WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:03.500 So you take your copy of God's Word and turn to Paul's letter to the Colossians. 00:00:06.020 --> 00:00:11.960 It's our final Sunday in this book. Lord willing, I don't fall over dead this morning. 00:00:14.500 --> 00:00:17.640 Because then next Sunday someone else will have to preach the rest of it to you. 00:00:18.699 --> 00:00:25.600 I hope that you've enjoyed it as much as I have enjoyed teaching it and learning from it myself as I've studied it. 00:00:25.600 --> 00:00:31.480 So we will look this morning at Colossians chapter 4 verses 7 through 18. 00:00:35.800 --> 00:00:37.120 Begin reading in verse 7. 00:00:38.960 --> 00:00:41.900 Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. 00:00:42.700 --> 00:00:47.420 He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 00:00:47.920 --> 00:00:53.939 I have sent him to you for this very purpose that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts. 00:00:53.939 --> 00:00:58.739 And with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother who is one of you. 00:00:59.399 --> 00:01:01.879 They will tell you of everything that has taken place here. 00:01:03.179 --> 00:01:05.120 Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, greets you. 00:01:05.500 --> 00:01:08.920 And Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, concerning whom you have received instructions. 00:01:09.060 --> 00:01:11.120 If he comes to you, welcome him. 00:01:11.560 --> 00:01:13.479 And Jesus, who is called Justice. 00:01:14.219 --> 00:01:18.079 These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God. 00:01:18.180 --> 00:01:20.060 And they have been a comfort to me. 00:01:20.060 --> 00:01:26.260 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, 00:01:26.320 --> 00:01:29.960 that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 00:01:30.659 --> 00:01:35.140 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and Heropolis. 00:01:36.040 --> 00:01:39.280 Luke, the beloved physician, greets you, as does Demas. 00:01:39.980 --> 00:01:44.000 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea and to Nympha and the church in her house. 00:01:44.000 --> 00:01:48.340 And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans. 00:01:48.439 --> 00:01:51.159 And see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. 00:01:51.519 --> 00:01:56.379 And say to Archippus, see that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord. 00:01:57.040 --> 00:01:59.680 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. 00:02:00.219 --> 00:02:01.379 Remember my chains. 00:02:02.159 --> 00:02:02.980 Grace be with you. 00:02:03.960 --> 00:02:05.439 This is God's word to us. 00:02:06.019 --> 00:02:09.180 It was written for his glory and our good. 00:02:09.180 --> 00:02:15.340 And we would all do well to listen to it in order to believe its promises and obey its commands. 00:02:16.379 --> 00:02:20.180 So we find ourselves at the closing of Paul's letter. 00:02:20.980 --> 00:02:28.900 Let me remind you that all of the Word of God, the book that you have, I hope, in your lap or somehow digitally in front of you, 00:02:28.960 --> 00:02:35.980 the 66 canonized books of the Old and New Testament were written by God himself through men. 00:02:35.979 --> 00:02:40.739 So men themselves penned the letters, the Spirit of God working in them. 00:02:41.219 --> 00:02:51.919 The Word of God was breathed out by him, yet was not divorced from the context, the particular circumstance, and the personality of the writer. 00:02:52.919 --> 00:02:59.339 So it's proper, as Paul is writing a letter to a particular church, that he concludes the letter. 00:02:59.620 --> 00:03:00.959 He does what you do in a letter. 00:03:01.079 --> 00:03:02.319 He wraps it up. 00:03:02.739 --> 00:03:04.319 Finishes it out. 00:03:04.319 --> 00:03:04.459 Finishes it out. 00:03:05.180 --> 00:03:12.199 And we've moved now from Paul's direct exhortation, his doctrinal stances and statements in the beginning of the letter, 00:03:12.319 --> 00:03:17.280 to his correction and now how it is that these things are meant to play out in the life of a Christian, 00:03:17.900 --> 00:03:23.479 to things that can seem, maybe at first look, a bit insignificant. 00:03:24.519 --> 00:03:31.079 I don't know if you, like me, upon the reading of epistles, again and again, will get to this point and just hurry up to the end. 00:03:31.080 --> 00:03:33.200 I finished the letter now. 00:03:33.260 --> 00:03:36.760 I just need to go through these names quickly to get to the end. 00:03:36.880 --> 00:03:41.939 They have some historical significance, I'm sure, but there's nothing really to be learned from them. 00:03:42.040 --> 00:03:43.780 And this is a grave error. 00:03:44.680 --> 00:03:47.220 Every word is inspired by God. 00:03:47.300 --> 00:03:51.860 It's important that Paul wrote this conclusion the way in which he wrote this conclusion. 00:03:51.860 --> 00:03:56.720 And we need to take the time to stop and look at it and see what it is that we can learn from it. 00:03:57.720 --> 00:04:00.200 This morning there are a number of things we can learn from this. 00:04:00.280 --> 00:04:07.540 We could take a look at each of these men's lives as individuals and look at the phrasing that Paul uses and the titles that he gives them. 00:04:07.660 --> 00:04:10.920 And certainly this is a thing that should be done at some point. 00:04:10.919 --> 00:04:14.699 But this morning I primarily just want to say two things from this text. 00:04:15.799 --> 00:04:21.779 And that is that we are all needy and that we are all needed. 00:04:22.579 --> 00:04:26.379 We're all needy and we are all needed. 00:04:27.279 --> 00:04:28.240 We're all needy. 00:04:28.459 --> 00:04:35.639 Paul himself, arguably the greatest of Christians, needed support. 00:04:36.199 --> 00:04:38.980 He needed a fellowship of brothers around him. 00:04:38.980 --> 00:04:43.720 He needed both spiritual and practical ministry to him in his life. 00:04:43.780 --> 00:04:46.920 And this is such a wonderful example of that. 00:04:47.680 --> 00:04:48.400 He's not the only. 00:04:48.480 --> 00:04:49.640 We'll look further at that. 00:04:49.700 --> 00:04:52.319 But I want to take you to the Old Testament for just a bit. 00:04:52.379 --> 00:04:55.040 So turn to the book of Exodus with me. 00:04:55.800 --> 00:05:03.060 We've been in the habit, as we preach verse by verse, of doing something New Testament and then doing something Old Testament. 00:05:03.759 --> 00:05:05.560 Before Colossians I preached through Mark. 00:05:05.640 --> 00:05:06.939 Before that we preached through Nehemiah. 00:05:06.939 --> 00:05:08.759 So we've kind of broken the pattern already. 00:05:09.960 --> 00:05:12.819 Prayerfully we're considering beginning the book of Acts. 00:05:12.900 --> 00:05:13.900 So we're breaking it all up. 00:05:13.939 --> 00:05:16.040 So today I'm going to take you to the Old Testament for at least a little while. 00:05:17.100 --> 00:05:18.360 To scratch that itch. 00:05:19.020 --> 00:05:20.180 To Exodus chapter 4. 00:05:21.640 --> 00:05:24.939 And I just want to show you a few examples in the life of Moses. 00:05:24.939 --> 00:05:30.439 Again, a leader mightily used by God in the life of God's people. 00:05:32.360 --> 00:05:35.160 And the way in which Moses needed. 00:05:36.240 --> 00:05:38.379 And the way in which God provided for that need. 00:05:38.379 --> 00:05:42.480 So Exodus chapter 4 verses 1 through 17. 00:05:43.560 --> 00:05:47.519 This is after the call of Moses, the burning bush experience. 00:05:47.740 --> 00:05:50.579 God's still speaking to him from the burning bush. 00:05:50.579 --> 00:05:51.759 And Moses answered, 00:05:52.000 --> 00:05:56.279 But behold, they will not believe me or listen to my voice. 00:05:56.359 --> 00:05:58.839 For they will say, the Lord did not appear to you. 00:05:59.699 --> 00:06:02.779 The Lord said to him, what is that in your hand? 00:06:02.899 --> 00:06:04.019 He said, a staff. 00:06:04.139 --> 00:06:05.300 And he said, throw it on the ground. 00:06:05.300 --> 00:06:08.100 So he threw it on the ground and it became a serpent. 00:06:08.540 --> 00:06:09.699 And Moses ran from it. 00:06:10.460 --> 00:06:13.600 But the Lord said to Moses, put out your hand and catch it by the tail. 00:06:14.040 --> 00:06:15.439 So he put out his hand and caught it. 00:06:15.500 --> 00:06:16.800 And it became a staff in his hand. 00:06:17.340 --> 00:06:20.220 That they may believe that the Lord, the God of their fathers, 00:06:20.340 --> 00:06:23.960 the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob has appeared to you. 00:06:24.819 --> 00:06:28.280 Again, the Lord said to him, put your hand inside your cloak. 00:06:28.680 --> 00:06:30.000 And he put his hand inside his cloak. 00:06:30.080 --> 00:06:32.960 And when he took it out, behold, his hand was leprous like snow. 00:06:32.959 --> 00:06:35.719 Then God said, put your hand back inside your cloak. 00:06:35.779 --> 00:06:37.299 So he put his hand back inside the cloak. 00:06:37.539 --> 00:06:41.359 And when he took it out, behold, it was restored like the rest of his flesh. 00:06:42.399 --> 00:06:45.779 If they will not believe you, God said, or listen to the first sign, 00:06:46.079 --> 00:06:47.719 they may believe the latter sign. 00:06:48.319 --> 00:06:51.179 If they will not believe even these two signs or listen to your voice, 00:06:51.240 --> 00:06:53.919 you shall take some water from the Nile and pour it on the ground. 00:06:54.240 --> 00:06:58.620 And the water that you shall take from the Nile will become blood on the dry ground. 00:06:59.279 --> 00:07:02.159 So there's these three miracles, God says, 00:07:02.160 --> 00:07:03.860 both shows them that they will work. 00:07:03.980 --> 00:07:07.460 And then a third that he says, if you do this, it will happen. 00:07:07.580 --> 00:07:11.460 If they don't believe what you say, do these things and they'll listen to you. 00:07:12.020 --> 00:07:14.120 And then his response beginning in verse 10. 00:07:14.980 --> 00:07:16.240 But Moses said to the Lord, 00:07:16.240 --> 00:07:23.019 Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent either in the past or since you have spoken to your servant, 00:07:23.160 --> 00:07:26.000 but I am slow of speech and of tongue. 00:07:26.740 --> 00:07:29.939 Then the Lord said to him, who has made man's mouth? 00:07:30.139 --> 00:07:33.259 Who makes him mute or deaf or seeing or blind? 00:07:33.340 --> 00:07:34.759 Is it not I, the Lord? 00:07:35.400 --> 00:07:41.360 Now, therefore, go and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak. 00:07:41.360 --> 00:07:46.620 So God's response to him in his faithlessness is he knows I'm naturally gifted. 00:07:46.740 --> 00:07:48.400 I'm not a good speaker. 00:07:49.020 --> 00:07:50.939 God says, but I made your mouth. 00:07:51.280 --> 00:07:53.360 I will speak through you. 00:07:53.840 --> 00:07:55.120 Moses responds, verse 13. 00:07:55.220 --> 00:08:00.340 But he said, Oh, my Lord, please send someone else. 00:08:01.340 --> 00:08:03.699 Then the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses. 00:08:03.819 --> 00:08:07.920 And he said, is there not Aaron, your brother, the Levite? 00:08:07.920 --> 00:08:09.980 I know that he can speak well. 00:08:10.120 --> 00:08:11.879 Behold, he is coming out to meet you. 00:08:11.920 --> 00:08:14.920 And when he sees you, he will be glad in his heart. 00:08:15.699 --> 00:08:17.780 You shall speak to him and put the words in his mouth. 