Colossians: Alive In Christ Shembull

Even if we’re not pastors or full-time Christian workers, it’s good to know what their job description should be because that helps us understand what the church should be. Here Paul describes what his ministry is all about: * God has given him the job of making his word known (v.25) * this word is called 'the mystery' that's been revealed (v.26) * this 'mystery' is summed up as 'Christ in you' (v.27) Paul’s job description is, therefore, about making Jesus Christ known through the preaching of the word, with the end goal that believers might become mature in their relationship with Christ (v. 28). Paul’s whole life is given over to this goal (v. 29) of the church’s fullness in Christ, and he’s willing to suffer anything for it. Indeed, in verse 24 he sees his own ministry as a continuation of Christ’s own suffering ministry. This is the job description of every spiritual leader, even if their precise roles differ. They’re not chairmen of a social club, but their call is to make Christ known. God has called them to proclaim the gospel, warn and teach his people. They are to strive for the maturity of the church in Christ – and even to be willing to suffer for that goal. So, thank God for your leaders, pray for them and encourage them in this role because it’ll be very hard for you to become mature in Christ without them. And make sure that you yourself are aligned with this scriptural goal for the church. Remember that your local church isn’t any member’s private possession, but it’s about Christ and growing into him. This is what every member is called to strive for, whether they’re leaders or not. Reflection 1\. How have you been thinking about or treating the leaders in your church? Is your thinking aligned with Paul's job description here? 2\. How can you join in this battle for the church's maturity in Christ? What can you contribute?