Raiders for Christ
Study: The Book of James

Part 11 - Is This How We Are To Be?
Some have imagined that the attitude expressed in verse 9 (James 4) is to be the constant characteristic of a Christian. Such an interpretation, however, overlooks the situation that gave rise to these commands. It was the desire for pleasures that led James to give this call to all-out repentance. In verse 10 James says, “Humble yourself.” With the words "humble yourselves," James returns to the text quoted from the Old Testament in verse 6. God graciously gives aid to the humble; therefore we need to humble ourselves. The Greek for this "humble" means an act of repentance for the sin of transferring affections from God to pleasures of the world. We are to humble ourselves and He will lift us up. We will be comforted, restored, and brought near to Him.

What Keeps us From Humbling Ourselves Before God? Pride - “Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you--who are you to judge your neighbour?” (James 4:11-12) The NASB has a better translation of "Do not speak against one another."

There are two thoughts on this section. One is that it is connected to verse 10 about humbling ourselves. To slander or judge another Christians is totally against the humble spirit God desires. Isn't it true that those who run down their neighbours or a fellow member of their church often do so because by doing it they are implying that they are better than the ones they are running down. Backbiting others is, in fact, a subtle form of self-exaltation.

Is Judgement Ever Good?
We have judges in the courts that pass judgement all the time - how do they go about it? First they hear the charges and after all the facts that can be discovered are presented, they weigh both sides of the question and then pass judgement. How is someone who speaks against another different? Because he is passing judgement without hearing both sides or maybe without even wanting to know the truth of what he is saying.

To slander or judge a brother is to criticize and judge God's Law. Why is this so? Read James 2:8. To speak against your neighbour is to violate this law. The person who does it places himself above the law and, by his action, he declares the law to be a bad or unnecessary statute. Rather than submitting to it and "keeping it," he passes judgment on its validity and sets it aside.

In verse 12, when we find fault or criticize, we are taking authority over something that is reserved for God. Since he gave the law, he is qualified to enforce it and reward those who keep it and punish those who violate it. This doesn't rule out civil courts and judges. Back to verse 10 - humble yourself before the Lord. A humble attitude and just actions are essential for spiritual growth and maturity.

Another Example of Pride is Boasting
“Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins” (James 4:13-17). Does this sound like a good business plan? What four things is he going to do? Go to a city, spend time there, carry on business, make money. What is wrong with a plan like this is God doesn't come into the picture. They have been planning like they have power over the future. What makes them think they can boast when their knowledge is limited and even their future life is uncertain?

James uses another illustration from nature to point out the transitory nature of life: "You are a mist." In the morning it covers the countryside; before noon it is gone. Some of James's readers seemed to think they would were going to be here forever. Plan like the Lord is not coming for a long time but live like He is coming today. Be prudent but be sure the Lord is guiding it. Verse 13 says, "You who say, ‘Such and such” now he says in verse 15"instead, you ought to say." A Christian person ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will." For a believer to leave God out of his plans is an arrogant assumption of self-sufficiency, a declaration of independence from God. How often have you heard people say,"The Lord willing," or "If it's the Lord's will?"

Is saying this about every plan a guarantee that we have the right attitude? We need an attitude of complete submission. These words aren't to be used like some charm but a realistic attitude that affects all of one's being and behaviour. Some of his readers, however, made it a practice to 'boast and brag' rather than subjecting their plans to God's will. The Greek is saying, "You are boasting in your arrogant pretensions." In other words they were proud of their assumption that they would foresee and control the future. James says this boasting is evil.

"Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins" (James 4:17). Do you see this verse as referring just to the idea of boasting or is it referring to all that he has said so far? Translating "then" to "therefore" as the NASB does seems to bring out the idea of it referring to all that has been said so far. Perhaps he is saying, "Now that I have pointed all these matters out to you, you have no excuse. Knowing what should be done obligates you to do it."

Again the whole letter is how to attain spiritual maturity so as believers they must do the good they now know. Let's go over again what he has said. A believer must: Stand confidently on God's Word even in trials and temptations. He must compassionately serve fellow believers without favouritism but with practical faith. He must speak carefully with a controlled tongue and wise thought.He must submit to his all-powerful Father, Lawgiver and Judge with a humble spirit, just actions and trusting heart. He must be what God wants him to be, do what God wants him to do and speak what God wants him to speak. To know the will of God is the greatest knowledge. To do the will of God is the greatest achievement.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Bible Study The book of James

What Causes Fights and Quarrels Among You? James has just finished talking about a climate of peace being necessary to produce righteousness - but what were the people doing that he was writing to? It can apply to all of us at one time or another too. Read verses 1-4 of James chapter 4: “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't hey come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” What's the difference between a fight and a quarrel? One is a broad term and the other refers to a particular skirmish or an individual battle. One you are fighting with your whole neighbourhood or church - the other you have a grievance against your neighbour or a friend.

Two Causes and Numerous Effects 1. Cause: Inner desires - desires that battle within us. When we see the word desires, we think: aren't some of our desires legitimate? What would they be? Health, friendship, family, job, home, education, freedom from oppression. However, the word used for desires means 'pleasures.' It is the source of the English word 'hedonism,' which sees pleasure as the chief goal of life, and nothing will be allowed to stand in our way of experiencing it. Do you think that sometimes our "pleasures" have a stronger pull than our legitimate desires? What or who can frustrate these pleasures?
When God, someone, or something stops us in fulfilling one of these pleasures, our nature is to fight until we get our way.

In verse 3 he is not saying that the reason they didn't have their desires/pleasures fulfilled was because they didn't pray but he was accusing them of asking for things, such as money, that they intended to use for pleasure. They wanted to gratify themselves rather than help others and please God. 2. Cause: Worldly motivation - friendship with the world. He calls them an adulterous people. In the Old Testament, God often describes Himself as the husband of His people and the New Testament calls the church the Bride of Christ. So this is undoubtedly a figure of speech for 'spiritual unfaithfulness.' So the second cause of fights and quarrels is spiritual unfaithfulness.

James says, "…don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God?” Our world is built around the idea that man can help himself. If man can't get God to cooperate with him, he runs to the world for its help and support. That's called being a friend to the world. Then what do you think happens? We have anger toward God. Then there is worldliness. Here you adopt the world's philosophy and live by it. We want to do things our way. We choose to be a friend of the world and thus an enemy of God. What is the solution? In verse 5-6 “We have a source of power and a principle to follow. Read verses 5-6 Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us tends toward envy, but he gives us more grace? That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:5-6).

The NASB seems to have a better translation than the NIV for verse 5. Apparently it is a very difficult passage to translate and I won't go into all the problems. One explanation: verse 4 which is closely tied to verse 5 by the conjunction "or," indicates that the believer who is a friend of the world is guilty of spiritual adultery. Although his love and devotion belong to God, he has fallen in love with the world. It is natural, therefore, to expect verse 5 to speak of God's jealous longing for his people's love, rather than of their envious spirit. Rather than "to envy" the Greek can also mean "to yearn for." In verse 4 James accused his readers of spiritual unfaithfulness. If they aren't willing to accept this, he asks in verse 5 what they think about the Old Testament passages dealing with God's jealous longing for his people. Then verse 5, "or" do they think Scripture speaks without reason. Consequently, it is necessary to believe that friendship with the world is enmity toward God, and thus it is spiritual unfaithfulness.

What is the Power? The Holy Sprit. The translation of verse 5 varies but from what I can find the one that seems preferred is "that God jealously longs for the spirit that he made to live in us." When a Christian divides his allegiance, he loses everything. Only when we switch from a divided to a single allegiance will God take control. Then the power of God's spirit is unhindered. We make a choice. God will not deal with a divided heart.

What is the Principle? ”God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). God in grace (giving us something we don't deserve) gives his people the help they need to resist the draw of the world and to remain loyal to him. God gives greater grace -greater than the selfish drive within our own hearts.

What is Humbleness?
Meekness, gentleness, power under control. Willing to accept what God commands and to seek help from Him rather than trusting in one's own abilities -someone who forgets himself and trusts God's goodness and His control over situations. Why does He give us this grace only if we are humble, never if we are proud? Read verses 7-10: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”

Practical Advice Now, James gives some practical advice. He gives ten commands; in Greek each one is stated in a way that calls for immediate action in rooting out the sinful attitude of pride:

Submit yourselves We are to submit our will and that leads to obedience. Stop fighting and surrender. Submission is not the same as obedience. Instead it is the surrender of one's will, which leads to obedience. Resist the devil Rather than resisting God's will for us, we are to resist the devil. It is remarkable that Paul's inventory of the Christian armour includes nothing to protect the back. We are given no promise of protection if we run away, but we are promised victory every time we stand and resist him. We are to reject his plans, because they encourage our self-assertiveness. When he is resisted, he will flee.

Come near to God, and he will come near to you We're to stay close to Him and develop companionship with Him. James' readers had set their hearts on pleasure and had drifted away from God. Even when we fall away we have the assurance that he will come near to us if we return to Him.

Wash or cleanse your hands This spoke to the Jewish converts that James was writing to. Under the old covenant, the priests had to ritually wash their hands before performing their ceremonial duties. It taught the great lesson of the holiness of God. From this came the expression that was applied figuratively to the removal of sin. "Wash your hands you sinners," reminded them to wash their hands or to repent - make their conduct pure.

Purify your hearts Whereas the command to wash your hands dealt with making your conduct pure, the command to purify your hearts insists on purity of thoughts and motives. In verse 3 and 4 he talks of his readers going after pleasure and having friendship with the world. A double-minded person is characterized by divided allegiance. And worldliness is basically divided allegiance. Psalm 24:3-4 says, "Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart." James 4:6-8: Grieve/be miserable, mourn and wail/weep. This is a call to repentance. In contrast to the worldly pleasures they had been seeking, his readers are to repent in misery.

Verse 9: “Turn their laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.” Apparently they had felt their pursued pleasures had been fun and games that had brought laughter and joy. Now they were to be ashamed and sorry and repent in sorrow - sorrow for the fact they have been missing God's blessings.

In the Beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus starts by saying, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." They are the ones that realize they have sinned by following their own desires. Then it goes on, "Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted." The ones that realize they have sinned and come in sorrow and ask for forgiveness - they will be comforted.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study the book of James

Spiritual Maturity Now James gives another measure of spiritual maturity - a believer's speech. He will talk about a controlled tongue and also for controlled thoughts. The mouth, after all, is connected to the mind. First, let's think about what Jesus said in Matthew 15:11, 18-20: "What goes into a man's mouth does not make him unclean, but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him unclean. But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man unclean. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man unclean.” We need to see that the heart and tongue are directly associated with each other. Every word reveals the condition of the heart.

Think Twice Before Teaching “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check” (James 3:1-2). Verse 1 says, "Not many of you should presume to be teachers because they will be judged more strictly" which is a little scary when that is what you are trying to do. The Greek is literally "Stop becoming many teachers."
In other words James was telling them not to run too quickly into the role of teaching. Here are a few reasons. Because the teacher is responsible to teach the truth and not his or her own opinion. Because what a teacher teaches affects many lives. Because the teacher is expected to live the truth he or she teaches the responsibilities are strict and heavy. Since the tongue is so difficult to control - we all stumble in this area - if anyone controls it perfectly, he gains control of himself in all other areas of his life as well.

The Tongue has Tremendous Power…. James is great at illustrations. In verses 3-5 he shows what the tongue is like: “When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.”

The first two examples show how the tongue, even though it is small, can do good. In verse 5 the NIV says, “likewise the tongue,” the NASB says, “so also the tongue.” This gives the application of the two preceding verses. Like bits and rudders the tongue also is a small item. Yet also like them, it exerts a powerful influence. "It makes great boasts." It can sway crowds, it can alter the destinies of nations, and it can preach great sermons. These can be great things but 5b and 6 show the destructive potential by picturing the forest fire. Thousands of acres of valuable timber may be devastated by a small spark.

We know what happened in the Okanagan this summer(in the summer of 2003 there was a very large forest fire in the Okanagan region of British Columbia, Canada). In the first two illustrations, animals and ships are controlled by small objects. In this illustration, a huge forest is destroyed by a tiny spark. The tongue in the same way can either control or destroy.

The Tongue is a Fire “The tongue is also a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:6-8).

He doesn't have much good to say about the tongue, does he? The tongue is a fire - what do you think it is saying? Fire probably represents all sin that the tongue expresses. Can a person be angry or bitter; be selfish or desire power without expressing it in some way with the tongue? The tongue can corrupt the whole body. He says the tongue is set on fire by hell. The word hell used here doesn't refer to Hades, but to Gehenna, which at that time was the name of the garbage dump outside the city of Jerusalem. The tongue is activated by garbage. “The tongue is not only like an uncontrolled fire, it is also like an untamed beast. All the wild animals have been tamed but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and full of evil” (James 3:6 Application Bible).
You didn't know you carried a lethal weapon. Maybe there should be legislation to register it.

