Only Jesus Is Worth the Struggle (Colossians 1:24-2:5)

Bible Passage: Colossians 1:24-2:5

In this section of the letter, Paul moves from general teaching about the gospel to a more biographical focus. At the end of verse 23, he has declared that he has become a servant of the gospel, and now he is spelling out just what that looks like, and how his own role fits in with what God is doing in his day.

Suffering for the Gospel (v24-26): In verse 24, Paul mentions his own sufferings that he has endured in his ministry. More details on what these sufferings entailed can be found elsewhere in the New Testament (see for example 2 Corinthians 11:23-27). Paul considers these sufferings to be ‘completing what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of… the church’. This is a tricky saying, and it shouldn’t be taken to imply that what Jesus did on the cross was somehow deficient. Christ’s sacrifice is absolutely sufficient to deal with sin and reconcile us to God. But sometimes for the message about what Jesus did to reach those who need to hear it, it requires the suffering of missionaries and gospel ministers like Paul. Paul was able to rejoice in his suffering, because he knew that his suffering furthered his commission to make the word of God fully known.

Toil for the Gospel (1:27-2:1): Here Paul explains how he conducts his ministry. He proclaims, warns and teaches because he wants to see the believers grow in their Christian maturity. Paul particularly emphasises his own hard work, speaking of his ‘toil and struggle’ for the Colossians, the Laodiceans and other Christians who he has not yet met. Gospel ministry is not something to be taken lightly, and Christian leadership involves hard work. This work is not something that relies on Paul’s own strength however, and he is clear to emphasise that he toils with energy that is powerfully inspired in him by Jesus.

Encouragement from the Gospel (v2-5): All the suffering and toil that Paul has spoken of earlier in this passage is worth it because of the encouragement that the gospel brings. Paul’s desire as he works hard is to see the believers encouraged in their hearts, experiencing loving unity with one another, assurance of their salvation and firm faith in Jesus. This is what comes about as a group of people comes to maturity in Christ, and these are things that we should be looking to see in our churches in increasing measure.

Potential Applications:

• This could be a great moment to commission people into different types of ministry, and pray prayers of boldness for them as they pursue what God is calling them to.
• Invite people to think about their own areas of ministry, and whether Paul’s experience of gospel toil is something they can identify with.
• Verses 2 to 5 show some of the effects the gospel has on believers. You could share how the gospel speaks to these things, and spend time praying for encouragement, unity, assurance and firm faith.