UPDATED! November 25, 2007 Colossians 4:7-18

Dear Readers,
I apologize for my two-week absence from posting my sermon texts. My last several sermons dealing with stewardship were topical in nature and treated a variety of sermon texts. This Sunday, I will conclude the sermon series on the book of Colossians. I hope that you have enjoyed this study as much as I have. On December 2, 2007 I will be preaching on the subject, "Tell Me the Story of Jesus," our Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Mission's theme. Beginning December 9, 2007 I will be preaching a brief series on selected biographical passages for Christmas entitled, "Christmas through Their Eyes."

Sunday, November 25, 2007
Sermon Text: Colossians 4:7-18 (NIV)
[7] Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. [8] I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts. [9] He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.

[10] My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.) [11] Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me. [12] Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. [13] I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis. [14] Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings. [15] Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.

[16] After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea. [17] Tell Archippus: "See to it that you complete the work you have received in the Lord." [18] I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.

Thoughts on the Text
1. Paul concluded his letter to the Colossians with an extended list of greetings. Ten (10) people, representing a diversity of backgrounds, are mentioned by name.
2. This section may be divided into three parts:
(1) Those who journeyed to the church (4:7-9)
(2) Those who sent greetings (4:10-14)
(3) Those to whom greetings were being sent (4:15-17)
3. Some questions for reflection:
(1) How was the early church instrumental in breaking down barriers between various peoples (e.g., Jew vs. Gentile; Male vs. Female; Slave vs. Freeman)?
(2) What was the source of unity for the early believers?
(3) How was the fellowship of the church nurtured through the various ministry partnerships between believers?

What is God showing you this week? Your observations and insights into this passage are welcomed and appreciated.

For His Glory!
Pastor Joe