Then James goes on to apply what he said of the tongue to both humanity and nature in verse 9-12: “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.” At end of verse 10 he says, "this should not be." From humanity, opposites shouldn't be. Why is it especially horrible to curse or verbally abuse a human being? To what kinds of speech does 3:9 apply, besides actual swearing? From nature, opposites cannot come from the same source. What would happen to fresh water if fresh water and salt water flowed from the same spring? How is this like what happens to our praises if curses or derogatory remarks also come from our mouths?

Is the Tongue Necessary or Dangerous? Why can't man tame his own tongue? How would you say it would be possible to control our tongues and become mature? Let's look at some passages that deal with the tongue - Proverbs is a rich source of wisdom:

Proverbs 6:16: “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.” Proverbs 10:11: “The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.” Proverbs 10:14: “Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.” Proverbs 10:18-21: He who conceals his hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool. When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment.” Proverbs 12:1: “A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies.” Proverbs 12:18: “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Proverbs 15:1-2: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of a fool gushes folly.” Proverbs 15:4: “The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”Proverbs 16:27: “A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire.” Proverbs 16:28: “A perverse man stirs up dissension and a gossip separates close friends.” Proverbs 17:27-28: “A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered. Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.”

Proverbs 21:23: “He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.” Proverbs 26:18-25: ”Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows is a man who deceives his neighbor and says, "I was only joking!" Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down. As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts. Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit. Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.” Proverbs 29:20: “Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Psalm 34:12-13 says: "Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.” There are many more but if we thought on these often, we would save others and ourselves a lot of pain. With some we would bring healing and comfort.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study the Book of James

Expression of the Character and Will of God Himself “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not murder." If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker” (James 2:10-11). Although God's law has many facets, it is essentially only one, being the expression of the character and will of God himself. To violate the law at any one point is to violate the will of God an to contradict the character of God. The same God who said, Do not commit adultery," also said, "Love your neighbor as yourself." The person who breaks just one law has become a lawbreaker. Although just one commandment is broken, the entire law of God has been flouted. When viewed like this, an act of favoritism is far from insignificant.

Principle Applied "Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:12-13). God has ordained unalterable laws. Complete and consistent obedience is required if spiritual maturity is to be attained. The recipient of mercy should likewise be merciful. Mercy should be the mark of the regenerate person. Just as the law of love doesn't give you the right to show disrespect to others; the possession of faith doesn't give you the right to not do good works. A believer should not only demonstrate his love by readily accepting others but he should also demonstrate his faith by helping others. “What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way faith by itself if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:14-17).
In verse 14 James emphasizes that this person's faith is based on a false claim of faith.

Merely Claiming to Have Faith is Not Enough Genuine faith affects the believer's behavior and is evidenced by works. In verses 15 and 16 the problem is illustrated by an example that is ridiculous. For someone in need of the basics of life, sentimental good wishes do little good. If nothing is done to fill the need, what good is it? It is worthless if it is all talk and no walk. “Faith not accompanied by action is dead” (James 2:17). This states the problem he will demonstrate in the next verses. Action is the proper fruit of living faith. If no deeds are forthcoming, it is proof that the professed faith is dead. Notice that James does not deny that it is faith. He simply indicates that it is not the right kind of faith. It is not living faith, nor can it save.

Now he Presents his Argument ”But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. You believe that there is one God, Good! Even the demons believe that - and shudder” (James 2:18-19). To answer that 'someone' he points out that works are necessary to prove that a person has faith. That someone seems to say that faith and works are not necessarily related to each other and that it is possible to have either one without the other. To this James responds with, "Show me your faith without deeds." He is implying that faith can't be demonstrated without action. Faith is an attitude of the inner person and it can only be seen if it influences the actions of the one who possesses it. Mere profession of faith proves nothing as to its reality; only action can demonstrate that faith is genuine. So James says, "I will show you my faith by what I do."

Even the Demons Believe…. The next argument to support his statement of "Faith not accompanied by action is dead" deals with the fact that the demons believe that there is one God. That God is one was a basic truth of Jewish orthodoxy, but acceptance of a creed is not enough to save a person. To prove his point, he says that even demons believe the Shema. He is really chastising the sophisticated individual who says, "I am a religious intellectual, but I'm not interested in involvement." Just like the demons whose theology is impeccable because they know much more than any earthly intellectual will ever know, their belief adds up to nothing. Another argument to support what he is saying is in verse 20-25: “You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend. You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.” Verse 21 is often seen as directly opposed to Paul's statement that Abraham's faith, not his works, caused God to declare him righteous.

“What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter? If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about - but not before God. What does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness” (Romans 4:1-5). Paul was arguing for the priority of faith. James argues for the proof of faith. Paul declared that Abraham had faith, and was therefore justified, or declared righteous. Genesis 15:6 says,"Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it (i.e., faith, not works) to him as righteousness." Abraham's act of faith occurred before he offered up Isaac, which was only a proof of the genuineness of his faith. As Paul wrote, in Galatians 5:6, "The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. Faith that saves produces deeds.”

JI Packer says, "James quotes Genesis 15:6 for the same purpose as Paul does - to show that it was faith that secured Abraham's acceptance as righteous. But now, he says, this Scripture was fulfilled or confirmed and proved true by a later event when he was 'justified by works, when he offered his son Isaac.' Abraham's act proved the reality of his faith, and so of his acceptance with God. James is pointing out that a bare profession of faith, unaccompanied by the good works which true faith would produce, doesn't prove that a person is saved."

Illustrations Verse 25 refers to the story of Rahab. This example is really in contrast to Abraham. Rahab was a woman, a Gentile and a prostitute. She was chosen perhaps to show that James' argument covered the widest ranges of possibilities. In the Greek there is a word KAI which makes to say, EVEN Rahab. She, like Abraham, evidenced her faith by action. Then James concludes by using the human body as an illustration. The body without the spirit is nothing but a corpse. Faith without deeds is as dead as a corpse and equally useless. Faith and deeds are inseparable. If there are no acts coming from faith, that faith is no more alive than the body without the spirit.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study the Book of James


Those with True Religion Should Serve
In chapter 1:19-27 James has shown the importance of putting spiritual truth into practice. Those with true religion should serve. Now he gets more specific in his instructions. Now in James 2:1 he states the principle; it is illustrated in verse 2-4; explained in verse 5-11 and applied in verse 12-13.

The Principle of Favoritism “My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism” (James 2:1). Stated another way it could be: Faith in Christ and partiality are incompatible. Now he illustrates the principle:“Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” (James 2:2-4)

So two men came to worship: one had all the trappings of being rich and the other was a poor man. The usher was faced with a choice: Where does he seat these two people? Matthew 23:6 helps us to understand this situation by telling us that there were "important seats" in the synagogues. The Pharisees loved the chief seats - apparently located down in front - because they could enter the place of worship in their elegant robes and march toward the front, calling attention to themselves. The usher based his decision on externals only and the rich man was given the seat and the poor man could sit on the floor or stand off to the side.

What do you Think the Usher's Motives Were?
One commentary said it should read, "Are you not divided?" The division is between profession and practice - the profession of Christian equality and the practice of deference to rank and wealth. By doing this they show themselves to be judges with evil thoughts. If there is one place where class distinctions should break down, it is in the place of worship. Now the principle is explained: “Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong?” (James 2:5-7) James not only states that prejudice and superficial judgments are wrong, but he gives three reasons why they are wrong.

God Looks at the Heart
The first is a theological reason: Prejudice is inconsistent with God's methods. From God's perspective the real issue is not wealth or poverty but the condition of one's soul. God looks at the heart. By saying that the believers' poverty is poverty "in the eyes of the world," James is suggesting that they are not really poor. They are "rich in faith" and heirs of the kingdom. James is not saying that all poor people are "rich in faith," nor does he exclude the rich from the ranks of the saved. There is also no merit inherent in poverty. One reason God "has chosen those who are poor" may be seen in the account of the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-27. There, Jesus indicated that those who have riches find it exceedingly difficult to enter God's kingdom apparently because their wealth stands in the way.

The theological reason is because prejudice is inconsistent with God's methods. Then there is a logical reason: Prejudice ignores the universality of sin in verse 6-7. God had chosen the poor but they had insulted them. On the other hand weren't the rich the ones who exploited them; weren't the rich dragging them into court; and weren't they the ones who blasphemed the name by which you have been called? To show favoritism to those who blaspheme that wonderful name was the greatest sin of all. Finally there is a Biblical reason: Prejudice is sinful because it is inconsistent with Scripture in verse 8-9. “If you really keep the royal law found in scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers” (James 2:8-9). One well-known law given to Moses said, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." It was said again. To show partiality was a contradiction of that law. To show favoritism is not merely to be guilty of an insignificant fault or a politically incorrect act; it is a sin. I guess we could say about ourselves, "If I show partiality or prejudice because of surface appearances, I sin.”

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study The Book of James

What is the Key to Responding to Trials?
The key to responding to trials and resisting temptation is found in one's reaction to God's Word. James starts out by making it clear that what he has to say is important. The NIV says, ‘take note of this.’ To receive the Word your must be ready to listen. It also demands that you don't talk too much. In a discussion about what the Word says, which is usually an argument, the one who is listening rather than lambasting is the one who is slow to anger. Why does he say this? "For anger doesn't produce the righteous life that God desires" (verse 20). In further preparation for the reception of the Word, as the Living Bible says we have to ‘get rid of all that is wrong in your life, both inside and outside. Then we can humbly and meekly receive the truth.’

Putting it into Practice"
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it -- he will be blessed in what he does” (James 1:22-25). Now he goes on to discuss putting the Word into practice. It is not enough merely to 'listen to the word' or by the same token, merely ‘to read it.’ Those who only listen to a lot of preaching and read a lot of Christian books deceive themselves. The deception comes from thinking they have done all that is necessary when actually listening to the Word is only the beginning. God isn’t looking for activists who do their thing without information, or is He looking for those who are informed and do nothing. There must be a balance. First we must be hearers and then we must be doers. Romans 2:13 is the only other place in the New Testament where hearers and doers are mentioned.

Use God’s “Spiritual Mirror”
“For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's sight, but is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous” (Romans 2:13). Then he goes on to use a mirror as an example of God's Word. It illustrates that God's spiritual mirror shows us the kind of people we are. The forgetful hearer is the person who takes in scripture, looks at it, but once he leaves the setting, he forgets what God has said. His life is unaffected. In contrast, the effectual doer looks at the mirror intently and does not forget but does what he hears.

The Word is called the perfect law of liberty and the perfect law that gives freedom. The perfect law is the moral and ethical teaching of Christianity, which is based on the Old Testament moral law, as embodied in the Ten Commandments but brought to completion or perfection by Jesus Christ. In contrast to the sinner, who is a slave to sin, obeying the moral law gives the Christian the wonderful freedom to be what he was created for. In John 8:31-32 Jesus said, "Hold to my teaching, then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”In looking back over verse 18-25, what is the key word that is repeated the most Ultimately the key both to responding to trials and resisting temptation is to be found in one's reaction to God's word. Verse 18 - receiving the Word Verse 22 - responding to the Word Verse 23-25 - realizing that the Word is essential to spiritual growth. We must accept God's Word, act on it and abide by it.

Rein in That Tongue!
“If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this; to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” (James 1:26-27). Being eager to receive the Word and responding to what it says must be coupled with a new approach to life. The Living Bible says, "Anyone who says he is a Christian but doesn't control his sharp tongue is just fooling himself, and his religion isn't worth much.”

Being a Christian or being religious is referring to the outward acts - going to church, fasting, giving to charity, public praying - these acts are useless if there is no control on the tongue. The verse isn't specific, but what are some of the ways that the tongue can reveal that our religion is worthless? Cutting criticism of others, uncleanness, dishonesty….

Orphans and Widows
Do you think James 1:27 is a total description of religion? Is this all we have to do? What do you think this verse is illustrating. What does it mean? Looking after orphans and widows refers to our conduct; keeping oneself from being polluted refers to our character. God wants us to have the kind of religion that exerts a positive influence on our life. He doesn't give us a definition of religion but insists that genuine religion is life changing. It expresses itself in love to others and holiness before God.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study the Book of James

How to Welcome Trials with an Attitude of Joy
“If any to you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). Remember in Colossians when Paul prayed that they might be “filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (Colossians 1:9)? Wisdom in Scripture always means knowledge of the course of action that will please God, so the promise of James 1:5 is in effect a promise of guidance.

“When the work of perseverance is finished we will lack nothing; but before perseverance has finished its work in the trial if anyone 'lacks wisdom,' he may have it by asking” (James 1:4). It is the wisdom that gives understanding of the nature and purpose of trials and knowing how to meet them victoriously - practical insights into life, not theoretical knowledge. The Greek present tense gives the meaning of asking repeatedly. It is the practice of God to give generously and without finding fault. He does not scold his children for asking nor berate them for their deficiency.

We can also remember that Proverbs 9:10 says: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." “But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind” (James 1:6). God's promise of help has some pre-requisites. He must ask in faith. He must believe and not doubt. We must be sure we want what we ask for and we must be confident that God will give us what we have asked for. "Because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." He is someone who wavers between two opinions. One moment he voices the yes of faith; the next moment it is the no of disbelief. James says doubts leave us as unsettled as the restless waves.

