Grace makes us powerful. It puts into our hands the ability to change, in Paul’s words, to put off our earthly nature and clothe ourselves in the good and beautiful things God has already made for us. [Audio | Notes]… Read more
Tag: Colossians
Colossians 1:15-23. Reprise
It surprises us to learn that the spirituality (the work and lifestyle) of Christians is not a calling to perfection but a process of growing maturity and discerning wisdom. Paul notes in Colossians that those who promise us access to … Read more
Colossians 4:7-18. For everyone matters
In Melbourne we are trained to work alone; to be alone. It is the cost of our individualism. Paul does not see himself as a brilliant leader who has all the answers and so is qualified to take charge. He … Read more
Colossians 3:18-4:1. Let God work in our relationships
All cultures have structured relationships. Details of the rules or lack of rules vary with time and place. In this part of Paul’s letter to Colossian Christians he asks them to so set their mind upon Christ that they can … Read more
Colossians 2:8-3:4. So leave deceptive philosophy
Paul writes of Christian spirituality and the usual (deceptive) philosophy that undergirds other ways of life. The most potent wrongs we commit are the ones we can not or will not acknowledge but Paul teaches us to counter them by … Read more
Colossians 1:24 to 2:7. To present us mature
We are striving to improve our lives but there are many times when we need resources beyond ourselves to do so. Contrary to the theme in our newsfeeds and hollywood films – we are not the heroes of our own … Read more
Colossians 1.1-23. God is in Christ
In our city we long for perfection. Perfection in our looks, leadership and lives. Perfection is an attractive and simple ideal – but it is also deadly. The apostle Paul asks the church in Colossae not to be deceived by … Read more