I seriously question whether any pastor or teacher would
intentionally select these two specific verses as the cornerstone of their
sermon. However, when engaging in a meticulous verse-by-verse study of a book
in the Bible, it becomes essential to consider the subsequent two, three, or
even four verses, depending on the thematic coherence and flow of the material.
This method not only illuminates the interconnectedness of the biblical
passages but also reveals deeper meanings that might otherwise remain hidden.
By embracing this approach, one cultivates confidence in one’s interpretation, as it honors the inherent rhythm and narrative of Scripture.
Such a comprehensive exploration enriches the message, inviting listeners (or
readers) to immerse themselves more fully in the biblical text’s profound teachings and its timeless wisdom.
Verses 5 and 6 in Chapter 1 of Colossians offer deep
spiritual insights that truly deserve our consideration. As we embark on this
exploration today, Paul vividly presents a vital aspect of the Christian faith:
hope. He asserts, “Your faith and love have arisen from the hope laid up for
you in heaven.” It’s crucial to recognize that Paul does not introduce the
theme of hope haphazardly; rather, he builds upon a solid foundation. In our
previous discussion, we examined the essence of our Lord
Jesus Christ’s faith and its profound impact on believers’ lives. We
also contemplated the essential role of love in nurturing our relationships
with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Paul first elaborates on faith, referencing the Greek term ‘pistis,’
which signifies a deep-rooted conviction and unwavering trust in God’s
promises. He then transitions to the idea of love, denoted by the word ‘agape,’
which embodies God’s unconditional, sacrificial love for humanity. This divine
love not only symbolizes our new identity in Christ but also serves as
compelling proof of our spiritual rebirth. To highlight its significance, Jesus
instructs us with a powerful commandment: “I give you a new commandment—to
love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
Everyone will know by this that you are my disciples—if you have love for one
another” (John 13:34-35).
Now, Paul shifts his focus to hope, the cornerstone of our
expectation as believers. The Greek word for ‘hope’ is ‘elpis,’
intricately linked to the verb ‘elpo,’ which conveys the act of eagerly
looking forward to or anticipating something wonderful. This rich concept
encapsulates a profound sense of joyful expectation, casting aside any feelings
of dread or uncertainty. When Paul asserts, “Your faith and love have arisen
from the hope laid up for you in heaven,” he directly addresses the collective
body of believers in the Church at Colossae, employing the plural ‘you.’ He
offers each believer the assurance that God has meticulously prepared a
landscape of hope for those who have been born again.
Furthermore, the term ‘laid up’ in this context resonates
deeply, evoking imagery of something safeguarded and cherished. It is the same
Greek word used when discussing the comforting act of reclining or resting,
akin to lying down on a soft bed. This metaphor suggests that the hope God has
set aside for us in heaven is not merely an abstract promise; it is secure,
soothing, and immensely fulfilling. It indicates that our hope is not shrouded
in uncertainty or distress. Still, it is instead a present reality that offers peace
and assurance, inviting us to contemplate the incredible blessings that await
us now and in eternity.
Paul intricately weaves together the themes of faith, love,
and hope, creating a tapestry that forms the very foundation of a vibrant
Christian life. This interrelationship is essential for believers as they
navigate the complexities of their faith journey, encouraging them to remain
steadfast in their trust in God and to nurture genuine love for one
another—all fueled by the glorious hope that God has graciously bestowed upon them.
Throughout my spiritual journey, I have frequently
encountered descriptions of the magnificent streets of gold that await in
heaven, as vividly portrayed in the Bible. My unwavering trust in the divine
authority of Scripture strengthens my belief that the gleaming streets of gold
mentioned in Revelation 21:21—depicting the New Jerusalem as having “a great
street” fashioned from “pure gold, like transparent glass”—exists in a
tangible reality. Yet, despite this conviction, I have yet to behold its
beauty, touch its surface, or set foot upon it; I don’t even have a photograph that
captures its brilliance. Yet, still, I cling to the promise that one day, I
will witness its awe-inspiring splendor.