Our Prayer Must be Marked by Unwavering Faith
"That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does" (James 1:7-8). He is unstable in all he does. In our prayers, are we sometimes double minded? Do we sometimes have mental reservations about our prayer itself and about the request we are making to God. Does that mean we are double minded in our personal, business, social as well as our spiritual life?

How is this man different from the man in Mark 9:24-27 who cried out, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief." The father was not oscillating between belief and unbelief. He desired to believe but because he felt his faith was inadequate, he asked for help in believing. He was not facing in both directions at the same time like the man in verse 8. He knew he was weak but wanted to believe. Christ responded to his faith and healed his son. “The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business” (James 1:9-11).

I struggled a long time with these versus, but the commentary that seemed to say it the best was The Wycliffe Bible Commentary. Paraphrased it says: “He seems to still be talking about trials. Poverty is an external trial. The poor Christian is to rejoice in his new status in Jesus because it has brought him true wealth. He is an heir of God and a joint heir with Jesus.” A rich Christian, on the other hand, is to rejoice because he is in Christ he is where the 'deceitfulness of wealth' talked about in Mark 4:19 and the desire to gain and retain it, along with the anxiety and stress that accompanies it, are no longer primary or even relevant now that he knows Christ. Besides, riches are temporary. He is like the grass that will fade away.

What are we Supposed to do When Difficulties Don't Let Up?
“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12). What is promised to those who persevere? What is the crown of life? Is it the same as in Revelation 2:10? For James it seems to refer to the reward given the believer who is victorious in his struggle against trials. It seems that this 'life that God has promised' is more than the eternal life given to every believer when they are saved. Since it is a reward for an accomplishment after he has faith, it must refer to a still higher quality of life.

“When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then after desire his conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth to death” (James 1:13-15).

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study the Book of James

When Was the Book of James Written?
There are indications that the book was written very early and could be one of the earliest of all the New Testament writings. Theologians say it has a distinctive Jewish nature so it was probably written when the church was still predominantly Jewish. No reference is made to the controversy over Gentile circumcision. The Greek term “synagogue” is used to designate the meeting place of the church.

To Whom Was it Written?
The epistle is addressed to 'the twelve tribes scattered among the nations.’ Although this is indefinite, it helps to tell us something about the recipients. The expression 'twelve tribes' clearly identifies the readers as Jews. As well as being Jewish they are assumed to be Christians. The geographical locations are not identified - they are just scattered. It has been suggested that they were the believers who were forced to leave Jerusalem during the persecution that followed Stephen's death. “On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria” (Acts 8:1). Now those who had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch” (Acts 11:19).

It is reasonable to assume that James, the leading elder of the Jerusalem church, would feel responsible for these former 'parishioners' and attempt to instruct them like he would have done if they were still under his care. You can tell by what he says that he is aware of their circumstances and characteristics. The letter was written to exhort the early believers to Christian maturity and holiness of life. It also holds very true today. James told his readers how to achieve spiritual maturity through a confident stand, compassionate service, careful speech, contrite submission and concerned sharing. He dealt with every area of a Christian's life: what he is, what he does, what he says, what he feels and what he has. James shows how Christian faith and Christian love should be expressed in several actual situations. The main theme is: real faith produces genuine works or another way of putting it is: the person who has genuinely found the way, walks in it. He is not preaching salvation by works, but salvation that is accompanied by works. Faith is the root…works are the fruit.

If James' main point is how to be spiritually mature, lets see how we are to respond under trials and temptations….“Consider it pure joy, my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by he wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double minded man, unstable in all he does” (James 1:2-8).

Do you ever look at trials as punishment? Do you think some do? All too often trials bring on groanings and complaints. This response doesn't show Christian maturity. It only makes matters worse. Trials are not to be seen as tribulations but as tests. A test is given to see if a student can pass, not pass out. One who brings the right attitude to the trial, who understands the advantage of the trial, and who knows where to obtain assistance in the trial will certainly pass the test.

Can You Face Trials With Pure Joy?
James is writing to Jews - particularly to those who had been scattered from their places of security and had fallen into fierce persecution under the Roman emperor Claudius. So he begins by addressing the problems of troubles: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds….” He doesn't say 'if’ but 'whenever' you face them. Most people are joyful when they escape the trials. He wants joy in the midst of trials. He also doesn't say be joyful 'for' the trials but 'in' the trials. Don't pretend to be happy when we face the pain of trials, but have a positive outlook because of what trials can produce in our lives… "because the testing or your faith develops perseverance.”

Maybe we should define what we mean by faith: trust, belief, hope. Faith is the attitude where we give up all reliance on our own efforts and turn everything over to GodConcerning a trial you have had, what pressures did it bring on your faith? In trials, what does God want to do to our faith? He wants it to grow; our faith is proved; He wants to stretch us spiritually; He wants us to learn endurance and perseverance; He allows circumstances that can teach us something significant.

What Can we Learn From Trials?
“Because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance” (James 1: 3). What are some other words for perseverance? Endurance, patience, steadfastness, fortitude, persistence…. Can you remember a verse in Romans that talks about perseverance? “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3). The testing of our faith develops perseverance. What does that mean for us? A Christian must have staying power and this can be developed only in the face of opposition. "Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (James 1:4). What does it mean, "perseverance must finish its work?" If perseverance is to 'finish its work,' faith must not falter or give up. Perseverance or steadfastness will produce the by-products of maturity and spiritual fulfillment. It will provide the atmosphere in which other virtues can grow. (2 Peter 1:5-8)

This is the theme of this epistle. James' main point was to show how to achieve spiritual maturity. Trials can be faced with joy because when faith is added, perseverance results. When perseverance goes full term it will develop a thoroughly mature Christian who lacks nothing. We will be all that God wants us to be. That's all well and good but it is still difficult to see how trials can be welcomed with an attitude of joy. Where do you go for help to understand this paradox.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Study: The Book of James

Who is James?
The author of James identifies himself as “James.” Who was he? Four men in the New Testament have this name. He could not have been the apostle James the son of Zebedee and brother of John because according to Acts 12:2 he was martyred under Herod Agrippa I. This took place about ten years after Jesus' death so it was too early for this book to have been written. There were two other men named James who had neither the stature nor the influence to have been the writer. This leaves James the brother of Jesus as the probable author. Some reasons to base this on are:

He was one of several brothers of Christ and was probably the oldest since he heads the list in Matthew 13:55: "Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas?" At first he did not believe in Jesus and even challenged him and misunderstood his mission. “But when the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near, Jesus' brothers said to him, ‘You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world’" (John 7:2-5). For even his own brothers did not believe in him.

However, he was one of the select individuals Christ appeared to after his resurrection. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:7: “Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.” Paul called him a 'pillar' in the church. “James, Peter and John, those reputed to be pillars, gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship when they recognized the grace given to me. They agreed that we should go to the Gentiles, and they to the Jews” (Galatians 2:9).

Paul, on his first post-conversion visit to Jerusalem, saw James. “Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter and stayed with him fifteen days. I saw none of the other apostles - only James, the Lord's brother” (Galatians 1:18-19). Paul did the same on his last visit: “The next day Paul and the rest of us went to see James, and all the elders were present” (Acts 21:18).

When Peter was rescued from prison, he told his friends to tell James: “Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. ‘Tell James and the brothers about this,’ he said, “and then he left for another place” (Acts 12:17). James was a Leader James was a leader in the important council of Jerusalem. “The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them. When they finished, James spoke up: ‘Brothers, listen to me, Simon has described to us how God at first showed his concern by taking from the Gentiles a people for himself. It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God’” (Acts 15:12-14, 19).

Jude could identify himself simply as 'a brother of James' because he was so well known. Jude 1:1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James…. It is interesting to speculate how he became so knowledgeable. He wasn't with Jesus for the three years like the apostles or he wasn't taken to Arabia to learn from the Lord like Paul was.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study: 15th Message
The Book of Colossians

Friendships
Christian friends are wonderful - especially those who stand by you in time of trouble. Paul was in prison awaiting trial for proclaiming the Gospel. It was always dangerous to be a prisoner’s friend. It took courage to visit Paul and to show that you were on the same side. Let’s look at some of the people he mentions: “Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts” (Colossians 4:7-8).

The book of Titus tells of Tychicus being sent on a mission to Crete. In the book of Timothy he is sent to Ephesus. Now, he is being sent to Colossi to deliver the letter and to encourage them. Can you imagine - here Paul is in prison and things must have been pretty grim, but he wants to cheer them up by telling how well things are going. Paul never complained. Verse 9: “He (Tychicus) is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.” Onesimus was a runaway slave who had belonged to Philemon who lived in Colossae. After Onesimus had stolen some money from Philemon and had run away, he met Paul and was converted. After he became a Christian he ministered to Paul as a servant. Paul would have liked to keep Onesimus but he returned him to Philemon when Tychicus was delivering the letter to Colossi. Onesimus was the subject of the letter Paul wrote to Philemon - it comes right after Titus in the New Testament. He tells of Onesimus’ conversion to Christ and he asks Philemon to take him back as a Christian brother, not as a slave. Paul said he would pay whatever Onesimus owed Philemon.

How do you think Onesimus must have felt as he left to return to his master? He was still subject to his master and as a runaway slave there was a death sentence hanging over his head. Read verses 10-11: “My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.) Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me.” Aristarchus had been with Paul in Ephesus when there was a riot against them. (Acts 19:29) Paul had escaped but Aristarchus had been grabbed by the mob but apparently had been turned loose. Later in Acts it tells of him continuing with Paul on his third missionary journey. Again, in Acts 27:2, Paul has been arrested and is being sent to Rome and Aristarchus is with him. Now in Rome, he is in prison with Paul. That is true friendship. Then there is Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. He was such a close friend of Peter that Peter even called him his son in 1 Peter. Mark’s gospel is Marks setting down the preaching material of Peter.

When Mark was quite young he had gone on Paul’s first missionary journey because his cousin Barnabas was going too. In the middle of the journey, when things became difficult, for some reason Mark quit and went home. (Acts 13:13) Paul had a hard time forgetting this. When they were about to set out on the second journey, Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them again; however, Paul refused and he and Barnabas parted company and never worked together again. We don’t know what happened in later years but now he is with Paul in his last imprisonment and is an active helper. (Philemon 24; 2 Timothy 4:11) The Jews, as a whole, were against Christianity in general but some of the Jewish converts to Christianity were against Paul because he preached that Gentiles didn’t have to become “Jewish Christians” to be good Christians. They did not have to keep the Jewish laws too. But Aristarchus, Mark and Joshua stood by him: “Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis” (Colossians 4:12-14).

Epaphras was a native of Colossae and the founder of the Colossian church. He had come to Rome to bring Paul news of the church at Colossae and also the churches in the neighboring towns of Laodicea and Hierapolis. Paul gives Epaphras a great commendation when he tells the Colossians how Epaphras prays for them and how hard he works for them. “Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings” (Colossians 4:14). Luke had stuck by Paul from the beginning, accompanied him on most of his third missionary journey, was with him now and stayed with him until the end. In 2 Timothy, at the very end of Paul’s life, while in prison in Rome, he writes, “Only Luke is with me.” As well as a doctor, Luke must have been a writer and historian too. In his gospel he tells of the character, career, crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. In the book of the Acts of the Apostles he tells of the rise of Christianity and then chronicles Paul’s missionary activities.

As for Demas, in Philemon he worked for the Lord along with the rest of the people. Something happened in the next five years and in 2 Timothy 4:10 it says: "For Demas fell in love with this present world and has deserted me.” When it comes to doing the Lord’s work we can either be a Luke or a Demas. “Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16 After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea” (Colossians 4:15-18).

Church Life in the First Century
These verses show some interesting information about church life in the first century: First it shows how they gathered in homes for their meetings. It wasn’t until the late third century that Christians began meeting in places especially set aside for worship. In fact it was illegal until then. Second, it shows that the churches had fellowship with each other. Paul wanted his letter to Colossae to be read in other churches. He wanted all of his letter to the different churches to be passed around. “Tell Archippus: See to it that you complete the work you have received in the Lord” (Colossians 4:17).

Coming to the End
Now Paul comes to the end of his letter to the church in Colossae that was under pressure from the false teachers who were destroying faith in Christ by undermining Christ’s humanity and divinity. He told them that Christ alone is the source for their spiritual life - the head of the body of believers. Christ is Lord of both the physical and spiritual worlds. He let them know that the way to deeper spiritual life was not through religious duties, special knowledge or secrets; it was only through a close connection with the Lord Jesus Christ. Just as he said in the beginning, “May God our Father give you grace and peace” the letter ends with a prayer for grace, “May God’s grace be with you.” Only God’s grace could strengthen them against the false teaching and keep them true to the gospel they had received.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study: 14th Message
The book of Colossians

Characteristics of the New Christian Life
In chapter three Paul talked of the new Christian life and some of the characteristics we are to have as Christians. Then he got down to some practical applications for our daily lives - in our homes, and in the working place. Now he will continue the thoughts and ideas he left off with in Colossians 3:16, 17 where it says “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Prayer and Thanksgiving
Now in 4:2 he says:“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Another translations says Be persistent in prayer, and keep alert as you pray, with thanks to God.” This is the seventh time that thanksgiving is mentioned in the letter. Paul followed the pattern of prayer and thanksgiving when he thanked God for the Colossians and then prayed specifically for them - in the beginning of the letter. Prayer is not an option - it is an essential for Christian growth. Just like breathing, it should be continual. When we quit breathing we die physically. When we quit praying we die spiritually. Be alert and watchful, both against inattention caused by the pull of the world and that we do not become mechanical and say words that we really aren’t listening to or thinking about. Thankfulness should always accompany prayer because it places a believer in the proper attitude before God. Praise and thanksgiving given even before we see answers are proof that we trust Him.

