Had some bad audio today for some reason, but didn’t have time to redo this episode. Hopefully, I’ll remember to test the mic before my next episode. Thanks in advance for persevering through it.
Colossians 1:24–29
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.
Devotional Exposition
In Colossians 1:24–29, Paul teaches some deep truths about suffering, the mystery of the Gospel, and our mission as believers. These verses invite us to rejoice in suffering, cherish the truth of Christ’s indwelling presence, and proclaim him boldly, so that others may grow to maturity in Christ.
Paul’s startling declaration, “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake” (v. 24), mirrors Jesus’ redemptive perspective on suffering. Hebrews 12:2 describes Jesus enduring the cross “for the joy that was set before him.” Similarly, Paul sees his afflictions as a means of building up the Church. This doesn’t mean Christ’s sacrifice was incomplete; instead, as the Church - the body of Christ - we share in his sufferings as part of our witness to the world.
John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress depicts this beautifully: each trial Christian faces strengthens him for the journey to the Celestial City. Likewise, our trials, when entrusted to Christ, serve his redemptive purpose, even if we can’t fully understand how.
Paul further unpacks the revealed “mystery” in verses 25–27: “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” This indwelling presence assures believers of their eternal destiny and transforms their daily lives. J.I. Packer describes this truth as central to the Christian life, noting that it’s through this relationship with Christ that we’re changed from the inside out.
Finally, Paul outlines his mission in verse 28: to proclaim Christ, warning and teaching everyone with wisdom, to present them mature in Christ. This echoes Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:19–20. True discipleship goes beyond conversion; it’s about nurturing spiritual maturity through the power and wisdom of God. Paul emphasizes that his toil is fueled not by his strength but by God’s power working within him (v. 29).
Key Principles
Embrace trials as opportunities to participate in Christ’s redemptive work.
Recognize the indwelling presence of Christ as our hope and assurance of eternal glory.
Share the Gospel and guide others to spiritual maturity through wisdom and perseverance.
Reflection Questions
How does Paul’s perspective on suffering challenge your own?
What does it mean to you personally that Christ dwells within you? How does this truth transform your daily life?
What steps can you take to proclaim Christ boldly and encourage others in their walk with him?
Action Steps
Reflect on a current trial and ask God to help you see how it might serve his redemptive purpose.
Spend intentional time in prayer and study, meditating on the mystery of “Christ in you.” Consider reading J.I. Packer’s Knowing God or meeting with a mentor to explore this theme further.
Identify one person in your life with whom you can share the Gospel. Offer encouragement and help them grow toward maturity in Christ.
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