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Bible Class Commentaries:

Colossians

A

Bible Class Commentary

by

Henry T. Mahan

1

The Colossian letter

Colossians 1:1-8

This letter to the church at Colosse was written about thirty years after Christ died on the cross. Paul wrote it while in prison at Rome, about the same time that he wrote Philippians and Ephesians.

Who brought the gospel to Colosse and when, we do not know. Paul had never preached to them (2:1). The city was destroyed six years later by an earthquake and later rebuilt.

The occasion for the letter was that Epaphras, who had preached to them, came to Rome and told Paul about their faith and love. He also reported their danger from false teachers who had come among them -- Judaizers, who urged the ceremonies of the law, and Gentiles, who promoted philosophy, worship of angels and saints, will-worship and punishing the body. Paul wrote to them to confirm them in the gospel of Christ, to warn them of spiritual error and to exhort them to a discharge of their duty to God, to one another and to all men.

v. 1. 'Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God.' In the beginning of the Christian church there were apostles.

1. They were chosen by Christ.

2. They saw the Lord personally.

3. They had infallible knowledge of the gospel, inspired by the Holy Spirit.

4. They were gifted to work miracles for the confirmation of their doctrine.

All of this was by the will of God, as the Father's will and the Son's work are the same. There are no apostles in the church today!

'And Timothy, our brother.' While Timothy was not an apostle, Paul included him in the salutation, for the highest office-bearer in the church recognizes even the least as being a brother and worthy of respect and recognition. In Christ we are one, and he that is greatest is but a servant.

v. 2. 'To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ.' All believers are saints and all believers are faithful brethren. We are sanctified by the Father, the Son and the Spirit. We are brethren because firstly, we have the same Father, secondly, we are in one body and family and, thirdly, we have all one elder Brother, Christ Jesus. The key word is 'in Christ'! We are saints and brethren because we are in Christ.

'Grace be unto you and peace.' Moses prayed, 'Lord, if I have found grace in thy sight, show me thy way' (Exod. 33:13). Where God's grace is given, all other things will follow -- peace, joy, rest and more. 'Grace' first; then ' peace'.

vv. 3-5. This is Paul's prayer of thanksgiving for these faithful brethren.

1. 'We give thanks to God.' All things are of God: that is, our salvation, faith, hope, love (Ps. 103:1-5). 'I am what I am by the grace of God (1 Cor. 15:10). Every spiritual gift is from God through our Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:27; James 1:17).

2. He thanked God for their 'faith' in the first place. Without faith there can be no union with Christ (Mark 16:16); there can be no benefit from Christ (Heb. 11:6).

3. He thanked God for their 'love' for one another (l Cor. 13:13). Love is the evidence of faith (John 13:35). Love is the fruit of faith (Gal. 5:22). The absence of love reveals the absence of God (1 John 4: 8).

4. He thanked God for their 'hope'. The believer's inheritance is not in his hand yet. He has it in hope! Our hope is as certain as the purpose of the Father, the atonement of the Son and the witness of the Spirit. It is still hope, however, until it becomes a reality. We really have little to expect or hope for on this earth, but all things are ours in Christ -- this is our hope! We heard of it in the gospel. It is the gospel that is God's instrument to beget faith and hope in the heart (Rom. 10:17; 1 Peter 1:3).

v. 6. Having mentioned the gospel which begets faith, hope and love, he says,

1. 'It came to you. You didn't come to it. God sent it to you.' He is 'found of those who sought him not' (Rom. 10:20; Gal. l:15; 1 John 4:10).

2. The gospel 'bringeth forth fruit' (Isa. 55:11). It brings forth the fruit of faith, love, joy, peace; we are new creatures in Christ. A seed that does not produce fruit is not the seed of the word.

3. The gospel continues to produce fruit. 'Since the day you heard the gospel and knew the grace of God it has brought forth fruit.'

vv. 7, 8. Having confirmed the gospel, he commends the preacher.

1. He is commended for being a 'fellow servant' of Christ with Paul.

2. He is praised for being a 'faithful minister of Christ'.

3. He is commended for his respect for them, for he declared their love and faith in Christ. It is a good sign when one speaks well of those who are absent.

2

Made fit for heaven

Colossians 1:9-17

vv. 9-11. 'For this cause we also, since the day we heard of it, do not cease to pray for you.' Their pastor, Epaphras, had declared unto Paul the love the Colossians had for Christ and for one another. This brought forth from Paul a prayer of thanksgiving and a prayer for their further growth in grace, wisdom and understanding. The believers' graces at their best are imperfect and subject to decay (1 Col. 13:9; Rev. 2:4) and may be abused (2 Cor. 12:7). Therefore Paul prays for them.