Proper Perspective in Prayer
It goes on in verse 3-4: "And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.” Paul is asking that when they are praying for their congregation, friends, relatives and themselves, that they remember him too. Notice what he asks for and especially what he doesn’t ask for. He was in prison undergoing great hardships while awaiting trial. What would you be praying for? Would you be saying, “Lord, I’ve been such a good and faithful servant; I’m getting old and feeble; you can see how much I am suffering - can’t you please get me out of here by giving me a quick trial where I won’t be found guilty so I can have a little peace and rest in my last years.” Instead, what is he praying for?

“Give us a good opportunity to preach his message. Pray that I may speak in such a way as to make it clear.” He is in prison for preaching and he asks for more opportunity to do the same and words that will even make the message clearer. When we pray, do we ask for release from a trial or a job He has given us to do, or do we ask for strength and wisdom to get through it? Trials usually make us spend more time with Him and sometimes they are the only thing that will bring us to Him. What should we ask for when we pray for Christian workers, missionaries, priests, pastors etc. Col 4:3-4 tells us: “That they will have a good opportunity to preach and that they will give a clear message that is easy to understand.” Here are some answers we might receive from prayer: I’ll give you patience to wait for My timing. I’ll make you willing not to want what we think we must or should have. I’ll supply your needs in a way that you never expected. I’ll give you something better than you asked for.I’ll help you realize that what you asked for was not according to My will or for My glory.

The Mystery of Christ
He wants to preach about the “mystery of Christ.” What is the “mystery of Christ”? Remember back in Colossians 1:23-27 (GNB). “And I have been made a servant of the church of God, who gave me this task to perform for your good. It is the task of fully proclaiming his message, which is the secret he hid through all past ages from all mankind but has now revealed to his people. God’s plan is to make known his secret to his people, this rich and glorious secret which he has for all peoples. And the secret is that Christ is in you, which means that you will share in the glory of God.”

Also:“...in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:2-3). Paul never prayed with a selfish motive. His consuming interest was for the advancement of the gospel, not for his own blessing. Also Paul never resorted to prayer only in an emergency when all else failed. Paul tells them what he wants and needs prayer for in his telling others about Christ and then he goes on to give helpful instructions to the Colossians: “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:5-6). Our actions and conversation with unbelievers is to be governed by wisdom. Where do we get that wisdom? Go back to Colossians 2:3: “He is the key that opens all the hidden treasures of God’s wisdom and knowledge.”

Motivation to Share
What should motivate us to share our knowledge of Christ? 1 John 4:19 says we should be motivated to share our knowledge of Christ because… “…we love because God first loved us.” Our actions and conversation should be such an example that others would want to follow our example and become Christians too. 1 Peter 3:15 says: “But have reverence for Christ in your hearts, and honor him as Lord. Be ready at all time to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you, but do it with gentleness and respect.” What is this hope? Are you sure enough of it that you can tell others? Is it possible to be a silent obedient Christian? 2 Corinthians 4:13 says,“‘I spoke because I believed.’ In the same spirit of faith we also speak because we believe.” 1 John 1:3: “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.” 2 Timothy 4:1: “In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and because he is coming to rule as King, I solemnly urge you to preach the message, to insist upon proclaiming it (whether the time is right or not), to convince, reproach, and encourage, as you teach with all patience.” (GNB) In our daily life we should pray that we take advantage of every opportunity to share our faith and that we will do it with knowledge, wisdom and compassion.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study
The Book of Colossians 13th Message


Now this application becomes even more practical and specific. It talks about everyday relationships. It talks about living with our family and working with people. These things may not apply to you but you may be able to help a child, a friend or a co-worker deal with a relationship by using Christian principles. Qualities of a good leader are: showing compassion, leading by example, caring and showing concern, being a servant, encouraging in private and in public. Who puts forth the most effort - the leader or the follower? Who sets the example first? In all relationships, is the responsibility on the leader or the follower? Keep these questions in mind as we go through these next verses. Also think about how radical this teaching was for the time it was written. "Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favouritism. Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven” (Colossians 3:18-25; 4:1).

Reciprocal Obligation
The first thing about this new Christian ethic was that it talked about reciprocal obligation. The duties are never just on one side. Husbands had as great an obligation as wives; parents had just as binding a duty as children; masters had their responsibilities as much as slaves. This was entirely new thinking. Under Jewish law, a woman was a thing. She was the possession of her husband. She had no legal rights whatsoever. In Greek society, a respectable woman lived in seclusion. She was to serve and be faithful to her husband. On the other hand, her husband was free to do whatever he chose to do. Under both Jewish and Greek laws and custom, all the privileges belonged to the husband, and all the duties to the wife. In that time, children were under the domination of their parents. The father could sell his children into slavery or make a slave of them for himself. All the rights were with the parents, and the duties with the child. Most of all this was true for the slave. The slave was a thing in the eyes of the law - even more so than with the wife. There was no such thing as a code of working conditions. Even the children of a slave belonged to the master. Again, all the rights belonged to the master and all the duties to the slave. Here comes this Christian ethic of mutual obligation - mutual responsibility. It is not “what do others owe to me?” but rather “what do I owe to others?”

In the Lord
The really new thing about these new Christian thoughts was that all relationships are “in the Lord.” The whole Christian life is lived in Christ. The wife is loved as Christ loved the church. Children are treated as God treats his sons and daughters. For master and servant, the relationship is that both are servants of one and the same master - Jesus Christ. Since Christ is to be in all personal relationships, the slave must be a conscientious worker. Christianity must make him a better and more efficient slave. Christianity didn’t offer him an escape from hard work or from difficult situations, it just enabled him to meet them better. Under Roman law a slave could not possess any property, but here he is being promised the inheritance of God and that the time will come when the balance sheet will be adjusted. Any wrongs will be corrected and faithfulness will be rewarded. All the work must be done as if doing it for Christ; however, the master has to remember that he too has a master Christ. He is answerable to God, just as the workman is answerable to him. The master is only a steward of God’s business. God is in charge and the master is responsible to Him.This teaching doesn’t seem radical to us - it just seems like the right things to do.

Submission and Respect for Each Other
One verse that has always caused discussion - even outrage among women is Colossians 3:18: “Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. ” Many women cannot see themselves submitting to anyone and on the other hand, many husbands use this verse as an excuse or justification for tyranny or abuse. No one seems to read the next verse and connect it with the first: “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them” (Colossians 3:19). They say, “Sure, I love my wife, I married her didn’t I?” They don’t take into account that this word for love is “agape.” This is the Christ-like kind of love that is willing to give totally of themselves for the good of the other - and ask nothing in return. The context shows that the wife’s attitude is prompted and warranted by her husband’s unselfish love. The submission is to be voluntary. The wife’s submission is never forced on her. Submission does not mean inferiority; it simply means that the husband, not the wife, has the responsibility for the home and family life. When there is a choice, someone has to make the final decision and then take the responsibility for the carrying out or the consequences of the decision. If both partners are truly going to live by Biblical principles, I would much rather be a wife than a husband. However, there are moral limits to this submission. It says, “as is fitting in the Lord.” In other words, a wife is not obligated to follow her husband’s leadership if it conflicts with specific scriptural commands. Again, this is not the only place these principles are taught: “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything” (Ephesians 5:22). But then it goes on in verse 25: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy.” Then verse 28 & 29: “Husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church.” Then verse 33: “…each on of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

Christ Gave His Life for the Church
According to this Ephesians passage, the wives are to submit and to respect their husbands. Husbands are to love their wives - to love their wives as Christ loved the church. Christ loved the church so much that he gave His life for it. There are husbands who say, “Sure, I’m willing to die for you, but don’t ask me to give up something I want to do or to do something for you.” Christ said He didn’t come to be served, but to serve. So a husband should be willing to sacrifice himself for her; he should make her well being and self esteem of primary importance; he should care for her as he cares for his own body. God did not give authority to the husband so he could order anyone to serve him. The word “husband” means, “band to hold the house together.” The husband is the God ordained caretaker who is to lead, to provide for and to love his family. In other words, a man has no right to ask for submission if he is not willing to abide by the Biblical commands to him. Both partners have to have this same understanding of their roles in a Christian marriage. That is why God commands that a Christian not marry a non-Christian. (2 Corinthians 6:14) God wants to save his children a lot of heartache.

Now on to Children Verse 20: “Children obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.” o go along with this “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother -- which is the first commandment with a promise -- that it may go will with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth” (Ephesians 6:1-3). What is a child’s responsibility to his/her parents? How will this affect his/her relationship to God? How is this pattern for a child a good preparation for life? What is likely to happen to a young person who has never learned to respect and respond to authority?

Now on to Parents Verse 21: “Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. See also: “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). What obligation does this requirement that children obey their parents in everything, place on parents? Obedience is to be complete - in everything. As with husbands, there is taken for granted that there will be the correct Christian attitude and behavior by the parents. Parents should deserve rather than demand obedience. The purpose of parental discipline is to help children grow, not to exasperate or provoke them to anger or discouragement.

Slaves and Slavery
This next section is about slaves and masters so we can ask, “Isn’t slavery wrong?” What about slavery in the New Testament? From passages in the Bible you can see that it was not condemned nor was there an attempt to abolish it. Do you think Paul - and Jesus - were wrong in not denouncing slavery? Why do you think this was? The apostles, were not social reformers; they were first and foremost bringers of the good news of salvation in Christ. They were a small minority in the Roman world, and there was no hope that their stand on the matter of slavery would influence Roman policies. They would have been quickly put down by Rome. In fact, in the book of Acts, Paul points out to the authorities that Christianity has not been involved in treasonous activity and should not be accused of that. Also, believers are told to obey their rulers and to accept the legal order of things even though it might not be satisfactory in many ways. Their economic, social and monetary systems were not like ours today. What would have happened if, all of a sudden, a large proportion of people were set free…without jobs, food or shelter, and no way of making a living? Rather than trying to exercise revolutionary power, Christians taught a transforming power. As this transforming power took over and slaves and masters begin to see themselves as brothers and that each was made in the image of God - the divisions couldn’t continue.

Bringing About Amazing Grace
Newton - the one who wrote Amazing Grace - was a slav r. When he became a Christian he realized that it was wrong to continue that trade – so he quit. Becoming a Christian did not release them from their though. God had promised them a new Spirit, not a new social order. This is why Paul neither condemns nor condones slavery. Instead, he tells masters and slaves how to live together in Christian households. Masters and slaves were appropriate for that time and culture, but now we can substitute employer and employee. There is always going to be differences in social status, even though all believers are in Christ. Verse 22-25: “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favouritism.” In our day, these instructions can be for the employer and the employee - whether in households or in the work place. Let’s look over verses 22-25 and see what principles for the work place we can find. A new attitude. The motive for work is to come from the heart - rather than the outward need for recognition and praise. Apparently as non-believers their desire was for human approval. Reverence for the Lord is to be the motivating factor. They were to have a new center of reference. Paul is saying, “In spite of your position, you are serving Christ and not men.” Work should no longer be a drudgery done without enthusiasm - but done as if you were doing it for the Lord. Look back at verse 17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” While working for any employer, whom are we really serving? They now have a new reward and that will come from the Lord. What difference should these principles make in the quality of their work? In their attitudes to unfair treatment?

Masters and Overseers
Then comes Colossians 4:1 and the instructions to the overseer or boss: “Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” Christian masters should be different people because of their relationship with the Lord. They too have a new center of reference and because of this are called upon to demonstrate fairness and justice toward those who serve them. They too have a Master in heaven.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Bible Study
12th Message the Book of Colossians

There should be no distinction racially between Gentiles and Jews, between religious denominations, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian or Scythian, (The Greeks thought anyone who did not follow the Greek culture was a barbarian.) slave or free.The Christian church shouldn’t have any barriers of nationality, race, education level, social standing, wealth, gender, religion or power. Christ breaks down all barriers and accepts all people who come to Him. No one is more important in the eyes of God than the next person. It is saying that ultimately, all of these distinctions are of no importance once we see that Christ is everything and that He dwells in each one of His people no matter of their race or background. This is not saying that we are equal intellectually, physically, economically or socially, but all who are in these different categories are equal spiritually. All have God’s Spirit in them - but again, also different levels of spiritual maturity. The work in a church and the church offices should be open equally to the church janitor as it is to a president of a large corporation - if they both qualify spiritually. In the last few verses, these vices were of the old self and were to be shed. Now, we are to clothe ourselves with virtues - our new self - again, the idea of not putting new clothes on over old ones. God’s standards don’t get any easier.

