THE HEADSHIP OF CHRIST.

Transcription

1 COLOSSIANS CHAPTER 1 Written from Paul s prison house in Rome and sent with Tychicus to the saints in Colosse. The word Colosse according to Mary Bodie has a double meaning which, in itself is very significant and instructive; it means Correction, and Monstrosities. If the saints she says do not take the correction but rather heed the false teaching exposed in this epistle, they will become monstrosities instead of corrected ones. Colossians portrays Christ IN the saints. The theme of this epistle is THE HEADSHIP OF CHRIST. Thayer s definition: monstrosities. Then I found Colossian meaning by Hitchcock, Colosse meant; punishment; correction. Col 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother, We know that God elected Paul an apostle a sent one of Jesus Christ and only in Christ and only by the will of God. It was God who called him and ordained him and commissioned him not man. This is also true of Timothy for he was to carry on the work after Paul departed to be with the Lord. Eph.4:11-16 Col 1:2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. It was written to all saints and faithful brethren. We can see plainly ranks in this verse. All are saints but not all saints are faithful. Faithful; G4103 pistos, pis-tos' From G3982; objectively trustworthy; subjectively trustful: - believe (-ing, -r), faithful (-ly), sure, true. G3982 peitho, pi'-tho A primary verb; to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexively or passively to assent (to evidence or authority), to rely (by inward certainty): - agree, assure, believe, have confidence, be (wax) content, make friend, obey, persuade, trust, yield. These faithful saints are not only holy and righteous but they all faithful ones in their state as well. These are those that receive the word of God with all its admonition and correction. They take and faithfully receive the abundance of grace to rise up and allow the word of God to effectually work in them. They are not those that run away or harden their hearts when chastened or rebuked. For the word of HIS grace is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God maybe perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2Tim.3: The majorities of saints (sad to say) are not and will not be faithful to God s word they will not receive from it and allow the word of God to effectually work in them. They only pick and chose what their flesh desires. Prov.15:10 Only GRACE and PEACE comes for God our father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Without knowing and receiving His abundant grace you will never know peace that comes only from the Lord. The peace of God will keep your hearts and minds regardless of the situations or circumstances He allows us to be in. Col 3:15 Col 1:3 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, Col 3:17, 1Thess 5:18 says in everything give thanks. Heb 13:15. In every epistle Paul gives thanks for the saints. Do we have grateful hearts? Are we filled with gratitude for all the Lord is doing and has done? Do we express it to Him? Phil 1:3-5, 4:6, 1Thess 1:2.A thankful heart is full of God s peace and grace The fruit of the Spirit is apparent. A thankful heart is joyful, rejoicing in tribulations also. Praying Always! God forbid that we cease to pray for one another. Col 1:9, Eph 3:14-15, 1Thess 3:10-13, 5:17, 1Tim 2:1-4,8, 2Tim 1:3, Phil 4:6, Matt 26:41. Col 1:4 Since (having heard) we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, Having heard; We are epistle known and read of all men. We live by the faith of the Son of God which is manifest and spoken and heard by many. Heb 11:12, 2Cor 3:2-3,Rom 1:8, 1Thess 1:8-9, Col 1:6, Eph 1:15, 2Thess 1:3, 1Thess 1:8. This faith is IN Christ, THERE IS NO OTHER WAY. 1Tim 2:5-6, 1Cor8:6, Acts4:12. Love (agape) to all Saints; God is Love, the fruit of the Spirit is love. Gal5:6 As we yield and walk in the Spirit His divine love will be manifest to all, especially to those of the household of faith. Numerous times Jesus admonished and encouraged to love one another. In all Paul s epistles divine love is emphasized. His love will always speak volumes to others, will always edify and encourage and at times chasten. For He chasten those whom He loves. Be filled with the fullness of God and that is; His Love. Eph.3:17-19, Col 3:14, Rom13:8, John15:12, 17, 17:26. 1

2 Col 1:5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Paul warns the Colossians not fall back in religious ordinances to try to attain to some blessing or hope. He wanted them to know their citizenship was in heaven, that they were seated in the heavenlies and were blessed with all spiritual blessing in the heavens.eph1: We have a blessed Hope in our hearts Jesus Christ our blessed Bridegroom Titus2:13. Jesus is coming for His Bride, the one that has this longing hope of seeing her love at any moment. As His love increases, the word of truth, faith and hope abound! Hope; G1680 elpis, From elpo, a primary word (to anticipate, usually with pleasure); expectation (abstract or concrete) or confidence: - faith, hope. Hope is based on scripture, believing God s word. Rom 5:4-5, 15:4,13, Eph. 4:4, 1Pet 1:3-5, 1John 3:2-3. Laid up; reserved. Think what is waiting for His beloved, 1Cor 2:9-10; eye hath not seen nor ear heard 2Tim 4:8. Only through the word of His truth can this be. We are so graced so privileged to have an ear to hear the fullness of His truth. In this day and age, rarely is the rightly divided truth preached. He has brought us in to His banqueting house.song.2:4. So many do not and will not stand in defense of the truth of the gospel. By God s grace, may we not only receive the word of truth, the whole counsel of God, but stand and withstand and having done all to stand; STAND with confidence for Him, stand for the word of truth of the gospel. Col 1:6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: People are without excuse. The gospel has gone out to the entire world. God so loved the world and will see to it that it reaches to the ends of the world. He would have all men saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. Those that will to know will know. Mark16:15, Rom1:8, 10:18, 16:26, 1Thess 1:7-8, Col 1:23, Ps 98:2-3. Paul s gospel of grace and glory will bring forth fruit to those that have an ear to hear and receive it with all readiness as the Berean saints. Acts 17: Only through the soil of His word can we bear fruit. John 15:1-8, Mat. 13:23, In Colossian study book, Sister Bodie writes of those that are unfruitful, they are not acquainted Paul s message of grace in truth. They refuse God s grace as to fruit bearing; hence, are hard, bitter, and cold. It is only the Gospel of Grace, taken hold of in faith that will bring forth such heavenly fruit. Rom 7:4 Col 1:7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Epaphras: Lovely. He spoke the truth in love, fit for the master s use. Our dear: beloved. Fellowservant: a fellow servant, one who serves the same master with another. Faithful minister: trustworthy, faithful, sure, true. Col 4:12, Phil2:25-30; reputation: valued, dear, more honorable, precious, Phm.1:23. Appreciated and be thankful for them. John 15: Tim 4:6, 2Tim 2:2, 15, 1Thess 5:12-13, Heb 13:17. Col 1:8 Who also declared unto us your love (agape) in the Spirit. He spoke of these that were full of divine love. He saw Christ in them, the new creation, thus spoke love which edifies, that builds up and encourages. What do we speak about others? Do we magnify the love of God and provoke to love? Eph 4:15-16, 29. Col 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of HIS WILL in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; The heart attitude of the faithful ones, the overcomer is to pray for one another and to desire that they mature into the full stature of Christ. A bridal saint desires and prays for the spiritual development for God s people growing up in Him in all things, knowing God s will and purpose for their lives. Paul said that I may know Him! The ultimate knowledge of His will is to win Christ. His will for us is to be filled with the exact knowledge of His will, that is, full discernment. Being filled (full to the brim) with knowledge of His will only come through God s word. Eph1:17-18, 5:17, 1:17-20, 2Cor4:6, Ps.143:10, Jesus said in John 5;I seek not my own will but the will of my Father. Christ in me is wisdom. This wisdom and spiritual understanding increases as we take in the scriptures daily, the rightly divided word of truth. Not the wisdom and understanding of the world or natural man but of the spiritual man, comparing spiritual with spiritual.1cor.2:13, Eph.1:8-9, 17, Col 3:16, 2:2-3, James 3:15-17, Prov. 2:6, 3:13.Think of the worthies of faith; Moses, Joshua, Joseph, David, Solomon, Esther, Daniel God gave them His wisdom to perform His will, thus doing great and mighty acts. James encourages asking of God for wisdom who gives liberally. Spiritual understanding- Let Christ mind be in you, let it rule your life, your heart.phil3:7-8, Matt16:17. 2

