“…because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel.” (Colossians 1:5)
The hope of heaven isn’t some fairy tale to help small children sleep at night. It is a hope based upon “the word of truth”. The gospel is good news precisely because it is true. Without truth, the gospel wouldn’t be good news; it would be despair wrapped in the warm blanket of deception.
We hope in what is real. Heaven is real. Jesus is real. The cross and the empty tomb are real… and our faith is built upon real promises made from a real God. Don’t sell your soul for the short-sighted lies of this world. Hold on to your hope that lies in heaven. The best days are yet to come.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Colossians 1:1-10
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision