A note from our Pastor:

“Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:”

Colossians 1:24

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

This week we continue our study of Colossians chapter one. This first chapter serves first as an introduction to its author, the Apostle Paul. It is a defense of his calling by God while establishing his authority to teach and instruct. Second, it lays the foundation for the lessons that will follow in the rest of the letter.

This letter, to the congregation at Colossae, was one of three written while the Apostle was in prison. In all three, Ephesians, Philippians, and here he addresses the afflictions he endured. In each instance, the Apostle encouraged his followers to be strong in the face of tribulations. His message is to remain steadfast in the faith and following of Jesus Christ.

The sufferings or afflictions of Christ, spoken of in this verse, are not a reference to his torture and death upon the cross. That pain, born for the redemption of the elect, could only have been endured by Christ. Rather, the tribulations referenced in this verse were the near-constant things Christ endured during his ministry. The death threats, the rejection, the traps, and so much more. It is those challenges that continue with the Apostle in his time.

Jesus, during his ministry, told his disciples that the world would hate them and they would endure many tribulations. Now the Apostle, writing from his confinement, is able to say he rejoices in his afflictions. Why? Because they are a direct result of teaching the truth of Jesus Christ. Whatever he may endure personally is minor compared to the children of God receiving the gospel.

As he said in each of his letters, the Apostle would have preferred to be in person with these congregations. To see the individuals, to teach them, and to walk with them. But instead, he was writing to them from a distance. Thus, he told them that though his soul ached to be with them, he counted his tribulations as just a small price to pay to serve Jesus Christ.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah