Week 10 Small Group (Monday). Finishing our look at the book of Colossians, focussing on 4:2-18.
Paul closes his letter to the church in Colossae with a reminder of the importance of prayer. We are to be persistent in prayer and to be present in prayer. It is not to be a tick-a-box activity. Our attitude to prayer, and during prayer, is to be in line with our new heart in Christ. We are to be aware of specific needs and to be grateful in all circumstances. We are to grow in every tribulation we have – to be made strong in the Lord. Prayer is a conversation with God. We are to pray to the Father, in the name of Jesus. ➕
Paul asks for prayers from the Colossians. To pray for him to have opportunities to share the Gospel and proclaim the Lord’s name. This, after all, is the very mission that has resulted in his imprisonment in Rome from where he now writes. He is God’s ambassador in chains. 🔒 He does not want to shy away or compromise the Word in his engagements with people, and he also wants the Word of God to manifest itself on their hearts. ❤️
One of the key ways we’re about to share the Gospel is through how we treat others – outsiders, those without Christ. Our language and actions are to be full of grace (love) and seasoned with salt, (without corruption). Link this to what James writes in James 3:9-11.
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? (James 3:9-11)
This letter closes with Paul updating the Colossians on his co-soldiers in Christ. These are the individuals that have been travelling with him. This shows us that we are not alone in ministry. It highlights a key message of this book, and that is “Unity in Christ”. We don’t do it alone – we are part of the body of Christ. Each person offering their gifts, resources, and energy to serve the one true God – Jesus Christ.
Keeping the thinking going...
Include in your daily prayers the opportunities and the “open doors” for you to proclaim the Lord’s name. Pray for seasoning and clarity when you share the Gospel with someone.