The hope that Paul articulates is beautifully encapsulated
as “the hope ‘laid up’ for you in heaven,” a promise that profoundly affirms
our true identity and intrinsic worth in Christ. Jesus vividly underscored this
idea when He taught, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be
also” (Luke 12:34). This statement powerfully emphasizes the significance
of our deepest affections and priorities, suggesting that genuine fulfillment
is found in our connection with Him.
Paul expands upon this concept, revealing that our ultimate
treasure lies not in earthly riches but in Jesus Himself: “God wanted to
make known to them the glorious riches of this mystery among the Gentiles,
which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27) (emphasis
added). This profound assertion reminds us that the true wealth, often depicted
as riches or rewards, is not merely material wealth, but is embodied in the
very essence and presence of Christ within us; we are partakers (partners,
companions) of the divine nature.
The intentional use of veiled language throughout Scripture
serves a deeply meaningful purpose—it seeks to craft an evocative image of our
identity in Christ Jesus, revealing how He perceives us. For instance, consider
the illustration of King Solomon, renowned throughout history for His
extraordinary wealth and unparalleled wisdom. In all His splendor, he extended
an invitation to the Shulamite with His love to become His bride, but also an
understanding of the profound unity and oneness they will share in their
fellowship together, and the intimate connection they will share. She confidently proclaims to
Solomon, “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me.” (Song of Solomon
7:1). Her relationship with Solomon represents a deep, secure commitment
between a husband and wife, often interpreted as the union between Christ and
his Church, or God and his people. A key takeaway from this theme in the
Song of Solomon is mutual ownership: it signifies that the lovers belong
entirely to each other, highlighting oneness and the absence of separation in
their relationship.
In the New Testament epistles, Paul depicts us as the
Bride of Christ, which signifies our profound status within God’s divine
economy. We are intricately woven into a royal lineage, considered heirs to the
boundless riches of His grace. “And from Jesus Christ which is that faithful witness, and that
first begotten of the dead, and that Prince of the Kings of the earth, unto him
that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his blood, And made us Kings and
Priests unto God even his Father, to him, I say, be glory, and dominion
forevermore, Amen.” (Revelation 1:5-6 from the 1599 Geneva Bible).
Through these rich biblical truths, we are continually
reminded that our worth is not shaped by the fleeting standards of this world
but is instead deeply rooted in our profound connection and fellowship with
Christ, who is the ultimate treasure and the enduring source of our hope.
The Bible is far removed from the casual wishful thinking
associated with ‘crossing your fingers’ for luck, or the superstition of
finding a four-leaf clover. It also goes beyond a mere wishing for a favorable
outcome. Instead, it is anchored firmly in the unfailing words of God. “So
when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the
unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so
that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we
who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the
hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul…” (Hebrews 6:17-19a). (emphasis added) With
this assurance, the oath, and the hope, we can approach the future with
steadfast confidence, fully convinced that God will fulfill His glorious
promises. I find myself brimming with anticipation for the day I will stroll
along that spectacular street of gold, gaze upon the face of my Savior, and
engage in heartfelt conversations with monumental figures of faith such as
Paul, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Moses—all made possible by “the hope that is
laid up for you in heaven.”
Have you ever experienced those quiet moments of reflection
as you prepare for sleep, lying in bed and ruminating on the profound hope you
possess for heaven? Perhaps you envision the joy of reuniting with a cherished
loved one or the breathtaking sight of a rainbow, with the color of an emerald,
encircling the majestic throne of God, as described in Revelation 4:3—each tied
intricately to “the hope that is laid up for you in heaven.” This hope
complements the triad of faith, hope, and love. Do you understand the origin of
love? Romans 5:5 reminds us: “And hope does not disappoint, because the love
of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given
to us.”
As for faith, do you grasp its source? Paul elucidates in
Romans: “Consequently, faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard
comes through the preached word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Our faith has
been shaped and nurtured by the empowering work of the Holy Spirit and rooted
deeply in the teachings found in God’s word.
Our love is also built upon this foundation, just as our
hope is. As Paul passionately asserts, our hope originates from the very word
of God: “the hope laid up for you in heaven, which you have heard about in
the message of truth, the gospel that has come to you.”