God’s Chosen People
Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Again, to back this up: “And you also became God’s people when you heard the true message, the Good News that brought you salvation. You believed in Christ, and God put his stamp of ownership on you by giving you the Holy Spirit he had promised” (Ephesians 1:13 Good News). We are chosen and holy: “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will” (Ephesians 1:4). Notice, He chose us - all we had to do was respond to his choosing – He chose us while we were still sinners by choosing our own way.

Compassion, Kindness, Humility, Gentleness and Patience
Back to Colossians 3:12. We all know John 3:16: “For God so loved the world....” He has chosen us to be part of his family so we are to clothe ourselves, not put these things on our old self but now with the help of the Holy Spirit, with these new forms of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Compassion is genuine concern for the feelings of others. We can comfort because we have been comforted. (2 Corinthians 1:4) Kindness is the desire for another’s good; care and consideration for others; being concerned with the happiness of others; having a sweet disposition. Humility is not something to be proud of. It is a lowly attitude toward God. When we see God in the right way, we will see ourselves in the right way. Gentleness is meekness, having a lowly attitude toward others; having consideration for the rights and feelings of others; willingness to make concessions. It is not a weakness but a Christian courtesy. Gentleness is the opposite of rebellion, arrogance, self-assertiveness or violence. Patience is longsuffering, forbearance, steadfastness. It has the idea of bearing injury or insult with the refusal to retaliate – definitely in contrast to the natural reaction. Verse 13: “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Some translations say" “Be tolerant of each other.”

Tolerance and Forgiveness
When we have dressed ourselves with God’s compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, then we can be tolerant with one another. That means putting up with things we dislike in others and having a willingness to bear with those whose faults or unpleasant traits are an irritant to us. Can you think of people in your life where this is needed? Then forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. Tolerance and forgiveness go together. To tolerate, you hold back your temper - a natural reaction. To forgive, you don’t hold back love - an unnatural reaction. We can do this by forgiving as the Lord forgave us - graciously and freely and totally. Only when we realize and accept how much God has forgiven us, can we can put wrongs done to us in perspective and freely love and forgive others. Even a reasonable cause for our complaint does not justify a refusal to forgive. The Lord certainly had a just cause for complaint against us because of our rebellion yet He extended His forgiveness. Grudges have no place in a Christian’s life for they may lead to the sins mentioned in verse 8-9.

Love and Perfect Unity
Verse 14: “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Paul is still talking of the list of virtues that a Christian is to “put on.” Love is the final garment that binds or holds all things together. “Be under obligation to no one - the only obligation you have is to love one another. Whoever does this has obeyed the Law” (Romans 13:8 GNB). The two greatest commandments are: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” When you follow these two commandments, you fulfill all the commandments. Love leads to maturity and unity and removes all feelings of anger, hatred or unforgiveness. You can give without loving, but you can’t love without giving.

Peace of God
Verse 15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Let’s look at some other places we are promised peace. Read Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Isaiah says about God: “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3). Are you always at peace? With God, with yourself, with others? Why or why not? God gives us an inward peace that provides calmness regardless of circumstances; contentment with what you have, even if it isn’t what you want; lack of worry; lack of fear. We can receive that peace through obedience and acceptance of that peace.

True Thankfulness
Then verse 15 says, “And be thankful.” Anytime we look to God with thanksgiving, it promotes humility - which focuses our attention on God rather than ourselves. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says Be thankful in all circumstances. This is what God wants from you in your life in union with Christ Jesus.” Also back in Colossians 1:12 it says for us to give thanks with joy to the Father. We have to remember that these letters, and thus this advice or counsel, is for actions and reactions among fellow believers. Is there a difference in the way you respond to a non-believer Does this response always work? What do you do when it doesn’t? What do you do when it doesn’t work with a believer?

Hope, Wisdom and Understanding
Verse 16: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.” In verse 15 he said, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” and now he says, “Let the WORD of Christ dwell in you.” The Word of Christ is the Gospel message and the hope that we have. When what has been said by or about Christ indwells us, then we are equipped to teach and instruct each other with wisdom and understanding. It’s interesting how the idea of wisdom carries through Paul’s letter: Paul prays for their spiritual wisdom in doing God’s will. (in Colossians 1:9) He showed the example of teaching with wisdom. (1:28) He tells them where they can find true wisdom. (2:3) They are to let Christ’s word dwell in them so they can teach believers with wisdom. (3:16) They are to show wisdom in their dealing with unbelievers. (4:5) Also when we are indwelt in this way, our worship will overflow with gratitude that will be expressed in psalms, hymns and sacred songs. Many of the sacred songs we sing are also a means of teaching and instructing us in different aspects of our faith.

General Guidelines for our New Life
Paul has no desire to set out a detailed list of do’s and don’ts to cover every aspect of the believer’s life, so in the preceding verses, he sets out general guidelines of what we are to rid our life of and what we are to bring into our new life. If he had made a binding list of things, he would have been reverting to legalism that he has been condemning the false teachers for and what Jesus condemned the Pharisees for. Now he just gives a principle for them to follow. Verse 17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

In the Bible, a name indicated the essential character of a person. Paul has shown that Jesus is Lord of all as the Creator, Sustainer, Redeemer, Reconciler and the One in whom the fullness of Deity dwells. So if we do or say something in Jesus’ name, it must be consistent with Jesus’ character and well. As His representatives, we act or speak as He would if He were present. So doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus does away with the necessity for rules. Inward motivation replaces external rules. External rules, even when good, are not adequate for every situation - the rule of the indwelling Christ is the only sufficient guide. Paul knew that a list of do’s and don’ts that covered every aspect of the believer’s life would be reverting to legalism – exactly what he had been condemning the false teachers for and what Jesus condemned the Pharisees for.Their life, word or deed, whatever they said or did, was to be under the direction of Christ. As a Christian, you represent Christ at all times - wherever you go and whatever you say. In other words, the best testimony of a new life is an obedient life.

Grateful Thanksgiving
Finally, “Give thanks to God the Father through him.” We are not to live our lives in obedience to Christ as a duty, but in freedom and with thanksgiving. All of this is in contrast to the enslaving rules and regulations of the false teachers. Once again, Paul reminds them that Christ is the only mediator to God - not saints, pastors or priests. Notice how, in the last three verses, he has said we are to be thankful or grateful. Here are some things that will help us live for God day by day: Imitate Christ’s compassionate, forgiving attitude. (Colossians 3:12-13) Let love guide our life. (verse 14) Let the peace of Christ rule in our heart. (verse 15) Always be thankful. (verse 15) Keep God’s Word in us at all times. (verse 16) Live as Jesus’ representative. (verse 17)

Hindrances to Watch For
We’ve been talking about setting our hearts on things that are in heaven and not things here on earth. So we are to put to death the earthly desires in us, to rid ourselves of things that hindered our relationship to God, such as: immorality, indecency, lust, evil passions and greed. Then there are the things that hinder our relationship with ourselves, such as: anger, rage and hateful feelings. These emotions are harder on ourselves than they are on the person we are angry with. Then the things that hinder our relationships with others, such as: insults, obscene talk or lying. You may not have problems with some of these things but maybe you can help someone else who does. We can all have more of the things we are to put on in place of the things we were to rid ourselves of - such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, helpfulness and forgiveness. To all of these we are to add love, which binds all things together in perfect unity. Not uniformity but unity. Everything we do or say is to be done in the name of the Lord Jesus. That is, with the power of the Holy Spirit and for the glory of God.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Bible Study
11th Message

“Since then, (all of the things they have heard in the first two chapters) you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:1-4) Again we have this comparison to baptism. Back in Colossians 2:12 it first talked of: “when you were baptized you were buried with Christ and then raised with Christ and now have a new life in Christ.” Then in verse 20, it again says, “you have died with Christ….”

Set Your Hearts
Now in Colossians 3:2: They have been raised with Christ, so set their hearts on heavenly things.” Have you seen pictures of marathon runners? Concentration and determination seem to ooze from every pore. These people set their hearts and minds on one thing: Finish this race. They focus on the next step, the next checkpoint, until the race is complete. They shed pounds, unnecessary clothing or anything else that might slow them down. Attach their official number and they are ready to run. As Christians, we are to live like marathon runners. We are to take off anything that slows us down and set our hearts and minds on the finish line. To illustrate further, as a child, how did setting your heart on a certain toy or gift affect how you acted and what you thought about? Paul is saying, “If they were raised to a new life, then they were a different person.” So for now, if we are a different person, then our life should show that difference. "So set your hearts on things above.” He isn’t saying that a Christian should be other worldly where He withdraws from all the work and activities of this world and only sits and contemplates eternity. We know this because the rest of chapter 3 sets out ethical principles for living in this world.

Priorities and Values
We are to put heaven’s priorities into daily practice. We change our behavior by letting Christ live in us, so that He can shape us into what we should be. Now we should look at everything against the background of eternity and no longer live as if this world is all that matters. This will obviously give us a new set of values. Things the world thinks are important will no longer worry us. In making these lifestyle changes our thoughts might change to wanting to forgive rather than avenge, give rather get, and serve rather than rule. In addition, our material values will change – they will be God’s values, not man’s values. Colossians 3:1 says, “…set your hearts on things above…” and now verse 2 says, “…set your minds on things above….” The difference between “heart” and “mind” comes when you have your heart or affection set on something. When we truly desire something, we work for it, strive for it and are willing to give up things for it - like an Olympic trainee. We concentrate with our minds. in the Good News Translation, 2 Corinthians 4:18 reads: “For we fix our attention, not on things that are seen, but on things that are unseen. What can be seen lasts only for a time, but what cannot be seen lasts forever. Concentrate on the eternal rather than the temporal. Look at things from God's perspective and seek what He desires.”

That is not to say that all earthly things are evil - some of them are, and some become bad because of misuse. Even things harmless in themselves become harmful if they are permitted to take the place that should be reserved for the things above. Some examples of earthly things would include: wealth, worldly honor, power and pleasures such as sex. To make these things the goal of your life, the subject of your preoccupation, and your full focus, is to give them the wrong place in the life of someone who has been raised with Christ. Our values and goals should change and when these are changed then our daily thoughts and actions will gradually come under the control of Christ.

Safe in Christ
“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3). Paul again states that we have died, stressing what he said in Colossians 2:11: “In union with Christ....we are freed from the power of this sinful self. Read Romans 6:6-8: “And know that our old being has been put to death with Christ on his cross, in order that the power of this sinful self might be destroyed, so that we should no longer be the slaves of sin. For when a person dies, he is set free from the power of sin. Since we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.” If something is hidden, it is concealed, safe and secure. We are safe in Christ; free from the power of sin and safe in Christ and that is a pretty good place to be! Colossians 3:4: “When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Christ gives us power to live for Him now, and He gives us hope for the future - He will return. “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). He will come again and we will share His glory. We should use this to encourage the people around us. “Dear friends, now we are , and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he really is” (1 John 3:2). Back in Colossians 1:27 Paul said: “...and the secret is that Christ is in you, which means that you will share in the glory of God.”

Free Will and Choices
Now after setting the foundation Paul, spends the rest of his letter explaining how Christians should act now in order to be prepared for Christ’s return. The first two chapters tell us how His characteristics become ours when we have Him -when we are in Christ. If we allow Him to, He lives His Christ-like life in us; however, our spirit, which lives by feeling, is still in us and is at odds with God’s spirit. There is always a constant struggle between these two natures in us. Since we have free will, we have to constantly make choices as to which spirit we will obey. Jesus taught the disciples that their love for Him would cause them to obey Him. He also said the Helper whom He would send - the Holy Spirit - would live in them to help them. When we love someone, we do things we do not want to do because we want to please the one we love. I’m sure you can all think of examples when you have done that. The more we love God the more we will obey. The more we obey the more we will be aware of the reality of Christ in our lives. The more we are aware of Christ in our lives, the more victory we will experience. The more victory we experience, the less difficult the choices are and the less conflict we have within ourselves.

If we aren’t having victory in our life, we need to go back to the first item: The more we love God the more we will obey. It is a maturing process so don’t be discouraged. The Holy Spirit that Jesus promised to send is the power within us that gives us the strength to do what seems impossible. Just like a straw that is too weak to be driven into a board, when that straw is yielded to the wind of a tornado, it is possible for it to be driven through a four-inch beam. His power supplies what we need for holy living: The power to obey God’s will.

How a Christian Should Act
“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived” (Colossians 3:5-7). He starts with a list of activities that come from man’s earthly nature. In case his readers might treat these sins lightly, he reminds them of God’s anger on those who disobey. When we are tempted to sin, we must remember that we too must one day stand before God. “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person...has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient” (Ephesians 5:5-6). “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him” (John 3:36). But we know there is a remedy to God’s wrath: “They tell us how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead - Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath” (1 Thessalonians l:10).

