Colossians 4: Final Words

What would the apostle Paul write to his Church in Kennett Square? I would imagine that he would give some great praise. I would equally imagine that he would speak a few tough words as well. How would he end the letter? What last charge and encouragement would he say? I imagine it would have many similarities to his letters to the Colossians and to the Philippians.

“My beloved brothers and sisters in our Lord Jesus Christ, continue in your work towards the poor and needy. You honor the Lord greatly in your service toward them. Continue to be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Continue to love your neighbor as your self.

But I plead with you to remain spotless from the world. The runaway culture of consumerism threatens to pull you from me and to trust in things not in me. Guard your heart and mind from these dangerous influences of media, advertising and peer pressure. Life is more than work, things and fame. Rather whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Finally, I rejoice greatly in the Lord for your concern for the church and for the needy and how your share in their trouble. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen”

Posted by Aaron Miner