OCT 1

Colossians 1:1-2
Memorise 1 Corinthians 13:4
“…brethren in Christ which are at Colossae...”

The epistle to the Colossians begins thus: “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother.” Paul’s authority was often attacked, so in this epistle to the Colossian church, he started off by declaring that it was God that had appointed Him an Apostle, and by that authority, the words of this epistle are the very Words of God (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Whilst the Greek word for apostle, apostolos, is also translated as messenger for non-apostles like Titus (eg. 2 Corinthians 8:23), the term Apostle is only used for those who are given this special commission from God Himself.

Although Paul had this unique commission, he did not look down on his co-labourer Timothy, but commended him as a brother in Christ to the Colossians. Likewise in verse 2, Paul calls the Colossian saints brethren as well. Paul truly was an example in humility. Not the least because he always remembered that he was previously an enemy of Christ and deserved severe punishment. But now just like every other Christian, he is a sinner saved by grace. His office in the church was given by God, not by man; and God appointed Paul not because of Paul’s abilities, for even these abilities came from God for the purpose of service. Paul also knew the havoc the disease of pride would cause in the church, warning the Corinthian church that they should never be puffed up with pride (1 Corinthians 4:6).

Likewise, we should not look down on others that do not have as significant a role we have in serving God. It is tempting for those who sing in the youth choir to have pride in the collective harmony of voices that can be achieved, and look down on those who sing out of tune. It is tempting for those who serve in committees to have pride in their power to organise things and make decisions, and forget that the higher their office the more they need to minister to others. It is tempting for those who do not have such gifts from God to sing or lead to conversely envy those who do, forgetting that God gives every Christian gifts differing for the specific area of service each Christian is called to (Romans 12:6). Those of you who do not serve should therefore not envy but instead find out what is the area of service that God has called you to. Like Paul, we must all remember not to look down on others, but instead to be faithful to what God has entrusted us with.

Thought: Just like every other Christian, I’m only a sinner, saved by grace!
Prayer: May I always remember that all my abilities are given by God.