1 "I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally.
2 My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ,
3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.
5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is."
This is a personal appeal to the Laodicean church from Paul. He is pleading with them to remain faithful in his absence and not be deceived by false teaching. Throughout Paul's teachings he continually implores the new Christians to grow in Christ and be firm in their faith.
But I also find important points that I can apply to my own life and ministries. Paul said his purpose was
- that they be encouraged in heart
- united in love
- have rich and complete understanding
- know God through Christ - this is all wisdom and knowledge
It is my prayer that my life would be encouraging to others, loving, and that as I grow in Christ, I will be contagious in my desire for learning more about Him - that others will want to do the same.
No comments:
Post a Comment