Reading through Colossians this morning and something struck me right off the bat. Paul addressed his thoughts, "To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse." That little phrase "and faithful brethren" caught my eye. There are saints (every believers according to the New Testament is given this title) and then there are those "faithful brethren" who are among them, but are distinguished from them. What could this linguistic distinction refer to? Simply that there's a difference between one who believes in Christ and one who belongs to Christ's cause; there are many who consent to being a follower of Jesus, but then there are a few who are committed to becoming mature, discipling others and spreading His Kingdom. There faithful ones are pretty easy to recognize and they are a delight to be around. I'm blessed that I have the privilege to work around and fellowship with a whole bunch of these folks. I walk by their offices at church daily. I pass through the prayer room after services and see them praying and counseling. They're passing out bulletins or holding the door open for folks or even directing traffic and helping out with security. Moreover I run into faithful brethren all around town, whose face beams the love of Christ and who love to talk about the Lord. I live a blessed life because of the presence of many faithful followers of our great God and Savior.
3 comments:
Pastor Skip,
Wow, the power of the Lord continues to amaze me! Your blog is a powerful afermation. I am a regular atendee at Calvary of Albuquerque, and am afraid to say I have only met you once... My wife has had the privilage of meeting your wife a few times being part of the "Woman's Bible Study." Just today our family has made a decision to become activly part of a new orginization developed by my Brother-in-law and his father. An outreach for the youth of America, and eventually internationally, as a Team Leader! This is huge for me as I am no doubt a prideful man that seems to think "I" can get things done! lol I drive a truck over the road and am gone all week, however, I have decided it is time for me to stop messing up God's plan for my life, and wish to give Him the reigns of my life! I do not know what we will do for income, housing, or work until this new ministry gets going, but I am letting it all go as I realize that it is only He that provides for us anyhow! I find myself scared to death, not at the lack of a plan, but at the thought of our Lord using my testimony and skills He has blessed me with to possible change someone's life! I have found my joy and smile again, and I must thank you for your teachings! Please pray for us as we continue to pray for you and your family, as well as all the staff members of the church. Any advice will be much appreciated.
Respectfully,
Robert
P.S. - I don't know if you will remember, but Memorial Day 2007 I was at service in my Dress Blue's and Pastor Neil grabbed me and Pastor Eric introduced me and I led the opening prayer for the 11a.m. service.
"Everything that I am or ever will be is either God's intention or my mistake" - Chuck Holton
Now that you're talking about this, I just remember that this month (without sounding "corny") I can actually tell you how much my husband and I appreciate you. We love you and your familiy!!!!!!!!!!! You've been a bless in our first year in ABQ!!!! God bless!!!!!
Thank you Pastor Skip, as I struggle with this truth often. Those who believe but doing nothing with following Christ,aren't filled by the Spirit,don't read their bible,never grow past believing etc...are they really saved? That is grace!!
Post a Comment