“Observe”, A Closer Look by Reggie Koop

O is for Observe

“Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” – Colossians 1:28-29

Paul was writing to the church at Colossae. He was warning the church about false teachers who were urging the people to move away from their Christian roots and to accept other religious ideas. This movement threatened to remove the church from Christ.

Let’s break down these verses:

• “whom we preach” – the message of Jesus Christ.
• “warning every man” or “admonishing” – this is confronting with the intent of changing ones attitudes and actions. It’s calling to mind a correct course of action. It encourages people to do what they already know to do.
• “teaching” – complements admonishing. It is the orderly presentation of the truth, allowing new Christians to know how to grow. 
• Paul’s method was to confront and instruct “to present everyone perfect in Christ.” He wants all Christians to live up to what God expects and to mature in the Lord.
• “whereunto I also labor” – Paul was encouraging them by giving himself as an example.
• “striving” or “struggling” – Paul was trying to give the picture of how an athlete painfully pursues after athletic glory.
• “according to his working, which worketh in me mightily” – Paul could only accomplish this through God’s strength, not his own. 

Once again, Paul’s goal was to present mature, Gentile Christians to the Lord, during his time and now. He wants to ensure that Christ is the center of their and our lives.

Application
1.  We must make sure that we are not just “doing church” but have a personal relationship with God. We must have the right attitude and actions.
2.  We must follow through with what is being taught. We must do, not just listen.
3.  We must mature.
4.  We must be an example for others – encourage, disciple, teach.
5.  We must rely on god, knowing that we can’t accomplish this in our own strength.
6.  We must be ready for Christ’s return.