Series Big Idea: "Humanity is only complete in God the Son"

Sermon Big Idea: "The body of Christ gains strength through fellowship, prayer, and spiritual gifts"

Key Scripture (Colossians 4:7-18)

We have come to the final passage in our sermon series through the book of Colossians, particularly (Colossians 4:7-18). This passage is often overlooked, but it contains valuable lessons on the importance of fellowship among believers. As the body of Christ, we are called to live in community with one another and build each other up. Let's read the verses and then unpack the timeless principle we see here.

(Colossians 4:7-18)

Tychicus, our dearly loved brother, faithful servant, and fellow slave in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know how we are and so that he may encourage your hearts. 9 He is with Onesimus, a faithful and dearly loved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here. 10 Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, greets you, as does Mark, Barnabas’s cousin (concerning whom you have received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him),11 and so does Jesus who is called Justus. These alone of the circumcision are my coworkers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a slave of Christ Jesus, greets you. He is always contending for you in his prayers, so that you can stand mature and fully assured in everything God wills.13 For I testify about him that he works hard for you, for those in Laodicea, and for those in Hierapolis.14 Luke, the dearly loved physician, and Demas greet you.15 Give my greetings to the brothers in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her home.16 When this letter has been read among you, have it read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea.17 And tell Archippus, “Pay attention to the ministry you have received in the Lord, so that you can accomplish it.”18 This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. Remember my imprisonment. Grace be with you.

To conclude his letter, we see the Apostle Paul sending greetings from various individuals to the Colossian church. These people were no doubt part of Paul's close friends and co-workers for the kingdom of God. They were a source of encouragement, comfort, and support for him. One of these people he mentions was Epaphras, a faithful servant who tirelessly prayed for the church in Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis. By adding this man's name, Paul seemed to be stressing the importance of fellowship and prayer within the community of believers.

As pastor of Main Street, I want to brag on you a bit. I can see how you come together to support families in need during difficult times. You have prayed, provided meals, and offered emotional and financial support. Thank you for strengthening our bond as a church family and demonstrating the love of Christ to families in need. We are called to build deep and meaningful relationships with other believers. By actively participating in fellowship and prayer, we strengthen and encourage one another, just as Paul and his companions did. Let's continue to make a conscious effort to engage in fellowship and genuine care for one another.

In this passage, we also see a diverse group of individuals, from different cultural backgrounds and professions, coming together in fellowship. Aristarchus, a fellow prisoner with Paul, Mark, a cousin of Barnabas, Justus, and Luke, a physician, all had different roles to play in the kingdom of God. Despite their differences, they were united in their faith and purpose. This teaches us the valuable lesson of unity within diversity in the body of Christ. As believers, we come from different backgrounds and have different roles to play. However, we are all united as one body in Christ. We should celebrate our diversity and work together in unity to advance the kingdom of God.

In verse 17, Paul urges Archippus to fulfill his ministry in the Lord, emphasizing the individual roles of believers in the body of Christ. The mention of Luke, the physician, and Demas greeting the Colossian church serves as a reminder that our professions and skills can be used to glorify God and serve the Christian community.

Conclusion

I see so many of you using the gifts and skills that God has given you to the glory of God. Some of you are children's leaders, others are youth leaders, and many of you serve in other areas that, although unseen, are vital to the ministry of Main Street. Church let's strive to continue to fulfill our God-given ministry and use our gifts to serve each other. Remember to pray for one another and to support one another in this Christian journey.

Pastor Beaver's thoughts and ideas are inspired by:

Holman Christian Standard Bible

English Standard Version Bible

King James Version Bible

Christian Standard Bible

Walvoord, John F., and Roy B. Zuck, Dallas Theological Seminary. The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985.

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Hoehner, Harold W., Philip W. Comfort, and Peter H. Davids. Cornerstone Biblical Commentary: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1&2 Thessalonians, Philemon. Vol. 16. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2008.

Dunn, James D. G. The Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon: A Commentary on the Greek Text. New International Greek Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle: William B. Eerdmans Publishing; Paternoster Press, 1996.

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