Let’s examine the significance of the two words we just read, “heard about,” which derive from the Greek term ‘proakouō.’ This
particular word appears only once throughout the entire Bible in this context.
I believe Paul is expressing the idea that the Colossians once had a
profound familiarity with the life-changing truth of the Gospel—the death,
burial, and resurrection of Jesus—and were born again. They had “heard” the
good news clearly in the past, suggesting that perhaps, over time, they may not
have been receiving the pure, unadulterated message of the Gospel with the same clarity they
once did.
In the early days of the church, false teachers and perilous
doctrines began to threaten their community, acting as a “poison” that
necessitated vigilant correction from the apostles, particularly Paul, along
with the leaders of the churches he established. The New Testament consistently
warns against such individuals, many of whom were not distant adversaries but
rather “wolves from within,” emerging from within the very church community to
distort the Gospel for personal gain, fame, or power.
We will delve more deeply into this pressing issue later in
subsequent posts reflecting on Colossians 2:8, where Paul cautions the
Colossians, “Be careful not to allow anyone to captivate you through an
empty, deceitful philosophy that is according to human traditions and the
elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” The
encroachment of worldly perspectives was beginning to infiltrate the Church at
Colossae, and Paul sought to confront these dangerous influences before they
could take root and become systemic.
This is a pivotal opportunity to explore the significance of
establishing a robust foundation in Christ Jesus at the outset of one’s
Christian journey. It is vital to firmly grasp the fundamental doctrines and
core tenets of our faith. The Apostle Paul distinctly articulates this in his
powerful exhortation to Timothy: “Preach the message; be prepared to share
it in every circumstance, whether it is convenient or inconvenient; reprove,
rebuke, and encourage with unwavering patience and careful instruction. For a
time will come when people will reject sound doctrine, choosing instead to
satisfy their own desires, amassing a multitude of teachers who will tell them
what their itching ears long to hear. They will turn away from listening to the
truth and instead gravitate toward fables and myths.” (2 Timothy 4:2-4).
We also find solace in the promise of “the hope laid up
for you in heaven, which you have heard about in the message of truth, that is,
the Gospel.” This message, which dates back to a time before the onset of
apostasy—before numerous church groups or denominations began to waver in their
commitment to the Word of God—reminds us of the unwavering truth
they once embraced.
Let’s take a closer look at the phrase “message of
truth,” which in some translations is rendered as “the word of truth.”
The term for ‘word’ in Greek is the noun ‘logos,’ derived from the verb form
‘lego,’ which means to select or to choose. This indicates that God has
intentionally designated what we are meant to understand in Scripture. While
God hasn’t revealed every aspect of creation, He has purposely chosen what is
essential for us to know. For instance, I may not have insight into all facets
of Abraham’s life, yet He has provided the key details starting from Genesis
12. Similarly, the Gospel of John reminds us that Jesus’s earthly ministry is
only partially documented: “There are many other things that Jesus did. If
every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would
not have room for the books that would be written.” (John 21:25).
In this light, the concepts of ‘lego’ and ‘logos’ illuminate
how the Lord guides us to the critical truths about our Jesus:
His divinity, His sacrificial death on the cross, and His being the Savior for all who believe. Thus, when we refer to the phrase, “You
have heard about in the message of truth, the gospel that has come to you,”
we are reminded of the transformative power and reliability of the Gospel in
our lives.
Listen to this profound word for truth: ‘alētheia.’ The initial letter ‘a’ serves as a negation, meaning ‘no’ or ‘not,’ which plays a crucial role in understanding the word. The root ‘lētheia’ derives from the Greek verb ‘lanthánō,’ signifying being forgotten, unnoticed, or unseen. Therefore, the combination of ‘lētheia’ with the prefix ‘a’ transforms it to mean that God’s truth is ‘not forgotten, not unnoticed, or not unseen.’ This interpretation resonates with the themes found in Psalm 119—the longest chapter in the Bible with an anonymous author, often believed to be King David—where it states, “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11). This verse highlights the importance of internalizing divine truth, suggesting that once we engrain these teachings in our hearts and minds, they become unforgettable.
In an ever-changing world where ambiguity about truth runs
rampant, we can find ourselves anchored by our unwavering conviction. As Jesus
solemnly prays to the Father on our behalf, He petitions, “set them apart in
the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17). This resonates with clarity,
highlighting the sanctifying power of Scripture, distinctly elevating it as
absolute truth amidst a plethora of conflicting ideologies.
The term ‘Gospel,’ derived from the Greek ‘euangelion,’
signifies ‘good news,’ a concept rich with historical implications. The prefix
‘eu’ encapsulates notions of positivity—good, wonderful, and beneficial—while
‘angelion,’ originating from the Greek ‘angelon,’ signifies a message or
announcement, often linked with celestial messengers. Thus, in its compound
form, ‘euangelion’ translates to “good news,” historically evoking
triumphant declarations of victory or royal edicts. In the New Testament
context, it embodies the exhilarating message of salvation and the kingdom of
God. This Gospel delivers the most uplifting news imaginable: God chose to step into the earthly realm, to become incarnate and walk among
us, ultimately laying down His life on the cross to redeem humanity—a sacrifice
of immeasurable cost for our salvation. The narrative
surrounding our hope, as rooted in this Gospel, resonates powerfully with our
journey of faith.
This truth has been articulated succinctly by William
Branham, who said: “I believe it because the word said it, now I’m resting in
hope of the promise.” This statement reflects the eager anticipation that
accompanies faith—an excitement rooted in the promise of witnessing divine
realities one day. As expressed in Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is being sure of
what we hope for, being convinced of what we do not see.” This verse
encapsulates the essence of faith, empowering us to navigate the future with
assuredness, even amidst uncertainty and turmoil.
Moreover, hope ignites within us a mindset of resilience,
giving us the strength to embrace sacrifice in this life for
eternal rewards. Through hope, we are gifted with the Holy Spirit’s fortitude,
enabling us to confront life’s adversities with unshakeable determination. We
are called to persevere in our spiritual race, unwavering despite challenges
and discouragement, propelled forward by the assurance of a glorious reward awaiting us in the presence of Christ—this is the cornerstone of our hope.
In contrast, the world’s perspective advocates a
‘buy now, pay later’ mentality. It glorifies immediate satisfaction, urging
indulgence without foresight, often leading to ephemeral pleasures that quickly
fade. However, the philosophy of the Kingdom of God presents a stark
divergence: it acknowledges that we may endure sorrow, anguish, and trials now. Still, these experiences are the chrysalis from which blessings and eternal
rewards emerge, including crowns bestowed for faithful service.
The epiphany that transforms our worldview from reliance on
the fleeting nature of worldly systems to a steadfast faith in Christ’s
promises is profound. This hope is immovable, like a rock-solid anchor amidst
life’s turbulent seas. As we embrace present sufferings, we hold fast to the
anticipation of unimaginable glory awaiting those who believe: “For I
consider that our present sufferings cannot even be compared to the coming
glory that will be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18). The King James Version
emphasizes the nuance of ‘revealed in us,’ suggesting depth to the
understanding of a divine transformation that is both external and profoundly
internal.
Furthermore, Paul reassures us, “For in this hope we were
saved. Now, hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But
if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” (Romans
8:24-25). This Scripture beautifully articulates the virtue of patience,
inviting us to trust as we eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of promises
grounded in faith.
Moses serves as a striking example of this principle: “By
faith, when he grew up, Moses refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s
daughter, choosing rather to be ill-treated with the people of God than to
enjoy sin’s fleeting pleasure. He regarded the abuse suffered for Christ to be
greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for his eyes were fixed on the
reward.” (Hebrews 11:24-26). Moses’ story embodies the essence of choosing future spiritual abundance over temporary gratification, a choice firmly rooted in his
unwavering faith and vision of what really mattered.
