translated” in the Gr., is methistemi or meth-is'-tay-mee, which means to transfer, i.e., to carry away, depose or exchange:—put out, to remove, to translate, or to turn away.
b. He hath “transferred” or “conveyed” us into the Kingdom of His dear Son.
c. The Kingdom is where all the “saints” are “seated in heavenly places in Christ,” Ephesians 2:4-6.
d. Permitting them to be “partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.”
e. God has conveyed the repentant believers from the “waiting room,” into the “operating room,” where He performs a divine operation: “through the faith of the operations of God,” then, into the “recovery room;” where they are granting a new life in the Kingdom of God.
1) God did it through the “new birth,” John 3:3-5; Colossians 2:11-13; Titus 3:5-7.
2) Where “old things are passed away, and all things have become new" in Christ, 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 3:26-27; Ephesians 2:10.
3) In the "operating room," God performs His operation redeeming us and "forgiving us of all our trespasses and sins," Colossians 2:13; Ephesians 2:1. How is redemption possible? We will discuss that in just a few moments. But for now, we must call the Apostle Peter into this discourse. Observe--
3. Chosen generation. Peter wrote: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy,” 1 Peter 2:9-10.
a. First, “But ye are a chosen generation.” It behooves us to consider this phrase and noun in another translation: i.e., The Englishman’s Greek New Testament (EGNT). Observe--
1) Let’s look at this phrase and noun using this Greek Interlinear.
2) First, the KJV translates it as: “But ye are a chosen generation.”
3) The EGNT translates it as: “But ye are a chosen race,” Page 506.
4) The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament also translates this phrase and noun: “as a chosen race,” Page 811.
5) The word “race” in Gr., is genos or ghen'-os, which means a race:—born, country (-man), diversity, generation, kind (-red), nation, offspring, or stock. These are the aggregates of many individuals of the exact nature, style, and sort. Those in Christ are a chosen race: His disciples and members of His faith and church, Acts 2:27; Acts 11:26; Matthew 28:19-20.
b. Further, “A royal priesthood.” The EGNT translates this phrase and noun as: “a kingly priesthood,” Page 506. GET also translate this phrase and noun in the same manner: “a kingly priesthood,” Page 811.
c. Next, “A holy nation, a peculiar people,” KJV. Christians are peculiar or different people.
d. Added, “That ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light,” 1 Peter 2:9. We can see the similarity of Peter’s word with those of Paul in Colossians 1:14.
e. Finally, “Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy,” 1 Peter 2:10. Paul reminds these Gentiles that at one time they were not a people; had not received mercy: but now they are a chosen race, the people of God having received mercy granting them favor and union with God through Jesus Christ.
NOTE: I must divert from the lesson for a few moments to discuss England’s Royal Family in light of the scandal unfolding at this time. Royal people do not behave like the Queen, and her administration allegedly has regarding Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, as stated by them during their interview with Oprah Winfrey. I witnessed the hurt in Meghan's eyes during her discussion of a racial comment allegedly made about her unborn son. That was: “how dark will his skin be?” Or words like this by one of the Queen’s family members. The News recently reported--
1) The Buckingham Palace said that the allegations of racist comments made about Harry and Meghan's son were "concerning," and they would be addressed privately by the royal family. This allegation cannot be handled in the closet; it must be settled out in the open because it has affected England’s entire Kingdom and the world.
2) Does this royal family perceive that they are of “royal blood or a chosen race?” I have News! Only Christians are a “chosen race” before God, 1 Peter 2:9. The royal family is not behaving as citizens of God’s "chosen race” in the kingdom of God. Maybe their spiritual leadership (ministers and clergy) ought to instruct them and others how to “fulfill the royal law according to the scriptures,” James 2:8. It appears to me and the world of believers that the evils of “racism” have driven this lovely couple away from the “royal family” and England.
3) The “racist” remarks, which I believe are true (by the hurt I witnessed in the child’s eyes), indeed were made by a member of the royal household. Prince Harry and Meghan had to flee England like Joseph and Mary, their homeland: to protect their son, from Herod, and his tyranny against the child Jesus. The words uttered to Meghan were hurtful and painful to both children. This conduct (if proven true) must be corrected in a public fashion to bring healing to them, the royal family, and the people of the nation and the world. Love demands it. I recommend this approach as the servant of the Lord. Who has also been hurt, 1 Corinthians 8:10; James 2:9.