1. 'That you may be filled with the knowledge of his will.' This is the revealed will of God, to be learned from his word and in his Son: his will of redemption, his will of purpose, his will of conduct and attitude and his will of eternal glory. He prayed not only that they should have a knowledge of these, but be 'filled' inwardly with a knowledge of his 'wisdom and spiritual understanding'. Oh, that we may be delivered from the dead letter of the law and the dry tradition of religious orthodoxy! That we may have wisdom and spiritual understanding of our sins, our need and our inability! That we may have understanding of God's manifold mercies in Christ -- how he can be just and Justifier, of the riches of his grace in his kindness toward us in Christ! May ours be not a profession of religion but a true possession of Christ.

2. 'That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing.' This is our godly conduct and behaviour, not only in the church, but in the home, on the job and on the street. We will live and talk as those who are in Christ, seeking to please and glorify God. 'Being fruitful in every good work.' Believers are trees of righteousness, planted by the Lord to bear the fruit of the spirit and good works of the kingdom of Christ (Eph. 2:10). 'Increasing in the knowledge of God.' Ignorance in believers dishonors God as much as fruitlessness! Both fruitfulness and a growth in knowledge of our Lord are necessary to walk worthy of the Lord!

3. 'Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power.' We are not expected to walk worthy of the Lord, be fruitful and grow in grace and knowledge in our own strength and power, but in his! (2 Cor. 12:9.) This power and grace will enable us to bear afflictions and trials with patience, perseverance and real joy. His power and grace will subdue the whole man -- his hand, his heart and his tongue! (Ps. 37:1-8.)

v. 12. Paul is continually giving thanks to God. Here he gives thanks that God (by his grace in Christ) has qualified us, has made us fit, to partake of heaven, the bright and glorious inheritance of the saints. Every man in his natural state is unfit for heaven and God's presence! However, he has given us in Christ all that we need! (1 Cor. 1:30.)

vv. 13, 14. He explains how God makes us qualified and fit for heaven by drawing us out of that corrupt state in which we were born and translating us into the state of grace, called 'the kingdom of his dear Son' (Rom. 14:17). This he does in effectual regeneration by his spirit. He redeems us from sin, the law, his justice and wrath by the blood of his Son. No way of redemption can be accepted that does not totally ransom the sinner, fully honour God's law and completely satisfy his justice.

v. 15. The apostle, having spoken of our redemption, takes up a description of the redeemer!

'He is the image of the invisible God.' Christ is the exact likeness of the unseen God. He is the visible representation in the flesh of the invisible God (John 14:8-10; 2 Cor. 5:19). Every attribute of God is seen in Christ (Heb. 1:1-3).

'The first-born of every creature.' This does not mean that he was the first of creation, or the first creature made, for in the next verse it is said that all things were created by him. But Paul is saying he is the King, Lord and Owner of all creation. The Jews make the first-born to be synonymous with 'king'. He is the King, Owner and Heir of all creation, for it was all made by him.

vv. 16, 17. It was by him and in him that all things were created and by him that all things are held together.

3

Christ -- the head of the church

Colossians 1:18-29

v. 18. 'Christ is the head of the body, the church.' By the church is meant the whole election of grace, every believer of all generations (Eph. 5:23-27). He is the representative Head from all eternity and in all time. He is the political Head, in that he reigns. He is the economical Head, in that he provides every need (1 Cor. 1:30). Without a vital union with Christ we would be as dead as a body without a head!

'Christ is the beginning.' He is the root, or foundation cause, of the church. We were chosen in him; from him all spiritual life flows. As Eve was from Adam, so the church is from Christ. It is a body of his preparing.

'Christ is the first-born from the dead.' He was the first who rose from the dead by his own power to immortality and life. He is the pledge of resurrection for us. 'Because I live, ye shall live also' (John 14:19). Death has no more power or claim on him.