Now he goes on with more things that might hit a little closer to home - things that we are to rid our lives of. “But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:8-10). It is interesting how the Bible often connects clothing with righteousness and nakedness with depravity. It talks about being clothed with Christ’s righteousness. When you have finished a hard day of dirty work digging ditches, you don’t just put clean clothes on over the filthy ones you have worked in all day. Likewise, we can’t put a new life on over an old one. We have to take off the “old self” before we can have the “new self.” Have you ever tried to put new wallpaper on over old wallpaper? Sooner or later the old grease and grime will soak through and spoil the new. Many try to put on the outside appearance of a new self, but their old self keeps asserting itself. Some people may be convinced and deceived, but God isn’t. He tells them that before they came to know Christ, when they still had on their old clothes, they used to live one way but now they are to get rid of that way of responding - the way that came from their old self.

Anger, Rage and Malice
Bad habits like anger, rage, malice (or hateful feelings), slander (or insults), filthy language and lying do not suit a Christian. They are unbecoming to believers. You can commit these first three, and no one but God will ever know it. Others will still think you are great. You can be angry with someone and have an ongoing attitude of smouldering hatred. Rage is an outburst of anger, but that can be done in private. Malice, or hateful feelings, can certainly be done within. The others are more apparent because they have to be verbalized. For an antidote we can go to Ephesians 4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” They are to get rid of these things because, verse 9 says: “You have taken off the old self with its habits and have put on the new self. This is the new being which God, its Creator, is constantly reshaping, in order to bring you to a full knowledge of himself” (Colossians 3:9). To “put on the new self” means your conduct should match your faith. If you are a Christian, you should act like it. This means more than just making good resolutions and having good intentions; it means making the right decisions.

Never Stop Learning and Obeying
Do we always honor Him with our time, talent and treasure? When we are born again, we are a new being. God takes this new being and constantly renews it in His own image. God continues to work on us because every Christian is a ‘continuing education program’ - He wants to bring us to a full knowledge of Himself. The more we know of Christ and His work, the more we are being changed to be like Him. Because this process is lifelong, we must never stop learning and obeying. It takes practice, ongoing review, patience and concentration to keep in line with His will. This renewal of our new self will come as we have a deep personal knowledge of Christ. The goal is to be like Him for as Ephesians 4:24 says, we are,“....to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”

Created in His Image
According to Genesis, Adam was created in the image of God, which included a moral and intellectual likeness to God. This image was not erased but was only marred by the fall. It was corrupted and needs to be repaired and renewed. Christians become increasingly like the Lord as they yield to the Holy Spirit and choose to obey God. Then at the resurrection, as 1 Corinthians 15:49 says about believers: “Just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so shall we bear the likeness of the man from heaven.” Then we will truly know what it means to be made in His image. Then 1 John 3:2 says, “...but we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” Think of it like an outfit - you put on a new one when you accept Christ. It is a very plain one, and as you mature, He continues to add new things to it: a collar, belt, pocket, tuck etc, making your new self more like Him. The final tuck won’t be until He comes again. But when we accept the Lord, we all have a new self or spiritual outfit. This still needs to be worked on and added to...

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study
10th Of Several Messages

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness” (2 Peter 1:3). The false teachers’ preaching was full of theological errors. They were also preaching the error of legalism. So, the idea of Christ’s sufficiency is explained further by mentioning three things Christ has done for us: Spiritual Circumcision “In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ” (Colossians 2:11).

In Paul’s time there was the problem that many of the Christian Jews still thought that Gentile converts had to become Jews if they were to be counted as Christians - that is, they had to follow the Jewish laws because it was a commandment to Abraham and his descendants. This ceremony showed that they belonged to the chosen race. They had a special relationship to God. Here in Colossians, the rite of circumcision is used as an illustration of spiritual truth. In Abraham’s time, it was a physical operation that was performed with human hands. Here it is salvation that is an operation of God on hearts of believers. It takes a heart that has repented and cuts away the old life that does things on their own strength. In Him, in union with Christ, believers have true circumcision - that is, they have found in Him the reality symbolized by Mosaic circumcision. Again, the Old Testament symbolizes things that would be explained in the New Testament.

Baptism: Verse 12 goes on to talk of baptism. When you receive Christ as Savior, you receive, or are baptized, with the Holy Spirit. Then there is a believer’s baptism that is just a picture of salvation. In the New Testament, water baptism followed conversion; it was not a means of salvation but a picture of death to the old way of life, burial with Christ, and coming out of the water depicts the resurrection by the power of God to live a new life. “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit’” (Acts 2:38).

“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:4). just as circumcision was symbolized in the Old Testament, so was water baptism.“...God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also - not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God” (1 Peter 3:20-21). This was during a time when the world was so corrupt that God was sorry He created man. He sent a flood to destroy everyone but Noah and his family. This “going through water” was a symbol of leaving the old life and starting a new life.

Cancel the Written Code:
Just as when the Israelites gathered to finally cross the Jordan into the new land - the Promised Land - they crossed water in going from their old life of to their new life of promise. “When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having cancelled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross” (Colossians 2:13-14). Before we accepted Christ, we had our backs turned to God. Even at our best, we did not love Him with all our heart, soul and mind. We were spiritually dead and separated from God because of our sin - our sin of wanting to do things our own way. Now we are spiritually alive with Christ. This new life came when God forgave all our sins. Verses to back this up are:“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions - it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:1-4). "You Gentiles by birth - called the uncircumcised by the Jews, who call themselves the circumcised (which refers to what men do to their bodies) -remember what you were in the past. At that time you were apart from Christ. You were foreigners and did not belong to God’s chosen people. You had no part in the covenants, which were based on God’s promises to his people, and you lived in this world without hope and without God. But now, in union with Christ Jesus, you who used to be far away have been brought near by the sacrificial death of Christ” (Ephesians 2:11-13).

Colossians 2:14 goes on: “…having cancelled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross.” This written code was the legal demands of the Old Testament law. “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather through the law we become conscious of sin” (Romans 1:20). In the Old Testament, the people knew that they could not keep all the laws that God had set out; because of the laws, they just knew where they had failed. That is why God had the provision of the Day of Atonement where once a year the people would offer a special sacrifice for their own sins and also the high priest would offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people and the nation. In New Testament time, when a person was crucified, they would nail a plaque to the cross that said what that person was accused of. Christ’s plaque said, “King of the Jews”; the ones over the two others probably said, “thief” or whatever else they were accused of. This written code with its regulations was like a certificate of debt or a bill of indebtedness that we all have. As we read on a lot of billboards, “The wages of sin is death.” (spiritual death) There is no way we can buy or work our way out of this indebtedness. So Christ took this bill of indebtedness and nailed it to his cross. So instead of, “King of the Jews,” His plaque should have read, “Sins of the whole world.” He was saying that all of our sins were now His sins and He would die for them. Now the debt was paid.

Selfish Desires: When I talk of the sins of mankind, or our sins, I am referring to our self-centerdness; our wanting to run our lives our way and not God’s way; our having our backs turned from God; not loving Him with all our heart, soul and mind. Christ’s death completely satisfies God’s demand that spiritual death is the result of sin. When God forgives our sins, our record is wiped clean. This is also talked about in Romans 3:21-25: “But now a righteousness from God, apart from the law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Romans 3:19-20 says: “Now we know that everything in the Law applies to those who live under the Law, in order to stop all human excuses and bring the whole world under God’s judgment. For no one is put right in God’s sight by doing what the Law requires….”

Colossians 2:13-14: Let’s look at the Living Bible for a translation that is a little easier to understand: “You were dead in sins, and your sinful desires were not yet cut away. Then he gave you a share in the very life of Christ, for he forgave all your sins, and blotted out the charges proved against you, the list of his commandments which you had not obeyed. He took this list of sins and destroyed it by nailing it to Christ’s cross.” “So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law” (Galatians 3:24-25). Colossians 2:15: “And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” By fulfilling the demands of the Law, Christ disarmed the demonic powers and authorities that He mentioned in Colossians 2:10 that says:“and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.” Power of the Resurrection Christ’s death was a public happening and because of His death and resurrection, He has conquered the power of Satan. Similar to the conquerors in olden times, who chained their prisoners to the chariot and made them run alongside in a public parade, so too Christ has doomed Satan publicly.

Legal Demands: Verse 16: Now Paul is saying believers are delivered from these evil powers that are behind the following legalistic rules about foods and festivals. “Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ” (Colossians 2:16). There were some in the church at Colossae, even as there are some today who attempted to set themselves up as judge over those who did not follow certain laws that dealt with food and observance of certain religious days. Paul says Christ, by His death, has done away with these legal demands; to look to them is to prefer the shadow to the real thing - that is Christ. The false teachers were even saying that salvation was gained by keeping laws and rituals and that the Old Testament laws are for true Christians.

Shadow of Something More Permanent: The Levitical law did prohibit certain foods and also required observance of certain days and festivals, but they only served as a passing type or shadow of something more permanent to come. The ceremonial laws of the Old Testament are referred to here as “shadows” because they symbolically depicted the coming of Christ; therefore, the law only had significance in relationship to Christ to whom they pointed. When God brought the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt and led them to Mt. Sinai, (this was the start of the Jewish nation) He had this all planned from the time He chose Abraham down by the Persian Gulf and said, “Follow me.” From there He was dealing with one family up through Abraham’s son Isaac, and then his son Jacob, and then Jacob’s 12 sons. It was this group of people that were in slavery in Egypt. After He led them out of Egypt to Mt. Sinai, it was here that He gave the people all the laws that would set them apart from all the people in the surrounding nations. Why He chose Abraham and his descendants, I don’t know. All I know is that he was a righteous man. But God wanted a people through whom the Messiah would come, through whom His word would be passed down, and He wanted a group of people that would show the surrounding nations what God could and would do for a people that would obey Him and also what He could and would do to a people who disobeyed Him. The feasts and festivals that God outlined for His people to observe were only shadows or types of the Messiah that was promised.

Christ Replaces the Shadow: Now Christ is revealed and the shadow is gone. Instead of outward observance, believers should focus on faith in Christ alone; however, our worship, traditions and ceremonies can help bring us close to God, so we should never criticize fellow Christians whose traditions and ceremonies differ from ours. More important than how we worship, is who we worship. We need to focus on the triune God. We must have unity in the essentials, and charity and love in the non-essentials. Regarding some of the food restrictions, for today we have to look at the New Testament. Acts 10:9-15 describes a vision that Peter had: He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air. Then a voice told him, ‘Get up, Peter, kill and eat.’ ‘Surely not, Lord,’ Peter replied. ‘I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.’ The voice spoke to him a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’”

Food Sacrificed to Idols: In 1 Timothy, Paul is talking about those who say we need to abstain from certain foods: “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving” (1 Timothy 4:4). However, there are times when we might give up eating or drinking something. In the New Testament time, there was a problem of eating meat that had been offered to idols. The would offer meat to an idol in one of their ceremonies and then would offer it for sale in the market. Believers were having a hard time knowing whether they should buy this meat or not. In Romans and Corinthians Paul talks about the fact that there is freedom in Christ; however, Romans 14:13-21 says: “Make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way. As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is unclean. If your bother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a man to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:23-33; “Everything is permissible - but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible - but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others. Eat anything sold in the meat market without raising questions of conscience, for, the earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.

If some unbeliever invites you to a meal and you want to go, eat whatever is put before you without raising questions of conscience. But if anyone says to you, ‘This has been offered in sacrifice,’ then do not eat it, both for the sake of the man who told you and for conscience sake -- the other man’s conscience, I mean, not yours. For why should my freedom be judged by another’s conscience? If I take part in the meal with thankfulness, why am I denounced because of something I thank God for? So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God -- even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.” Everything belongs to God, and He has given us all things to enjoy. We are to do all things for God’s glory, even our eating and drinking. Nothing we do should cause another to stumble. We do what is best for others, so that they might be saved. We should keep this as a guiding principle: “Is this action glorifying God?” or “How can I honor God through this action?”

New Moon Festivals and the Sabbath: “What about Sunday?” Does that mean I don’t have to go to church? The Jewish Sabbath was given to the Jews as an obligation; it was one of the laws that set them apart from the nations. The Sabbath command is the only one of the l0 commandments not repeated in the New Testament. However, Christians celebrate Sunday as a time of worship because it is the day Christ arose from the dead. The early believers met on Sunday, the first day of the week. Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit indwelt believers, was on the first day of the week. Offerings for the Lord’s work were to be gathered on the first day. We need one day to worship God and to build up our faith and Hebrews 10:25 says: “Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage on another….”The local church is where we are discipled. Observing Sunday is not a way to salvation, it is a way of growing as a Christian.

Pride and False Humility: Then he goes on in verses 18-19: “Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow” (Colossians 2:18-19). The false teachers were claiming that God was far away and could only be approached through various levels of angels. They were proud of their humility. This false humility brought attention and praise to themselves rather than to God. These people had a self-made religion. At that time in Colossae, the false teachers were trying to deny the significance, or reality of the body, by saying that it was evil, but their desire for attention from others showed that, in reality, they were quite obsessed with their physical self. If certain individuals - whether pastor, priest, author or lay person – set themselves up as spiritually elite by claiming to have a special access to God because of visions, revelations, prophecies etc, they are putting themselves above others who cannot make such claims. At Colossae, as sometimes happens now, this took the form of judgment or condemnation. Paul says don’t allow yourselves to be condemned by these people. If you hear someone who seems to delight in or be proud of their humility, you can be sure they are all puffed up by their own human way of thinking. Have you heard of the fellow who wrote the book, Humility and How I Obtained It ? If you truly have it, you don’t realize it. He says that these people are relying on their own human way of thinking and have stopped holding on to Christ. True humility means seeing ourselves as we really are from God’s perspective and then acting accordingly. As in verse 19, this type of person has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow.