4) To heal this terrible evil, all who are guilty: must genuinely repent and beg Harry and Meghan for their forgiveness! The investigation of the royal family's misconduct cannot be completed and resolved in the closet; it must be done before a worldwide Television and Cable Network, with cameras rolling. The cries around the world demand it! Anything short of an open apology would be a failure in dispelling such alleged conduct by other family members and friends of the Queen. The News Networks should also be rebuked openly and sternly by the Queen.
5) Harry and Meghan were deeply hurt by these comments. If the Queen wants to re-unite this loving couple, she needs to invite them to return to England and fix this problem in an open setting in sincere love and compassion. I pray and beseech that the Queen finds humility, courage, and passionate resolve in uniting the family by getting this matter behind her and the nation. The world is watching!
6) I tearfully regret that America, in like manner, has a similar evil running through her veins. I have also spoken out against her injustices and systemic racism in many other sermons now online. I pray that “God’s will” shall be done and good comes from it into all nations. I humbly end these remarks with Solomon’s words: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people,” Proverbs 14:34.
Illustrate: See story: Defaced from the family will. SermonCentral.com, by Ron Freeman, Evangelist.
I will now return to our lesson. We must answer this question. How the Colossian’s redemption was made possible? Observe--
D. Redemption in Christ. Paul wrote: “In whom we have redemption through His blood.” Notice: “In whom we have redemption.” This is where redemption is found. In Him! That is “in Christ Jesus.” Amen, brother Walls and sister Ceilings.
1. The word “redemption” in Gr., is apolytrosis or ap-ol-oo'-too-sis, which means a payment for (an act) of a ransom done in total, i.e., riddance (removal), or in Christian salvation:—deliverance, purging, and redemption.
a. This was our liberation procured by the payment of a ransom; the payment was made in full, granting release, redemption, and deliverance through the benefactor. Praise God in the highest!
b. And what was given as a payment for the ransoming of the souls?
c. It was Christ, and the shedding of His precious blood for our sins, 1 Peter 1:18-19; Revelation 13:8; John 1:29; Matthew 26:28.
2. Redemption through His blood. The shedding of Christ's blood was the payment for all men's sins and trespasses. Christ's generous act of "propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also the sins of the whole world," 1 John 2:1-2; Revelation 5:9-10. Paul wrote--
a. In our text of discussion, he wrote: “In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins,” Colossians 1:14; Romans 5:8-11. Redemption was the means; and, reconciliation was the purpose, 2 Corinthians 5:17-21.
b. To the Ephesians, "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace,” Ephesians 1:7.
c. To the Hebrews: “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause, he is the mediator of the New Testament that through death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth,” Hebrews 9:14-17; Romans 3:24-26. Paul continued--
1) First, “After that neither the first testament was dedicated without blood... And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission,” Hebrews 9:18-22.
2) Further, “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” Romans 3:24; Romans 5:8-11.
3) Finally, “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus,” Romans 3:25-26.
3. Christ shed his blood on “Calvary’s tree,” on a hill called Golgotha, Matthew 27:33; John 19:34.
4. He shed His blood for the church of Christ, Acts 20:28. Washed, sanctified, and justified it in His name, and through the Holy Spirit, Ephesians 5:25-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
E. Where forgiveness is possible: “Even the forgiveness of sins.” In whom we have redemption; even the forgiveness of sins, Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14.
1. First, the phrase “even the forgiveness” in the Gr., is aphesis or af'-es-is, which means freedom from; liberty, absolve, pardon:—deliverance, forgiveness, or remission. This is the blessed promise by Jesus: prophesied by Joel; preached by Peter; and, penned by Paul, Luke 24:44-47; Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:39; Romans 10:13
2. Further, the idea is that one has been released from bondage or imprisonment, having the forgiveness or pardoning of sins (letting them go as if they had never been committed), or having been acquitted (having set aside) the penalty for their sins and the sentence of death, Romans 8:1-2; Romans 6:22-23.