3 Col 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Walk peripateo From G4012 and G3961; to tread all around, that is, walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary (a fervent devotee): go, be occupied with, walk (about). Thayer s; To make one s way, progress; to make due use of opportunities. Eph5:15, Worthy -appropriately as becometh after a godly sort. Eph 4:1, 1Thess 2:12, Phil.1:27. All pleasing -willingness to comply, desire to please. Exciting emotion. Heb.11:5-6, 1Thess 4:1, 2:4, 2Tim 2:4. Being fruitful- John 15:2,5-8, 16, Mark 4:20, Ps.1:3, Gal. 5:22-23, 2Pet.1:1-8, Song 4:16, Heb 12:11. In every good work- the Lord has foreordained good works to walk in. Eph.2:10, 2Tim.3:16-17, Heb. 10:24-25, 13:20-21, 2Cor.9:8. Mary as she broke the alabaster box of ointment and poured in on Jesus feet was a good work. Mark 14:6. Increasing in the knowledge of God- G837 to grow ( wax ), that is, enlarge (literally or figuratively, actively or passively): - grow (up), (give the) increase. God s will, His plan and purpose is for us to grow up in Him in all things. He say in Pet.3:18; grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour. Eph 1:17-19, we must decrease to let Him increase in us. John 3:30, God gives the increase and sent the Holy Spirit to carry it out. John 14:26, 1Cor.3:6-7. May our desire be to know Him, the exact knowledge of His will in all His fullness. Col 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; (LITV) being empowered with all power according to the might of His glory, to all patience and long-suffering with joy; Strengthened- G1412 dunamoo From G1411; to enable: strengthen. G1411 from G1410; force (literally or figuratively); specifically miraculous power (usually by implication a miracle itself): - ability, abundance, meaning, might (-ily, y, deed), (worker of) miracle (-s), power, strength, violence, mighty (wonderful) work. This strength, this power is God s power given to us through His Holy Spirit. Acts1:8, 2Cor.13:4, Eph.3:20, 6:10, Phil.3:10, 2Tim.1:7. It s His glorious power that we have to live a victorious life. Isa. 40:29-31.Thank God in every trial and affliction we have opportunity to allow His power to be exercised. 2Co 12:9-10, Phil 4, I can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengthens me. This resurrection power enables us in all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. Phil. That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection. He has given us power, love Patience- G5281 hupomone From G5278; cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy: - enduring, patience, patient continuance (waiting). Joyfulness-G5479 From G5463; cheerfulness, that is, calm delight: - gladness Oh! The grace of God enables, strengthens, empowers us to be patient, and long-suffering (suffer long) in all things, in every situation and circumstance He has ordered, WITH JOY! Full of JOY=JOYFULNESS. (The fruit of the Spirit manifested in a overcoming fruitful life.) James1:2-4, Acts 16:25, Phil.4:4, 1Pet.4: Col 1:12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: I Thess.5:18. Be grateful and express gratitude and praise to our Father always, for He has revealed to our hearts through his Holy Spirit the high calling which is in Jesus, our heavenly bridegroom. A thankful heart is a heart full of praise and worship to the Lord. For our Father has made us meet or fit -to enable, that is, qualify: - make able (meet).from Thayer s def.