'That in all things he might have the pre-eminence.' That he might have first place in our affection, in our thoughts, in our desires to be like him and in the highest praise of our lips. He is the first:

1. In sonship; no one is a son in the sense he is.

2. In election; he is the first chosen and we are chosen in him.

3. In covenant; he is the Surety, Mediator and Messenger.

4. In redemption; he wrought it and bought it.

5. In life; he quickeneth whom he will.

6. In death and resurrection; he conquered death, hell and the grave. He ought to have preeminence.

vv. 19, 20. It is true that all the fulness of the Godhead dwells in Christ (Col. 2:9). He is God (2 Cor. 5:19). God dwells in the body of Christ as he dwelt in the tabernacle. This fulness, however, is the fulness of complete redemption which he is able to give to believers:

1. The fulness of wisdom, holiness and righteousness.

2. The fulness of grace, peace and joy.

3. The fulness of eternal life and glory. 'We are complete in him' (Col. 2.10).

All of the elect, whether already in heaven or on the earth, are by his blood reconciled and brought to peace with God (Rom. 5:1-10).

vv. 21, 22. What Paul had said about reconciliation in general in the preceding verse, he applies to the Colossians in particular. We need to embrace these verses personally. We were strangers, enemies in our minds (Rom. 8:7), workers of iniquity. However, in the body of his flesh, by his perfect obedience and the merits of his blood, he has so reconciled us to God that we are and will be presented before God in that day free from all sin, perfect in holiness and without one charge against us (Rom. 8:33, 34; Jude 24). He has reconciled! It is finished! The work is done!

v. 23. 'If you continue in the faith and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel.' All of the preceding provisions and promises are ours only if we persevere or continue in faith. Nothing but judgement awaits those who depart from Christ (Heb. 10:38, 39; 3: 6, 14; 2 Tim. 4: 6-8). God keeps us through, and not apart from, faith (1 Peter 1:5; Jer. 32:40).

vv. 24, 25. Twice in verses 23-25 Paul says, 'I am made a minister.' All believers are witnesses and preachers of the gospel, but there are certain offices and responsibilities in the body of Christ to which men are specifically called and equipped. Paul was an apostle, sent to preach the gospel, suffer certain afflictions and endure certain trials for the sake of the church. He rejoiced that he was entrusted with the gospel, counted worthy to suffer for Christ's sake and to preach fully the gospel of Christ.

v. 26. This gospel of Christ (his incarnation, his nature and his person, office, death, resurrection and salvation) given to lost sinners is an ancient gospel, and it is not understood by the natural mind. It is called a mystery! (1 Cor. 2:7-14.) The gospel was before veiled in promises, sacrifices, ceremonies and prophecies; but is now made manifest (or revealed to believers) by the Holy Spirit. Without his revelation, it remains profound and mysterious. Those who have the clearest knowledge know only in part (1 Cor. 13:9; 8:1, 2).

v. 27. God, by his spirit and his ministers, would make known to you the riches of the glory of this gospel. He has laid out the great and unsearchable treasures of his mercy, his grace, his goodness, his righteousness. He has revealed all of the glory of his wisdom, mercy, justice and truth. All of this dwells in Christ! It is ours in Christ. We possess the riches of his grace and we hope for eternal glory as Christ dwells in us by faith (Col. 2:3).

v. 28. Paul had a twofold message: 'warning every man' and 'instructing every man'. Someone said, 'The blessings of God are hedged about on one side by the warnings of God, lest any presume, and on the other side by the promises of God, lest any despair.' It is the duty of the minister to warn the careless of God's wrath to come and to invite men to flee to Christ.

v. 29. 'Therefore I labour,' according to the grace and strength he gives!

4

Complete in him -- 1

Colossians 2:1-7

vv. 1-5. The apostle wanted the people of Colosse to know what great concern he had for them (and for believers everywhere), even though he had never met them personally. He then gave reasons for this conflict and concern.

1. 'That your hearts might beat as one in love for Christ and one another.' (v. 2) This is the way to comfort. Lack of unity of heart and affection will destroy joy and comfort.

2. 'That your hearts may beat as one in understanding and acknowledging the gospel of the glory of the Father and the Son (which is called in the preceding chapter 'the mystery of God') (v. 2). Union of heart in affection depends much upon common understanding and belief of the main truths concerning Christ and how God saves sinners. 'Two will not long walk together in spiritual love who do not agree on spiritual truth.' Let us pray for a growth in the knowledge of Christ and his grace.

3. In Christ are stored up all the riches of God's grace and glory (v. 3). In him are stored all wisdom and knowledge. Don't look for anything pertaining to God's mercy, grace and righteousness anywhere but in Christ. There is in Christ everything necessary to salvation (l John 5:20).

4. 'I say this with deep concern (v. 4), lest any should mislead or deceive you, lest any should draw you away from the simplicity of Christ with beguiling speech' (2 Cor. 11:3). Satan endeavours to sow the seed of error wherever the gospel of Christ is preached. His chief weapon is to entice men to depart in any way from a full trust and confidence in Christ alone and to lean even partially on the flesh (Rom. 11: 6).

