“For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding…” (Colossians 1:9, NKJV)

The main cause of Paul’s thanksgiving is that the Colossians have accepted the gospel and come into union with Jesus Christ. This gospel, which they heard originally from Epaphras, is not just another of the many new religions of the day. It is the universal gospel that is preached everywhere and changes the lives of people of all nations and cultures. It proves its power in the new attitude of love that believers show to one another and to others.

Paul prays that in addition to having love, the Colossians will increase in knowledge. This knowledge is not like the theorizing of the Gnostics, which leads only to feelings of superiority and selfsatisfaction. Biblical knowledge is not merely the possession of facts. Rather, knowledge and wisdom in the Bible are practical, having to do with godly living. It is knowledge which will produce a healthy spiritual. life of fruitfulness for God. Right behavior will only be possible as they have right knowledge.

In the same way, since we already have faith and love, we must ask the Spirit’s wisdom and understanding so that we might live lives worthy of Christ, made possible by God’s power. Right conduct will only be possible if we possess right understanding of God’s will.

Sources:

Fee, Gordon D. & Stuart, Douglas. How to Read the Bible Book by Book. A Guided Tour. Manila, Philippines: OMF Literature Inc., 2004.

MySword for Android. Riversoft Ministry, 2011-2019.

Olive Tree Bible Software, 1998-2020.

Zondervan NASB Study Bible. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1999.

http://www.biblegateway.com

Published by Pastorbluejeans Unplugged

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