February 25
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ASSURANCE OF YOUR FAITH IN CHRIST
For I want you to know how great a struggle I have in your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and that they would attain to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this so that no one will deceive you with persuasive arguments. 5 For even though I am absent in body, I am nevertheless with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your orderly manner and the stability of your faith in Christ.
– Colossians 2:1-5
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In this letter, Paul reminds the Colossians about how it is a struggle for him not be able to see them personally, but he still encourages them to continue in their faith. He tells them how important it is to be united and live-in harmony with one another in love. He brings them reminders of hope. Since Christ lives inside them, they will have the full assurance that all the mystery will slowly be revealed to them as they continue to abide in Jesus. In verse 3, he tells them that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge can only be found in the teaching of God’s truth. If they cling to their faith and stand on God’s promises, they will never be deceived by anyone teaching them false gospel or teachings. They will be sure that their faith will grow and they will be securely grounded on Jesus’ love and truth.
David Guzik comments that Paul wanted to encourage the Colossians because he was concerned about their enthusiasm. He knew that discouraged, downcast Christians are easy prey for the world, the flesh, and the devil. Barclay comments that Paul uses the word “paraklein”. Sometimes that word means to comfort, sometimes to exhort, but always at the back of it there is the idea of enabling a person to meet some difficult situation with confidence and gallantry.” Paul wanted these Christians to be fit for heroic action.
It is impossible to grow in one’s faith if there is no assurance coming from the truth that Jesus gave up his life so that we can be free from the sin that separated us from God. No other human can bring that kind of stability in once life. Jesus is the stable foundation where we can anchor our hope and our lives.
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REFLECTION
• How can your assurance in Christ be shown in your life for others to see Jesus?