There in Spirit

Scott Beyer
10/10/23 - Bulletin

“…for even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ.” (Colossians 2:5)

            Our hearts can be where our bodies cannot.  The apostle Paul traveled far and wide, preaching the gospel, and when he was in Thessalonica, he was not in Corinth… when he was one place, he could not simultaneously be in another.  That is how this world works.  We cannot be everywhere at once.  Such power is left only for the omnipresence of God.

            However, Paul could be with the Colossians in spirit though his body was in prison.  His heart could rejoice at their success and weep with their trials.  His mind could be actively engaged in thinking of them and entreating Jehovah on their behalf.  Down here, the church is physically separated by space and time, but our spirits can serve together as one, and our hearts can be knit together in united fellowship with Christ.  May we strive to have a heart like Paul that ever loves and thinks of our spiritual family all over the globe.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Colossians 2:1-10

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

Share Online