Underestimating Hope

Scott Beyer
10/09/23 - Bulletin

“to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)

            To the Jewish mind, the Christ belonged to them.  The prophecies of the Old Testament are littered with references to the Messiah and the hope that He would bring to the nation of Israel.  The Jews had waited for their Savior for dozens of generations.  When the Christ came, He would save them.  He would lead them, He would guard them.  He would bring them victory.  He would be their King, and they would be His people.  To the Jew, the most glorious picture of the Messiah was possessive – He was their white knight.

            And so, Paul pushes back against the Jewish mind.  They had undersold the Messiah.  Jesus the Christ was far more glorious than merely being a king of Israel.  Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords.  Jesus, the Christ, is Savior of the whole world.  What is more glorious than the Christ in Israel?  The Christ in Israel and every other nation, too.  Jesus, King of all.  The Jews had underestimated the hope of glory.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Colossians 1:24-29

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. 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?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. 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

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