5. 'I am absent from you in the flesh' (v.5). If Paul had been there in person, he could have dealt with these errors as he dealt with Peter (Gal. 2:11-14). (We are to guard jealously the gospel of God's glory.) He was 'with them in spirit', however, rejoicing over their faith in Christ.

v. 6. 'As ye have received Christ.' How did you receive Christ? You received him:

1 .As the sum and substance of all saving truth.

2. As the fulfillment of all promises.

3. As the fountain of all grace.

4. As the whole of acceptance and righteousness with and before God.

5. As the object of faith and love.

'In the same manner as you received him, continue to walk in him. Live day by day in this faith, trust and relationship. You don't begin in Christ and get perfected, comforted or accepted in your flesh' (Gal. 3:1-3).

v. 7. In this verse Paul prescribes three means for attaining to a constant walk in Christ.

1. 'Rooted and built up in him.' This is a metaphor taken from trees deeply rooted; 'rooted in him'. The grip with which faith lays hold on Christ is like a tree deeply rooted in the ground. Its strength, nourishment, life and fruit are supplied from him. Built up in him is a metaphor taken from a building fastened to a foundation. The shape and the stability of the building are determined by the foundation (1 Cor. 3:11).

2. 'Established in the faith, as ye have been taught, and abounding therein,' established in the doctrine of faith concerning Christ (Heb. 13:9). Not weary of old truths, not moved by new revelations from teachers who glory in the flesh, not easily offended, not driven about with every wind of doctrine, this 'building' is firmly established and growing in the faith of the Lord Jesus.

3. All of this is 'with thanksgiving'. There is great reason for thanksgiving:

The unspeakable gift of Christ.

Faith itself, which is the gift of God.

The gospel and spiritual light.

True ministers.

All things in Christ (1 Thess. 5:18).

5

Complete in him -- 2

Colossians 2:8-13

After expressing his great concern and care for the church at Colosse, Paul begins to warn them of false teachers and their errors.

v. 8. In this verse the error of false religion is dealt with under three heads:

1. 'Philosophy.' There is nothing wrong with true philosophy, but the word of God is never to be subjected to human reason, and human philosophy is never to be introduced into the worship and service of God. 'Let God be true and every man a liar' (Rom. 3:4).

2. 'Tradition of men.' These are practices and rites in the church without the authority of the written word, having no warrant but custom and human tradition. For instance: infant baptism, mass, purgatory and prayers for the dead, the celebration of religious holidays such as Christmas, Easter and so forth.

3. 'Rudiments of the world.' These are the Mosaical rites and ceremonies -- circumcision, abstaining from certain meats, the observance of sabbath days and so forth. Since Christ has fulfilled all these, the practice of them is sinful. The way of Christ will not mix with man's philosophy, traditions, nor legal obedience!

v. 9. There is nothing that will make a believer look to Christ alone, cling to and rest in Christ alone, more than to realize that everything God is, that God requires and that the sinner needs is in Christ (1 Cor. 1:30). This is the third time that Paul has told the Colossians that all fulness is in Christ (see Col. 1:19; 2:3). You can add nothing to fulness!

v. 10. We are perfect in him! He is perfect, and our being in him makes us perfect. This is not speaking of what we shall be, but of what we are right now in Christ! Not in ourselves, but in him. He is the head of all principality and power (not only in the church, but angels, kings, rulers, religious heads, etc.) In him there is no charge, obligation, duty or service that can be demanded of us for redemption -- not by anyone! (Col. 1:21, 22.)

v. 11. Circumcision was instituted by God (Gen. 17:10-13).

1. It was a token of the covenant, the promise of God's blessings.

2. It was a sign by which Israel was distinguished from other nations.

3. It is a picture of spiritual regeneration, circumcision of the heart, which is putting off the body and power of sin (Rom. 2:28, 29).

1. Circumcision was necessary to eating of Passover (Exod. 12:48).

2. A child was named at circumcision (Luke 1:59; 2:21).

3. Circumcision of heart brings us to the table of the Lord and gives us a new name -- sons of God! All this we have in Christ. Thus, it is not necessary to circumcise the flesh.

v. 12. We are not only circumcised in Christ in a spiritual sense (having the token, evidence and power of the covenant of grace), but all our sins are buried with Christ (of which our baptism in water is a representation)! Christ died for our sins and was buried. When he arose, all our sins were left behind! It is through faith that we see ourselves crucified, buried and risen with Christ. It is not just any faith, but that which is of God's operation!

v. 13. God raised Christ from the dead, and God must raise us from the dead. We were dead in trespasses and sins (Eph. 2:1-8). Forgiveness of sin is not done piecemeal, but is done at once and includes all sin -- past, present and future (1 John 1:7).

