Rootedness in Christ's Supremacy

In the first two weeks of our teaching series on the book of Colossians, we've explored the "hope laid up in heaven" (Col 1:5) that the gospel articulates, good news that "bears fruit" in the communities to which it has come all over the world. While Christ's supremacy has been "proclaimed to every creature under heaven," the rule and reign of God is not yet "all in all" (as 1 Cor 15:28 puts it), and Paul urges the Colossians to "continue...steadfast in the faith" (Col 1:23).

In v. 24, Paul—who, after all, is writing from prison (4:3)—makes clear that his having become a "servant" of the gospel (1:23) involves "suffering" (1:24) and no small amount of "struggle" (2:1). Deepening roots of faith in Jesus, Paul suggests, result not (only) in comfort, but (also) in costly service in pursuit of the kingdom of God. Join us this Sunday as we invite the Lord's formation and encouragement to "continue steadfast in the faith" especially when our faithful service in response to the good news of Jesus leads us into suffering.