00:08:17.860 --> 00:08:23.439 And I will be with your mouth and with his mouth and will teach you both what to do. 00:08:24.080 --> 00:08:26.319 He shall speak for you to the people. 00:08:26.540 --> 00:08:27.879 And he shall be your mouth. 00:08:28.000 --> 00:08:29.639 And you shall be as God to him. 00:08:30.180 --> 00:08:33.440 And take in your hand the staff with which you shall do the signs. 00:08:33.440 --> 00:08:38.380 So even as God responds in anger, his anger is kindled against Moses. 00:08:38.580 --> 00:08:40.440 And then he says, and I will give you a helper. 00:08:40.560 --> 00:08:41.760 I will bring somebody to help you. 00:08:41.820 --> 00:08:45.640 I will bring you a partner in the ministry that I have called you to. 00:08:46.500 --> 00:08:48.380 We see another example in Exodus 17. 00:08:48.940 --> 00:08:49.700 Please turn there. 00:08:49.700 --> 00:09:04.220 Beginning in verse 8. 00:09:06.820 --> 00:09:10.720 Then Amalek came and fought with Israel at Rephidim. 00:09:11.440 --> 00:09:17.200 So Moses said to Joshua, choose for us men and go out and fight with Amalek. 00:09:17.200 --> 00:09:21.980 Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand. 00:09:22.640 --> 00:09:30.180 So Joshua did as Moses told him and fought with Amalek while Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. 00:09:31.000 --> 00:09:34.080 Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed. 00:09:34.360 --> 00:09:37.640 And whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed. 00:09:38.200 --> 00:09:39.820 But Moses' hands grew weary. 00:09:39.960 --> 00:09:41.520 So they took a stone and put it under him. 00:09:41.519 --> 00:09:47.899 And he sat on it while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side and the other on the other side. 00:09:48.079 --> 00:09:52.019 So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. 00:09:52.620 --> 00:09:56.779 And Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the sword. 00:09:57.279 --> 00:10:06.039 So once again, a task given to Moses to see the people of Israel prevail in battle at the leadership of Joshua as long as the staff was raised. 00:10:06.039 --> 00:10:10.879 And in his human frailty, he's unable to do this for the duration of the battle. 00:10:11.000 --> 00:10:14.439 And so he's supported by Aaron and by Hur. 00:10:15.639 --> 00:10:16.279 One more. 00:10:16.519 --> 00:10:17.199 Turn a few books. 00:10:17.319 --> 00:10:18.379 Numbers chapter 11. 00:10:18.379 --> 00:10:38.620 Numbers 11 beginning in verse 11. 00:10:40.139 --> 00:10:44.899 This is after the people of Israel once again have grumbled greatly. 00:10:45.080 --> 00:10:46.600 They've complained against God. 00:10:46.600 --> 00:10:50.960 God's actually set some fires at the borders of the camps that have consumed part of the camp. 00:10:52.440 --> 00:10:54.779 He's died down those fires now. 00:10:54.940 --> 00:10:55.720 Beginning in verse 11. 00:10:55.800 --> 00:10:56.779 Moses said to the Lord, 00:10:57.580 --> 00:10:59.740 Why have you dealt ill with your servant? 00:10:59.940 --> 00:11:06.040 And why have I not found favor in your sight that you lay the burden of all this people on me? 00:11:06.659 --> 00:11:08.159 Did I conceive all this people? 00:11:08.340 --> 00:11:10.639 Did I give them birth that you should say to me? 00:11:10.980 --> 00:11:16.139 Carry them in your bosom as a nurse carries a nursing child to the land that you swore to give. 00:11:16.139 --> 00:11:17.319 To their fathers. 00:11:17.879 --> 00:11:18.259 He was like, 00:11:18.659 --> 00:11:21.120 Why am I in charge of all these babies? 00:11:22.100 --> 00:11:24.279 Where am I to get meat to give to all this people? 00:11:24.360 --> 00:11:25.659 For they weep before me and say, 00:11:25.799 --> 00:11:27.819 Give us meat that we may eat. 00:11:28.279 --> 00:11:30.360 I am not able to carry all this people alone. 00:11:30.439 --> 00:11:33.120 The burden is too heavy for me. 00:11:33.860 --> 00:11:35.120 If you will treat me like this, 00:11:35.199 --> 00:11:36.340 Kill me at once. 00:11:36.340 --> 00:11:38.759 If I find favor in your sight, 00:11:38.879 --> 00:11:42.300 That I may not see my wretchedness. 00:11:43.300 --> 00:11:43.879 Verse 16, 00:11:44.000 --> 00:11:45.759 Then the Lord said to Moses, 00:11:46.240 --> 00:11:49.000 Gather for me seventy men of the elders of Israel, 00:11:49.240 --> 00:11:52.899 Whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them, 00:11:52.940 --> 00:11:55.240 And bring them to the tent of meeting, 00:11:55.300 --> 00:11:58.259 And let them take their stand there with you. 00:11:58.680 --> 00:12:00.840 And I will come down and talk with you there, 00:12:00.840 --> 00:12:04.879 And I will take some of the spirit that is on you and put it on them. 00:12:05.600 --> 00:12:08.820 And they shall bear the burden of the people with you, 00:12:08.940 --> 00:12:11.980 So that you may not bear it yourself alone. 00:12:13.000 --> 00:12:15.680 So we're seeing again and again this pattern with Moses, 00:12:15.680 --> 00:12:17.800 That he's called to do these things by God, 00:12:17.840 --> 00:12:18.820 And God equips, 00:12:19.040 --> 00:12:20.100 And he equips him, 00:12:20.360 --> 00:12:20.639 How? 00:12:21.399 --> 00:12:21.980 With people. 00:12:22.300 --> 00:12:23.060 With help. 00:12:23.320 --> 00:12:24.060 With partners. 00:12:24.059 --> 00:12:26.279 In the ministry. 00:12:27.099 --> 00:12:32.099 So the greatest of leaders for God still need other Christians. 00:12:32.819 --> 00:12:34.899 We see this to be true of Paul. 00:12:35.299 --> 00:12:38.319 The more that you mature in your Christian faith, 00:12:38.599 --> 00:12:42.819 You're going to realize how much you need the church. 00:12:43.000 --> 00:12:44.599 How much you need other people. 00:12:44.699 --> 00:12:46.099 That's always true of you. 00:12:46.399 --> 00:12:47.439 The more you mature, 00:12:47.439 --> 00:12:51.759 The more you realize how very true it is. 00:12:52.319 --> 00:12:53.519 So we get this list. 00:12:53.519 --> 00:12:56.059 A laundry list of shorts from Paul. 00:12:56.179 --> 00:12:57.220 About these different men. 00:12:57.519 --> 00:12:58.519 The beginning, verse 7, 00:12:58.620 --> 00:13:01.679 Tychicus is sent to him with the letter 00:13:01.679 --> 00:13:04.059 To tell about all of his activities. 00:13:04.279 --> 00:13:06.360 Paul describes him as a beloved brother 00:13:06.360 --> 00:13:08.159 And a faithful minister. 00:13:08.779 --> 00:13:10.740 And a fellow servant in the Lord. 00:13:11.559 --> 00:13:13.000 At the writing of Colossians, 00:13:13.360 --> 00:13:16.679 Tychicus has been with Paul for approximately four years. 00:13:16.679 --> 00:13:18.740 We can't pin that time frame down exactly, 00:13:18.840 --> 00:13:21.879 But it's been about four years since he's been with Paul. 00:13:22.679 --> 00:13:24.899 He's mentioned five times in the New Testament. 00:13:25.340 --> 00:13:27.820 All of which are very brief mentions. 00:13:27.960 --> 00:13:29.840 Usually it's just his name drop in there. 00:13:30.279 --> 00:13:32.899 But they give us a very, very rich profile of him. 00:13:33.299 --> 00:13:34.419 I'll give you two examples. 00:13:35.019 --> 00:13:36.019 Titus 3.12 00:13:36.019 --> 00:13:38.779 Tychicus is sent along with Artemis 00:13:38.779 --> 00:13:40.460 To temporarily replace Titus, 00:13:40.500 --> 00:13:42.679 Who's the pastor on the island of Crete. 00:13:42.679 --> 00:13:44.959 While Titus is coming to visit Paul. 00:13:45.059 --> 00:13:47.059 So he's one of the men that's sent there 00:13:47.059 --> 00:13:49.399 To replace Titus for a time being. 00:13:49.500 --> 00:13:52.000 And we see this again in 2 Timothy 4.12 00:13:52.000 --> 00:13:54.599 So that Timothy can travel to see Paul. 00:13:55.659 --> 00:13:57.179 Paul's now writing these letters, 00:13:57.279 --> 00:13:58.939 Afraid that his life is almost over. 00:13:59.019 --> 00:14:01.500 Wants to see Timothy, his son in faith, 00:14:01.579 --> 00:14:02.359 One more time. 00:14:02.679 --> 00:14:05.339 And Tychicus is sent to replace him in Ephesus. 00:14:05.439 --> 00:14:08.279 You can see that in 2 Timothy 4.12. 00:14:08.979 --> 00:14:11.039 And he's been sent, verse 8, 00:14:11.039 --> 00:14:14.620 I have sent him to you for this very purpose. 00:14:15.299 --> 00:14:17.099 That you may know how we are 00:14:17.099 --> 00:14:20.679 And that he may encourage your hearts. 00:14:21.299 --> 00:14:22.579 The reason he's sent 00:14:22.579 --> 00:14:25.099 Is that he may encourage their hearts. 00:14:25.199 --> 00:14:27.519 And I think rightly to read and understand 00:14:27.519 --> 00:14:29.500 By knowing how they are. 00:14:29.639 --> 00:14:31.299 By seeing the way in which God 00:14:31.299 --> 00:14:33.799 Has been graciously working through the ministry of Paul. 00:14:33.860 --> 00:14:35.799 To come and impart to them 00:14:35.799 --> 00:14:36.919 How things have been going. 00:14:37.000 --> 00:14:38.519 You see again in verse 9 00:14:38.519 --> 00:14:39.839 The inclusion of Onesimus. 00:14:39.840 --> 00:14:41.379 They will tell you of everything 00:14:41.379 --> 00:14:43.500 That has taken place here. 00:14:44.080 --> 00:14:45.120 It's a great encouragement 00:14:45.120 --> 00:14:46.879 Or it should be at least to us as believers 00:14:46.879 --> 00:14:48.460 To see the way in which God is working 00:14:48.460 --> 00:14:49.759 In the rest of the world. 00:14:49.860 --> 00:14:50.759 And Paul knows this. 00:14:50.840 --> 00:14:53.780 And he sends Tychicus for this very end. 00:14:54.300 --> 00:14:55.620 On this particular journey 00:14:55.620 --> 00:14:58.019 Paul has sent him to carry the letter 00:14:58.019 --> 00:14:59.160 To the Colossians. 00:14:59.159 --> 00:15:01.759 Also to the Ephesians 00:15:01.759 --> 00:15:03.120 In the same region. 00:15:03.659 --> 00:15:05.039 And likely, we don't know for sure 00:15:05.039 --> 00:15:07.059 But likely the letter of Philemon as well. 00:15:07.159 --> 00:15:09.059 Philemon who's a part of the Colossian church 00:15:09.059 --> 00:15:10.659 And the church there likely met 00:15:10.659 --> 00:15:12.079 In his house. 00:15:12.759 --> 00:15:14.240 This is an incredibly difficult journey 00:15:14.240 --> 00:15:15.799 So we shouldn't make light of that. 00:15:15.860 --> 00:15:17.419 Being sent to carry a letter 00:15:17.419 --> 00:15:19.819 Such a distance from a Roman prison 00:15:19.819 --> 00:15:22.939 All the way to the town of Colossae 00:15:22.939 --> 00:15:24.480 Would have taken quite some time. 00:15:24.480 --> 00:15:27.240 He would have had to cross Italy on foot 00:15:27.240 --> 00:15:30.259 At its very shortest distance 00:15:30.259 --> 00:15:31.920 The closest port from Rome 00:15:31.920 --> 00:15:33.600 To the east coast 00:15:33.600 --> 00:15:35.180 Would have been a hundred miles. 00:15:35.840 --> 00:15:37.659 He had to sail across the Adriatic Sea 00:15:37.659 --> 00:15:39.360 Traverse Greece once again 00:15:39.360 --> 00:15:41.240 Closest possible thing 00:15:41.240 --> 00:15:42.539 Another hundred miles on foot 00:15:42.539 --> 00:15:44.399 Sail across the Aegean Sea 00:15:44.399 --> 00:15:46.500 And once he got to the coast of Asia Minor 00:15:46.500 --> 00:15:48.180 Where Ephesus was located 00:15:48.180 --> 00:15:50.000 He would have had to go yet another hundred miles 00:15:50.000 --> 00:15:51.659 On foot to there. 00:15:51.800 --> 00:15:53.580 It's not an easy thing to do. 00:15:53.580 --> 00:15:55.740 You add up those distances in your mind 00:15:55.740 --> 00:15:56.720 And you say, well that's no big deal 00:15:56.720 --> 00:15:58.379 But in this day it was incredibly dangerous 00:15:58.379 --> 00:16:01.000 To travel distances of this kind 00:16:01.000 --> 00:16:02.280 And in this way. 00:16:02.980 --> 00:16:04.440 So a faithful man 00:16:04.440 --> 00:16:06.480 Being sent by Paul 00:16:06.480 --> 00:16:08.180 On Paul's behalf to be an encouragement 00:16:08.180 --> 00:16:09.639 To the churches at Ephesus 00:16:09.639 --> 00:16:11.560 And Colossae. 00:16:12.620 --> 00:16:13.639 And Paul sends with him 00:16:13.639 --> 00:16:15.680 Onesimus, verse 9 00:16:15.680 --> 00:16:18.040 Our faithful and beloved brother 00:16:18.040 --> 00:16:21.100 Who is one of you. 00:16:21.100 --> 00:16:22.659 Now we know 00:16:22.659 --> 00:16:24.399 If we've read Philemon 00:16:24.399 --> 00:16:26.700 And if we see this clue 00:16:26.700 --> 00:16:28.040 In this text in verse 9 00:16:28.040 --> 00:16:29.360 That Onesimus 00:16:29.360 --> 00:16:31.060 Was a Colossian. 00:16:31.840 --> 00:16:32.259 Somehow 00:16:32.259 --> 00:16:33.420 Paul's encountered him 00:16:33.420 --> 00:16:34.240 Along his way 00:16:34.240 --> 00:16:35.180 And 00:16:35.180 --> 00:16:36.259 He knows 00:16:36.259 --> 00:16:36.680 He's from there 00:16:36.680 --> 00:16:37.560 He's sending him back 00:16:37.560 --> 00:16:38.779 To his people 00:16:38.779 --> 00:16:39.500 And we learn 00:16:39.500 --> 00:16:41.300 From reading in Philemon 00:16:41.300 --> 00:16:42.759 That Onesimus 00:16:42.759 --> 00:16:44.019 Was the slave 00:16:44.019 --> 00:16:45.480 Of Philemon 00:16:45.480 --> 00:16:47.920 And he's being sent back to him 00:16:47.920 --> 00:16:49.220 As part of his repentance. 00:16:49.920 --> 00:16:50.000 Right? 00:16:50.039 --> 00:16:50.860 That he was a runaway 00:16:50.860 --> 00:16:52.159 Became a Christian 00:16:52.159 --> 00:16:53.440 Under the ministry of Paul 00:16:53.440 --> 00:16:55.039 And he's now being sent back 00:16:55.039 --> 00:16:55.800 To Philemon 00:16:55.800 --> 00:16:57.039 And we can see a little bit about this 00:16:57.039 --> 00:16:58.019 So turn to the book of Philemon 00:16:58.019 --> 00:16:58.600 With me 00:16:58.600 --> 00:17:16.460 This is why we suppose 00:17:16.460 --> 00:17:17.120 That Tychicus 00:17:17.120 --> 00:17:18.539 Was also carrying this letter 00:17:18.539 --> 00:17:19.860 With Onesimus 00:17:19.860 --> 00:17:21.180 To give this letter to Philemon 00:17:21.180 --> 00:17:23.680 That Philemon would 00:17:23.680 --> 00:17:25.059 Rightly receive 00:17:25.059 --> 00:17:26.819 Onesimus back 00:17:26.819 --> 00:17:29.859 No chapters in Philemon 00:17:29.859 --> 00:17:30.879 So just verse 8 00:17:30.879 --> 00:17:33.019 And I'll read through verse 22 00:17:33.019 --> 00:17:40.539 Paul writes 00:17:40.539 --> 00:17:41.299 Accordingly though 00:17:41.299 --> 00:17:42.919 I am bold enough in Christ 00:17:42.919 --> 00:17:44.059 To command you 00:17:44.059 --> 00:17:45.279 To do what is required 00:17:45.279 --> 00:17:47.720 Yet for love's sake 00:17:47.720 --> 00:17:49.480 I prefer to appeal to you 00:17:49.480 --> 00:17:51.079 I Paul 00:17:51.079 --> 00:17:52.039 An old man 00:17:52.039 --> 00:17:53.399 And now a prisoner also 00:17:53.399 --> 00:17:54.399 For Christ Jesus 00:17:54.399 --> 00:17:56.099 Appeal to you 00:17:56.099 --> 00:17:57.119 For my child 00:17:57.119 --> 00:17:57.980 Onesimus 00:17:57.980 --> 00:17:59.659 Whose father I became 00:17:59.659 --> 00:18:00.579 In my imprisonment 00:18:00.579 --> 00:18:01.299 We take that to mean 00:18:01.299 --> 00:18:01.959 That Onesimus 00:18:01.959 --> 00:18:02.819 Somehow encountered him 00:18:02.819 --> 00:18:03.639 While he was imprisoned 00:18:03.639 --> 00:18:05.399 And Paul shared his faith 00:18:05.399 --> 00:18:05.619 With him 00:18:05.619 --> 00:18:06.419 And he came to Christ 00:18:06.419 --> 00:18:08.259 Verse 11 00:18:08.259 --> 00:18:09.199 Formerly 00:18:09.199 --> 00:18:11.379 He was useless to you 00:18:11.379 --> 00:18:13.279 But now he is indeed 00:18:13.279 --> 00:18:14.139 Useful 00:18:14.139 --> 00:18:14.980 To you 00:18:14.980 --> 00:18:15.919 And me 00:18:15.919 --> 00:18:18.079 I am sending him back to you 00:18:18.079 --> 00:18:19.839 Sending my very heart 00:18:19.839 --> 00:18:21.259 I would have been glad 00:18:21.259 --> 00:18:22.299 To keep him with me 00:18:22.299 --> 00:18:23.039 In order that he might 00:18:23.039 --> 00:18:24.179 Serve me on your behalf 00:18:24.180 --> 00:18:24.980 During my imprisonment 00:18:24.980 --> 00:18:25.600 For the gospel 00:18:25.600 --> 00:18:27.740 But I prefer to do nothing 00:18:27.740 --> 00:18:28.779 Without your consent 00:18:28.779 --> 00:18:30.039 In order that your goodness 00:18:30.039 --> 00:18:32.220 Might not be by compulsion 00:18:32.220 --> 00:18:34.519 But out of your own accord 00:18:34.519 --> 00:18:36.180 For this perhaps 00:18:36.180 --> 00:18:37.259 Is why he was parted 00:18:37.259 --> 00:18:38.120 From you for a while 00:18:38.120 --> 00:18:39.420 That you might have him 00:18:39.420 --> 00:18:40.960 Back forever 00:18:40.960 --> 00:18:42.799 No longer as a bondservant 00:18:42.799 --> 00:18:44.000 But more than a bondservant 00:18:44.000 --> 00:18:45.120 As a beloved brother 00:18:45.120 --> 00:18:46.640 Especially to me 00:18:46.640 --> 00:18:48.500 But how much more to you 00:18:48.500 --> 00:18:49.960 Both in the flesh 00:18:49.960 --> 00:18:51.519 And in the Lord 00:18:51.519 --> 00:18:52.259 So you see what he's saying 00:18:52.259 --> 00:18:53.819 Is I could keep him 00:18:53.819 --> 00:18:55.079 I wanted to keep him 00:18:55.079 --> 00:18:56.660 And just say to you 00:18:56.660 --> 00:18:57.660 Send this letter to you 00:18:57.660 --> 00:18:58.059 To say 00:18:58.059 --> 00:18:59.240 I've kept him 00:18:59.240 --> 00:19:00.680 And this is your good service 00:19:00.680 --> 00:19:01.059 To me 00:19:01.059 --> 00:19:02.140 That I've kept Onesimus 00:19:02.140 --> 00:19:03.019 Because he's been 00:19:03.019 --> 00:19:04.140 A faithful brother to me 00:19:04.140 --> 00:19:04.920 And he's ministering 00:19:04.920 --> 00:19:05.839 To my need here 00:19:05.839 --> 00:19:07.400 But I also recognize 00:19:07.400 --> 00:19:08.339 That it's possible 00:19:08.339 --> 00:19:09.880 That maybe Onesimus 00:19:09.880 --> 00:19:10.359 Left you 00:19:10.359 --> 00:19:11.119 In order that he might 00:19:11.119 --> 00:19:11.819 Become a brother 00:19:11.819 --> 00:19:13.000 And come back to you 00:19:13.000 --> 00:19:13.880 And be yours forever 00:19:13.880 --> 00:19:14.960 And serve you 00:19:14.960 --> 00:19:16.019 And so he's making 00:19:16.019 --> 00:19:17.019 This appeal to him 00:19:17.019 --> 00:19:18.839 To ultimately send him back 00:19:18.839 --> 00:19:19.759 But to do what he thinks 00:19:19.759 --> 00:19:20.720 Is right 00:19:20.720 --> 00:19:24.599 In the boss-employee relationship 00:19:24.599 --> 00:19:25.379 Between himself 00:19:25.379 --> 00:19:27.559 And Onesimus 00:19:27.559 --> 00:19:29.079 Verse 18 00:19:29.079 --> 00:19:32.240 If he has wronged you at all 00:19:32.240 --> 00:19:33.259 Or owes you anything 00:19:33.259 --> 00:19:35.619 Charge that to my account 00:19:35.619 --> 00:19:38.099 I, Paul, write this with my own hand 00:19:38.099 --> 00:19:39.599 I will repay it 00:19:39.599 --> 00:19:41.220 To say nothing of your owing me 00:19:41.220 --> 00:19:42.440 Even your own self 00:19:42.440 --> 00:19:44.299 Yes, brother 00:19:44.299 --> 00:19:45.700 I want some benefit from you 00:19:45.700 --> 00:19:46.160 In the Lord 00:19:46.160 --> 00:19:47.660 Refresh my heart 00:19:47.660 --> 00:19:48.640 In Christ 00:19:48.640 --> 00:19:50.380 Confident of your obedience 00:19:50.380 --> 00:19:51.000 I write to you 00:19:51.000 --> 00:19:51.660 Knowing that you will do 00:19:51.660 --> 00:19:52.640 Even more than I say 00:19:52.640 --> 00:19:53.860 At the same time 00:19:53.860 --> 00:19:54.920 Prepare a guest room for me 00:19:54.920 --> 00:19:56.259 For I am hoping 00:19:56.259 --> 00:19:57.140 That through your prayers 00:19:57.140 --> 00:19:58.580 I will be graciously given 00:19:58.580 --> 00:19:59.500 To you 00:19:59.500 --> 00:20:00.580 And see this appeal 00:20:00.580 --> 00:20:01.300 On the behalf 00:20:01.300 --> 00:20:02.779 Of Onesimus 00:20:02.779 --> 00:20:04.640 To send him back 00:20:04.640 --> 00:20:05.960 And then to receive him again 00:20:05.960 --> 00:20:07.480 In return 00:20:07.480 --> 00:20:08.900 From Philemon 00:20:08.900 --> 00:20:11.340 Very neatly about this 00:20:11.340 --> 00:20:13.140 And I think of note 00:20:13.140 --> 00:20:13.920 As we consider 00:20:13.920 --> 00:20:15.440 The life of Onesimus 00:20:15.440 --> 00:20:16.600 A rebellious slave 00:20:16.600 --> 00:20:17.200 Who ran away 00:20:17.200 --> 00:20:17.700 But now 00:20:17.700 --> 00:20:19.019 Had become a Christian 00:20:19.019 --> 00:20:20.059 And saw the need 00:20:20.059 --> 00:20:21.720 To return to his master 00:20:21.720 --> 00:20:22.019 Right? 00:20:22.059 --> 00:20:23.340 That things might be made right 00:20:23.340 --> 00:20:24.519 Between them 00:20:24.519 --> 00:20:26.299 The name Onesimus 00:20:26.299 --> 00:20:28.340 Was a common Greek slave name 00:20:28.340 --> 00:20:30.000 And it means useful 00:20:30.000 --> 00:20:31.180 In Greek 00:20:31.180 --> 00:20:32.860 And so in verse 11 00:20:32.860 --> 00:20:33.440 When Paul 00:20:33.440 --> 00:20:34.940 This parenthetical 00:20:34.940 --> 00:20:35.480 You'll see 00:20:35.480 --> 00:20:36.799 It's a word play 00:20:36.799 --> 00:20:37.640 He's saying 00:20:37.640 --> 00:20:38.620 Formerly 00:20:38.620 --> 00:20:39.860 Useless 00:20:39.860 --> 00:20:40.700 Was useless 00:20:40.700 --> 00:20:41.820 Or useful 00:20:41.820 --> 00:20:42.380 Was useless 00:20:42.380 --> 00:20:42.920 To you 00:20:42.920 --> 00:20:43.900 Formerly useful 00:20:43.900 --> 00:20:44.880 Was useless 00:20:44.880 --> 00:20:45.440 To you 00:20:45.440 --> 00:20:46.480 In that he had no 00:20:46.480 --> 00:20:47.240 Real 00:20:47.240 --> 00:20:48.600 Eternal 00:20:48.600 --> 00:20:49.640 Bearing and weight 00:20:49.640 --> 00:20:50.380 In your life 00:20:50.380 --> 00:20:51.060 Right? 