When we savingly believe in Christ, we are at that moment united to Christ. All that Christ did, suffered, or procured as our Head (whether in his life, death, burial, resurrection, or exaltation) is imputed to us by God, even to the right to all these benefits, given to us as if we had been personally present with him at those times and had done them all ourselves (Eph. 1:3; 2:6).

6

Christ or ceremony

Colossians 2:14-23

In Christ we are complete (v. 10). In Christ we have the seal of the covenant upon our hearts (v.11). In Christ we are risen from the dead (v. 12). In Christ we are forgiven of all sins (v. 13).

v. 14. When we think of handwriting, we think of the handwriting on the wall against Belshazzar: 'Thou art weighed in the balances and found wanting.' This handwriting against us is the whole ceremonial law of Moses, with its ordinances, commandments and laws, plus the moral law. We are weighed and found wanting (Rom. 3:19, 23). None but Christ could put away this handwriting, because none but Christ was able to satisfy what it required (Heb. 10:9). It took his perfect life and sacrificial death to do this.

v. 15. When a Roman emperor won a victory and conquered his foes, he rode through the streets in an open chariot; the captive kings and warriors, stripped of their armour and their hands tied behind their backs in chains, walked before him exposed to public shame and disgrace. Christ his disarmed all the principalities and powers which were against us (Rom. 8:33, 34). He has defeated Satan, sin, hell and death. He has made a bold display and public example of them in his cross. We are complete in Christ; he has set the captive free. We are not in bondage to any law, ceremony, or curse.

v. 16. Therefore, let no man sit in judgement on you in matters of food and drink or with regard to ceremonies, feast days, or Sabbaths. No man can command of us what Christ has not commanded (1 Tim. 4:1-8).

v. 17. The Old Testament ceremonies, circumcision, feast days and sacrifices were but shadows or symbols of Christ and his redemptive work. They were in effect only until he came. He is the truth, the body and the substance of all these. To continue in them is to say that Christ, the fulfillment, has not come! (Heb. 10:1-5.)

v. 18. Our reward or prize is to win Christ and be found in him, to know him and the power of his resurrected life (Phil. 3:8-14). 'Don't let anyone turn you away from this by insisting on a false humility, self-abasement, worshipping of angels and dead saints, teaching what is not in God's word (but only in his visions and imagination)'. All false, unscriptural philosophies are products of the flesh and lead away from Christ!

v. 19. These men bring reproach upon Christ, who is the only Head of the church. They make angels, the virgin, or other saints to be employed with him as mediators with the Father (1 Tim. 2:5, 6). Christ is the only Head, Lord, King and Giver of life. The whole body is knit together in him. We receive our life, nourishment, growth and grace only from him! The more we draw from Christ, the more we grow and increase spiritually and the better we will be knit together in love and unity.

v. 20. If we died with Christ by virtue of our union with Christ, if we were buried and rose with him and in him have justification, pardon, redemption and sanctification, if in Christ all the ordinances, ceremonies and types were fulfilled and we are free from these requirements, if in Christ we are redeemed from the curse, covenant and condemnation of the law -- why would we want to return to these shadows and types? (Gal. 4:21; 3:10.)

vv. 21, 22. 'Touch not… taste not ... handle not;' that is, meats, unclean things and other things forbidden by religious rules. These things are of service and reference only to the body; they can be of no value to the soul. They are perishing materials and cease to be when they are not used. The using of them cannot defile, and the abstinence from them cannot sanctify, nor commend us to God. Submission to these ordinances by a believer is not commanded by God, but by false teachers.

v. 23. These religious rules, ceremonies and fleshly practices give the outward appearance of devotion, humility and consecration. All error has something to say in its defense. Men like to serve God with their own inventions. They like to appear to be pious and humble; so they promote self-imposed laws, discipline and punishment of the body; but these are of no value in checking the flesh or sanctifying the heart. They do not honour God, but only indulge natural flesh and its false concept of righteousness (Rom. 10:1-4).

7

Christ is all

Colossians 3:1-11

v. 1. 'If it be true that you are crucified with Christ, buried with him in baptism, risen with him and seated with him in the heavens, then seek those things which are above.'

