Receiving Correction - Colossians - Part 10

In Colossians chapter 1 we see the writer prepare the basis of what is going to be covered in the rest of the book. That basis is extremely important for several reasons but the one that strikes me this morning is this.

We must know that we are loved before we can receive correction and direction.

The Colossians have gone in the wrong direction doctrinally in several key ways. They are worshipping angels, they have a wrong concept or holiness and depravity and Jesus' deity has become diminished in emphasis and overshadowed. Chapter 2 is going to start addressing these issues.

"I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving." - Colossians 2:4-7 ESV

This morning I read through chapter 1 several times and looked for divisions of ideas (1:1, 1:3, 1:9, 1:13, 1:21, 1:24-2:3)

The writer is not looking down on the reader. He is a peer but a peer with specific understanding of theology (the study of God) and anthropology (the study of man). He wants these people that he mostly doesn't know (but the Spirit knows intimately) to succeed and thrive.

In chapter 2 the writer acknowledges that there are other teachers and that these teachers are wrong about important issues. He is going to correct them by focusing on Jesus.

I want to be anchored in chapter 1 before I move to chapter 2. It would be tempting to stay in chapter 1 and never move on to correction but that is not profitable.

My theology isn't perfect. It is sound but not perfect. Like a musical instrument, I need to be re-tuned after heavy use and the way that happens is to focus on Jesus. He is always perfect.

Don't be surprised if people don't respond to you if you jump directly into correction. They need Jesus in chapter 1 before they can accept Jesus in chapter 2.

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