00:20:51.080 --> 00:20:51.519 But now 00:20:51.519 --> 00:20:52.539 He is indeed 00:20:52.539 --> 00:20:53.620 Useful 00:20:53.620 --> 00:20:54.440 To you 00:20:54.440 --> 00:20:55.480 And to me 00:20:55.480 --> 00:20:56.820 So in Christ 00:20:56.819 --> 00:20:57.939 Onesimus 00:20:57.940 --> 00:20:58.779 Had eternal 00:20:58.779 --> 00:20:59.480 Value 00:20:59.480 --> 00:21:00.100 And worth 00:21:00.100 --> 00:21:00.920 And purpose 00:21:00.920 --> 00:21:01.539 In the service 00:21:01.539 --> 00:21:01.980 Of both 00:21:01.980 --> 00:21:02.420 Paul 00:21:02.420 --> 00:21:03.840 And Philemon 00:21:03.840 --> 00:21:04.559 Back home 00:21:04.559 --> 00:21:05.820 In the Colossian 00:21:05.820 --> 00:21:06.559 Church 00:21:06.559 --> 00:21:08.059 Faithful 00:21:08.059 --> 00:21:08.600 And beloved 00:21:08.600 --> 00:21:09.980 Brother 00:21:09.980 --> 00:21:10.900 They've been sent back 00:21:10.900 --> 00:21:11.400 To tell them 00:21:11.400 --> 00:21:12.400 Everything that's happened 00:21:12.400 --> 00:21:13.240 Alright 00:21:13.240 --> 00:21:13.680 Verse 10 00:21:13.680 --> 00:21:15.779 We see 00:21:15.779 --> 00:21:17.140 Aristarchus 00:21:17.140 --> 00:21:18.000 Listed 00:21:18.000 --> 00:21:19.519 Fellow prisoner 00:21:19.519 --> 00:21:20.259 Greets you 00:21:20.259 --> 00:21:20.720 And mark 00:21:20.720 --> 00:21:21.140 The cousin 00:21:21.140 --> 00:21:21.860 Of Barnabas 00:21:21.860 --> 00:21:22.680 Concerning whom 00:21:22.680 --> 00:21:23.360 You have received 00:21:23.360 --> 00:21:23.920 Instruction 00:21:23.920 --> 00:21:24.539 If he comes 00:21:24.539 --> 00:21:25.039 To you 00:21:25.039 --> 00:21:26.340 Welcome him 00:21:26.340 --> 00:21:27.060 We don't know 00:21:27.060 --> 00:21:27.940 About the instruction 00:21:27.940 --> 00:21:28.700 But probably 00:21:28.700 --> 00:21:29.180 There had been 00:21:29.180 --> 00:21:30.180 Some other instruction 00:21:30.180 --> 00:21:31.180 That came from 00:21:31.180 --> 00:21:32.480 The church 00:21:32.480 --> 00:21:33.340 In Jerusalem 00:21:33.340 --> 00:21:34.400 About him 00:21:34.400 --> 00:21:35.820 Likely 00:21:35.820 --> 00:21:36.799 This is the case 00:21:36.799 --> 00:21:37.500 So he's just saying 00:21:37.500 --> 00:21:38.100 That instruction 00:21:38.100 --> 00:21:38.820 I've heard about 00:21:38.820 --> 00:21:39.880 Make sure you obey 00:21:39.880 --> 00:21:40.940 That instruction 00:21:40.940 --> 00:21:42.019 And Jesus 00:21:42.019 --> 00:21:43.400 Who is called 00:21:43.400 --> 00:21:44.300 Justice 00:21:44.300 --> 00:21:45.700 Now Aristarchus 00:21:45.700 --> 00:21:46.200 We know from 00:21:46.200 --> 00:21:46.860 Biblical text 00:21:46.860 --> 00:21:47.360 Was a native 00:21:47.360 --> 00:21:48.080 Of Thessalonica 00:21:48.080 --> 00:21:49.580 He first appears 00:21:49.580 --> 00:21:50.380 In the biblical narrative 00:21:50.380 --> 00:21:51.420 During Paul's ministry 00:21:51.420 --> 00:21:52.040 In Ephesus 00:21:52.040 --> 00:21:53.400 He was part of 00:21:53.400 --> 00:21:53.840 That group 00:21:53.840 --> 00:21:54.640 That was seized 00:21:54.640 --> 00:21:55.660 That was associated 00:21:55.660 --> 00:21:56.259 With Paul 00:21:56.259 --> 00:21:57.800 The mob came 00:21:57.800 --> 00:21:58.460 And seized them 00:21:58.460 --> 00:21:59.380 In Ephesus 00:21:59.380 --> 00:21:59.960 He was one of 00:21:59.960 --> 00:22:01.040 Paul's companions 00:22:01.040 --> 00:22:01.620 Agreed about that 00:22:01.620 --> 00:22:02.740 In Acts 19 00:22:02.740 --> 00:22:03.440 29 00:22:03.440 --> 00:22:04.840 He traveled with 00:22:04.840 --> 00:22:05.840 Paul to Jerusalem 00:22:05.840 --> 00:22:07.100 Acts 24 00:22:07.100 --> 00:22:08.340 And to Rome 00:22:08.340 --> 00:22:09.220 Acts 27 00:22:09.220 --> 00:22:09.720 4 00:22:09.720 --> 00:22:10.840 And now we find 00:22:10.840 --> 00:22:11.600 Him still 00:22:11.600 --> 00:22:12.680 Alongside Paul 00:22:12.680 --> 00:22:13.680 As a prisoner 00:22:13.680 --> 00:22:15.060 Also a prisoner 00:22:15.060 --> 00:22:15.940 Kept in chains 00:22:15.940 --> 00:22:17.220 Because of the 00:22:17.220 --> 00:22:18.840 Gospel of Jesus Christ 00:22:18.840 --> 00:22:20.420 We see Mark 00:22:20.420 --> 00:22:21.320 The cousin of 00:22:21.320 --> 00:22:22.320 Barnabas 00:22:22.320 --> 00:22:23.000 This is 00:22:23.000 --> 00:22:24.140 This is the Mark 00:22:24.140 --> 00:22:24.620 That authored 00:22:24.620 --> 00:22:25.759 The Gospel of Mark 00:22:25.759 --> 00:22:26.519 We talked about him 00:22:26.519 --> 00:22:27.279 Quite a bit 00:22:27.279 --> 00:22:28.019 At the very beginning 00:22:28.019 --> 00:22:29.660 Of our study 00:22:29.660 --> 00:22:30.420 Of that book 00:22:30.420 --> 00:22:32.080 That Mark 00:22:32.080 --> 00:22:32.820 Is kind of an obscure 00:22:32.820 --> 00:22:33.320 Character 00:22:33.320 --> 00:22:34.299 But he pops up 00:22:34.299 --> 00:22:35.080 In some places 00:22:35.080 --> 00:22:36.500 And is a wonderful 00:22:36.500 --> 00:22:37.580 Picture of redemption 00:22:37.580 --> 00:22:39.660 Mark is the one 00:22:39.660 --> 00:22:40.320 That deserted 00:22:40.319 --> 00:22:41.859 Paul and Barnabas 00:22:41.859 --> 00:22:42.599 You see this 00:22:42.599 --> 00:22:43.519 In Acts 13 00:22:43.519 --> 00:22:44.899 Because of fear 00:22:44.899 --> 00:22:45.859 He was just afraid 00:22:45.859 --> 00:22:46.599 To go on 00:22:46.599 --> 00:22:47.279 In the ministry 00:22:47.279 --> 00:22:48.019 Of the gospel 00:22:48.019 --> 00:22:49.579 And he abandoned them 00:22:49.579 --> 00:22:50.939 And he was later 00:22:50.939 --> 00:22:52.059 The point of contention 00:22:52.059 --> 00:22:53.379 Between Paul and Barnabas 00:22:53.379 --> 00:22:54.919 Acts chapter 15 00:22:54.919 --> 00:22:55.519 And the reason 00:22:55.519 --> 00:22:56.159 That Paul and Barnabas 00:22:56.159 --> 00:22:57.279 Actually is part ways 00:22:57.279 --> 00:22:58.179 Is that Barnabas 00:22:58.179 --> 00:22:58.980 His cousin 00:22:58.980 --> 00:22:59.899 Wanted to give him 00:22:59.899 --> 00:23:00.759 A second chance 00:23:00.759 --> 00:23:01.740 And Paul said 00:23:01.740 --> 00:23:02.939 I only want brave men 00:23:02.939 --> 00:23:03.299 With me 00:23:03.299 --> 00:23:04.299 I'm going on 00:23:04.299 --> 00:23:05.639 Without him 00:23:05.640 --> 00:23:07.160 And so we see 00:23:07.160 --> 00:23:08.880 This great redemptive 00:23:08.880 --> 00:23:09.880 Story carried out 00:23:09.880 --> 00:23:10.740 In Mark's life 00:23:10.740 --> 00:23:11.759 As he is now 00:23:11.759 --> 00:23:12.800 One of 00:23:12.800 --> 00:23:14.780 Paul's fellow workers 00:23:14.780 --> 00:23:16.160 Paul now esteems 00:23:16.160 --> 00:23:16.640 Him well 00:23:16.640 --> 00:23:17.600 And God uses him 00:23:17.600 --> 00:23:18.460 To author 00:23:18.460 --> 00:23:20.900 The Gospel of Mark 00:23:20.900 --> 00:23:21.640 Which is so incredibly 00:23:21.640 --> 00:23:22.200 Precious 00:23:22.200 --> 00:23:23.480 To all of us 00:23:23.480 --> 00:23:24.920 And then we see 00:23:24.920 --> 00:23:25.480 Jesus 00:23:25.480 --> 00:23:27.180 Who was called 00:23:27.180 --> 00:23:27.740 Justice 00:23:27.740 --> 00:23:29.380 Now Jesus 00:23:29.380 --> 00:23:30.660 Was the Greek form 00:23:30.660 --> 00:23:31.940 Of the Hebrew name 00:23:31.940 --> 00:23:32.960 Joshua 00:23:32.960 --> 00:23:34.539 It was actually 00:23:34.539 --> 00:23:36.100 Incredibly common 00:23:36.100 --> 00:23:37.279 It's important 00:23:37.279 --> 00:23:38.460 That we know 00:23:38.460 --> 00:23:40.120 That so often 00:23:40.120 --> 00:23:40.819 Jesus was called 00:23:40.819 --> 00:23:41.539 The Christ 00:23:41.539 --> 00:23:42.380 Because of this 00:23:42.380 --> 00:23:43.500 It was a distinguishing 00:23:43.500 --> 00:23:45.220 Factor about who he was 00:23:45.220 --> 00:23:46.759 Not just another Joshua 00:23:46.759 --> 00:23:47.880 He was Joshua 00:23:47.880 --> 00:23:48.960 The Christ 00:23:48.960 --> 00:23:50.500 Joshua means 00:23:50.500 --> 00:23:51.100 In Hebrew 00:23:51.100 --> 00:23:51.880 Savior 00:23:51.880 --> 00:23:52.940 So this is another 00:23:52.940 --> 00:23:55.240 Man named Josh 00:23:55.240 --> 00:23:56.819 But not just Josh 00:23:56.819 --> 00:23:57.880 But one who's called 00:23:57.880 --> 00:23:58.660 Justice 00:23:58.660 --> 00:23:59.400 Justice would have been 00:23:59.400 --> 00:24:00.200 His surname 00:24:00.200 --> 00:24:01.880 His last name 00:24:01.880 --> 00:24:02.400 Of sorts 00:24:02.400 --> 00:24:03.140 Which means 00:24:03.140 --> 00:24:04.400 Righteous 00:24:04.400 --> 00:24:06.340 He was 00:24:06.340 --> 00:24:07.620 Righteous 00:24:07.620 --> 00:24:08.019 Because 00:24:08.019 --> 00:24:09.200 He has 00:24:09.200 --> 00:24:10.759 A Savior 00:24:10.759 --> 00:24:13.160 And Paul writes 00:24:13.160 --> 00:24:13.960 These are the only men 00:24:13.960 --> 00:24:14.780 Of the circumcision 00:24:14.780 --> 00:24:16.380 Among my fellow workers 00:24:16.380 --> 00:24:17.519 For the kingdom of God 00:24:17.519 --> 00:24:19.340 And they have been 00:24:19.340 --> 00:24:20.160 A comfort 00:24:20.160 --> 00:24:21.519 To me 00:24:21.519 --> 00:24:22.620 And remember 00:24:22.620 --> 00:24:23.140 That Paul's 00:24:23.140 --> 00:24:23.980 Primary ministry 00:24:23.980 --> 00:24:25.759 Was to the Gentile population 00:24:25.759 --> 00:24:26.540 That there were 00:24:26.540 --> 00:24:27.540 Other apostles 00:24:27.540 --> 00:24:28.920 Most of the apostles 00:24:28.920 --> 00:24:30.200 Ministering to 00:24:30.200 --> 00:24:31.580 Jewish populations 00:24:31.579 --> 00:24:32.960 Peter was the major 00:24:32.960 --> 00:24:33.740 Leader of that 00:24:33.740 --> 00:24:34.740 Back in Jerusalem 00:24:34.740 --> 00:24:35.960 Ministering to the Jews 00:24:35.960 --> 00:24:38.079 Paul's been turned out 00:24:38.079 --> 00:24:38.879 To the Gentiles 00:24:38.879 --> 00:24:40.000 But all the same 00:24:40.000 --> 00:24:40.439 Right 00:24:40.439 --> 00:24:41.679 He's got this desire 00:24:41.679 --> 00:24:42.799 This hunger 00:24:42.799 --> 00:24:44.539 That people of his 00:24:44.539 --> 00:24:46.179 Ethnicity 00:24:46.179 --> 00:24:47.179 Would come to Christ 00:24:47.179 --> 00:24:47.779 Romans 9 00:24:47.779 --> 00:24:48.039 3 00:24:48.039 --> 00:24:48.439 He says 00:24:48.439 --> 00:24:49.599 For I could wish 00:24:49.599 --> 00:24:50.819 That I myself 00:24:50.819 --> 00:24:51.500 Were accursed 00:24:51.500 --> 00:24:52.279 And cut off 00:24:52.279 --> 00:24:53.000 From Christ 00:24:53.000 --> 00:24:53.919 For the sake of my brothers 00:24:53.919 --> 00:24:54.720 My kinsmen 00:24:54.720 --> 00:24:56.639 According to the flesh 00:24:56.639 --> 00:24:57.199 Right 00:24:57.200 --> 00:24:58.880 Those that had 00:24:58.880 --> 00:24:59.779 The patriarchs 00:24:59.779 --> 00:25:00.559 Those that had 00:25:00.559 --> 00:25:01.400 The prophets 00:25:01.400 --> 00:25:02.539 Those that should have 00:25:02.539 --> 00:25:03.600 Known what true worship 00:25:03.600 --> 00:25:04.740 Of God would look like 00:25:04.740 --> 00:25:05.799 And yet had turned 00:25:05.799 --> 00:25:06.620 From Christ 00:25:06.620 --> 00:25:08.220 Paul longed for them 00:25:08.220 --> 00:25:09.700 To come to Christ 00:25:09.700 --> 00:25:11.039 And not only were they 00:25:11.039 --> 00:25:12.059 Rejecting the gospel 00:25:12.059 --> 00:25:13.059 But they reject Paul 00:25:13.059 --> 00:25:13.740 Altogether 00:25:13.740 --> 00:25:14.980 Much of the danger 00:25:14.980 --> 00:25:15.539 Paul faced 00:25:15.539 --> 00:25:16.539 On his missionary journeys 00:25:16.539 --> 00:25:17.960 Came at the hands 00:25:17.960 --> 00:25:18.920 Of Jews 00:25:18.920 --> 00:25:20.160 I'll give you an example 00:25:20.160 --> 00:25:21.140 2 Corinthians 11 00:25:21.140 --> 00:25:21.680 26 00:25:21.680 --> 00:25:22.799 As Paul records 00:25:22.799 --> 00:25:23.840 The challenges 00:25:23.840 --> 00:25:24.539 That have faced 00:25:24.539 --> 00:25:25.799 His Christian ministry 00:25:25.799 --> 00:25:27.359 On frequent journeys 00:25:27.359 --> 00:25:28.480 In danger from rivers 00:25:28.480 --> 00:25:29.619 Dangers from robbers 00:25:29.619 --> 00:25:31.099 Dangers from my own people 00:25:31.099 --> 00:25:32.819 Dangers from Gentiles 00:25:32.819 --> 00:25:33.799 Danger in the city 00:25:33.799 --> 00:25:34.599 Danger in the wilderness 00:25:34.599 --> 00:25:35.359 Danger at sea 00:25:35.359 --> 00:25:37.819 Danger from false brothers 00:25:37.819 --> 00:25:38.619 And you see him list 00:25:38.619 --> 00:25:39.359 In that danger 00:25:39.359 --> 00:25:41.539 From his own people 00:25:41.539 --> 00:25:43.480 So they were Jews 00:25:43.480 --> 00:25:44.240 Who did not seek 00:25:44.240 --> 00:25:44.960 To kill him 00:25:44.960 --> 00:25:45.500 Right 00:25:45.500 --> 00:25:46.599 But also they were 00:25:46.599 --> 00:25:47.519 A reminder 00:25:47.519 --> 00:25:48.740 These Jews 00:25:48.740 --> 00:25:49.639 That were fellowshipping 00:25:49.639 --> 00:25:50.180 With him 00:25:50.180 --> 00:25:51.299 They weren't 00:25:51.299 --> 00:25:52.240 Seeking his life 00:25:52.240 --> 00:25:53.019 As others were 00:25:53.019 --> 00:25:53.359 Right 00:25:53.359 --> 00:25:53.940 So what a comfort 00:25:53.940 --> 00:25:54.700 That would have been 00:25:54.700 --> 00:25:55.880 