How Are You Walking?

(Colossians 2:6-7)

1. The Indicative and the Imperative

This is what is true and how we are to live in light of the truth.

Jesus Christ rules over all creation and the church (1:15-18).

Jesus is God in the flesh and came to reconcile us to God (1:19-23).

In Christ are stored all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (2:3).

The Apostle Paul is present in Spirit (2:5).

Therefore believers must walk in the way they received Christ (2:6).

2. We Are Never Alone

Knowing someone is with us is a powerful motivation.

“It is not good that the man should be alone” (Genesis 2:18).

            “I am with you in spirit” (Colossians 2:5).

“My spirit is present” (1 Corinthians 5:1-5).

Elisha’s heart went with Gehazi (2 Kings 5:20-27).

3. As You Received Christ Jesus the Lord

            How did you receive Christ Jesus?

The guards received him violently (Mark 14:61-65).

Zacchaeus received him joyfully as King and Lord (Luke 19:5-6).

Jesus and his message (the gospel) comes to us as a gift.

This gift must be received or it is of no benefit to us.

There is only one saving way to receive Christ Jesus the Lord.

You received Christ by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Saving faith involves knowledge, assent and trust or reliance.

4. The Great Danger

            Having begun by faith, don’t turn aside to works (Galatians 3:1-3).

                        Yes, we work, but it is Christ in us (1 Corinthians 15:10).

                        God prepared beforehand good works for us (Ephesians 2:10           ).

5. Keep Walking the Same Way

Having turned to Christ, don’t turn back to the world (Luke 9:62).

Having been rooted (literally “rhizomed”):  Where are you planted?

Being built up:  We are called to build up one another.

Being established in faith:  Keep coming back to the Gospel.

Overflowing with thanksgiving:  Grace received overflows in gratitude.