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Colossians 1:1-2
Paul is noting his connection to God, being called to the ministry by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and introducing Timothy as being connected to this ministry as well. He addresses the Church in Colosse in an encouraging way as “saints” and faithful brethren in Christ; I believe anyone would feel quite good being addressed in this fashion. He concludes the introduction or greeting by sending blessings as “grace and peace” (both of which we get from God through our salvation in Christ).
This is an example to show the Church in Colosse what they are supposed to be… (faithful brethren in Christ).
This is an example of a sincere greeting – In Christ.
This is an example of the importance of being uplifting and encouraging to one another.
As Christians, we should all continue to grow in our relationship with Christ Jesus. We should continually exhibit His love in our lives to our fellow Christians, neighbors, and even our enemies. Jesus declared in Matthew 5:43-45 (NKJV), “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” The Apostle Paul reinforces this in Romans 12:17-21 as he quotes Proverbs 25:21-22 and declares, “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord. Therefore ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on this head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Jesus overcame evil for us on the cross and ultimately, through His resurrection. He now gives us the power to overcome evil through our salvation in Him. Place your trust in Jesus today, proclaim Him your Savior, and He will give you the strength to overcome evil as you put and keep your focus on Him.
Dear LORD,
Thank You, God, for being so patient and encouraging to us as we face the struggles of living in this earthly world as Christians. Thank You for giving us this example through the Apostle Paul of exhibiting Your love through our lives, even to our enemies. Please fill us all with Your true love so that we would greet everyone with the same love that You have saved us with and called us to be an example of. In Jesus name I pray, amen.