Feb. 16, 2025

The sermon begins at 30:33 min into the video. The music is licensed under CCLI Copyright #2723035 and Streaming Media #22024223 licenses.

Our Final Steps Through Colossians: 

Together in and for Christ:  Pastor Dave shares with you a heartfelt summary of this meaningful journey through Colossians, where we discover beautiful truths about unity, purpose, and God's amazing grace in Colossians 4:7-18. Paul gives us a window into the early church's rich tapestry of relationships. Think about this - over 100 believers mentioned by name throughout Paul's letters and Acts! In this passage alone, we meet 10 precious souls, each carrying their own story of God's grace.

A Beautiful Picture of Unity:  Isn't it amazing how Paul brought together such diverse individuals? We see Luke, the educated physician, serving alongside Onesimus, a runaway slave. Different backgrounds, different life experiences, yet united in Christ's love. This reminds us that our own church family is beautifully diverse - different experiences, different gifts, but one heart in Jesus.

The Ministry of Greeting:  Paul mentions greetings four different times, and there's such depth here. These weren't casual "hellos" - they were expressions of genuine care and recognition. When we greet one another, we're saying, "I see you. You matter. You're valued." Think about those moments before and after service when someone's standing alone. A warm greeting could be exactly what they need to feel welcomed into our family.

Your Unique Purpose:  Remember Archippus? Paul singles him out with a special message: "Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it." This command speaks to each of us today. Every single person born has a purpose, and everyone born again in Christ has a specific ministry to fulfill. This isn't about comparing ourselves to others - it's about being faithful where God has placed us. Maybe your ministry is parenting, perhaps it's prayer, or possibly it's serving in ways others might not even notice. Whatever it is, it matters to God and to His church.

Growing in Grace:  Throughout Colossians, grace appears again and again - like a golden thread weaving through the entire letter. Paul begins with grace and ends with grace because that's our story too! From the moment of salvation to our daily walk with Jesus, it's all about His grace. Remember that beautiful song: "Where would I be you only know, you only see through eyes of love, an empty place, a hopeless case if not for grace." Isn't that the truth? Every step of our journey depends on His amazing grace.

Personal Growth and Community Support:  As we serve in our unique ministries, we're encouraged to keep growing. Just as professionals continue their education, we should keep learning and developing in our spiritual gifts. But remember - it's not about being better than others; it's about growing in faithfulness to what God has called us to do.

Closing Thoughts:  As we conclude our journey through Colossians, let's hold onto these truths:

- We're all uniquely gifted and called by God

- Our differences make our unity in Christ even more beautiful

- Every greeting, every interaction, carries the potential to show Christ's love

- God's grace sustains us every step of the way

May we continue to grow together, support one another, and fulfill the beautiful purposes God has for each of us. Whether you're just discovering your calling or have been serving for years, remember - His grace is sufficient, His love is constant, and your ministry matters. Let's go forward together, celebrating our unity in Christ while embracing our unique roles in His kingdom. After all, isn't it beautiful how God brings us together, each with our own story, to create something far more wonderful than we could ever be alone?