But they also 00:25:55.880 --> 00:25:57.059 Were a reminder to him 00:25:57.059 --> 00:25:58.100 Of the eternal purposes 00:25:58.100 --> 00:25:58.700 Of God 00:25:58.700 --> 00:26:00.120 A reminder to him 00:26:00.120 --> 00:26:01.380 That God was still 00:26:01.380 --> 00:26:01.860 In fact 00:26:01.860 --> 00:26:02.920 Working amongst 00:26:02.920 --> 00:26:03.600 His brethren 00:26:03.600 --> 00:26:04.500 Working amongst 00:26:04.500 --> 00:26:06.340 The Jewish people 00:26:06.340 --> 00:26:07.620 He knows about the church 00:26:07.620 --> 00:26:08.320 In Jerusalem 00:26:08.320 --> 00:26:09.380 He's visited the church 00:26:09.380 --> 00:26:10.019 In Jerusalem 00:26:10.019 --> 00:26:10.600 But these are men 00:26:10.600 --> 00:26:11.460 Who are with him 00:26:11.460 --> 00:26:12.700 Who are a wonderful 00:26:12.700 --> 00:26:14.140 Reminder of that 00:26:14.140 --> 00:26:15.480 I'm going to 00:26:15.480 --> 00:26:16.299 Encourage you to read 00:26:16.299 --> 00:26:16.799 At some point 00:26:16.799 --> 00:26:17.860 Romans chapter 11 00:26:17.860 --> 00:26:19.140 And wrestle with it 00:26:19.140 --> 00:26:19.820 And try to understand 00:26:19.820 --> 00:26:20.880 What Paul is having to say 00:26:20.880 --> 00:26:22.160 About God's eternal purposes 00:26:22.160 --> 00:26:23.500 To the Jewish people 00:26:23.500 --> 00:26:24.299 The bloodline 00:26:24.299 --> 00:26:25.619 Jewish people 00:26:25.619 --> 00:26:26.539 But he turns 00:26:26.539 --> 00:26:27.440 From all of that 00:26:27.440 --> 00:26:28.339 And all of his 00:26:28.339 --> 00:26:29.839 Understanding 00:26:29.839 --> 00:26:30.940 Of how it is 00:26:30.940 --> 00:26:31.539 That God is still 00:26:31.539 --> 00:26:32.400 Working with the people 00:26:32.400 --> 00:26:33.200 In Romans 11 00:26:33.200 --> 00:26:34.279 Verse 33 00:26:34.279 --> 00:26:34.859 To 36 00:26:34.859 --> 00:26:35.579 He says 00:26:35.579 --> 00:26:36.460 Oh the depths 00:26:36.460 --> 00:26:37.160 Of the riches 00:26:37.160 --> 00:26:37.160 00:26:37.160 --> 00:26:38.339 And wisdom 00:26:38.339 --> 00:26:39.319 And knowledge of God! 00:26:39.980 --> 00:26:40.720 How unsearchable 00:26:40.720 --> 00:26:41.319 Are his judgments! 00:26:41.519 --> 00:26:42.380 And how inscrutable 00:26:42.380 --> 00:26:43.079 His ways! 00:26:43.640 --> 00:26:44.160 For who has known 00:26:44.160 --> 00:26:44.859 The mind of the Lord? 00:26:44.900 --> 00:26:45.480 Or who has been 00:26:45.480 --> 00:26:46.480 His counselor? 00:26:46.680 --> 00:26:47.359 Or who has given 00:26:47.359 --> 00:26:48.220 A gift to him 00:26:48.220 --> 00:26:50.000 That he might be repaid? 00:26:50.000 --> 00:26:51.380 For from him 00:26:51.380 --> 00:26:52.500 And through him 00:26:52.500 --> 00:26:53.500 And to him 00:26:53.500 --> 00:26:54.400 Are all things 00:26:54.400 --> 00:26:56.319 To him be glory forever 00:26:56.319 --> 00:26:57.339 Amen 00:26:57.339 --> 00:26:58.339 And I just imagine 00:26:58.339 --> 00:27:01.559 That hymn Paul sings to himself 00:27:01.559 --> 00:27:04.160 As he's troubled about his brethren 00:27:04.160 --> 00:27:05.819 He's troubled about Israel 00:27:05.819 --> 00:27:06.980 And yet he looks at the lives 00:27:06.980 --> 00:27:08.019 Of these three men 00:27:08.019 --> 00:27:09.839 Who have faithfully 00:27:09.839 --> 00:27:11.039 Given up all things 00:27:11.039 --> 00:27:12.759 In order to pursue Christ 00:27:12.759 --> 00:27:14.000 And he praises God 00:27:14.000 --> 00:27:15.039 For God's eternal purposes 00:27:15.039 --> 00:27:16.920 To the Jewish people 00:27:16.920 --> 00:27:19.279 Verse 12 00:27:19.279 --> 00:27:22.340 Epaphras is listed 00:27:22.340 --> 00:27:23.960 Not the first time 00:27:23.960 --> 00:27:25.600 We've heard about Epaphras 00:27:25.600 --> 00:27:26.500 Epaphras was 00:27:26.500 --> 00:27:28.700 The founder of the Colossian church 00:27:28.700 --> 00:27:31.000 Became a believer in Ephesus 00:27:31.000 --> 00:27:32.400 Brought the gospel back 00:27:32.400 --> 00:27:34.900 To this rather insignificant town 00:27:34.900 --> 00:27:36.560 Kind of a blip on the map 00:27:36.560 --> 00:27:37.640 In history 00:27:37.640 --> 00:27:38.560 He says 00:27:38.560 --> 00:27:39.259 Epaphras 00:27:39.259 --> 00:27:40.880 Who is one of you 00:27:40.880 --> 00:27:42.620 A servant of Christ Jesus 00:27:42.620 --> 00:27:43.360 Greets you 00:27:43.360 --> 00:27:44.940 Always struggling 00:27:44.940 --> 00:27:45.620 On your behalf 00:27:45.620 --> 00:27:46.180 In his prayers 00:27:46.180 --> 00:27:46.800 That you may stand 00:27:46.799 --> 00:27:47.220 Mature 00:27:47.220 --> 00:27:48.599 And fully assured 00:27:48.599 --> 00:27:49.759 In all the will 00:27:49.759 --> 00:27:51.019 Of God 00:27:51.019 --> 00:27:52.220 For I bear him witness 00:27:52.220 --> 00:27:53.500 That he has worked hard for you 00:27:53.500 --> 00:27:54.139 And for those 00:27:54.139 --> 00:27:55.220 In Laodicea 00:27:55.220 --> 00:27:56.299 And in Heropolis 00:27:56.299 --> 00:27:56.940 It seems that he 00:27:56.940 --> 00:27:58.480 Expanded his gospel ministry 00:27:58.480 --> 00:27:59.659 Out beyond just 00:27:59.659 --> 00:28:01.599 Colossae 00:28:02.220 --> 00:28:03.399 And out to Laodicea 00:28:03.399 --> 00:28:04.480 And out to Heropolis 00:28:04.480 --> 00:28:05.259 As well 00:28:05.259 --> 00:28:06.059 And he has labored 00:28:06.059 --> 00:28:07.319 Even while he's been gone 00:28:07.319 --> 00:28:08.539 Even while he's been with 00:28:08.539 --> 00:28:09.579 Paul in Rome 00:28:09.579 --> 00:28:10.379 He's been struggling 00:28:10.379 --> 00:28:11.220 On their behalf 00:28:11.220 --> 00:28:13.079 So that they may stand 00:28:13.079 --> 00:28:13.899 Mature 00:28:13.900 --> 00:28:15.759 And fully assured 00:28:15.759 --> 00:28:17.420 In all of the will 00:28:17.420 --> 00:28:18.519 Of God 00:28:18.519 --> 00:28:20.240 Remember that 00:28:20.240 --> 00:28:20.860 At the very beginning 00:28:20.860 --> 00:28:21.380 Of the letter 00:28:21.380 --> 00:28:22.280 Colossians 1 00:28:22.280 --> 00:28:22.920 Verse 3 00:28:22.920 --> 00:28:24.940 When Paul hears 00:28:24.940 --> 00:28:26.560 About the Colossian church 00:28:26.560 --> 00:28:27.580 He says 00:28:27.579 --> 00:28:28.500 We always thank God 00:28:28.500 --> 00:28:28.899 The Father 00:28:28.899 --> 00:28:29.919 Of our Lord Jesus Christ 00:28:29.919 --> 00:28:30.859 When we pray for you 00:28:30.859 --> 00:28:32.399 Since we heard of your faith 00:28:32.399 --> 00:28:33.299 In Christ Jesus 00:28:33.299 --> 00:28:34.359 From Epaphras 00:28:34.359 --> 00:28:35.519 And of the love 00:28:35.519 --> 00:28:36.699 That you have for all the saints 00:28:36.699 --> 00:28:37.519 Because of the hope 00:28:37.519 --> 00:28:38.500 Lied up for you in heaven 00:28:38.500 --> 00:28:40.000 Of this you have heard 00:28:40.000 --> 00:28:41.039 Before in the word of truth 00:28:41.039 --> 00:28:41.639 The gospel 00:28:41.639 --> 00:28:42.619 Which has come to you 00:28:42.619 --> 00:28:44.039 As indeed in the whole world 00:28:44.039 --> 00:28:44.799 It is bearing fruit 00:28:44.799 --> 00:28:45.439 And increasing 00:28:45.439 --> 00:28:47.319 As it also does among you 00:28:47.319 --> 00:28:48.579 Since the day you heard it 00:28:48.579 --> 00:28:49.279 And understood 00:28:49.279 --> 00:28:50.359 The grace of God 00:28:50.359 --> 00:28:50.960 In truth 00:28:50.960 --> 00:28:52.619 Just as you learned it 00:28:52.619 --> 00:28:54.000 From Epaphras 00:28:54.000 --> 00:28:55.259 Our beloved fellow servant 00:28:55.259 --> 00:28:57.519 He is a faithful minister of Christ 00:28:57.519 --> 00:28:58.359 On your behalf 00:28:58.359 --> 00:29:00.000 And has made known to us 00:29:00.000 --> 00:29:01.079 Your love 00:29:01.079 --> 00:29:02.420 In the Spirit 00:29:02.420 --> 00:29:03.640 There's this 00:29:03.640 --> 00:29:04.079 This 00:29:04.079 --> 00:29:06.660 Work on Epaphras' part 00:29:06.660 --> 00:29:07.480 Which Paul sees 00:29:07.480 --> 00:29:08.460 As an extension of his 00:29:08.460 --> 00:29:09.420 As Epaphras became 00:29:09.420 --> 00:29:11.180 A believer in the Ephesian church 00:29:11.180 --> 00:29:11.900 Under the ministry 00:29:11.900 --> 00:29:12.579 Of Paul 00:29:12.579 --> 00:29:13.059 And he's now 00:29:13.059 --> 00:29:14.599 Taking it back home 00:29:14.599 --> 00:29:16.960 He's rejoicing in 00:29:16.960 --> 00:29:18.279 And he's sharing in this work 00:29:18.279 --> 00:29:20.079 That Epaphras is doing 00:29:20.079 --> 00:29:22.000 And sees this point 00:29:22.000 --> 00:29:23.879 Of Epaphras' ministry 00:29:23.879 --> 00:29:24.559 And his prayers 00:29:24.559 --> 00:29:25.319 That he may stand 00:29:25.319 --> 00:29:26.019 Mature 00:29:26.019 --> 00:29:27.299 And fully assured 00:29:27.299 --> 00:29:29.000 In all the will of God 00:29:29.000 --> 00:29:29.899 And it goes on then 00:29:29.899 --> 00:29:31.059 In Colossians chapter 1 00:29:31.059 --> 00:29:32.500 And so from the day we heard 00:29:32.500 --> 00:29:33.960 We have not ceased 00:29:33.960 --> 00:29:34.819 To pray for you 00:29:34.819 --> 00:29:36.139 Asking that you may be filled 00:29:36.139 --> 00:29:37.019 With the knowledge 00:29:37.019 --> 00:29:37.819 Of his will 00:29:37.819 --> 00:29:39.579 In all spiritual wisdom 00:29:39.579 --> 00:29:41.039 And understanding 00:29:41.039 --> 00:29:42.259 That you may know rightly 00:29:42.259 --> 00:29:43.779 Who God is 00:29:43.779 --> 00:29:44.940 And then 00:29:44.940 --> 00:29:45.579 Verse 10 00:29:45.579 --> 00:29:46.599 How you should walk 00:29:46.599 --> 00:29:47.740 So as to walk in a manner 00:29:47.740 --> 00:29:48.919 Worthy of the Lord 00:29:48.919 --> 00:29:49.980 Fully pleasing to him 00:29:49.980 --> 00:29:50.700 Bearing fruit 00:29:50.700 --> 00:29:51.980 In every good work 00:29:51.980 --> 00:29:52.899 And increasing 00:29:52.900 --> 00:29:54.220 In the knowledge of God 00:29:54.220 --> 00:29:55.840 Are you seeing it? 00:29:55.900 --> 00:29:56.500 Are you catching 00:29:56.500 --> 00:29:58.460 All of the spiritual 00:29:58.460 --> 00:30:00.460 Both investment 00:30:00.460 --> 00:30:01.220 Into Paul 00:30:01.220 --> 00:30:02.100 As he is needy 00:30:02.100 --> 00:30:03.100 As well as the way 00:30:03.100 --> 00:30:04.620 In which he's extending 00:30:04.620 --> 00:30:05.259 His ministry 00:30:05.259 --> 00:30:06.200 Through the lives 00:30:06.200 --> 00:30:07.180 Of these men 00:30:07.180 --> 00:30:08.660 Paul needed 00:30:08.660 --> 00:30:10.220 These men 00:30:10.220 --> 00:30:11.759 Paul was needy 00:30:11.759 --> 00:30:13.420 Not just physically 00:30:13.420 --> 00:30:14.700 But verse 14 00:30:14.700 --> 00:30:17.960 We see him mention Luke 00:30:17.960 --> 00:30:20.080 The beloved physician 00:30:20.080 --> 00:30:21.720 Luke is only mentioned 00:30:21.720 --> 00:30:22.600 Three times 00:30:22.600 --> 00:30:23.759 In the New Testament 00:30:23.759 --> 00:30:25.160 And all of these times 00:30:25.160 --> 00:30:26.180 Are in Paul's letters 00:30:26.180 --> 00:30:26.620 Here 00:30:26.620 --> 00:30:28.259 Philemon verse 24 00:30:28.259 --> 00:30:29.759 And 2 Timothy 4 00:30:29.759 --> 00:30:30.680 11 00:30:30.680 --> 00:30:32.660 Luke is the one 00:30:32.660 --> 00:30:33.259 Who authored 00:30:33.259 --> 00:30:34.240 The gospel of Luke 00:30:34.240 --> 00:30:34.940 As well as 00:30:34.940 --> 00:30:36.259 The book of Acts 00:30:36.259 --> 00:30:37.120 Pretty significant 00:30:37.120 --> 00:30:38.840 As far as his contribution 00:30:38.840 --> 00:30:39.460 To the scripture 00:30:39.460 --> 00:30:40.559 But mentioned very little 00:30:40.559 --> 00:30:41.640 In the scripture 00:30:41.640 --> 00:30:43.080 It's been understood 