1. Seek the heavenly country (Ps. 17:15; Heb. 11:9, 10; 1 Peter 1:3, 4).

2. Seek Christ and his righteousness (Phil. 3:9-11).

3. Seek all spiritual blessings, as peace, life and glory (Eph. 1:3; James 1:17; 3:17).

We seek those things which are above; for he is there, seated at God's right hand.

v. 2. 'Set your affection [your heart] on things above.' Unless our hearts are set on the things of Christ, they will not be sought in the proper manner. 'Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life' (Prov. 4:23). Do not set your mind, thoughts and desires on the things of this world (Rom. 8: 5). Food and clothing, care of families, health and necessities of life are to be sought after and provided for, yet not with anxiety and distress, as if these were our chief end or the source of our chief happiness (Matt. 6:28-34). All the things of this earth shall fade away, 'but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever' (l John 2:15-17).

v. 3. As far as this world is concerned (with its riches, honour, temporary glory, fame, pleasures and relationships), 'ye are dead'! Our new life, our real life and interest, is with Christ in God. 'Hid with Christ' denotes the secrecy of it (the natural man does not understand it), and the safety of it (it shall never perish). The more we are aware of our union with Christ and the more our minds are set on him, the less interest we have in this world and its passing vanities.

v. 4. Our real glory is yet to come! It will be revealed when he is revealed in his glory. Christ is our life; his life and ours are one (Gal. 2:20). He is our hope. He is our happiness; true happiness is in knowing him. He is our portion; we are joint heirs with him, and when he comes in his glory, we will enter into his glory! (1 John 3:1-3; Rom. 8:16-18.)

vv. 5, 6. Since we seek things above, are mindful of things above, are dead to the things of this world and are one with Christ, we must constantly put to death these sinful desires that remain in our flesh (Rom. 7:18-23). Let us face our bodily members and their sinful desires with honesty and truth, putting them down and refusing to yield to them when they appear.

Paul lists some of the fleshly temptations which we are to put down and deaden: fornication, impurity, sensual appetites, unholy desires and imaginations and all greed and covetousness. The work of mortification is not perfected in an instant (nor is it ever completely perfected in this life). So this body of sin and death remains in us that we must make it our daily task to put down evil thoughts and desires. The Lord's people are still human and will have a real struggle with the flesh. However, he will give grace and mercy for every need. The very fact that we are exhorted to mortify these fleshly appetites indicates that they still exist to some degree in the believer. God's wrath is upon the children of disobedience because this is their way of life.

v. 7. Before we met Christ, this was our way of life. We walked and lived in these things, giving full release to the flesh, greed, covetousness and sin. Now we love Christ and long to be like him in conduct, conversation and attitude. It is not so much sin in itself that brings the wrath of God, but love for sin, hardness in sin and continuance in sin. There is sin in his people, but they confess their sins and he forgives them (1 John 2:1).

v. 8. Paul returns to his exhortation to put down and mortify sin in our members. He mentions six sins; the first three are of the heart and the rest are sins of the mouth! The right order of mortification is to begin with the heart (Matt. 23:26). Proceed then to the tongue and the outward man.

v. 9, 10. This is regeneration, this is the new birth -- the Holy Spirit has created a new man with new desires, new principles, new attitudes. This new man is created in the image of Christ. We know him, his will and his ways. We hate the old man of flesh and continually put him off. By God's grace the new man will grow in grace and the knowledge of Christ until at death the old man will be totally eradicated and we will be like Christ.

v. 11. It is usual for natural men to think that they will be accepted of God because of nationality, ceremony, outward piety, works, or knowledge. It is also usual for men to conclude that God will take less notice of them if they lack these things. This verse clears that up. In regeneration Christ is all (John. 1:12). In righteousness Christ is all (2 Cor. 5:21). In sanctification Christ is all (1 Cor. 1:30). In acceptance Christ is all (Eph. 1:6, 7). In love Christ is all (Rom. 8:39). In redemption Christ is all (1 Peter 1:18).

8

Christian graces

Colossians 3:12-16

In the preceding verses of this chapter the apostle exhorts us to put off the old man with his deeds. The conduct and character of the old man are anger, malice, blasphemy, filthy talk and lies. In these verses we are exhorted as the elect of God, as children of God, to behave as such in thought, word and deed. Put on the new man and his deeds; this is the fruit of the Spirit.

v. 12. It is not sufficient to cease from outward deeds of evil. We must also learn to do well and live as new creatures in Christ.

'Put on, as the elect of God.' There is an inseparable connection between being God's children and behaving like God's children (2 Cor. 5:17; Rom. 8:9; 1 John 4:7, 8, 20). We do well to question our union with Christ where there is no evidence of growth in the grace of Christ, the love of Christ and the fruit of his spirit.

'Bowels of mercy' -- an inward pity and tenderness toward the needs, misery and infirmities of others.

'Kindness.' Our sympathy toward others should not only be inward, but outward also, expressed in words, conduct and deeds of kindness.

