Greetings!
Beginning Sunday, August 12, 2007, I will begin a series of messages from the wonderful little Epistle to the Colossians. You might be wondering why I have chosen the series title, "Living the Mystery." It really is a play on the theological concept of mystery. Let me explain. The church at Colosse faced threats from within the church. This is what prompted Paul to write the letter in the first place. Epaphras, who founded the church at Colosse, reported to Paul some disturbing news about the presence of heretical (non-biblical) teachings at Colosse.
What was this heresy at Colosse that threatened the church? It was a syncretistic movement combining Jewish, pagan, and Christian elements. The pagan element was a form of what most scholars call "incipient Gnosticism," a complex system of myths and Greek philosophy that absorbed the various religions with which it came into contact. One of the tenets of Gnosticism was the belief that salvation was obtained through knowledge apprehended by mystical experience. This knowledge came only to the initiated; thus, salvation was available only to those who understood the "mystery."
However, Paul reaffirms the faith of the Colossians by reminding them that the "mystery" of the Gospel is revealed in Jesus Christ and in Him are "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (2:3). We might say that believers have been initiated into the "mystery," the kingdom of God through Jesus Christ. Believers are "Living the Mystery." There is also an element of belief that is an unfolding revelation to believers. That is, as we walk with Christ and understand our completeness in Him, we discover the wonderful "treasures and wisdom" that the Father has granted to us in Christ.
Each week I will post the sermon text(s) for each Sunday's message. Your comments and insights into the passages are encouraged and welcomed. It is my hope that this will be an ongoing dialogue that will help us all "Live the Mystery" of the Gospel. I hope to hear from you soon.
This Week's Text:
Sunday, August 12, 2007 -- Colossians 1:3-8.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
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1 comment:
I think it is special how Paul used the vocabulary of the heretics to show the superiority of the gospel.The mystery of the gospel is its simplicity and its paradox. You do not have to study and strain to work out your salvation. You just have to accept it. On the other hand, to have the abundant life, paradox is involved. You want to be first? Then you must be last. You want it all? Then you must give it all.
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