From: October 5, 2014
Paul’s goal for the Colossians and for everyone to whom he preached is here revealed: that he might present them to God as “perfect” (fully mature, finished, complete) in Christ. He did not wish to just introduce them to Christ or to tell them a little about the Savior. No, Paul used every faculty available to him, “warning and teaching” them to not only believe, but to follow Christ, becoming like Him in all things. This should still be the goal of those who would answer the call to pastor. It should also be the goal of every person who would call themselves “Christian.”
From: October 5, 2013
We received Christ freely by grace, but we forget to live according to that same amazing grace. We come to Christ totally dependent on Him for salvation, but then we attempt to live for Him with human effort, which leads to frustration, burnout, and lack of joy. We say, “I will do this great thing for God.” When we should be asking as servants, “What do you want of me today Master?”
From: October 5, 2012
Do you understand what God has done? The punishment that was due us has been spent on Christ’s “physical body,” so that there is none left for us. The penalty for sin has been paid in full. When we accept Christ, we are redeemed from sin’s penalty and we are reconciled to God. Christ took our sin, our separation and our death and offers us His righteousness, His Sonship and His eternal life.
From: October 5, 2011
We receive Christ by grace through faith, so that’s how we should continue to live in Him. Not through religious working or effort, but drawing on His Spirit, staying connected to the Vine, we bear spiritual fruit. The One who saved us, keeps us and lives in us.