The Principle of Colossians 3:1-4

A Reason to Rejoice

Ought Not This Woman Series

Colossians 3: 1-4

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

The Apostle Paul writes to the church at Colossae from prison to refute heresy. He reminds, warns and reaffirms the congregation as they had received Christ Jesus the Lord, to live in Him as they had been taught, established in faith and abounding in thanksgiving. And to let no one deceive them according to human customs or spirits of this world, not according to Christ. For in Christ the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and they had been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority2 – Colossians 2:6-9. In other words, don’t lose your focus, be careful where you invest your faith.

As you consider the reason for this letter, remember that we live in the age of pluralism and the misguided application of diluting the gospel message for the sake of pacifying unity. Diverse religious groups believe that one religion is as good as another. Some may confess that Jesus is the Son of God with their mouth but do not believe in the resurrection. Still, others may believe that Christ is only a prophet. But Paul is confident of Christ All-ness, His Absolute Supremacy, and His Universal Reign, and this is his message to the church at Colossae and you and me today. Christ not only Reign in China, or Africa, but in lower Alabama and Kansas City as well. Christ is Universal – He Rules and He Rocks, He is Lord of all.

Therefore, since our lives are hidden with Christ in God, we have a reason to rejoice. Christians have been given the green light to live celebrated lives before the world. We can shout Hallelujah and be glad because our Savior lives, we acknowledge that He is Lord to the glory of God. We rejoice because we are the children of the resurrection. And we are instructed to turn our gaze heavenward, look – up and pursue Him. He came for me and now I can willingly go after Him.
I have heard it said, “I will chase him until he catches me” I’m not sure who said it, but it is appropriate for our use in this message. Regardless, of who you are, or where you are, your life is hidden with Christ in God, and you are invited to go after Him with everything you’ve got. Because, He is your life and therefore, you have a reason to rejoice.

In conclusion, your situation is temporary; it is not the end of your story. God has given us salvation, and He has made us new creations, and that ought to be reason enough to give Him Praise. So, sing, and shout, Hallelujah – you have good reason to rejoice.

By: Pastor Angie Snow
April 23, 2014

The Reformation Study Bible. Sanford: Reformation Trust Publishing, a division of Ligonier Ministries, 2015.

Bible Verse of the Day

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered.

Inspiration for you

Destiny is not a matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved. -- William Jennings Bryan an American Politician

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