Faith without religion.
Eternal Reign and Divine Truth
In the midst of the lockdown, we find ourselves diving deep into the teachings of Paul, particularly his words in Colossians. As we explore these scriptures, we encounter the profound statement from Paul about continuing in faith and not being swayed from the hope of the gospel. This passage challenges us to consider the reach of the gospel in Paul’s time and the role of the Holy Spirit in spreading the message.
Paul’s writings reveal his dedication as a minister of the gospel, emphasizing his sufferings for the church and his mission to bring the mystery of the gospel to the Gentiles. He speaks of his afflictions as completing what was lacking in Christ’s sufferings for the church, not in terms of atonement, but in spreading the gospel beyond Israel to the Gentiles.
The mystery Paul refers to is the revelation that salvation through Christ is available to all, Jew and Gentile alike. This was a truth hidden for ages but now made manifest to the saints. Paul emphasizes that “Christ in you, the hope of glory” is the essence of this mystery, offering a hope of a glorious future to all who believe.
Paul’s teachings encourage believers to be rooted and built up in Christ, established in faith, and to walk in Him. This involves receiving Christ by faith, allowing Him to guide our lives, and continually growing in knowledge and understanding of His word. As we deepen our roots in Him, we are called to abound in thanksgiving, recognizing the unparalleled value of knowing our Lord and Savior.
In these challenging times, Paul’s message is a reminder of the enduring hope and strength found in faith, urging us to remain steadfast and grateful as we navigate our spiritual journeys.