3. Next, Christ has granted to us the message and the method by which our sins can be forgiven. Let's keep in mind that this is the divine "pattern of conversion." All believers must obey this pattern of conversion to receive “remission of sins.” The pattern must be followed in the same manner as it was in the first century, Acts 6:7. However, not all are obedient to the faith, Romans 10:16-18.
a. The message, the doctrine of the gospel of Christ, Romans 1:16; Colossians 1:5-6.
b. The method, obeying from the heart: “That form of doctrine,” Romans 6:17.
c. Being then: “Made free from sin; we became servants of righteousness,” Romans 6:18. We make no apology for God’s commandments; even though many have and continue to alter and reject this plain teaching.
d. For we can: “do nothing against the truth, but for the truth,” 2 Corinthians 13:8; Romans 3:4; Psalms 116:11; Psalms 119:160.
4. Finally, when baptized into the name of Jesus Christ, the repentant believers receive the “forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Acts 5:32.
a. Through faith and baptism, our sins are "washed away," Acts 22:16.
b. This is the “truth that makes one free from their sins,” John 8:31-32; John 8:36.
c. This is the message and method preached on the day of Pentecost, Acts 2:36-41.
d. It outlines God's conversion method for all believers seeking the forgiveness of their sins and their inclusion in the church purchased by Christ’s blood, Acts 2:41; Acts 2:47; Acts 4:4; Acts 6:7; Acts 8:12; Acts 18:8.
5. Conclusion: God has made redemption possible through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The preaching of the gospel reveals to the hearer's faith in Christ, repentance for sins, confession of faith in Christ's Sonship, and the forgiveness of sins through the faith of the operations of God through the sinner's burial in water with Christ, to wash away their sins to rise in newness of life, Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Romans 6:1-7; Colossians 2:11-13. I trust you have been strengthened by this message. Let me summarize what we have discussed in this lesson. Recall we mentioned--
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. The Gospel: The Word of the Truth
2. The Gospel: The Grace of God in Truth
3. The Gospel: The Glory of God’s Inheritance
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we reviewed how the Colossians had: “Heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel,” of the hope laid up for them, Colossians 1:4-5; Galatians 2:4-5. Paul reminds them that they had heard of it, through the preaching of “the word of the truth, of the gospel (the good news).” This had come unto them as it had into the entire world. He noted how it bringeth forth fruit everywhere, even as it had among them. When the “word of the truth, of the gospel, is preached." It will bring forth fruit, "some a hundredfold, sixtyfold, and some thirtyfold," Luke 8:15.
2. Second, we considered how the Colossians had learned of, and knew (of) the grace of God in truth (reality): by Epaphras their dear fellow-servant, who was unto them a faithful minister of Christ: Who also declared unto us (Paul and Timothy) of their love in the Spirit,” Colossians 1:7-8; Acts 20:24. Paul heard of their faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which they have to all the saints, everywhere, Colossians 1:4. This they had learned through the preaching and example of Epaphras, a faithful minister of the gospel of Christ. Ministers should always be examples of the faith, love, and commitment to the church's work and for the cause of Christ: who has sent them. Paul penned: “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity," 1 Timothy 4:12. This charge was for Timothy and also for us His ministers today and in every generation.
3. Lastly, we investigated “the glory of His inheritance to the saints in light.” He wrote: “Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (worthy) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light,” Colossians 1:12; Acts 20:28-32. We have seen how we were made partakers of God’s inheritance as saints in light. God, our Father, did it in this fashion:
a. First, “We have been rescued (transfer, deposed, or removed) from the authority of darkness; the kingdom, of the god of this world,” Galatians 1:4; 2 Corinthians 4:4.
b. Further, “Having been translated (conveyed, carried, and seated) into the kingdom of His dear Son,” Acts 8:12; Colossians 1:13; 2 Peter 1:3-4.
c. Next, “In whom we have the redemption (having been bought with a price), Titus 2:11-14; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
d. Finally, “Having the forgiveness of sins: therefore, being counted worthy of the hope laid up for us in the heavens,” Colossians 1:4-5; 1 Peter 1:3-5. What a tremendous promise from our heavenly Father who called us into the “inheritance with all the saints of light,” Ephesians 1:18. Continue therefore in the faith being grounded and settle, not be removed from the blessed hope of eternal life. Christ in you is the “hope of glory,” Colossians 1:27.
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, HBRCB.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
I submit this verse unto you that I may: “Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I here acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
