Established
Everything -- in the name of Jesus
Read Colossians 3:12-17
Last week: Colossians 3:16 Let the message of Christ dwell in your hearts richly and song is a wonderful tool to establish His truths in our hearts. The morning, evening, and midnight rhythms of song can powerfully redirect our minds. Praise God from whom all blessings flow…
This week: Colossians 3:17 Edict: “Whatever you do…do it all” “Everything…everything”
“Whatever you do…” “If you hear nothing else…” Becomes a summary statement to hold on to.
What are we summarizing?
- Live for the benefit of others—compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love to wards others. (12-14)
- The peace of Christ must rule. (15)
- The message of Christ be where you live—song and singing to one another guides you there. (16)
Still not getting it? “Whatever you do…”
*Illustration:
- Hunters safety course- Whatever you do…never point a gun at a person.
- Drivers safety course- Whatever you do…do not take your eyes off the road.
- Pastoral ministry course- Whatever you do…never let your guard down, as it only takes one moment to lose a lifetime of ministry.
These become charges to live by.
Paul exhorting the church for a life that pleases God and helps us thrive.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed…” “lips or life” BCK Everything!
Whatever you do (everything), word and deed (everything), do it all (everything) in the name of Jesus.
Words- What we speak is a reflection of what we think, who we are, what we are for.
Deeds- Our actions will always evidence the order of what we value.
I like to have fun. I like to be in control.
I value people. I love God.
I love my family. I want to secure my family’s future.
I want to retire early. I don’t like to be disrespected.
I don’t like to lose.
Now order these!
Our words and deeds are us.
Paul is challenging us “In everything we do, do everything in Jesus name.”
Your identity must change. You become like Jesus to live for Jesus!
“…in the name of Jesus…”
- By His authority.
- By His permission or example.
- To His credit.
Example: Wearing the badge “To Protect and Serve” Once the oath is taken all actions, word and deed, in uniform and out of uniform reflect the Constitution of the United States.
When violated, what is the damage caused?
Example: Once ordained as a minister of the gospel, all actions, word and deed reflect the authority, permission, and credit of the gospel.
When violated, what is the damage caused?
Example: You are a child of God, a son of God, a daughter of God who is an heir of heaven—you bear the name of Jesus.
When violated, what is the damage caused?
“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of Jesus…”
- He must truly be Lord of your life.
- His model of life must become our way to live not in part.
- He gets the glory because we need His example and His help to live this way.
Not only will living for Jesus change our lives, but it the greatest motivation is for the benefit of other people. 1 Corinthians 10:23-24, 31-33
- I have the right and freedom to do anything, but is it beneficial for others?
- I have the right and freedom to do anything, but is it constructive in my relationship with others?
- I have the right and freedom to do anything, but does it bring glory to God or myself?
- Will my life lead people to the feet of Jesus?
It is all about Jesus! All things good come from Him. He changes the trajectory of our lives. He gives us a template of a better life. When we mess up, He is the one who restores. His love is so vast for people, He continues to save people each day. His strategy for saving people is to shine His light through your life being changed.
“And be thankful!” (15)
“…singing with gratitude in your hearts.” (16)
“…giving thanks to God through [Jesus] him.” (17)
Can we take any credit. No.
To say thanks is to acknowledge someone’s efforts.
To say thank you is to credit the work of another that benefitted you.
To be grateful is to have the right spirit about all the good that has happened in our lives.
James 1:17 All good things come from above. We are so blessed. Thank you Jesus.
Colossians 3:16-17 “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Say thanks to Jesus acknowledging His work on your behalf.
Say thank you to Jesus crediting His work that has benefitted your life.
Be grateful in spirit for all the good that has happened in your life.
Benediction:
“Whatever you do…”
Series Information
When a person loses hope they lose the energy to keep going forward. When hope is present vision, passion and strength can thrive. Paul writes the letter of Colossians to establish a hope that never fades and will ultimately strengthen the church to fulfill its mission come what may.