- to make sufficient, render fit, to equip one with adequate power to perform duties of one. Partakers-Strong s G3310 meris Feminine of G3313 to get as a section or allotment; a division or share (literally or figuratively,): - behalf, coast, course, craft, particular (+ -ly), piece, portion, respect, side, some sort.)a portion, that is, province, share or (abstractly) participation: - part (X -akers). Thayer s def. is a part as distinct from the whole, an assigned part, a portion, share. Christ bride taken from the body, a rib portion, from his side, as Eve was taken from Adam. The Bride will have and share in His inheritance; Joint heirs with Christ if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be glorified together.rom8:16-18, Luke 10:42, Acts 8:21, 16:12. What greater inheritance could a saint have? Thanksgiving should swell up in the heart without any hesitation or reservation. Eph 1: Of the Saints in light- Jesus who is the light lives in us. Eph 5:8, 1Pet 2:9. Take in the word of God and His light will increase. Be filled with the Holy Spirit (the oil) and your lamp will burn bright. His word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path; Ps.119:105, Prov. 4:18. Oh give thanks, praise Him, and worship Him for He has made us meet to partake! 3

4 Col 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: Col. 1:21-22, 2Cor 4:6 It is done! It was finished, done at the cross. Heb 2:14. Can we fully grasp what took place at the cross!! What deliverance took place for us! Oh give thanks to the Lord. Many do not see or receive this message. Satan has deceived and blinded many. 2Cor.4:3 We have been delivered; past tense. Delivered: Thayer Definition: to draw to one s self, to rescue, to deliver. The deliverer. Webster: DELIVERED, Freed; released; transferred or transmitted; passed from one to another; committed; yielded; surrendered; rescued; uttered; pronounced. Before Christ, we were in darkness, sinners without hope, bound for a Christ less eternity. But God!! Who is rich in mercy Eph.2:1-7, 5:8, Even Jesus which delivered us from the wrath to come 1Thess1:10, 5:10. Oh the love of God for us that while we were yet sinners in utter darkness, Christ died for us and delivered us from darkness and through His death we who believe, are translated into light, the kingdom of His dear Son. Gal.1:4. Translated: Thayer Definition: to transpose, transfer, remove Matt.4:16, Isa.42:6-7, Rom 5:8, 1Pet. 2:9-10, Luke 1:78-79, Acts 26:18, 2Cor.1:9-10, Rom 8:32. Col 1:14 In whom we have redemption through HIS BLOOD, even the forgiveness of sins: 2Cor.5:21 Redemption: G629 From a compound of G575 and G3083; (the act) ransom in full, that is, (figuratively) riddance, or (specifically) Christian salvation: - deliverance, redemption. Rom.3:24-25, Rom 5:8-11, Eph.1:7, Matt.20:28, Acts 20:28. We are bought with a price: 1Cor.6:20, Eph.1:7, 1Tim.2:5-6, Titus 2:14, 1Pet.1:18-21, Rev.5:8-10, Heb.9:12. He redeemed us from the Law: Gal.3:13, 4:5. The power of sin: Rom. 6:6-7, 17-18,6:22. Power of the Grave: Ps.49:15. From the enemy: Ps106:10, Jerm.15:21. From death: Hos.13:14. From destruction: Ps103:4. Forgiveness of sins; Col 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: John1:1-14 Image -exact likeness and perfect representation, the express image of God. Phil 2:6, Heb 1:3(engraving, exact copy) John 14:7-11, 2Cor4:4. The firstborn of every creature; He was before all things in ages past. Ps 89:27-28, Rom 8:29, Col 1:16 For by (IN) him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: Eph1:19-23, Ps72:11, Matt28:18, John3:31. By Him and only by Him were all things created and for Him. Neh.9:6, John1:3, 10, Heb. 1:2, 10, Col.2:10, 1Pet.3:22, Prov.16:4, Rom.11:36, 1Chron 29:11. The whole creation groans for the manifestation of the sons of God. Rom 8:19-23 Col 1:17 And HE is before all things, and by him all things consist. John3:35 Consist; G4921 soon-is-tah'-o, soon-is-tah'-an'-o, soon-is-tah'-ay-mee From G4862 and G2476 (including its collateral forms); to set together, that is, (by implication) to introduce (favorably), or (figuratively) to exhibit; intransitively to stand near, or (figuratively) to constitute: - approve, commend, consist, make, stand (with). I AM THAT I AM Ex.3:14 He is the Alfa and Omega, The beginning and the end. The A-Z. Rev1:8, 11, 21:6, 22:13, Isa.43:11-14, 44:6, 1John 1:1-3. He was in past eternity, is now in present, and will be in future. He is forever. This I AM, THIS ALFA and OMEGA, liveth in you and me. It is no longer I that lives but Christ LIVETH IN ME!!! May His Holy Spirit reveal this to us. John1:1-3, 1Cor.8:6, Act 17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being. John 17:5, Rom11:36, Phil 2:9-11. He is for us and if He be for us WHO, WHAT, can be against us. Rom8: By faith we walk in it and stand; VICTORY!!! 4