Man-Made Rules: These false teachers were not connected to Christ, the head of the body of believers. Christ is the true head of the church - and us - we are the ligaments and sinews - and under His control the entire body is nourished and held together - in unity - and that is the way God wants it to grow. “Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: ‘Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!’? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence” (Colossians 2:20-24). Since you have died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, again the depiction of death to the old way of life or to the supernatural powers of evil in the world, why are you still being guided by man-made rules and ideas? These rules were man-made - sometimes they are based on God’s laws but taken out of context. We cannot reach up to God by following rules of self-denial, by observing rituals or even by “practicing religion.” Paul isn’t saying that all rules are bad – God’s rules are fair and just - but not even keeping God’s rules and laws will earn us salvation.

Man-made religions focus on human effort, but Christianity focuses on Christ’s work. Verse 23: “Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.” To the Colossians, the discipline demanded by the false teachers seemed good, and legalism still attracts many people today. Following a long list of religious rules requires strong self-discipline and can make a person feel and appear moral. But religious rules can’t change a person’s heart. Apparently many in Colossae were putting up a good front of being spiritual by self-imposed worship, their false humility, and harsh treatment of the body but it didn’t keep them from giving in to their sensual desires. We can see that still happening today. Christ also talked to the Pharisees about this same thing: “You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men” (Matthew 15:7-9). Christian freedom doesn’t come from restraining desires by rules and regulations but from the death of wrong desires and bringing to life good desires by means of Christ being in you and you being in Christ. Christianity is not attained by what we do, but by what Christ has done.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Bible Study
9th Message

Paul goes on in chapter 2 to speak of his work. Read verses 1-3: “I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”

How do you think he worked and struggled for them? By preaching, teaching and praying. He worked as though the success depended on him, but he prayed knowing the success of his work depended completely upon God. From this, we can learn that service for God that counts - costs. It requires sacrifice of time and self.

Paul’s Goals
Verse 2: Let’s look and see the specific goals he wanted to accomplish. He wanted them to be: encouraged in heart and united in love so they would have the full riches of complete understanding…. Understanding of the mystery of God - namely Christ - which means having the full meaning of who He is and what He has done. Verse 3: Paul is saying that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Christ - it doesn’t mean hidden so it can’t be found - but something that is there to be found by those with the right key. And that key is accepting Christ and having the Spirit in you.

“The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14).

Does that answers our question of, “How come I can tell someone about Christ, but they don’t accept?” The false teachers were saying that because of their special revelations, they had a higher knowledge than that possessed by ordinary believers. Paul says, no, all wisdom and knowledge are in Christ and that it is accessible to every believer. It is laid up or stored away as a treasure for them.

Wisdom and Knowledge
Even today we have to be aware there are those who teach they have a special revelation from God and they write their special interpretation of what the Bible says. When you read a Christian book, hear a sermon, or listen to a Bible teacher, do as the people in Berea did when they heard Paul preach:

“Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true” (Acts 17:11).

Make sure what you hear can be backed up by Scripture not by man’s ideas. Then we can ask, “Who is going to help me do that?” “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26).
Also read John 16:13: “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.”
Have you noticed how often he mentions wisdom and knowledge? Knowledge is the gathering of truth; wisdom is its application of it to our lives. Knowledge is prudent judgment; wisdom is prudent action.
Verses 4-5: He goes on…. “I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine sounding arguments. For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.”

So he tells them how happy he is to see how their faith in and reliance on Christ is unshaken.
This concludes the reasoning he started in Colossians 1:15 of why Christ is the only way: Christ embodies all the attributes of God. (1:15-20) In Christ we find reconciliation with God. (1:21-23) Is the revelation of the secret that Christ is in us. (1:24-27) Our perfection or maturity is found in Christ. (1:28-29) In Christ is found God’s wisdom and knowledge. (2:1-5) Verses 6-7: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and over-flowing with thankfulness.”

Again, the idea that has been taught before - the fact that something is offered and has to be received - they at one time made a decision to accept Christ as Lord. How do you answer when people ask, “How do you know that Christ is in you?” Christ enters the life of a person who invites Him, but there is no physical awareness of the fact. You can’t see Him come in; however, sometimes there is an emotional reaction: tears, a sense of relief, joy, peace. If there is no physical or emotional awareness, we can know for sure that it really happened because the Bible says so. We can’t base it on feelings alone. This is where faith enters the picture. Since you have accepted Him, continue to live in union with him. Stay rooted in Him, build your lives on Him and become stronger in your faith, by allowing the reconciliation process to take place 2Cor. 5:18; And be filled with thanksgiving.

That is Quite a Job Description
Live in union with Him, or walk as He walked. How did Christ walk? What did He do? He loved. He gave of Himself. He prayed. He spent time in his Father’s house regularly. He knew and used the Scriptures. He was baptized. He was holy.

In order to do this, we are to keep our roots deep in Him. Like a tree, the deeper the roots are, the higher the tree can rise. The higher the tree rises, the further the branches reach out. If the roots or foundation are deep and secure, we can keep building and not worry about drying up or toppling over. As your roots go deeper, your faith will grow stronger.

As we are more rooted in Him, we are more overflowing with thankfulness. If we are full of gratefulness and thanksgiving we will be less vulnerable to doubt and also less open to the false philosophies. Then comes a warning as he goes on to condemn the Colossian heresy that was diverting them from Christ. Verse 8: “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.”

The Phillips translations puts it in modern terms when it says: “Be careful that nobody spoils your faith through intellectualism or high sounding nonsense. Such stuff is at best founded on men's ideas of the nature of the world and disregards Christ” (Colossians 2:8). He is not condemning philosophy as such, he was a gifted philosopher and could debate with the best of them. He is condemning teaching that credits humanity, not Christ, with being the answer to life’s problems. This starts back in verse 4 where, after talking about how hard he has worked to tell them that Christ is the key that opens all of God’s wisdom and knowledge, he says:“Don’t let anyone fool them with false arguments – no matter how good they seem” (Colossians 2:4).
Since they have accepted Christ, they were to keep growing in their faith that is based on the truth and not on false teaching. Now they were to make sure that no one tried to confuse them or draw them away with teachings based on only human thought or arguments.

Learn to be Discerning
We are to learn to be discerning in what we hear or read. Human reasoning can often sound good and right, but if it downgrades Christ and what He did on the cross, don’t fall for it. Everyone has a faith in something – we have to be sure our faith is in the right thing. Let’s look at some of the “faiths” some people have.
Verses 8-12:

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority. In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.”

Humanism and Tolerance
We can often hear the social gospel of humanism. This is the self-effort to reform. We can do anything we want to do. All the world needs is for us to reform ourselves and we will reform the world. Examples of this would be humanitarianism - all the world needs is for people to help the poor and disadvantaged and to accept people as they are.

Tolerance is another - many try to say that tolerance is all the Bible really teaches: love thy neighbor. They want us to believe that the only parts of the Bible that are inspired or meant for us are the ones that teach love, forgiveness and acceptance of all people and all they do. They go on to say that morals are only relative to the customs and environments that a particular society sanctions. In other words, if the majority of society says it is okay for this day and age, it is okay. What the Bible said, was just for that day and age. So they are only keeping the Bible relevant for today.

Paul says this teaching is worthless because it does not contain the truth and it is deceitful because it captivates people and prevents them from seeing the truth. Paul is preaching that all theology should begin with Christ - not man. The Word of God, rather than man’s own reason, should be the final bases of truth.
According to Colossians 2:8, we need to avoid human philosophies based on things other than Christ. Don’t become captive of human wisdom handed down by men. Some teachings you can hear today that might fall into this category are: The Bible is not inspired, the teachings were for then - not today, Christ didn’t really die so He wasn’t resurrected or it was just a spiritual resurrection - not a bodily resurrection.

1 John 4:1-6 has good advice: “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.”

Know What You Believe and Why
Think of some of the things you believe - are they God’s ideas or man’s ideas? Can they be backed up by the Word of God? Like today, both Christ’s deity and humanity were challenged by the early Gnostics so Paul continues his teaching that he first started in 1:19 where he says: “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him.” Note: verse 9 goes on: “For in Christ all the fullness of Deity lives in bodily form and you (meaning we) have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.”

If someone asks what verse 9 really says and means, we can say that Christ is God in bodily form. Both Christ’s deity and humanity were challenged by the early Gnostic-like heresy. They diminished Christ to an angel whose “body” was only apparent, not real. Paul is affirming here that Christ is both fully God and truly man. This correlates with the gospel of John that says: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John l:1). and John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and lived for a while among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Being Made Full in Christ
Back to Colossians - verse 10 says: “and you have been given fullness in Christ….” We have mind, body and spirit; let’s see how they are made full in Christ and how we can answer someone who asks: “What do you have that I don’t have?” When he says, “You have been given fullness in Christ,” this statement crowns Paul’s argument. Because Christ is fully God and fully man, believers, in union with Him, are made full - or share in His fullness. We are filled with God when we are in union with Christ. Those who don’t have Christ are spiritually incomplete because they are out of touch with God. “Through the Son, then, God decided to bring the whole universe back to himself. God made peace through his Sons’ sacrificial death on the cross and brought back to himself all things, both on earth and in heaven. At one time you were far away from God and were his enemies because of the evil things you did and thought” (Colossians 1:20-21). Those without Christ are morally incomplete because, although they may be very good, they lack the final standard of conduct and the ability or desire to chose what is right in all things.

Morally Complete
In union with Him, we are morally complete, not in the sense of being perfect, but in God’s eyes we are seen as perfect and we now have the Holy Spirit within us to give us the desire and ability to know and do the will of God. Without Christ, they are mentally incomplete because they are blind to spiritual truths and to the fact that they are spiritually and morally incomplete. As believers, we don’t have all knowledge, but with help from the Holy Spirit, we can discern spiritual truths, which according to the Bible, is foolishness to the unbeliever.
Again, that doesn’t mean that Christ’s perfection is given to us or that we are, or can be, like God. It doesn’t mean that we are little gods ourselves, as some teach, but that in Him, there are resources we can draw on so that we may be filled and nothing will be lacking in us.

In other words, in union with Christ, all of our spiritual needs will be fully met. We no longer have to search for “the meaning of life” or ask “Why are we here?” We are spiritually complete. Since the Colossians had Christ, there was no need for them to turn to the “philosophy” of the false teachers. He is head or sovereign Lord over all.

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study / 1st of Several Messages
The Book of Colossians

The Beginning (Chapter 1)

Before 400 BC, Colossae was a thriving metropolis. It was located on a major trade route and historians report that it was a staging post on the march of armies. It is in the area that is now he country of Turkey. It was a thriving city but as sometimes happens, someone, perhaps a Roman official (for now this was part of the Roman Empire) decided they needed a new six lane highway - and it bypassed Colossae.

Now the city of Laodicea, that wasn’t founded until 260 BC, became the main city. Maybe Colossae was lucky because we know from the book of Revelation what the Lord thought of Laodicea. Revelations says, “they were rich and felt they didn’t need anything - Christ said they were wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.” By the time Paul wrote this letter, Colossae was just a small town in the shadow of Laodicea and Hierapolis the other two cities in the Lycus Valley. It was devastated by an earthquake in 6l AD and was never rebuilt.

Let’s See How Christianity Might Have Reached Colossae

Paul was very wise and seemed to plant the Gospel at places where it would flow down the main arteries of trade and communication. Paul apparently never visited Colossae but since he spent a long time in Ephesus during his third missionary journey, we can assume that the Gospel was taken to Colossae from Ephesus. There were several people that are mentioned in the New Testament that were from Colossae. We can assume that a good strong Gospel teaching had come to Colossae during this time but now, several years, later Paul is in prison (Acts 28:30) and a fellow believer named Epaphras, from Colossae, brings him a report about conditions in the church and Paul writes them this letter.

Who Were the People Who Contributed to the Spread of the Gospel?

Let’s see what might have happened to the Gospel message in the intervening years by looking at the cross section of population to better understand some of the ideas that had an influence on the people. There was the Jewish element. They resettled there after the fall of the northern kingdom when they were defeated by the Assyrians. We learn from the Gospels that some of the complaints Jesus had against the Jews were: legalism, ritualism and the strict observance of holy days. There were the Romans who worshipped the Caesars as gods and had their other gods and goddesses that they believed in. Then the other elements - there seemed to be an element that tried to combine the oriental ideas, the Greek philosophy and other various religious ideas that different people brought in. All of these things seemed to lead to some false teaching. Some of these false teachings seemed to be the beginning of what later developed into Gnosticism.

This false teaching contained several characteristics: It was Jewish - stressing the need for observing Old Testament laws and ceremonies. It was philosophical (Greek) and emphasized some special or deeper knowledge. It involved the worship of angels as mediators to God. It was exclusive and it stressed the special privilege and “perfection” of those select few who belonged to this philosophical elite. It denied the deity of Christ. They were trying to adjust Christianity to fit their old beliefs. They didn’t deny Christ but they didn’t accept Him as God. They gave Christ a place but not the supreme place. Salvation was obtained by means of knowledge that was only available through special teaching, rituals, self-discovery or sacraments. And of course it was only available to a special few. What does all of this remind you of in our day and age? Do you think they also had to pay to go to seminars to get this “knowledge?” This Christian facade made the Colossian error all the more dangerous. Just like the cults that use Christian words but don’t have the same meaning.

Here are five things we can look for when we read through: It professed to be a philosophy. Paul said it was a hollow and deceptive philosophy - some say it was dabbling in truth. It placed emphasis on ritual: circumcision, dietary laws and observance of holy days. It affirmed the mediation of various supernatural powers in the creation of the world and the whole process of salvation and insisted that these mysterious powers be placated and worshipped. Some of the practicers were ascetic and taught that the body is evil and must be treated as an enemy. And perhaps the worst and hardest to combat was the fact that the advocates of this system claimed to be Christian teachers.

If their problem was trying to push God and Christianity into their lifestyle rather than push their lifestyle into God and Christianity, why do you think the errors in the church were not spelled out fully? Alluded to rather than named? He uses words like “fine sounding arguments,” “hollow and deceptive philosophy,” “worship of angels,” “do not handle, do not taste, harsh treatment of the body.” Imagine yourself as one of those new Christians in Colossae. You are crowded into a home waiting to hear what Paul has to say. With the background we have just had, you would know of the problems and maybe you would even be a little sympathetic to some of the ideas. What emotions do you think you would feel while you are waiting for the others to arrive?

“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the holy and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace and peace to you from God our Father” (Colossians 1:1-2).

What title did Paul use to introduce himself? What does the word mean? Who gave Paul this title? What does this verse tell you about where Paul got his orders? Apostle: “someone sent an emissary, a delegated official entrusted with a mission - not simply a person who propagates a doctrine or devotes himself to a cause. He was an Apostle “by the will of God.” Do you think the people were able to accept this? What impact would it have? What could be another word for faithful? Believing or loyal to Christ? How do you feel when a friend tells you the specific things he or she notices and appreciates about you? It encourages you and makes you try harder. Let’s read Colossians 1:3-8:

“We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints - the faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is producing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth. You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, and who also told us of your love in the Spirit.”

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
Weekly Study 2nd of Several Messages
The Book of Colossians

In our study of Colossians, we find...

Paul was a very religious Jew. He was born in the city of Tarsus about 10 AD. This makes him about the same age as Jesus. Tarsus was a city in what was then the Roman Empire. The location now is in the country of Turkey. His parents named him Saul after Israel’s first King, the most glorious member of the Israelite tribe of Benjamin. His parents could trace their ancestry back to this tribe. His parents must have had some property and wealth and also some standing in the Gentile community since the book of Acts tells us that he was a citizen of Tarsus and also a citizen of Rome - which was quite significant then. Paul was sent to Jerusalem to study Jewish law under the foremost rabbi of his day, the Pharisee Gamaliel. (Acts 22:3; Galatians 1:14) The Hebrew word for Pharisees means (the separated ones) and they felt that God had set them apart to live and to teach in strict accordance with the Torah (the Law or Teaching of Moses; first five books of Bible.) The were the “religious of the religious.”

Pharisees vs. the Jews

The Pharisees expected a Messiah who would deliver them from foreign oppression and rule with justice; however, this Jesus of Nazareth had angered the Pharisees by interpreting the Law differently than they did and by claiming a special relationship with God. Therefore, when some Jews began to proclaim Jesus as Messiah and Lord - this was a term usually reserved for God - the strict Pharisees opposed them. Saul was one of these Pharisees and he was active in the fight against those in Jerusalem who proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. There was one man in particular that we read about in Acts 6:8. The believers in Jesus began to be called “The Way.” The persecution became so great that many were driven out and went to Damascus (now in Lebanon). Saul Begins to See the Light From then on, Saul’s understanding of God and the Torah, the five books of Moses, began to change dramatically. He joined those Jews who were urging other Jews to believe in Jesus. Read 9:20- 31.

After a few years, God called him to proclaim Jesus as Savior to the Gentiles also. Saul took the Greek name “Paul” when he turned to work among the Gentiles. First Missionary Journey In the letter to the Galatians, Paul tells more of his life. Read Galatians 1:11-2:1. He spent ten years in the Roman provinces of Cilicia and Syria, probably preaching alongside Jewish Christians who had fled Jerusalem during the persecution. Then a believer named Barnabas called Paul from Tarsus to Syrian Antioch where many Jews had converted to Christianity. After a while, the church in Antioch commissioned Paul and Barnabas to evangelize the provinces of Cyprus and Galatia. (Acts 13) In all, Paul had what we call three missionary journeys. This was the first one. Second Missionary Journey He was anxious to revisit the churches that he had ministered to on his first trip so again he started out. (Acts l6-18:22) On this trip, he went all the way to Athens and then back to Antioch. After some time back in Antioch, he set off on his third journey.

Third Missionary Journey

On this trip he returned to Ephesus and spent over two years there. Acts l9:8-20 tells of what he did in Ephesus. After going on to Corinth, a short distance from Athens, he returned to Jerusalem. In Jerusalem he was accused falsely of bringing a Gentile into the temple area and was arrested. He was taken to Caesarea and was imprisoned there for a few years before he appealed to Caesar for justice. This meant he had to appear in Rome.

He was placed in the custody of a centurion and put on a ship along with a couple of Paul’s friends. They had a trip of several months that included a shipwreck and a long walk after they reached Italy. Read Acts 27. Conclusion. The book of Acts concludes with Paul having resided in Rome for two years, under house arrest, without ever having had his case go to trial; however, while under arrest he stayed in his own rented house and used the time to preach to all who came to see him.

According to tradition, Paul was released from prison and continued to travel around the Mediterranean world. Again, according to tradition, he was arrested and imprisoned about five or six years later, apparently during the persecution by Nero, then he was executed outside the walls of Rome. If you want to know about all the trials and tribulations that Paul went through on his journeys, read Acts. It is a fascinating adventure story. (next week, chapter 1)

Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"

Raiders for Christ
The Book of Colossians
Weekly Study: 3rd of Several Messages

Faith Not in Themselves

Faith, hope and love are the fundamental, enduring qualities of a Christian. Notice that Paul addresses his thanksgiving to God, recognizing that He is the one responsible for these traits. Their faith was in Jesus Christ - not in themselves, the church or their good works, but faith and trust in Christ who is the source as well as the object of our faith. This faith “in” Christ showed itself by love for all fellow believers, not just their personal friends. There are three types of love in Greek: Eros The passionate, lustful kind of love - the word erotic comes from that. This word is never used in the Bible. Phileo Friendship, brotherly kind of love - often used. Agape Genuine concern care consideration and compassion for another in spite of who or what they are. Desiring the best for them and being willing to help them achieve it. In verse 4 it is agape love. If we don’t love fellow believers, how will we love God? If we don’t love God, how will we love fellow believers?

Need Help to Love Others?

If love is the fruit of faith and we define love is genuine concern, care, courtesy and consideration for others and it is the delight in and desire for the well being of the one loved, then let’s think, is there anyone that you have trouble liking, let alone loving?

How can we apply this passage in our life? What motivates the faith and the love of the Colossians verse 5? Hope. Faith is the soul looking upward to God; Love looks outward to others – the hope we have looks forward to the future. In verse 5 the hope they have is not the nebulous hope that we sometimes think about, but it is the absolute assurance of the eternal life we are promised. Their faith and love are based on the foundation of this hope that was promised in the gospel they heard.

In verse 5, Paul affirms two things about the hope of the Colossians. Why can they be assured about their hope? It is securely stored up for them in heaven, like a treasure. Their hope is there because Christ, the essence of this hope, is there. Without Christ’s ascension and His present intercession there on behalf of believers, they would have no hope. “For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men” (l Corinthians 15:16-19).

The Colossians’ knowledge of hope came from hearing “the word of truth” which here is defined as the gospel that had come to them. Refers to the original proclamation of the gospel message that resulted in the Colossians’ conversion. 1 Corinthians 15:1-6 is the message Paul preached to everyone: “Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the work I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to Scripture and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living….”

So the gospel is the fact that Christ died for our sins, was buried but rose again. Hearing and knowing this is what gave them the hope of eternal life. What examples of faith, love and hope have you seen this week? Who in your circle of friends or people you meet could you encourage by telling them you thank God for demonstrating these qualities of faith, love and hope? Let’s read through this passage once thinking about Paul writing to the Colossians and then you read through it again as though a spiritual encourager in your life had written it to you. “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will though all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way, bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:9-14).

Let’s read it also in the Living Version: “So ever since we first heard about you we have kept on praying and asking God to help you understand what he wants you to do; asking him to make you wise about spiritual thing; and asking that the way you live will always please the Lord and honor him, so that you will always be doing good, kind things for others, while all the time you are learning to know God better and better. We are praying, too, that you will be filled with his mighty, glorious strength so that you can keep going no matter what happens - always thankful to the Father who has made us fit to share all the wonderful things that belong to those who live in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us out of the darkness and gloom of Satan's kingdom and brought us into the kingdom of his dear Son, who bought our freedom with his blood and forgave us all our sins” (Colossians 1:9-14).

Raiders for Christ
The Book Of Colossians
Weekly Study 4th of Several Messages

Paul asked God to fill them with the knowledge of His will, with all the wisdom and understanding that His Spirit gives. Applying this to us, how do we get this knowledge of His will? His will is not a secret, but it takes work on our part. We can’t pick and choose how much of His will we want to follow. We can get this knowledge of His will by reading, hearing, meditating on as well as obeying what He says in His word. Then the Holy Spirit gives us the understanding and wisdom that is the practical know-how or the ability to apply this knowledge to problems in our every day life. However, He won’t continue to give us more wisdom and understanding if we aren’t following what we already know. This all takes obedience.
Now look at verse 10. In what ways is God’s will to be translated into practical, daily living? Live a life worthy of the Lord, May please him in every way and Bearing fruit in every good work. These good works are the ones that He has prepared from the beginning for us to do according to Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

It talks of growing in the knowledge of God, do we live the way He wants? Do we really want to or only if it doesn’t seem to require too much time or effort on our part? How do we know God’s will for our life?
How do we know if we are walking worthy of Him? Who or what is our standard? Will we know if we are out of His will? (If God has a will and we can know it, we can also know if we are out of His will and the consequences.) Then he goes on, “it pleases him to strengthen us with power.”

Do you think this power is only given out according to our needs? It is not given but His abundant supply is there for the taking. How great is the power that is available? Power of His glorious might - literally the might of his glory, as much power as it took to raise Christ from the dead is available to us. “By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also” (1 Corinthians 6:14).

What Does this Power do for us?
It gives us endurance and patience (see verse 11). What Does He Mean by Endurance?
Endurance is the capacity to see things through. A lack of endurance often results in despondency or losing heart.

What is Patience?
In spite of injury or insult, does not retaliate. Lack of patience often leads to wrath or revenge. Thankfulness and gratitude is the result of a fruitful Christian life. (see verse 12) Joyful thanksgiving, not thanks given begrudgingly. Thanks because He has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light (His children).It doesn’t stop with the deliverance from the authority of darkness or sin, but He has brought us into the kingdom of the Son. It is like removing us from one country, where there is a lot of corruption and bad leadership, and resettling or re-establishing us in another country where Christ is the sovereign ruler. Another way of putting it is that we are qualified to have a portion of the heritage belonging to God’s people. I am so impressed with the orderly progression of things Paul prays for. Let’s see how he wants our Christian life to progress.

Knowing God’s Will
Starting in verse 9, the first thing he prays for is that we know God’s will. We have to know His will so we can walk worthy of Him. Walk and Mature in Our Faith The rest of the prayer is how to walk or mature in our faith. Of course our standard for walking worthy of the Lord is Christ Himself.

The decision has been made to follow the Lord and to do His will. The Holy Spirit will now make the wisdom of the Bible available to us. The Holy Spirit gives us the ability to have spiritual understanding. This gives us the desire to live the way God wants us to and to do what pleases Him. It pleases Him for us to do the good works that He has planned for us and as we do this, we grow in knowledge of Him.

Tap Into His Resources
If we have done all these things we will be strong in His strength - not in our own. We will have tapped into His resources. We can pray for the fruit of the Spirit which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and self control. When we have His resources, the fruit of the Spirit, then we are able to endure any circumstance that we encounter. We are able to endure with patience. Because of endurance and patience we can give thanks with joy through all things because we have that hope - salvation - that he has reserved for us.

So knowledge promotes service, service is repaid by strength and all is crowned with thanksgiving.
Can you recall an experience in your life that taught you how to draw on God’s strength as mentioned in verse 11? Were you a new Christian or a more mature one at the time? In verse 12, we give thanks to the Father because He has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. What is the kingdom of light? It is His kingdom. Another way of putting it is that we are qualified to have a portion of the heritage belonging to God’s people and in the Son He loves, we have redemption and the forgiveness of sins.