Observation:
Paul is writing because of his deep love for the Colossians and Laodiceans (even though he has never met them) and to help them more fully understand the Word of God (also to keep them from falling to deceptive teachings).
Paul is fulfilling his God assigned purpose in ministering to (and teaching) the churches, working (struggling, toiling) to the point of exhaustion, yet still with joy.
Paul desires for the Colossians (and others) to understand the “mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed” that Christ lives in us and He is our hope (expectation) of glory. Paul expects, through this understanding, for the Colossians (and others) to grow into maturity in Christ.
Paul wants the Colossians to understand how to love (have affection for and extend benevolence to) each other. He wants them to walk in the unity that such love reflects, and he also wants them to be confident in understanding, both spiritually and intellectually, the deity (majesty) and Fatherhood of God and the salvation available through Christ.
Interpretation:
As a world-wide church we are to love one another, specifically to have affection for and care for one another, and walk in unity.
We each have a purpose God has ordained for us to fulfill, but fulfilling that purpose does not mean we will not struggle or get tired. It does mean we can experience joy in the midst of it all.
Spiritual maturity includes understanding that Christ lives in us and He is our hope. It also includes loving each other, walking in unity, and being confident in who God is.
Understanding Who God is helps us not fall prey to deceptive teachings.
Application:
It’s convicting to consider that Paul was rejoicing in his sufferings for the sake of people whom he had never met. I can’t honestly say I would do that.
I pray God would continue to mature me, and help me grow in love for my brothers and sisters in Christ, including the ones to whom I have yet to be introduced.
Throughout this week, I am planning to spend time meditating on the majesty of God, and the wonder that He would set aside that majesty to become a man and take on my sin so that I could be forgiven and justified, and dwell forever with Him. It’s overwhelming!
Questions for further consideration:
What impact, if any, does discord among believers have on our ability to understand Who God is?
What is the connection between understanding Who God is, and spiritual maturity?
What are the observable “fruits” of spiritual maturity?
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