Let me share this verse one more time: “Your faith and love have arisen from the hope laid up for you in heaven, which you have heard about in the message of truth, the gospel that has come to you.” Our faith, love, and hope interweave seamlessly, with God preordaining an abundance of blessings and rewards for those who faithfully traverse life’s challenges. This profound truth, proclaimed to us from the outset, provides a rich foundation for our spiritual journey as we embrace the transformative power of the Word of Truth—the Gospel.
As I reflect on my current journey in my walk with Christ, I
find myself hesitant to claim unwavering strength in my faith, nor do I regard
myself as excelling in love. Yet I sense that my faith has deepened, and my
ability to express love has grown, even if only incrementally. Conversely, I
acknowledge that I often find myself faltering in the realm of hope; it feels
particularly fragile and difficult to hold on to, especially during challenging times.
I earnestly pray, Lord, that You guide us all to redirect our focus to a posture of thankfulness and gratitude. May we learn to elevate our sights
toward the divine promises You have graciously given us. Let our desires and
aspirations be rooted in the fulfillment of this joy, forming our lives in
Christ as we navigate the complexities of the present day. Give us the strength
to embrace hope, allowing it to flourish in our hearts and empowering us to move
forward with steadfast trust in Your perfect and loving plan for our lives.
As we delve into verse 6, we uncover a profound declaration:
“the Gospel that has come to you, just as in the entire world.” This
statement is not merely a reflection of faith; it is a beautiful testament to
the transformative power of the Gospel that has reached both you and me. For
many of us, our spiritual journey began within the nurturing embrace of a
Christian household, where the foundational truths of faith were woven into the
fabric of our upbringing, shaping our beliefs and guiding our moral compass.
Others, however, encountered Christ later in life, perhaps prompted by pivotal
decisions or by soul-searching moments in crises that led them
towards a deeper understanding of their need for spirituality. No matter the
circumstances leading to our salvation, each of us was touched by the profound
message of the Gospel.
Consider the simple yet powerful call of the Gospel to come
unto Jesus. For many, the exact moment when the Gospel first illuminated their
hearts may be but a distant echo. Some may have been introduced to its tenets
long before their rebirth in Christ. In contrast, others vividly remember the
transformative day that marked their spiritual awakening—a moment they often
celebrate with deep gratitude and joy.
I am particularly captivated by the phrase “the Gospel
has come unto you.” The Holy Spirit intentionally chose the Greek verb
‘pareimi’ to convey this proclamation, a term rich in meaning. ‘Pare’
translates to ‘being present, right beside me,’ while ‘imi’ signifies ‘I am.’
This duality echoes the powerful declarations of Jesus in His ‘I am’
statements: “I am the door, I am the way, I am the truth, I am the life.” In essence, the
Gospel arrives not with a mere invitation but with a profound assurance: “I am
here, I am by your side, the Holy Spirit has sent me.” This commitment reflects
the divine purpose of Jesus’ sacrificial act, orchestrated by God the Father:
“I am here,” beautifully encapsulated in the essence of the word ‘pareimi.’
Aren’t you filled with gratitude that the Gospel found its
way into the tapestry of your life, that it arrived with such
intentionality—‘pareimi’—the everlasting Gospel that has come to you.
Furthermore, Paul boldly asserts the expansive reach of the Gospel: “…just
as in the entire world…” His words resonate with a deep conviction that the
Gospel has already begun to permeate every corner of the Earth. This belief is
rooted in divine inspiration, a truth I wholeheartedly share.
Paul invokes a Deuteronomy 32 worldview, referring back to
the 70 nations scattered after the pivotal event at Babel. This scattering
holds great significance in understanding his mission as the Apostle to the
Gentiles; his ministry was specifically aimed at reuniting these disinherited
nations with their God. The historical context of the “table of nations” or “70
nations” as chronicled in Genesis 10 provides a rich backdrop for this narrative,
detailing how these nations were called back to God through Paul’s diligent
efforts.
In Deuteronomy 32:7-8, we find a powerful reminder: “Remember
the days of old; consider the years of many generations; ask your Father, and
he will show you, your elders, and they will tell you. When the Most High gave
to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders
of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God.” (Deuteronomy
32:7-8). In the wake of Babel, God’s displeasure led to the separation of
humanity into distinct groups defined by language, and He blessed
each group with its own lands, cities, and cultural identities.