5 Col 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things might have the preeminence. Firstborn= Foremost-in time, place, order, before, chiefest In Eph.4:4 says there is one body. Jesus is the head of the body which is the church Eph1:22-23, 4:15-16, 5:23, 1Cor12:27 Jesus Christ is the head of the body and His body is not and should not be govern by any other head!! We are members of His body. Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ 1Cor.6: We see in 1Cor.5, the fornicator took his father s wife, that is, he took the headship that didn t belong to him. So it is when others take that place that belongs only to Christ. It is spiritual fornication when another other than Christ takes the headship that is Christ alone. Col2:18-19, ICor.1:12. We are not dependent on men and institutions and organizations but we look to Christ alone as our only headship. Christ is the glorious and all sufficient Head of the Church. We move at His command, His leading. When the natural body is not directed by its head there is chaos not harmony, not unity. The members of my body cannot care for or regulate one another independent of my head and that is what organizations try to do independent of Christ being the headship of the church. Confusion will always ensue.2cor6: We that are joined to Jesus Christ and He being the head are one Spirit. 1Cor 6:17. His Bride will always be dependent and in love with her Head Christ alone, she loves him and is dependent on Him as her all sufficient one hold Him first and foremost in her life. The beginning; John1:1, Rev 1:8, 22:13. Firstborn; Rom8:29, PS 89:27, Rev1:5, 1Cor 15;20-23, Heb 1:5-6. Preeminence; be first place in rank or influence, foremost (in time, place, order or importance): - before, beginning, best, chief (-est), first (of all), former. Allow Him always to have first place, seek him first, and make Him the chiefest of ten thousands Son.5:9-10. He is above all in her life and heart and it is evident. As we know and experience His abundant divine love, He becomes foremost, the chiefest of ten thousands. Everything and everyone becomes dim compared to Jesus. Her affection is on Him. Col 3:1-4. Col 1:19 For it pleased the Father that in him should ALL fulness dwell; It is pleasing to the Father that ALL fullness dwell in Christ. (Darby) for in him all the fulness of the Godhead was pleased to dwell.matt3:17. He is the very God of very God John 3:29-31, 35, Col 2:9-10, Matt 28:18, Eph 1: IN ALL, HE IS; the image of God, first-born of all creation, Creator, the eternally preexistent, the Head of the Church, the victor over death, FIRST IN ALL THINGS. And we are in Him and He in us, for we ARE COMPLETE in Him. May His Holy Spirit reveal who He is and who you are; knowing that Christ liveth in you. Eph 2:22-23, 1Cor 3:16 Col 1:20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. The Prince of Peace touched our hearts through the His blood shed on the cross. He was the sin offering given for us that we might be reconciled to himself. He bought us with His life, His precious blood Heb.9:11-12,14, 22, 24-28, 1Cor.6:20, Lev. 17:11, Rom.5:8-10, 1Per , 2Pet2:24, 3:18 Eph. 1:7, 2:13, 16. Webster; RECONCILE, to call, Gr. The literal sense is to call back into union.] 1. To conciliate anew; to call back into union and friendship the affections which have been alienated; to restore to friendship or favor after estrangement; as, to reconcile men or parties that have been at variance. 2Cor.5: We have been given and grace with message of salvation, Jesus Christ died for all, he shed his blood on the cross. Stand and be not ashamed of the gospel. Hold forth the words of life as the Spirit gives utterance speaking the truth in love.1pet3:15, 4:11, 1John 1:7; the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. Ps 103:3-2, 12, Isa.38:17, 43:25. Col 1:21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled We were without hope, without understanding, alienated from God and in total darkness. Rom.8:7; says the natural man, the flesh is at enmity with God; it will not be subject to God and cannot and will not please God. BUT GOD!! Rom.5:8-1, Eph.2:1-6, 12-13, 16-19, 2:Cor.6:9-11, Titus3:3-7. Deut. 24:18 But thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in Egypt, and the LORD thy God redeemed thee thence. Ps.40:2-3. Heb10:5-10, 12-17, Now that we are reconciled; 1Pet4:1-2. 5