00:30:43.080 --> 00:30:45.160 That Luke was Paul's 00:30:45.160 --> 00:30:46.340 Personal physician 00:30:46.340 --> 00:30:47.700 And that he joined him 00:30:47.700 --> 00:30:49.200 On his second missionary journey 00:30:49.200 --> 00:30:51.280 And mostly remained with him 00:30:51.280 --> 00:30:52.200 For the remainder 00:30:52.200 --> 00:30:53.360 Of his life 00:30:53.360 --> 00:30:54.560 That Luke 00:30:54.560 --> 00:30:55.900 Certainly a man 00:30:55.900 --> 00:30:58.060 Gifted by the Spirit 00:30:58.060 --> 00:30:59.880 At least at record taking 00:30:59.880 --> 00:31:00.540 And giving us 00:31:00.540 --> 00:31:01.440 The gospels 00:31:01.440 --> 00:31:02.320 Certainly could 00:31:02.320 --> 00:31:04.040 Teach well 00:31:04.040 --> 00:31:04.759 The doctrines 00:31:04.759 --> 00:31:05.700 Of Christ 00:31:05.700 --> 00:31:06.780 But primarily 00:31:06.780 --> 00:31:07.580 Tied himself 00:31:07.580 --> 00:31:08.740 To the side of Paul 00:31:08.740 --> 00:31:09.560 In order to be 00:31:09.559 --> 00:31:10.700 His physician 00:31:10.700 --> 00:31:12.519 There's much postulation 00:31:12.519 --> 00:31:13.539 About what the thorn 00:31:13.539 --> 00:31:15.039 In Paul's flesh was 00:31:15.039 --> 00:31:15.819 But most agree 00:31:15.819 --> 00:31:16.519 That it was some kind 00:31:16.519 --> 00:31:17.519 Of physical ailment 00:31:17.519 --> 00:31:18.460 That caused him 00:31:18.460 --> 00:31:19.359 A great deal of trouble 00:31:19.359 --> 00:31:20.179 As he traveled 00:31:20.179 --> 00:31:21.159 And after his 00:31:21.159 --> 00:31:22.779 First missionary journey 00:31:22.779 --> 00:31:24.460 It's believed that Luke 00:31:24.460 --> 00:31:25.339 Picks up with him 00:31:25.339 --> 00:31:26.220 In order to help him 00:31:26.220 --> 00:31:26.919 And to aid him 00:31:26.919 --> 00:31:27.559 And to meet his 00:31:27.559 --> 00:31:28.480 Physical needs 00:31:28.480 --> 00:31:29.480 As he's going 00:31:29.480 --> 00:31:30.740 Luke recognizing 00:31:30.740 --> 00:31:31.659 That he was given 00:31:31.659 --> 00:31:33.859 A gifted mind by God 00:31:33.859 --> 00:31:35.339 Has been able to study 00:31:35.339 --> 00:31:35.960 And to know 00:31:35.960 --> 00:31:36.659 How it was 00:31:36.659 --> 00:31:37.500 That he could help Paul 00:31:37.500 --> 00:31:38.579 Along the way 00:31:38.579 --> 00:31:39.659 And he does so 00:31:39.659 --> 00:31:40.699 He's with him here 00:31:40.699 --> 00:31:42.460 In this house imprisonment 00:31:42.460 --> 00:31:42.980 That he's at 00:31:42.980 --> 00:31:43.699 Able to minister 00:31:43.699 --> 00:31:45.139 To his needs 00:31:45.139 --> 00:31:47.339 And the rest of verse 14 00:31:47.339 --> 00:31:49.039 He mentions Demas 00:31:49.039 --> 00:31:50.319 Demas is with him 00:31:50.319 --> 00:31:51.220 In Rome 00:31:51.220 --> 00:31:54.299 As does Demas 00:31:54.299 --> 00:31:55.220 Now sadly 00:31:55.220 --> 00:31:56.119 We find out later 00:31:56.119 --> 00:31:57.139 That Demas doesn't 00:31:57.139 --> 00:31:58.279 Remain with him 00:31:58.279 --> 00:31:59.279 2 Timothy 4 00:31:59.279 --> 00:31:59.919 9 and 10 00:31:59.919 --> 00:32:02.179 Paul writes to Timothy 00:32:02.179 --> 00:32:02.779 Do your best 00:32:02.779 --> 00:32:03.839 To come to me soon 00:32:03.839 --> 00:32:05.119 For Demas 00:32:05.119 --> 00:32:05.919 In love with this 00:32:05.919 --> 00:32:06.500 Present world 00:32:06.500 --> 00:32:07.459 Has deserted me 00:32:07.459 --> 00:32:09.159 And gone to Thessalonica 00:32:09.159 --> 00:32:10.059 Crescens 00:32:10.059 --> 00:32:11.139 Has gone to Galatia 00:32:11.139 --> 00:32:12.019 Titus 00:32:12.019 --> 00:32:13.419 To Dalmatia 00:32:13.419 --> 00:32:14.399 And so Demas 00:32:14.399 --> 00:32:16.099 Deserts him 00:32:16.099 --> 00:32:17.119 Deserts him 00:32:17.119 --> 00:32:18.179 Because he loves the world 00:32:18.179 --> 00:32:19.039 More than the ministry 00:32:19.039 --> 00:32:19.519 Of God 00:32:19.519 --> 00:32:20.599 That Paul 00:32:20.599 --> 00:32:21.419 Was doing 00:32:21.419 --> 00:32:22.579 And this should be 00:32:22.579 --> 00:32:23.000 An encouragement 00:32:23.000 --> 00:32:23.559 To all of us 00:32:23.559 --> 00:32:24.199 Especially those 00:32:24.199 --> 00:32:24.639 Who are in 00:32:24.639 --> 00:32:26.019 Places of Christian leadership 00:32:26.019 --> 00:32:27.819 Jesus had his Judas 00:32:27.819 --> 00:32:29.519 Paul had his 00:32:29.519 --> 00:32:30.480 Demas 00:32:30.480 --> 00:32:31.039 And it's a comfort 00:32:31.039 --> 00:32:31.900 To know that the two 00:32:31.900 --> 00:32:32.980 Greatest leaders 00:32:32.980 --> 00:32:33.559 In the world 00:32:33.559 --> 00:32:35.120 Have had men 00:32:35.120 --> 00:32:35.920 Who have failed them 00:32:35.920 --> 00:32:37.220 Along the way 00:32:37.220 --> 00:32:40.079 And then he concludes 00:32:40.079 --> 00:32:41.019 Give my greetings 00:32:41.019 --> 00:32:41.480 To the brothers 00:32:41.480 --> 00:32:42.140 At Laodicea 00:32:42.140 --> 00:32:42.700 And to Nympha 00:32:42.700 --> 00:32:43.120 And the church 00:32:43.120 --> 00:32:43.819 In her house 00:32:43.819 --> 00:32:45.259 Which was understood 00:32:45.259 --> 00:32:45.779 To be the church 00:32:45.779 --> 00:32:46.519 In Laodicea 00:32:46.519 --> 00:32:47.160 And when this letter 00:32:47.160 --> 00:32:47.940 Has been read among you 00:32:47.940 --> 00:32:48.500 Have it also read 00:32:48.500 --> 00:32:48.819 In the church 00:32:48.819 --> 00:32:49.660 Of the Laodiceans 00:32:49.660 --> 00:32:50.140 And see also 00:32:50.140 --> 00:32:50.759 That you read the letter 00:32:50.759 --> 00:32:52.480 From Laodicea 00:32:52.480 --> 00:32:53.539 There's a lot of postulation 00:32:53.539 --> 00:32:54.319 About what the letter 00:32:54.319 --> 00:32:55.180 Of Laodicea is 00:32:55.180 --> 00:32:55.960 Some people suggest 00:32:55.960 --> 00:32:56.660 That it actually was 00:32:56.660 --> 00:32:57.539 A particular letter 00:32:57.539 --> 00:32:58.720 Written to the Laodiceans 00:32:58.720 --> 00:32:59.819 Many agree 00:32:59.819 --> 00:33:00.559 That it actually was 00:33:00.559 --> 00:33:01.679 The letter of Ephesians 00:33:01.679 --> 00:33:02.720 That was actually taken 00:33:02.720 --> 00:33:03.960 And dropped back off 00:33:03.960 --> 00:33:05.899 On the journey 00:33:05.899 --> 00:33:07.039 Back to Rome 00:33:07.039 --> 00:33:08.259 And that they all 00:33:08.259 --> 00:33:09.559 Benefited from these letters 00:33:09.559 --> 00:33:11.319 We don't know for sure 00:33:11.319 --> 00:33:11.879 But all the same 00:33:11.879 --> 00:33:12.619 There's an instruction 00:33:12.619 --> 00:33:14.079 To read Paul's other letter 00:33:14.079 --> 00:33:14.720 To be sure that they're 00:33:14.720 --> 00:33:15.319 Very clear 00:33:15.319 --> 00:33:16.679 On the understanding 00:33:16.679 --> 00:33:17.279 Of the gospel 00:33:17.279 --> 00:33:18.679 Of Jesus Christ 00:33:18.679 --> 00:33:19.539 And then in verse 17 00:33:19.539 --> 00:33:20.279 He writes 00:33:20.279 --> 00:33:21.939 And say to Archippus 00:33:21.939 --> 00:33:23.299 See that you fulfill 00:33:23.299 --> 00:33:23.919 The ministry 00:33:23.919 --> 00:33:25.359 That you have received 00:33:25.359 --> 00:33:26.439 In the Lord 00:33:26.439 --> 00:33:27.159 So I've been talking 00:33:27.160 --> 00:33:27.860 And I know in 00:33:27.860 --> 00:33:29.800 Spattering of history 00:33:29.800 --> 00:33:30.620 About these men 00:33:30.620 --> 00:33:32.540 About Paul's life 00:33:32.540 --> 00:33:33.060 And the way that 00:33:33.060 --> 00:33:33.800 Paul himself 00:33:33.800 --> 00:33:35.000 Was needy 00:33:35.000 --> 00:33:37.120 Paul needed men 00:33:37.120 --> 00:33:37.400 Right? 00:33:37.480 --> 00:33:38.240 The grace of God 00:33:38.240 --> 00:33:39.000 To him 00:33:39.000 --> 00:33:40.460 Through men 00:33:40.460 --> 00:33:42.140 To minister to him 00:33:42.140 --> 00:33:42.960 And to help him 00:33:42.960 --> 00:33:43.320 Minister 00:33:43.320 --> 00:33:44.960 To others 00:33:44.960 --> 00:33:46.980 We see also 00:33:46.980 --> 00:33:47.880 Verse 17 00:33:47.880 --> 00:33:48.779 That we are 00:33:48.779 --> 00:33:49.779 Needed 00:33:49.779 --> 00:33:50.960 So we are needy 00:33:50.960 --> 00:33:52.640 But we are also 00:33:52.640 --> 00:33:53.500 Needed 00:33:53.500 --> 00:33:54.559 Say to Archippus 00:33:54.559 --> 00:33:55.740 Now Archippus 00:33:55.740 --> 00:33:56.400 Is only noted 00:33:56.400 --> 00:33:58.200 Here in Philemon 2 00:33:58.200 --> 00:33:59.319 We don't know 00:33:59.319 --> 00:34:00.380 A lot about this man 00:34:00.380 --> 00:34:01.779 Fairly insignificant 00:34:01.779 --> 00:34:02.539 In the scope 00:34:02.539 --> 00:34:03.460 Of history 00:34:03.460 --> 00:34:04.259 Again Philemon 00:34:04.259 --> 00:34:05.640 Believer in the 00:34:05.640 --> 00:34:07.039 Colossian church 00:34:07.039 --> 00:34:08.360 Colossae itself 00:34:08.360 --> 00:34:08.840 The Rome 00:34:08.840 --> 00:34:09.739 Rome had built 00:34:09.739 --> 00:34:10.840 The road around 00:34:10.840 --> 00:34:11.679 Colossae 00:34:11.679 --> 00:34:12.900 Was really insignificant 00:34:12.900 --> 00:34:13.780 Reminds me a lot 00:34:13.780 --> 00:34:14.559 Of Dahlonega 00:34:14.559 --> 00:34:15.219 In a lot of ways 00:34:15.219 --> 00:34:16.000 Nothing major 00:34:16.000 --> 00:34:16.500 Happening 00:34:16.500 --> 00:34:17.599 In the town 00:34:17.599 --> 00:34:18.420 Your educations 00:34:18.420 --> 00:34:18.739 Are major 00:34:18.739 --> 00:34:19.039 But 00:34:19.039 --> 00:34:23.019 Not real significant 00:34:23.019 --> 00:34:24.420 As far as 00:34:24.420 --> 00:34:25.380 Commerce 00:34:25.380 --> 00:34:26.380 Or military 00:34:26.380 --> 00:34:26.739 Might 00:34:26.739 --> 00:34:28.079 Was concerned 00:34:28.079 --> 00:34:28.599 Right? 00:34:28.679 --> 00:34:29.400 In Philemon 2 00:34:29.400 --> 00:34:29.759 Though 00:34:29.759 --> 00:34:30.519 Archippus 00:34:30.519 --> 00:34:31.139 Is called 00:34:31.139 --> 00:34:31.960 Paul's 00:34:31.960 --> 00:34:32.619 Fellow 00:34:32.619 --> 00:34:33.940 Soldier 00:34:33.940 --> 00:34:35.440 And I don't 00:34:35.440 --> 00:34:36.059 Believe that his 00:34:36.059 --> 00:34:36.579 Ministry was 00:34:36.579 --> 00:34:37.259 Of any 00:34:37.259 --> 00:34:38.500 Particular note 00:34:38.500 --> 00:34:39.940 Simply because 00:34:39.940 --> 00:34:40.679 It's not noted 00:34:40.679 --> 00:34:41.960 He doesn't say 00:34:41.960 --> 00:34:43.519 See that you 00:34:43.519 --> 00:34:44.159 Fulfill the ministry 00:34:44.159 --> 00:34:44.820 And then give us 00:34:44.820 --> 00:34:45.380 The specifics 00:34:45.380 --> 00:34:45.940 Of what that 00:34:45.940 --> 00:34:46.320 Ministry 00:34:46.320 --> 00:34:47.119 Is 00:34:47.119 --> 00:34:47.500 But just 00:34:47.500 --> 00:34:48.460 Fulfill the ministry 00:34:48.460 --> 00:34:49.199 That you've received 00:34:49.199 --> 00:34:49.679 In the Lord 00:34:49.679 --> 00:34:49.940 This 00:34:49.940 --> 00:34:52.579 Task that God 00:34:52.579 --> 00:34:53.039 Has granted 00:34:53.039 --> 00:34:53.699 To you 00:34:53.699 --> 00:34:54.340 I don't think 00:34:54.340 --> 00:34:55.000 It's particularly 00:34:55.000 --> 00:34:56.579 Noteworthy 00:34:56.579 --> 00:34:57.559 I think Paul 00:34:57.559 --> 00:34:58.280 Just recognizes 00:34:58.280 --> 00:34:59.099 That this man 00:34:59.099 --> 00:34:59.900 Needs to be 00:34:59.900 --> 00:35:00.360 Encouraged 00:35:00.360 --> 00:35:00.880 To continue 00:35:00.880 --> 00:35:01.539 In his ministry 00:35:01.539 --> 00:35:02.780 As a disciple 00:35:02.780 --> 00:35:04.119 Of Jesus Christ 00:35:04.119 --> 00:35:05.740 What is the ministry 00:35:05.740 --> 00:35:06.679 That all disciples 00:35:06.679 --> 00:35:07.280 Of Jesus Christ 00:35:07.280 --> 00:35:07.679 Are given? 