Colossians
Sunday, June 27, 2004
My Prayer Today
Dear Jesus, I thank you that your suffering upon the cross was sufficient for my salvation. I am so thankful for the hope that I have in you! As a follower of you, I expect that suffering will come my way. I ask that you would grant me the grace and peace that I need during these times. I do not like to suffer, but I ask that you would encourage me to keep my eyes upon the cross. May my life bring glory and honor to you, even during my difficult times. In your name I pray, Amen.
God's Word For Me Today
Colossians 1:24
I am glad when I suffer for you in my body, for I am completing what remains of Christ's sufferings for his body, the church.
Reflecting on God’s Word
According to Colossians 1:24, what is Paul's attitude towards suffering in his body?
Why is Paul "glad"?
What does Paul's suffering do in connection with Christ's sufferings?
A Deeper Exploration of God’s Word
Is Christ's suffering lacking? If so, how?
How is it possible for Paul to "complete" Christ's sufferings?
Does the church in any way "complete" Christ's sufferings? How?
Understanding God’s Word
Read 2 Corinthians 11:23-29 and list all of the "sufferings" that Paul endured for the church.
According to Colossians 1:13-14 and 2:13-14 was Christ's sacrifice on the cross lacking?
How does Romans 8:22-23 help to understand the "completion" that Paul was talking about in Colossians 1:24?
Applying God’s Word to Our Lives
Have you ever "suffered" in any way for the cause of Christ (Ridicule, shame, harsh treatment, etc. . .)? If so, how?
How does your suffering "complete the sufferings of Christ?"
If Jesus went to the cross for you, how does this encourage you when you face different problems and trials?
Thoughts...
Colossians 1:24 is a very difficult and often misunderstood verse. When the apostle Paul tells the church at Colosse that he is "completing what remains of Christ's sufferings for his body, the church" -- it could almost be taken that Christ's sacrifice upon the cross was lacking. According to many other passages in the Bible, however, we can see that Christ's sacrifice was fully sufficient for our salvation (Col. 1:13-14; 2:13-14). Paul was saying that Christ's work was indeed finished, but his own afflictions (along with all Christians) will endure until this age comes to an end. Sacrifice and suffering are all part of what it means to be a Christian who is identified with Christ.
In Paul's teaching the history of the world can be divided into two ages: the "evil age" and the "age to come." Jesus' resurrection had inaugurated the new age or the "age to come", but the old "evil age" would continue along side the new age until Jesus' second coming. As the church moves from one age to the next (with a foot in both realms" so to speak), they will suffer tribulations (see Romans 8:22-23). The tribulations that we face are actually signs that we are part of the church! We as a church, as Paul expressed himself in verse 24, help to fill up what remains in suffering for the cause of Christ in this age. What difficulties are you facing today in your life? Do you know that the difficulties that you face for being a Christian are part of what identifies you with Christ? I challenge you this day to live for Jesus with absolute boldness. Do not let fear or suffering hinder the cause of Christ working in and through you. Christ is in you, and you are in Christ!