6 Col 1:22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: Heb2:14, 2Cor5:21, 8:9. The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.(1john1:7) Unblameable; Without blemish (as the former Greek word is translated as to Jesus, our Head, 1Pet1:18-20, 23) in one s self, Irreproachable. Unreproveable, one who gives no occasion for his being brought to a law court) is in relation to the world without. Unreproveable; G410 anegkle tos. an-eng'-klay-tos From G1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of G1458; unaccused, that is, (by implication) irreproachable: - blameless. It implies not merely acquittal, but the absence of even a charge or accusation against a person. Rom8:33-34, IN HIS SIGHT. Eph1:4, 2:15-16, 5:27, 1Thess3:13, Present you holy, we are holy because of Christ, we are a new creation; 2Cor5:16-19 (how do we look at one another?) Rom8:30, sanctified, made holy; Heb10:10, 2Cor11:2, Titus 2:12-14, Jude1:24-25, Heb13:21. Col 1:23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; If- G1489- if indeed, seeing that, unless, (with negative) otherwise: - if (so be that, yet). There were some of the Colossians that needed correction and exhortation at this time. Remember, in vs. 2, it addresses faithful ones but others had allowed false doctrine of other headships with legality mixed in; touch not, eat not, days, etc. It is so vital, to be rooted and grounded in rightly divided truth and not moved away by false doctrine which is so prevalent today. 1 Thess.3:3-5, Gal. 3:1, 4:9-11, 5:7-12. In THE FAITH, only one faith; Eph4:5. Continue; epimeno; (ep-ee-men'-o) From G1909 and G3306; to stay over, that is, remain (figuratively persevere): - abide (in), continue (in), tarry. Acts13:42-43, 14:21-22, 1Tim.4:13-16, 2Tim. 3:14, 16, John 8:31, John 17:14-19 Grounded; G2311 themelioo From G2310; to lay a basis for, that is, (literally) erect, or (figuratively) consolidate: (lay the) found (-ation), ground, settle. We are grounded on the rock Jesus, 1Cor 10:4, Ps40:2, grounded in His love. For I know whom I ve believed!! Luke 6:48-49, Eph3:17, Col.2:7. Moved away; Paul was not moved from the truth by false teachers or by persecutions and trials or anything. Acts 20:19-24, 1Cor. 15:58. Hope of the Gospel; Eph 1:18, 1Thess.5:8, Heb. 6:19, A lively hope- 1Pet.1:3, 1John 3:1-3. Jesus called Paul and made him a minister. Acts 9:15, 13:46-49, 22:15, 26:16-19, Rom 1:1-5, 15:15-16, 2Cor.3:5-6, Gal.1:11-12,15-16, Eph.3:1-8, 1Tim 1:11-12, 2Tim1:11.The Lord gave Paul a heart that desired, no matter the cost, to preach the gospel knowing it was the word of God s grace that would build up His people and make them ready for Jesus coming. He was not ashamed of the gospel, he know it was the power of God that would change his people from glory to glory even into Christ very image. He said he would gladly be spent; 2Cor.12:15, Phil2:17, 2Tim.2:10. He had the opportunity to be with Jesus but chose to be with them, to see them win. Phil 1: Col 1:24 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: The abundant of God s grace enabled Paul to rejoice in sufferings. He saw working and result of suffering with Christ for his eyes of his understand were enlightened by the Holy Spirit. He saw and believed he was an heir of God and a joint-heir if so be he suffered together with Christ, he saw the glory that shall be revealed. He knew it was not for him only but as he endured hardness as a good soldier it also encouraged others to see the Lord and his enabling and faithfulness in each affliction, suffering, and tribulation. 