00:35:08.800 --> 00:35:09.599 To make disciples 00:35:09.599 --> 00:35:11.079 This is the work 00:35:11.079 --> 00:35:12.059 That we are to be about 00:35:12.059 --> 00:35:13.360 As believers 00:35:13.360 --> 00:35:14.320 In Jesus Christ 00:35:14.320 --> 00:35:14.860 And so I think 00:35:14.860 --> 00:35:15.720 That we could read 00:35:15.720 --> 00:35:16.559 Rightly read 00:35:16.559 --> 00:35:17.559 And say to Archippus 00:35:17.559 --> 00:35:18.920 See that you continue 00:35:18.920 --> 00:35:19.940 To make disciples 00:35:19.940 --> 00:35:21.000 Of Jesus Christ 00:35:21.000 --> 00:35:22.480 This is the ministry 00:35:22.480 --> 00:35:23.579 That God has given you 00:35:23.579 --> 00:35:24.380 In Christ 00:35:24.380 --> 00:35:25.619 As a follower 00:35:25.619 --> 00:35:26.779 Of Him 00:35:26.779 --> 00:35:28.860 And we find ourselves 00:35:28.860 --> 00:35:29.360 In the church 00:35:29.360 --> 00:35:30.559 In a great deal 00:35:30.559 --> 00:35:31.019 Of trouble 00:35:31.019 --> 00:35:32.519 And I'm speaking 00:35:32.519 --> 00:35:33.400 In broad 00:35:33.400 --> 00:35:34.659 And general terms 00:35:34.659 --> 00:35:35.239 There are certainly 00:35:35.239 --> 00:35:36.119 Exceptions to this 00:35:36.119 --> 00:35:37.019 And I think in many ways 00:35:37.019 --> 00:35:37.539 Our church 00:35:37.539 --> 00:35:38.420 Is an exception 00:35:38.420 --> 00:35:39.739 To this 00:35:39.739 --> 00:35:41.279 But so many 00:35:41.279 --> 00:35:42.199 Churches 00:35:42.199 --> 00:35:43.219 Function 00:35:43.219 --> 00:35:44.759 As businesses 00:35:44.760 --> 00:35:46.060 Where the pastor 00:35:46.060 --> 00:35:47.280 Serves as the CEO 00:35:47.280 --> 00:35:48.420 And much of this 00:35:48.420 --> 00:35:49.040 Comes out of the 00:35:49.040 --> 00:35:49.900 Church growth movement 00:35:49.900 --> 00:35:50.620 Of the 60's 00:35:50.620 --> 00:35:51.400 And the 70's 00:35:51.400 --> 00:35:53.140 The glitzing up 00:35:53.140 --> 00:35:54.180 Of the church 00:35:54.180 --> 00:35:56.040 The putting on 00:35:56.040 --> 00:35:57.240 Of program 00:35:57.240 --> 00:35:58.720 In so many churches 00:35:58.720 --> 00:35:59.700 We don't need prayer 00:35:59.700 --> 00:36:00.760 Because we have websites 00:36:00.760 --> 00:36:03.120 We don't need evangelism 00:36:03.120 --> 00:36:03.820 Because we have 00:36:03.820 --> 00:36:04.960 Road frontage 00:36:04.960 --> 00:36:06.820 So much of this 00:36:06.820 --> 00:36:07.940 Was given away 00:36:07.940 --> 00:36:08.920 And so many 00:36:08.920 --> 00:36:09.760 For generations 00:36:09.760 --> 00:36:10.800 Have sat in churches 00:36:10.800 --> 00:36:11.780 And they've seen 00:36:11.780 --> 00:36:12.480 Their part 00:36:12.480 --> 00:36:13.400 To be sure 00:36:13.400 --> 00:36:14.200 That they give 00:36:14.200 --> 00:36:16.000 Direction to 00:36:16.000 --> 00:36:16.680 The CEO 00:36:16.680 --> 00:36:17.440 Of the company 00:36:17.440 --> 00:36:18.460 They pay his salary 00:36:18.460 --> 00:36:19.420 And they make sure 00:36:19.420 --> 00:36:20.019 That he does 00:36:20.019 --> 00:36:20.440 The things 00:36:20.440 --> 00:36:21.140 That he's supposed 00:36:21.140 --> 00:36:21.620 To do 00:36:21.620 --> 00:36:22.519 And as long 00:36:22.519 --> 00:36:23.040 As they can look 00:36:23.040 --> 00:36:23.500 Around and they 00:36:23.500 --> 00:36:24.380 See some growth 00:36:24.380 --> 00:36:25.340 Of some measurable 00:36:25.340 --> 00:36:26.840 Kind in the life 00:36:26.840 --> 00:36:27.420 Of the church 00:36:27.420 --> 00:36:27.980 Then everything 00:36:27.980 --> 00:36:28.640 Is good 00:36:28.640 --> 00:36:29.120 And everything 00:36:29.120 --> 00:36:30.540 Is going well 00:36:30.540 --> 00:36:31.760 And we could talk 00:36:31.760 --> 00:36:32.540 For the next few 00:36:32.540 --> 00:36:33.320 Hours about all 00:36:33.320 --> 00:36:34.280 The detriments 00:36:34.280 --> 00:36:35.100 That this has been 00:36:35.100 --> 00:36:36.340 To the life 00:36:36.340 --> 00:36:37.200 Of the body 00:36:37.200 --> 00:36:37.740 But we see 00:36:37.740 --> 00:36:38.560 A much different 00:36:38.560 --> 00:36:39.560 Picture in the 00:36:39.560 --> 00:36:39.880 Scripture 00:36:39.880 --> 00:36:40.600 Of what the church 00:36:40.600 --> 00:36:41.560 Is supposed to 00:36:41.559 --> 00:36:42.079 Look like 00:36:42.079 --> 00:36:43.279 Christianity 00:36:43.279 --> 00:36:45.119 Is a team sport 00:36:45.119 --> 00:36:46.400 We're all meant 00:36:46.400 --> 00:36:47.299 To get in the mix 00:36:47.299 --> 00:36:48.779 And play together 00:36:48.779 --> 00:36:49.799 1 Corinthians 12 00:36:49.799 --> 00:36:50.639 20 and 21 00:36:50.639 --> 00:36:51.880 Says as it is 00:36:51.880 --> 00:36:53.559 There are many parts 00:36:53.559 --> 00:36:55.400 Yet one body 00:36:55.400 --> 00:36:56.920 The eye cannot say 00:36:56.920 --> 00:36:57.420 To the hand 00:36:57.420 --> 00:36:58.380 I have no need of you 00:36:58.380 --> 00:36:59.039 Nor again the head 00:36:59.039 --> 00:36:59.519 To the feet 00:36:59.519 --> 00:37:01.199 I have no need of you 00:37:01.199 --> 00:37:02.360 And I think we get this 00:37:02.360 --> 00:37:03.079 I think we all 00:37:03.079 --> 00:37:04.259 Understand that 00:37:04.259 --> 00:37:05.259 I can't say to anybody 00:37:05.259 --> 00:37:05.940 Else in this church 00:37:05.940 --> 00:37:07.199 You're not necessary 00:37:07.199 --> 00:37:08.500 But here's the problem 00:37:08.500 --> 00:37:09.460 I think often 00:37:09.460 --> 00:37:10.139 What happens 00:37:10.139 --> 00:37:11.440 And at least not 00:37:11.440 --> 00:37:11.980 In word 00:37:11.980 --> 00:37:13.320 But functionally 00:37:13.320 --> 00:37:14.159 People say 00:37:14.159 --> 00:37:15.639 You have no need 00:37:15.639 --> 00:37:16.400 Of me 00:37:16.400 --> 00:37:18.360 You turn it around 00:37:18.360 --> 00:37:18.780 And you say 00:37:18.780 --> 00:37:20.099 I'm not a necessary 00:37:20.099 --> 00:37:21.559 Part of the body 00:37:21.559 --> 00:37:22.500 Of Christ 00:37:22.500 --> 00:37:23.320 And this is not 00:37:23.320 --> 00:37:23.860 The church 00:37:23.860 --> 00:37:25.340 Pictured in Scripture 00:37:25.340 --> 00:37:26.900 The way many of us 00:37:26.900 --> 00:37:27.639 Function in church 00:37:27.639 --> 00:37:28.659 Is entirely foreign 00:37:28.659 --> 00:37:29.119 To the pages 00:37:29.119 --> 00:37:29.840 Of the New Testament 00:37:29.840 --> 00:37:31.220 New Testament believers 00:37:31.220 --> 00:37:32.420 Would look at our scene 00:37:32.420 --> 00:37:33.240 Today and go 00:37:33.240 --> 00:37:34.840 What has happened 00:37:34.840 --> 00:37:37.120 That you believe 00:37:37.120 --> 00:37:37.120 00:37:37.120 --> 00:37:37.740 That your part 00:37:37.740 --> 00:37:38.320 In the church 00:37:38.320 --> 00:37:39.340 Is to show up 00:37:39.340 --> 00:37:40.500 And occupy a chair 00:37:40.500 --> 00:37:42.280 Is not the case 00:37:42.280 --> 00:37:43.740 There's a time 00:37:43.740 --> 00:37:44.320 And a place 00:37:44.320 --> 00:37:45.380 For such a thing 00:37:45.380 --> 00:37:46.660 But it's not the only time 00:37:46.660 --> 00:37:47.440 And the only place 00:37:47.440 --> 00:37:49.860 You are needed 00:37:49.860 --> 00:37:51.500 If you are found 00:37:51.500 --> 00:37:52.139 In Christ 00:37:52.139 --> 00:37:52.880 He has set you 00:37:52.880 --> 00:37:53.679 On a mission 00:37:53.679 --> 00:37:55.099 You have a part 00:37:55.099 --> 00:37:55.940 To play 00:37:55.940 --> 00:37:56.820 I don't know 00:37:56.820 --> 00:37:57.220 What it is 00:37:57.220 --> 00:37:57.980 In every single case 00:37:57.980 --> 00:37:58.639 I think one of the things 00:37:58.639 --> 00:37:59.340 I ought to be doing 00:37:59.340 --> 00:37:59.760 As a pastor 00:37:59.760 --> 00:38:00.780 Is helping you understand 00:38:00.780 --> 00:38:01.480 Who you are 00:38:01.480 --> 00:38:03.179 And how you can serve 00:38:03.179 --> 00:38:04.220 What body part 00:38:04.220 --> 00:38:05.340 You are 00:38:05.340 --> 00:38:06.780 What's happened 00:38:06.780 --> 00:38:07.500 Is this has placed 00:38:07.500 --> 00:38:08.780 A huge labor 00:38:08.780 --> 00:38:10.139 A difficulty 00:38:10.139 --> 00:38:11.960 On pastors 00:38:11.960 --> 00:38:12.920 And some of the statistics 00:38:12.920 --> 00:38:14.119 Are just absolutely 00:38:14.119 --> 00:38:15.139 Staggering about 00:38:15.139 --> 00:38:15.759 What's happening 00:38:15.759 --> 00:38:16.480 In the lives 00:38:16.480 --> 00:38:17.339 Of churches 00:38:17.339 --> 00:38:18.460 And what's happening 00:38:18.460 --> 00:38:19.759 To pastors 00:38:19.759 --> 00:38:20.460 I want to just 00:38:20.460 --> 00:38:21.319 Show you a few 00:38:21.319 --> 00:38:22.539 This is a study 00:38:22.539 --> 00:38:23.940 Conducted by Lifeway Research 00:38:23.940 --> 00:38:26.259 1500 Southern Baptist 00:38:26.259 --> 00:38:26.980 Pastors 00:38:26.980 --> 00:38:28.659 Let me say to you 00:38:28.659 --> 00:38:29.539 That I'm an exception 00:38:29.539 --> 00:38:30.440 To most 00:38:30.440 --> 00:38:31.159 If not all 00:38:31.159 --> 00:38:32.119 Of this 00:38:32.119 --> 00:38:33.559 I don't mean this 00:38:33.559 --> 00:38:34.159 To be whining 00:38:34.159 --> 00:38:35.440 In any way whatsoever 00:38:35.440 --> 00:38:36.460 Please don't hear that 00:38:36.460 --> 00:38:37.000 From me at all 00:38:37.000 --> 00:38:38.159 I feel very loved 00:38:38.159 --> 00:38:38.859 By our church 00:38:38.860 --> 00:38:40.320 I'm very thankful 00:38:40.320 --> 00:38:40.980 To be a pastor 00:38:40.980 --> 00:38:42.340 Of this church 00:38:42.340 --> 00:38:43.280 But I just 00:38:43.280 --> 00:38:44.300 Want to point out 00:38:44.300 --> 00:38:45.160 To you the danger 00:38:45.160 --> 00:38:46.539 Of thinking in this way 00:38:46.539 --> 00:38:47.500 Not believing 00:38:47.500 --> 00:38:48.200 That you're needed 00:38:48.200 --> 00:38:48.860 Not believing 00:38:48.860 --> 00:38:49.780 That you have a place 00:38:49.780 --> 00:38:50.539 And a part to play 00:38:50.539 --> 00:38:52.039 In the life of a church 00:38:52.039 --> 00:38:53.260 So here's some stats 00:38:53.260 --> 00:38:54.200 I'm going to rattle 00:38:54.200 --> 00:38:54.940 Them off to you 00:38:54.940 --> 00:38:57.340 25% of pastors' wives 00:38:57.340 --> 00:38:58.700 See their husband's 00:38:58.700 --> 00:38:59.420 Work schedule 00:38:59.420 --> 00:39:01.220 As a source of conflict 00:39:01.220 --> 00:39:03.019 45% of pastors 00:39:03.019 --> 00:39:03.579 Say they've 00:39:03.579 --> 00:39:04.539 They've experienced 00:39:04.539 --> 00:39:05.700 Depression or burnout 00:39:05.700 --> 00:39:06.539 To the extent 00:39:06.539 --> 00:39:07.380 That they needed 00:39:07.380 --> 00:39:08.000 To take a leave 00:39:08.000 --> 00:39:08.480 Of absence 00:39:08.480 --> 00:39:09.000 For ministry 00:39:09.000 --> 00:39:10.119 So give it up 00:39:10.119 --> 00:39:10.679 For a while 00:39:10.679 --> 00:39:12.380 52% of pastors 00:39:12.380 --> 00:39:12.960 Say that they 00:39:12.960 --> 00:39:13.539 And their spouses 00:39:13.539 --> 00:39:14.440 Believe that being 00:39:14.440 --> 00:39:15.460 In pastoral ministry 00:39:15.460 --> 00:39:16.619 Is hazardous 00:39:16.619 --> 00:39:17.900 To their family's 00:39:17.900 --> 00:39:18.760 Well-being and health 00:39:18.760 --> 00:39:21.800 56% of pastors' wives 00:39:21.800 --> 00:39:22.559 Say they have 00:39:22.559 --> 00:39:23.860 No close friends 00:39:23.860 --> 00:39:26.059 70% of pastors 00:39:26.059 --> 00:39:27.360 Don't have any 00:39:27.360 --> 00:39:28.260 Close friends 00:39:28.260 --> 00:39:30.219 75% report 00:39:30.219 --> 00:39:31.179 Severe stress 00:39:31.179 --> 00:39:32.119 Causing