'Humbleness of mind.' This arises from a genuine sense of our own sins, infirmities and short-comings, as well as a sense of God's mercy toward us in Christ (1 Cor. 4:7). We look upon ourselves as the chief of sinners, inferior to others in graces, gifts and knowledge.

'Meekness' -- the opposite of pride and arrogance. It destroys envy, jealousy and quarrels (1 Peter 3:4). A meek and quiet spirit will lead to patience or long-suffering. We don't feel it necessary to avenge ourselves or even to defend ourselves.

v. 13. As long as we are in the flesh we will have misunderstandings, unpleasantness and even injustices (we will feel that our rights have been violated and others have been wrong in what they have said and done). What is to be our attitude? It is to be twofold: 'forbearing' and 'forgiving'. To forbear is to control our emotions, surrendering our rights for the time being in patient hope that God will reveal his purpose and will. To forgive is actually to put the misunderstanding out of mind and restore a state of love and fellowship. This is the way our Lord treats us. He is longsuffering and patient with us, forgiving our sins, remembering them no more!

v. 14. 'Above all things,' the most necessary grace is love (Matt. 22:36-40; 1 Cor. 13:1-3, 13). This is the bond which binds everything together in complete harmony for the glory of God and the good of one another. Knowledge, activity, zeal and morality won't bind us to Christ or to one another.

v. 15. Let the peace which comes through Christ (Rom. 5:1) and the peace which comes from Christ (Rom. 12:18; 14:19; 2 Cor. 13:11, 12) actually rule our hearts, deciding and settling all matters that arise in our minds or in the assembly. As members of the body of Christ we were called to live in peace and love (1 Cor. 7:15). Let us be thankful and appreciative, first to God for all grace and then to one another. These virtues are absolutely necessary. Where love, peace and thanksgiving are absent, faith is absent!

v. 16. We are exhorted to a diligent study of God's word. This is not for information and doctrine alone, but that God's word might become such a part of us that it is said to dwell in us as a member of the family lives in a home. It is loved, respected, obeyed and delighted in richly (Ps. 1:1, 2) in an abundant fashion. We are not to study just one part of the Scripture, but all of it, that we may benefit and grow in grace (1 Peter 2:1, 2). It is not only the duty of the ministers to teach, encourage and instruct others; but it is the duty of all believers to witness, teach and encourage one another in spiritual matters. This can be done in private, in groups and in public worship. It is all to be done as unto the Lord, for the glory of the Lord and from the heart.

9

The common rule for all our actions

Colossians 3:17-25

v. 17. This is the key verse in our study. Paul gives us a common rule for all our actions in worship and in daily life. They are to be done in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, for his glory and with thanksgiving to the Father for our interest in Christ, our position in Christ and our acceptance in Christ.

1. Whether in preaching, singing, praying, teaching, or in conversation with other believers, let us do what we do in the name of Christ and for his glory.

2. Whether in the home, on the job, or in any of our business and social contacts, we are not left at liberty to do as we please, but we are to aim at his glory and his will.

3. This will bring God's blessings, will bring unity of heart and purpose, will drive out divisions and strife, if we do all that we do, not for selfish purposes, but for Christ's sake.

v. 18, 19. From this verse to the end of the chapter, Paul talks about the duties and deeds which relate to Christians as they are members of a family. In this family there are three pairs: husbands and wives, parents and children and masters and servants. He points out the duties of each to the other, to be fulfilled for the glory of Christ and in the name of Christ.

In order for a home to be well-ordered, a place of love and contentment and for Christ to have preeminence, these two things must be true:

1. The wife must be in subjection to the husband as is fit in the Lord, obeying him, respecting his judgments and decisions, and following his leadership as long as he does not violate the word of God (Eph. 5:22-24, Gen. 3:16).

2. The husband should love his wife, treat her with kindness, respect and defend her before his parents, children and all who would discredit or abuse her. Husband and wife are one in the Lord and must not suffer this union to be broken, either in their own eyes or the eyes of others, particularly their children. No home can be built for Christ's glory or for our good if we are pulling our separate, selfish ways. We walk together in love and affection if we seek the glory of Christ.

vv. 20, 21. Do you children want to be happy? Do you want God's blessings on your lives? Do you desire to live for the glory of God and do all things in the name of Christ? Then 'Obey your parents'. Honour your father and mother. Respect them and their decisions. Speak respectfully of and to them. This is well pleasing to the Lord! (Exod. 20:12.)