2Cor.4:8-17. Sufferings; G3804 pathe ma (path'-ay-mah) From a presumed derivative of G3806; something undergone, that is, hardship or pain; subjectively an emotion or influence: - affection, affliction, motion, suffering. Phil 1:29, 2:17-18, Rom.5:3, 12:12, 2Cor1:4-7, 7:4, 1Thess 3:3-4, 2Tim1:8, 12,2:9-10, 12, 3:11-12, Jam.1:2-4, 1Pet 4:12-13, 5:9, Heb11:25, Matt 5: None of these sufferings moved Paul. Rom8:18, he identified with Christ through it all and had the desire to know Him, Phil 3:10-14, Heb Afflictions; G2347 thlipsis (thlip'-sis) From G2346; pressure (literally or figuratively): - afflicted, (-tion), anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble. Paul was willing to endure all this to win Christ but also for the body s sake. John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2Cor2:4, 4:17, 6:4, 8:2, 1Thess. 3:6-7, Acts 20:19-27, Eph.3:13, 2Thess 1:4, 2Cor1:8, 12:15, Paul could have refused; Phil 1: He loved the Head; Jesus and His body; the church. 6

7 Col 1:25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Gal 1:1, 1:11-12,15-16, Acts 9 of which *I* became minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given me towards you to complete the word of God, Col 1:26 the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but has now been made manifest to his saints; Darby version Minister; diakonos, from diako (obsolete, to run on errands; compare G1377); an attendant, that is, (generally) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specifically a Christian teacher and pastor (technically a deacon or deaconess): - deacon, minister, servant. Thayer Definition:1) one who executes the commands of another, especially of a master, a servant, attendant, minister, the servant of a king. Dispensation; G3622 oikonomia From G3623; administration (of a household or estate); specifically a (religious) economy : - dispensation, stewardship. (Or, the stewardship with which I am entrusted.) Vines; A "dispensation" is not a period or epoch, but a mode of dealing, an arrangement or administration of affairs. The Standard Bible; Dispensation; so translated signifies primarily, a stewardship, the management or disposition of affairs entrusted to one. Paul was called and entrusted to be sent forth by the Lord for the church, His body, to bring the distinct message of the gospel of the grace and glory. He was commissioned by Jesus Christ to reveal a mystery that had been hidden in ages past that there is a high calling, Jesus would have a bride, Ones that are taken out of the body, a rib portion to make a woman. Eph.1:10, 3:1-11, Acts 15:14-16, 1Cor.9:16-17, Rom.15: Fulfill; G4137 pleroo From G4134; to make replete, that is, (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc.: - accomplish, X after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply. God would have all men saved and come to a full knowledge, full discernment of the truth.1tim2:4, John8:31-32, 14:6, 17:17. It is imperative to know this message given to Paul for the church. Study God s word; rightly divide the word of truth. Our hearts swell up with joy & thanksgiving that God has enlightened our eyes to receive & know the truth in all its fullness. Eph1: Col 1:26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: Again we go to Eph.1:9-12, Eph.3, Rom16:25-27, 1Cor.2:7-8 Manifest; G5319 phaneroo, From G5318; to render apparent (literally or figuratively): - appear, manifestly declare, (make) manifest (forth), shew (self). 2Tim1:10-12, Titus1:3, as we allow the Holy Spirit to give us the eyes to see, doves eyes, we will see clearly, yea the deep things of God. John15:12-15, 1Cor.1:9-12, Ps.25:14, 119:18, Acts26: Paul prayed and we continue to pray as Eph.1: The natural man cannot see nor receive these things. 1Cor:1:14, 2Cor4:3-4. PRAISE THE Lord, we were once blind but now we see!! Col 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Make known; G1107 From a derivative of G1097;absolutely to know, to make known; subjectively to know: - certify, declare, make known, give to understand, do to wit, wot.rom.9: The Lord chose the apostle Paul to bring forth this message.gal.1:11-12, 1Tim2:7. Paul suffered persecution to make it known the glory of this mystery. He ask for prayer that he would not draw back but speak boldly. Eph.6: It is God s a desire that we would know what He has given us. Col.1:12 Do we really know and comprehend that we are partakers of the true riches of His glory? 1Cor.2:7-12, Heb.2:10 Blessed with all spiritual blessing in Christ! That He desires to share his glory with us, sitting and reigning as His Bride with Jesus Christ. Rom8: What a hope of glory we have! 2Cor.4:17, 1Pet.1:3-8, 5:10-11, Eph.1:18, Ps.31:19, Heb.6: Abound in this glory of hope! Rom.15:13. Col 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Preach; Isa.61:1, Jesus told Peter, feed my sheep! Ps45:1, Rom16:14-19, 25, 1Cor1:17-23, 2:1, 15:1-2, 2Cor4:5, Gal.1:8-12, 1Tim1:11, 2Tim. 4:2-4, Eph3:8, 1Thess2:9. 7

8 Warning; G3560 From the same as G3559-(calling attention to, mild rebuke or warning); to put in mind, that is, (by implication) to Caution or reprove gently, admonish, exhort. Rom.15:14, Acts20:27-32, 1Thess.5:12-14, Col.3:16. Teaching; 2Tim2: The rightly divided truth must be preached, we are in a time when men will not endure sound doctrine, they want to hear what man wants to hear and they turn from the truth. Matt.15:9, Titus1:11, 1Cor 2:13 Gal. says; If any one preach or teach false doctrine, let him be accursed. Acts20:20, Gal.1:12, John 14:26, Col.3:16. In all Wisdom; Webster; wisdom-the right use or exercise of knowledge. Mans wisdom is foolishness to God. 1Cor.2:4-8, Jam.3: In Christ we have all wisdom; Col 2:3, 1Cor 1:30. It s the Lord s desire for us to realize if we have Christ we have His wisdom. Pray to have wisdom increase in your life. James 1:5, Eph. 1:17, 3:10, Col.1:9, walk in wisdom Col4:5. Wisdom of the world; 1Cor1:19-22, 2:1-7. Virtuous woman Prov.31:26. Present Perfect; To stand beside, exhibit a complete fully matured, of full age saint, fully developed to be Jesus bride. For the preaching and teaching the word of His grace will produce just that. It alone builds us up and gives that inheritance! Eph.4: One day soon Jesus will put on display what the riches of His grace did. Now are we the son s of God and it doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we KNOW that when HE shall appear, we shall be like HIM, for we shall SEE HIM as he is!!! So run that you might attaint pressing toward the mark of the high calling of God. Phil 3:12-15, Eph.1:12, Ps.138:8, Phil1:6. Col 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. Labour-- Strong s; G2872 kopiao-kop-ee-ah'-o From a derivative of G2873; to feel fatigue; by implication to work hard: (bestow) labour, toil, be wearied. 1Cor.15:10, 15:58, Col.4:12, 2Tim.2:3, 10, Isa.40:29, 2Cor.12:10, Heb.6:10, Eph.6: Striving Strong s; G75 agonizomai-ag-o-nid'-zom-ahee From G73; to struggle, literally (to compete for a prize), figuratively (to contend with an adversary), or generally (to endeavor to accomplish something): - fight, labor fervently, strive. Thayer; to enter a contest: contend in the gymnastic games, to contend with adversaries, fight, metaphorically to contend, struggle, with difficulties and dangers, to endeavour with strenuous zeal, strive: to obtain something. Phil.3:11-14, 1Cor.9:24-27, 1Tim.6:12, Phil.4:13, 2Sam.22:33, 40, Ps.27:1, 28:7, 144:1, The Virtuous woman; Prov.31:17, 25, Isa.40:31, Hab:19. Working Strongs; G1753 energeia en-erg'-i-ah From G1756; efficiency ( energy ) - operation, strong, (effectual) working.eph.1:18-20, 3:7.The word of his grace effectually worketh in us that believe. Talking in the mighty power of the word of His grace will strengthen us with His power and might doing that which is impossible for us to do. Worketh Strongs; G1754 energeo, en-erg-eh'-o From G1756; to be active, efficient: - do, (be) effectual (fervent), be mighty in, shew forth self, work (effectually in). Eph.3:20, Phil. 2:13. This word is found In James 5:16, the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Mightily In me Mightily; in us, God has placed His mighty power in us. Strongs; G1411 dunamis, doo'-nam-is From G1410; force (literally or figuratively); specifically miraculous power (usually by implication a miracle itself): - ability, abundance, meaning, might (-ily, -y, -y deed), (worker of) miracle (-s), power, strength, violence, mighty (wonderful) work. Eph3:16, Col.1:11. Power; Acts3:12, 16, 6:8, 1Cor.2:4-5, 12:9, 13:4, Eph. 3:7, Phil3:10, 1Thess.1:5, 2Tim.1:7-8, 2Pet.1:3. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. God shall supply all your need! Be strong in the power of His Might. May our eyes be enlightened Eph.1: Isa 40:29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. 31-But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. 2Sam.22:1-4,