Colossians 2:1-7

Flourish by walking with Christ

Paul carries a heavy concern for new believers he hasn’t even met. He wants them to know of that concern and the seriousness of the danger that gives rise to it. He knows of the wholesome and life-changing benefit of knowing Christ and walking with Him. He is confident that the church is resting in a stable, disciplined relationship to Christ.

But persuasive delusion is a very present threat to their peace and safety. (v. 4)

In addition to praying for their spiritual health, Paul is writing this letter to shine the light of truth upon that delusion in an attempt to take away its persuasive power. In these verses Paul points their attention to the benefits that grace is already working in their lives and encourages them to stay the course, to grow and flourish in the rich soil of a firm faith in the Lord Jesus.

He draws a contrast to the fake knowledge offered by the gnostic heretics. (v. 2)

Paul yearns for them to be encouraged, and thus be able to pursue life in spite of its difficulties, having confidence that they are walking on the right path for eternal life and centered in the blessing of God. Such courage should arise from enjoying a close-knit community of love. As God rescues us from selfishness, He leads and energizes us to live for the benefit of one another. This is an unusual circumstance in human experience, but it is the mark of a church that knows God and it is a strong signal to individuals that they are on the way of eternal life.

Encouragement also arises from confidence in knowing Christ Himself. There was in fact knowledge about God’s plan for history that had been hidden in previous ages, but Paul had been specially commissioned to bring that hidden knowledge to light. Along with the other apostles, Paul proclaimed "Christ in you, the hope of glory."

Every precious thing to be known is found in Christ Our Savior. There isn’t some higher, bolder, more powerful truth hidden away in some corner of forgotten lore. Eternal life of the most full and abundant kind are found solely in the Savior. The Christian life begins in receiving Christ by repentant faith. We have been rebellious sinners, but we can trust Him to forgive and completely rescue us according to His promise.

But the beginning of repentant faith is not the end, being only the first step on the way to glory. The Lord’s gracious rescue energizes every step after that first one. We walk with Him in the same manner as we first receive Him. Our obedience and ministering service are not things we do for God; they are gifts which He gives us as we willingly receive them in cooperation with His leadership. Such living brings a stronger faith, stability and consistency in godliness, and a deep sense of humility and gratitude.

Cling to Christ and walk with Him.

Pursuit of wisdom for today from the Ancient of Days

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