Parents, do not abuse your parental authority. There are two dangerous directions we take in raising children: either being too hard and unreasonable with them, or being too indulgent and easy with them. Either way children will become discouraged, spoiled and rebellious. If we can seek God's will and not our own, God's glory and not our own, God's tenderness and way and not our own in dealing with our children, we will build a relationship the Lord will bless.

v. 22. 'Servants' here refers to all who work in the employ or service of someone else:

1. Let us give an honest, dedicated, full effort in our labors as if we were working for the Lord, not just in appearance, but with a dedicated heart.

2. Let us be concerned for our employer's business, property and profit, not stealing, wasting, or misusing equipment or tools.

3. Let us be content with our pay, asking for it in the right spirit, considering his ability to pay.

'Masters,' you have some obligations to your servants:

1. Give them fair and equal pay. They have families to support, children to educate and they enjoy the same things you enjoy.

2. Expect them to work, produce and promote the business; but don't be unreasonable. Treat them as you want to be treated. Don't lay burdens on them you are unwilling to bear.

3. Treat them with respect. A man may dress poorly or have less ability and education, but he is a son of God. He is an important person in the eyes of God.

vv. 25-25. 'Whatever you do in all these areas (husbands and wives, children and parents, servants and masters), do what you do sincerely, with all your heart, as unto the Lord and before the Lord.' If we are his children, our activities have a higher purpose and calling than just building relationships and programs that will one day crumble. We are serving the Lord Jesus Christ and his greater glory. From him we shall receive a 'well done' or judgement.

10

Speaking to God and to men

Colossians 4:1-18

v. 1. This verse belongs to the preceding chapter (it has no connection with what follows). The apostle, having exhorted servants to a proper discharge of their duties (as unto the Lord), proceeds to instruct those who hire and work servants to treat them in a just and equal manner. 'Treat them with respect, encouraging them in their work, and giving them fair wages. Remember that you have a Master in heaven' (Matt. 6:15; 18:23-35).

v. 2. There are three important things mentioned here in regard to our prayers.

1. 'Continue in prayer.' This does not mean that we should pray all the time. That would be impossible. We can and ought to live in an attitude of prayer and fellowship with God. This does mean to pray frequently about all things. A day should not pass without prayer.

2. 'Watch in prayer.' Be alert and intent in prayer. This is said in opposition to cold, formal and careless praying (which God despises). When we pray, let it be an undivided, sincere communion with the living God.

3. 'With thanksgiving' (Phil. 4:6). A believer always has mercies for which to be thankful. How shall we succeed in our present request if we are not thankful for what has gone before?

v. 3, 4. Paul requests prayer for himself and others who minister the word.

1. 'Pray that a door of opportunity may be opened' (1 Cor. 16: 9; 2 Cor. 2:12).

2. 'Pray that the door of men's hearts may be opened.' Men may hear the gospel with natural ears and still not hear with the heart (1 Cor. 2:9, 10). The gospel of God's grace and glory is a mystery which must be revealed by the power of God's spirit, else men remain in darkness even after hearing (Matt. 13:10-13; Gal. 1:15; 1 Cor. 2:14).

3. 'Pray that the door of my lips may be opened. Pray that God will give me the words to say, the ability to say them, and the wisdom to do it for his glory! Pray that I may preach the gospel faithfully, boldly, with clearness of speech as I ought (Matt. 9: 37, 38).

v. 5. 'Them that are without' are unbelievers, people who are not members of the church family. The church is the household of faith; those who are unbelievers are not of this household. It becomes us in our communication with these people to behave wisely and in such a manner that the gospel is not blasphemed and reproached. Do all that you can in your contact with unbelievers to gain their respect, affection and approval of your conduct, conversation and attitude. We should be known in our families, our community and our business circles as peaceful, honest, holy and kind people.

v. 6. 'Let your speech be always with grace.' This is not just to talk about the grace of God, but our speech should reveal the grace of God.

1. Speak the truth faithfully and sincerely, without lying, flattery, or exaggeration.

2. Speak in love, avoiding gossip, whisperings, or anything that is injurious to the character of another. Avoid sowing discord or division.

3. Speak kindly and pleasantly. Hard words reveal a hard heart. Unkind, cutting remarks reveal a bitter spirit.

Grace is to the speech what salt is to meat. It makes it acceptable, good to the ear and a blessing to the heart. Grace in the heart will teach you how you ought to answer any person. Knowledge is not acquired by speaking, but it ought to go before it!

vv. 7, 8. Paul was in prison in Rome. He sent Tychicus and Onesimus to declare his state to the Colossian believers, to inform them of what was done in Rome, and that these ministers might comfort and encourage them. The rest of the epistle is to encourage specifically certain persons in the church.