The Chain of Christian Connection | Resources
Sermon Text: Colossians 4:7–18
“Tychicus, our dearly loved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know how we are and so that he may encourage your hearts. He is coming with Onesimus, a faithful and dearly loved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here. Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends you greetings, as does Mark, Barnabas’s cousin (concerning whom you have received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him), and so does Jesus who is called Justus. These alone of the circumcised are my coworkers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. He is always wrestling for you in his prayers, so that you can stand mature and fully assured in everything God wills. For I testify about him that he works hard for you, for those in Laodicea, and for those in Hierapolis. Luke, the dearly loved physician, and Demas send you greetings. Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her home. After this letter has been read at your gathering, have it read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. And tell Archippus, “Pay attention to the ministry you have received in the Lord, so that you can accomplish it.” I, Paul, am writing this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.” (CSB)
Devotional
Two summers ago, I attended a 20-ish year reunion and met with my old friends from when I was a teenager. You might be thinking this was a high school reunion, but it wasn’t. It was a youth group reunion. Classes of 1997–2002 were all invited. Over 20 of us came, including three youth sponsors and our youth pastor, Mark. It was so much fun! We put together the old worship team and worshiped the Lord like it was 1999. I had the privilege of preaching a sermon. We ate, laughed, explored the old youth room in the church basement, looked through old photo albums, hugged, cried, remembered three of us who have already gone to be with Jesus, and cherished every moment.
Pastor Mark had led a youth group that loved each other. In this youth group, we planned outreach events, grew spiritually in small groups, went on retreats, trusted each other, and loved each other unconditionally. These were my people. We were known, and we were safe here. We had a bond that linked and wove us together over time. There was a moment in this reunion when I realized our bond had far surpassed a mere friendship. Our identity in Christ is what held us together. It was a special thing to see us all still faithfully proclaiming the preeminence of Jesus Christ, and hearing our stories of passing on this legacy to our children and beyond.
In this passage, Paul lists 10 individuals who have a bond that is soaked in the blood, sweat, and tears of the Saints. Although I look forward to having another youth group reunion again, it will pale in comparison to the reunion in Heaven. What a reunion it will be! To see, meet, and worship with every brother and sister in Christ that ever existed! All in one spot. All with one focus. Completely known. Completely safe. Completely happy. Completely… complete. All worshiping the King.
I. Can’t. Wait.
Discussion/Reflection Questions
1. What do you think is the purpose of Paul putting these names here?
2. Describe the character and actions of Epaphras in verse 12. What can we learn from Epaphras?
3. Share your current circumstances with your group. How does your story fit into The Story? What part are you playing?
4. How can we partner better for Christ’s mission in our city?
5. In light of this text, what does it look like to obey the prompting of the Spirit this week?
Memory Verse
“I want their hearts to be encouraged and joined together in love, so that they may have all the riches of complete understanding and have the knowledge of God’s mystery—Christ.” Colossians 2:2 (CSB)