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Presenting Every Person Mature In Christ Series
Contributed by Dean Courtier on Sep 7, 2023 (message contributor)
Summary: In Colossians 1:28, we find our mission as believers—to proclaim Christ, warn and teach, and present every person mature in their relationship with Him.
"Presenting Every Person Mature in Christ"
Introduction:
Today, we gather around the Word of God to explore the beautiful message found in Colossians 1:28, from the New Living Translation.
Point 1: The Proclamation of Christ
Scripture: Colossians 1:28 (NLT) - "So we tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ."
Illustration:
- Think of a seasoned gardener who tends to a young, fragile plant. With care and expertise, they nurture it, ensuring it receives the right amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients. In the same way, as Christians, we are called to proclaim Christ, nurturing the spiritual growth of others, and ensuring they are rooted and grounded in Him.
Point 2: Warning and Teaching
Scripture: Colossians 1:28 (NLT) - "...warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us."
Illustration:
- Imagine a lighthouse on a rocky coastline. Its beacon shines brightly, warning ships of danger and guiding them safely to shore. Likewise, our role as believers involves warning others of spiritual dangers and teaching them the wisdom of God's Word, guiding them on the path to Christ.
Point 3: Presenting Perfect in Christ
Scripture: Colossians 1:28 (NLT) - "We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ."
Illustration:
- Consider a master craftsman who, after meticulous work, presents a flawless masterpiece to an appreciative audience. Similarly, our ultimate goal as Christians is to present every person mature in their relationship with Christ, displaying His image in their lives.
Point 4: The Journey of Discipleship
Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT) - "Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you."
Illustration:
- Picture a seasoned traveller guiding a group of newcomers through an intricate and unfamiliar landscape. They lead, instruct, and ensure the travellers reach their destination safely. Likewise, we are called to make disciples, guiding them on their journey of faith, and teaching them to obey God's commands.
Conclusion:
In Colossians 1:28, we find our mission as believers—to proclaim Christ, warn and teach, and present every person mature in their relationship with Him. Just as a skilled gardener tends to fragile plants, we nurture the spiritual growth of others. Like a lighthouse guiding ships to safety, we warn and teach, and like a master craftsman, we aim to present them perfect in Christ. Let us embrace our role as disciples and disciple-makers, fulfilling the Great Commission with love, wisdom, and dedication.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of proclaiming Christ and nurturing the spiritual growth of others. Grant us wisdom, love, and dedication as we fulfil our mission to present every person mature in their relationship with Christ. In His name, we pray. Amen.