Each of these 70 nation-states was overseen by one of the heavenly sons of God until the coming of the Christ, who would reign as the world’s ultimate ruler, the chosen Messiah. This grand narrative of divine intervention not only emphasizes the monumental reach of the Gospel but also highlights the unity that God fervently sought through Paul’s mission—calling the disinherited nations from Babel, back to Himself, each with their own unique stories woven into the fabric of His redemptive plan.
I have a deep appreciation for diving headlong into Paul’s
epistles; his writings reflect an unwavering optimism that stands out in the
New Testament. Paul possesses tremendous confidence that the word of God will
ultimately prevail, triumphing over the pervasive effects of sin and the
various spiritual and societal systems that oppose it. His fervent ambition to reach
far-flung destinations like Tarshish—modern-day Spain—and the Roman province of
Asia, encompassing what we recognize today as Turkey, exemplifies his imaginative
vision for the Gospel’s expansive reach. These locations symbolize not just the
farthest frontiers of the known world during his time but also the endless
possibilities for the message of Christ to touch lives everywhere.
In Romans 8:37, Paul makes a compelling declaration: “In
all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
This powerful assertion encapsulates his steadfast belief and radiates a
deep-seated certainty. There is no room for doubt when it comes to the
transformative power of divine love and grace. He resonates with the mission
articulated by Jesus in Mark 16:15, where
He commands, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every
creature.” No longer was Jesus focused solely on the redemption of Israel, but on the redemption of the entire world. With fervor, Paul embraced this mission, dedicating his life to
ensuring that the message of Christ penetrated even the most remote corners of
the Earth—north, south, east, and west.
Paul’s journeys were filled with relentless determination, as
he scaled rugged mountains, navigated turbulent seas, and bravely encountered
diverse cultures. Each step he took was fueled by a passionate belief that the
Gospel could not only reach distant lands but also resonate powerfully within
their unique contexts. When addressing the burgeoning Christian community in
Rome, Paul expressed his heartfelt gratitude, declaring in Romans 1:8, “First
of all, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith
is proclaimed throughout the whole world.” This poignant proclamation
illustrates his conviction that the transformative message of the Gospel was
breaking through cultural and geographical barriers, echoing in the hearts of
communities far and wide.
In his letter to the Thessalonian believers, Paul skillfully
emphasizes the remarkable testimony forged by their church. He exuberantly
proclaims, “For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in
Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that
we need not say anything.” (1 Thessalonians 1:8). This vivid imagery
captures how their unyielding faith and commitment became a powerful force,
resonating beyond their local context and captivating hearts across distant lands.
Yet, the early chapters of Paul’s ministry were fraught with
significant challenges. In Acts 17, when he and his companions ventured into
the bustling city of Thessalonica, Paul and Silas faced fierce opposition from
local Jewish leaders, whose jealousies and suspicions ignited widespread
hostility. As described in Acts 17:5-6, their accusations rang out like a
battle cry: “These people who have stirred up trouble throughout the world have
come here too.” The English Standard Version amplifies this sentiment,
stating, “These men who have turned the world upside down have come here
also.” Such richly evocative language captures the revolutionary nature of
their Gospel message, showcasing how the Gospel was perceived as a transformative
force capable of disrupting established societal norms.
In the context of his mission, Jesus commissioned Paul to
proclaim the message to the nations, with particular focus on the culturally
vibrant Roman province of Asia—a significant hub of commerce and thought in
that era. Paul also nurtured dreams of reaching Tarshish (Spain), a powerful
symbol of his unyielding vision for the Gospel’s reach, illustrating a
deep fervor to see Christ’s teachings illuminate every corner of the known
world and beyond.
