As we learn the Bible, we grow in our appreciation of the endless immensity of God’s love for us.  As we grow in our appreciation of God’s love for us expressed in His Son, Jesus, we won’t be deceived by siren songs in the world that attempt to draw us away from our singular devotion to Christ. Paul explains in verse 5, “I say this in order than no one may delude you with plausible arguments.” The KJV replaces the word “delude” with “beguile.” It’s better because it expresses intent. There is a personal agenda behind the brands of so called religion that dilute the message of Christ.  The agenda is anything but peaceful.

But Paul, in the next verse says that he is so glad that the Colossians haven’t fallen for the “siren songs” of their culture. He writes, “I am…rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.” “Good order” and “Firmness” are military terms. Paul loves to use military metaphors when encouraging us in the battle.  Good order deals with unity of purpose. Firmness means they haven’t broken ranks 

At times you can feel Paul’s exhaustion with his battle for the faith. It’s especially true in the last books he wrote, the Timothy and Titus Epistles. Paul stood firm. He hung on. He fought the good fight and we must too. It’s not just the quality of the lives we live here on earth that’s at stake. It’s eternity as well. Like the Colossians, our faith is under attack. Like good soldiers of the cross we need to stay in the ranks, and stand firm in the faith.  Stand firm, like a concrete fencepost.

Chuck

“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.” Colossians 2:5