Colossians 4:2-18

PRAYER, WITNESSING, AND SERVICE

Keywords 4:2

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

 

1. Prayer and witnessing (2-6)

What a great blessing we have in Jesus that we can come before our Father’s throne as his precious children and receive grace and mercy in prayer! Paul says we are to devote ourselves to prayer, to be alert to what is happening around us, and to have an attitude of thanksgiving. Our prayers must also focus on the advancement of the gospel, asking God for opportunities and wisdom to share the good news of Jesus. We must be careful in our conduct and conversations with others, seizing every opportunity we can to witness in a way that is full of grace and truth.

 

2. Faithful service (7-18)

As Paul shares his final greetings, we are amazed by the image of Christ we see in all his coworkers. Tychicus and Onesimus are both described as faithful and dear. They would personally convey Paul’s love and circumstances to the Colossians. Epaphras continued to work hard for the sake of God’s people and faithfully wrestled in prayer for them. Paul’s life is perhaps the greatest example of them all. His chains remind us of the sacrificial life he lived for the sake of Christ.

 

Prayer Father, give us strength to pray and serve.

One Word Devote yourself to prayer