To Paul, the Roman province of Asia represented the outer
bounds of his world; however, our contemporary understanding reveals a vast and
diverse landscape filled with countless nations and cultures yearning for the
life-changing light of Christ’s teachings. The call to spread the Gospel to
every corner of the Earth was firmly rooted in the book of Acts. In Acts 1:8,
Jesus offers the promise, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit
has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea
and Samaria, and to the farthest parts of the earth.” This stirring
declaration highlights not only the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit but
also delineates the far-reaching scope of mission—beginning in
Jerusalem’s heart and extending to the very edges of the Earth.
Paul fully embraced this divine commission, stepping boldly
into the role of a passionate Church Planter and Apostle. He was eager to
testify to the profound and transformative impact of the Gospel in every
context, every encounter, and every heart willing to receive its life-altering
message. His relentless pursuit of this mission continues to inspire and ignite
the hearts of countless individuals today.
John saw a vision in heaven as he described in the book of
Revelation, people who were born again from the entire Earth: ‘… I looked,
and here was an enormous crowd that no one could count, made up of persons from
every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and
before the Lamb dressed in long white robes, and with palm branches in their
hands. They were shouting out in a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God,
who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb!”’ (Revelation 7:9-10). John
had a vision of the incredible life-changing power of the Gospel, which was, in fact, Paul’s goal to preach the Gospel to the whole world.
You can observe something remarkable about the ‘Gospel’
presented in our text today: “so it has also been bearing fruit.” The
Greek word employed here, ‘karpoforeō,’ conveys an image of the Gospel as a
vibrant force that ‘transports fruit’ wherever it takes root. But what does
this fruit consist of? It embodies the transformative effects of the Holy
Spirit, as articulated in Galatians 5:22-23: “the fruit of the Spirit is
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and
self-control. Against such things there is no law.” This illustrates that encountering the Gospel is not a one-time event; it continues to yield fruit, marking ongoing spiritual growth and maturity in believers.
We can also reflect on the parable of the Sower—a poignant
metaphor for the dissemination of the Gospel. Jesus tells us, “But other
seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundred times as much, some
sixty, and some thirty” (Matthew 13:8). This parable often gets interpreted
through the lens of numbers and converts; however, it’s crucial to recognize
that it also highlights the richness and diversity of the fruit being
cultivated and matured. The word of God is alive, dynamic, and never stagnant.
When the transformative seed of the Gospel is sown, it has the unparalleled
capacity to change lives, ignite hope, usher many into new birth, and produce maturity.
The Gospel manifests fruit internally and externally.
Internally, it fosters deep personal transformation, shaping character and
values; externally, it compels believers to engage in the Great
Commission—birthing new followers by sharing the Gospel
(planting seeds) and entrusting God to nurture and produce fruit in the lives of others. As the text reveals, “It has also been bearing fruit and growing
among you from the first day you heard it and understood the grace of God in
truth.”
It’s essential to recognize that the Gospel is referred to
here as “the grace of God in truth,” a phrase that enriches our
understanding and connection to the very core of our faith. The Greek term for ‘understood’ is ‘epiginōskō,’ which signifies a profound realization that stems
not only from cognitive acknowledgment but also from a rich tapestry of observation
and personal experience. We truly come to know the essence of the Gospel
because it is “growing among you from the first day you heard it and
understood the grace of God in truth.”
Let us celebrate the intimate, personal experience of our first time encountering the Gospel, for it was the very foundation of our faith
journey. Let us lift our voices in thanksgiving to God for inviting Jesus into
our lives, for the remarkable transformation that accompanies our rebirth, and
for the constant companionship we enjoy from the moment we first met Him.
Importantly, the last part of today’s passage does not mention
the term “Gospel”; it emphasizes that we have come to truly understand (or
know) “the grace of God in truth.” Here, Paul brilliantly renames the
Gospel “the grace of God in truth,” underscoring that it is not a mere
illusion; it stands as the ultimate truth of God Himself. Once we hear this
truth, it becomes indelible in our hearts and minds. The Gospel takes residence within
us, embodying the essence of our personal journeys with Christ, who abides in
us through the work of the Holy Spirit, nurturing and guiding us along our spiritual path,
continually drawing us closer to God’s grace and truth.
Stephen Barnett
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