Epaphras and Colossae: Teaching Grace
Scripture Reading — Colossians 1:3-8
You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who...also told us of your love in the Spirit.
The opening lines of Paul’s letter to the Colossians are filled with praise. The good news of salvation and new life in Christ was spreading throughout the region, and the community was overflowing with God’s love.
Epaphras played an instrumental role in starting the church in Colossae. He faithfully shared the gospel message with the people and helped them understand the hope to which God had called them. He helped the people understand God’s grace.
When we understand grace, we see others differently. We develop love and generosity for our brothers and sisters because that is what God has given us. By God’s grace we are forgiven our sins and given new life to enjoy with God forever, guided by his Holy Spirit.
For the Colossian church, God’s grace was transforming their world. They were producing the fruit of the Spirit, the gospel message was going out into the world, and people were coming to faith.
Part of our role in mentoring others is to help them understand the message of God’s grace. Once we have understood the depths of God’s grace for us, we want others to know it too. Have you shared with others the grace you have experienced? Tell someone today how God has been gracious to you!
Lord, thank you for your never-failing grace that does not treat us as our sins deserve. Thank you for loving, forgiv-ing, and calling us to live for you. May we always marvel at your unfailing grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Steven and Deb Koster
Steven and Deb Koster have a passion for marriages, families, and spiritual growth in the home. Both are ordained ministers in the Christian Reformed Church in North America. Steven formerly served as editor of Today and director of ReFrame's English-language outreach. Deb leads Family Fire, ReFrame’s family ministry at FamilyFire.com and on Facebook. The Kosters have three children.
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