anguish 00:39:32.119 --> 00:39:32.659 Worry 00:39:32.659 --> 00:39:33.380 Bewilderment 00:39:33.380 --> 00:39:33.800 Anger 00:39:33.800 --> 00:39:34.260 Depression 00:39:34.260 --> 00:39:34.740 Fear 00:39:34.740 --> 00:39:35.599 And alienation 00:39:35.599 --> 00:39:37.420 80% of pastors 00:39:37.420 --> 00:39:37.920 Say they have 00:39:37.920 --> 00:39:38.779 Insufficient time 00:39:38.779 --> 00:39:39.400 With their spouse 00:39:39.400 --> 00:39:40.659 80% believe 00:39:40.659 --> 00:39:41.619 That pastoral ministry 00:39:41.619 --> 00:39:42.659 Affects their families 00:39:42.659 --> 00:39:43.199 Negatively 00:39:43.199 --> 00:39:44.860 90% work 00:39:44.860 --> 00:39:45.639 More than 50 hours 00:39:45.639 --> 00:39:45.880 A week 00:39:45.880 --> 00:39:46.299 Which I don't think 00:39:46.299 --> 00:39:46.920 That's that big a deal 00:39:46.920 --> 00:39:47.639 That sounds whiny 00:39:47.639 --> 00:39:49.239 94% 00:39:49.239 --> 00:39:53.119 94% 00:39:53.119 --> 00:39:54.179 Feel under pressure 00:39:54.179 --> 00:39:55.500 To have a perfect family 00:39:55.500 --> 00:39:55.940 You get that 00:39:55.940 --> 00:39:57.539 94% of pastors 00:39:57.539 --> 00:39:57.880 Feel 00:39:57.880 --> 00:39:58.639 Of these 1500 00:39:58.639 --> 00:39:59.940 Feel under pressure 00:39:59.940 --> 00:40:01.119 To have a perfect family 00:40:01.119 --> 00:40:02.179 Everything's always 00:40:02.179 --> 00:40:02.779 Put together 00:40:02.779 --> 00:40:04.199 84% 00:40:04.199 --> 00:40:05.179 Say they're on call 00:40:05.179 --> 00:40:06.679 24 hours a day 00:40:06.679 --> 00:40:08.079 80% 00:40:08.079 --> 00:40:09.159 Expect conflict 00:40:09.159 --> 00:40:09.859 In their church 00:40:09.859 --> 00:40:11.039 80% 00:40:11.039 --> 00:40:11.799 Expect 00:40:11.799 --> 00:40:13.019 That the church 00:40:13.019 --> 00:40:13.380 Is going to be 00:40:13.380 --> 00:40:14.079 A disaster 00:40:14.079 --> 00:40:16.639 54% 00:40:16.639 --> 00:40:17.420 Find their role 00:40:17.420 --> 00:40:17.960 Of pastor 00:40:17.960 --> 00:40:19.299 Frequently overwhelming 00:40:19.299 --> 00:40:19.319 ! 00:40:19.319 --> 00:40:20.119 And the last one 00:40:20.119 --> 00:40:20.819 53% 00:40:20.819 --> 00:40:21.559 Are often 00:40:21.559 --> 00:40:22.380 Concerned 00:40:22.380 --> 00:40:23.420 About their family's 00:40:23.420 --> 00:40:24.799 Financial security 00:40:24.799 --> 00:40:26.099 That shouldn't be so 00:40:26.099 --> 00:40:27.019 In the church 00:40:27.019 --> 00:40:28.319 Just should not be 00:40:28.319 --> 00:40:29.239 The case 00:40:29.239 --> 00:40:30.519 And so much of this 00:40:30.519 --> 00:40:31.679 Is the result 00:40:31.679 --> 00:40:32.179 Of 00:40:32.179 --> 00:40:35.199 A pyramid 00:40:35.199 --> 00:40:36.659 Scheme of sorts 00:40:36.659 --> 00:40:37.659 We put the pastor 00:40:37.659 --> 00:40:38.400 At the top of 00:40:38.400 --> 00:40:39.239 So much of this 00:40:39.239 --> 00:40:40.219 Is about pedestalling 00:40:40.219 --> 00:40:41.179 A pastor 00:40:41.179 --> 00:40:42.719 Making them 00:40:42.719 --> 00:40:43.719 The perfect one 00:40:43.719 --> 00:40:44.800 In which we should follow 00:40:44.800 --> 00:40:46.219 So many churches 00:40:46.219 --> 00:40:47.199 Are cults 00:40:47.199 --> 00:40:47.960 Of personality 00:40:47.960 --> 00:40:49.139 And hear me carefully 00:40:49.139 --> 00:40:49.920 About this 00:40:49.920 --> 00:40:51.460 People attend a church 00:40:51.460 --> 00:40:52.259 They're in fellowship 00:40:52.259 --> 00:40:53.119 With a group of believers 00:40:53.119 --> 00:40:54.480 Because of who the pastor is 00:40:54.480 --> 00:40:55.699 Not because of Christ 00:40:55.699 --> 00:40:58.380 And this is so dangerous 00:40:58.380 --> 00:41:00.400 And from the very outset 00:41:00.400 --> 00:41:01.720 Of Christ family church 00:41:01.720 --> 00:41:02.380 Existing 00:41:02.380 --> 00:41:03.780 We have always said 00:41:03.780 --> 00:41:05.220 It's been the great desire 00:41:05.220 --> 00:41:05.820 Of my heart 00:41:05.820 --> 00:41:06.860 That I could cease 00:41:06.860 --> 00:41:07.579 To exist 00:41:07.579 --> 00:41:09.019 That this afternoon 00:41:09.019 --> 00:41:10.220 I get in a horrible accident 00:41:10.220 --> 00:41:11.300 And I'm gone 00:41:11.300 --> 00:41:12.059 And this church 00:41:12.059 --> 00:41:13.119 Does not fall apart 00:41:13.119 --> 00:41:14.160 If anything 00:41:14.160 --> 00:41:14.980 This church is bound 00:41:14.980 --> 00:41:16.139 Together further 00:41:16.139 --> 00:41:17.559 You have my permission 00:41:17.559 --> 00:41:18.599 To take a Sunday off 00:41:18.599 --> 00:41:19.480 And mourn 00:41:19.480 --> 00:41:20.320 And you better get back 00:41:20.320 --> 00:41:20.860 In the mix 00:41:20.860 --> 00:41:21.800 And we have men 00:41:21.800 --> 00:41:22.440 In this church 00:41:22.440 --> 00:41:24.079 Who are gifted preachers 00:41:24.079 --> 00:41:25.019 And should be up here 00:41:25.019 --> 00:41:25.539 And should be talking 00:41:25.539 --> 00:41:26.119 Instead of me 00:41:26.119 --> 00:41:27.880 Just get back in it 00:41:27.880 --> 00:41:28.679 And pull together 00:41:28.679 --> 00:41:29.839 And soldier on 00:41:29.839 --> 00:41:31.179 Because you don't follow me 00:41:31.179 --> 00:41:32.319 You follow Jesus Christ 00:41:32.319 --> 00:41:34.539 The very greatest thing 00:41:34.539 --> 00:41:35.639 That I can do for you 00:41:35.639 --> 00:41:36.599 Is show you 00:41:36.599 --> 00:41:37.859 My great need of grace 00:41:37.859 --> 00:41:39.339 And constantly push you 00:41:39.339 --> 00:41:40.159 Towards the cross 00:41:40.159 --> 00:41:42.019 You don't need me 00:41:42.019 --> 00:41:42.960 You need Jesus 00:41:42.960 --> 00:41:45.219 I'm a man 00:41:45.219 --> 00:41:46.059 And I have 00:41:46.059 --> 00:41:47.980 Just natural failing 00:41:47.980 --> 00:41:49.559 I have natural limits 00:41:49.559 --> 00:41:50.920 To what I'm able to do 00:41:50.920 --> 00:41:52.380 Take my introversion 00:41:52.380 --> 00:41:53.000 As an example 00:41:53.000 --> 00:41:54.719 I'm a horrible small talker 00:41:54.719 --> 00:41:56.239 And probably all of you 00:41:56.239 --> 00:41:56.799 Have experienced 00:41:56.799 --> 00:41:57.939 Some moment of weird 00:41:57.939 --> 00:41:58.419 With me 00:41:58.419 --> 00:41:59.579 Where I just didn't know 00:41:59.579 --> 00:42:00.219 What to say 00:42:00.219 --> 00:42:01.980 And I'm working on it 00:42:01.980 --> 00:42:02.679 And I think that 00:42:02.679 --> 00:42:03.279 This is a thing 00:42:03.279 --> 00:42:04.419 That can be redeemed in me 00:42:04.419 --> 00:42:05.459 That the spirit 00:42:05.459 --> 00:42:06.079 Can in fact 00:42:06.079 --> 00:42:07.159 Change my personality 00:42:07.159 --> 00:42:08.179 And so 00:42:08.179 --> 00:42:09.239 I pray for that 00:42:09.239 --> 00:42:10.259 And I work for that 00:42:10.259 --> 00:42:11.739 But I know that 00:42:11.739 --> 00:42:12.739 Sometimes I'm just 00:42:12.739 --> 00:42:13.699 Awkward 00:42:13.699 --> 00:42:14.679 I'm not the guy 00:42:14.679 --> 00:42:15.319 That gets in the middle 00:42:15.319 --> 00:42:17.000 Of a new people 00:42:17.000 --> 00:42:17.719 Social setting 00:42:17.719 --> 00:42:18.719 And pulls it all together 00:42:18.719 --> 00:42:19.859 And makes it feel great 00:42:19.859 --> 00:42:20.859 It's just not me 00:42:20.859 --> 00:42:21.659 I'd really rather 00:42:21.659 --> 00:42:22.519 Stand against the wall 00:42:22.519 --> 00:42:22.980 In the corner 00:42:22.980 --> 00:42:24.199 And watch a room 00:42:24.199 --> 00:42:25.199 Than be the center 00:42:25.199 --> 00:42:25.659 Of attention 00:42:25.659 --> 00:42:26.659 In a room 00:42:26.659 --> 00:42:28.279 So I have limitation 00:42:28.279 --> 00:42:29.500 To who I am 00:42:29.500 --> 00:42:30.559 But I'm just 00:42:30.559 --> 00:42:31.480 A part of the body 00:42:31.480 --> 00:42:32.339 Who's the head 00:42:32.339 --> 00:42:33.059 Of the body? 00:42:33.839 --> 00:42:34.359 Christ 00:42:34.359 --> 00:42:35.719 I'm not the head 00:42:35.719 --> 00:42:38.719 I'm needy 00:42:38.719 --> 00:42:40.599 I need you 00:42:40.599 --> 00:42:42.359 And you're needed 00:42:42.359 --> 00:42:44.159 For this very reason 00:42:44.159 --> 00:42:45.739 And you're needed 00:42:45.739 --> 00:42:46.579 Ultimately 00:42:46.579 --> 00:42:47.980 Because you're needy 00:42:47.980 --> 00:42:49.119 So get that 00:42:49.119 --> 00:42:51.179 Because we need Christ 00:42:51.179 --> 00:42:53.219 That's what makes us needed 00:42:53.219 --> 00:42:54.439 If we do it well 00:42:54.439 --> 00:42:55.279 We are constantly 00:42:55.279 --> 00:42:56.039 Showing people 00:42:56.039 --> 00:42:57.339 The gospel of Jesus Christ 00:42:57.339 --> 00:42:58.539 We're constantly 00:42:58.539 --> 00:42:59.039 Showing them 00:42:59.039 --> 00:43:00.199 The way it works out 00:43:00.199 --> 00:43:00.719 In our lives 00:43:00.719 --> 00:43:01.279 But it doesn't have 00:43:01.279 --> 00:43:02.039 To work out perfectly 00:43:02.039 --> 00:43:02.919 Because we're people 00:43:02.919 --> 00:43:04.659 So stop thinking 00:43:04.659 --> 00:43:06.000 That you're not good enough 00:43:06.000 --> 00:43:07.219 Many of you think 00:43:07.219 --> 00:43:07.919 You're not good enough 00:43:07.919 --> 00:43:08.759 To serve others 00:43:08.759 --> 00:43:09.779 And to serve the church 00:43:09.779 --> 00:43:10.719 And ultimately 00:43:10.719 --> 00:43:12.559 You're not insulting yourself 00:43:12.559 --> 00:43:13.739 You're insulting our God 00:43:13.739 --> 00:43:15.579 Who's changed 00:43:15.579 --> 00:43:16.379 Who you are 00:43:16.379 --> 00:43:17.939 He's changed your heart 00:43:17.939 --> 00:43:19.480 He lives inside of you 00:43:19.480 --> 00:43:20.019 And you're saying 00:43:20.019 --> 00:43:21.199 He can do nothing 00:43:21.199 --> 00:43:22.159 With me 00:43:22.159 --> 00:43:24.759 You are needed 00:43:24.759 --> 00:43:27.039 Because you're needy 00:43:27.039 --> 00:43:28.519 Minister in the church 00:43:28.519 --> 00:43:29.319 Point people 00:43:29.319 --> 00:43:31.179 To the cross of Christ 00:43:31.179 --> 00:43:33.279 So often I hear people say 00:43:33.279 --> 00:43:35.480 That they don't have time 00:43:35.480 --> 00:43:36.519 To do this 00:43:36.519 --> 00:43:37.079 Now listen 00:43:37.079 --> 00:43:38.659 You may not have time 00:43:38.659 --> 00:43:40.239 To be in the cleaning rotation 00:43:40.239 --> 00:43:41.000 To come up to the building 00:43:41.000 --> 00:43:41.399 And clean 00:43:41.399 --> 00:43:42.460 That's okay 00:43:42.460 --> 00:43:44.019 You may not have time 00:43:44.019 --> 00:43:44.539 To come up here 00:43:44.539 --> 00:43:45.839 And cut grass with us 00:43:45.839 --> 00:43:46.659 That is okay 00:43:46.659 --> 00:43:47.139 Right 00:43:47.139 --> 00:43:47.939 You may not have time 00:43:47.939 --> 00:43:49.039 To come to our picnics 00:43:49.039 --> 00:43:50.179 We had one yesterday 00:43:50.179 --> 00:43:51.119 Some of you weren't there 00:43:51.119 --> 00:43:52.000 That's okay 00:43:52.000 --> 00:43:54.019 These are extra things 00:43:54.019 --> 00:43:55.000 The grass could be 00:43:55.000 --> 00:43:56.159 Three feet tall 00:43:56.159 --> 00:43:57.259 I don't care 00:43:57.259 --> 00:43:58.159 If this church is 00:43:58.159 --> 00:43:59.339 Functioning spiritually 00:43:59.339 --> 00:44:00.259 Together 00:44:00.259 --> 00:44:01.420 It's okay to not have time 00:44:01.420 --> 00:44:02.199 For those things 00:44:02.199 --> 00:44:02.759 But 00:44:02.759 --> 00:44:03.619 If you don't think 00:44:03.619 --> 00:44:04.279 That you have time 00:44:04.279 --> 00:44:05.099 To make disciples 00:44:05.099 --> 00:44:07.699 This is what God 00:44:07.699 --> 00:44:09.039 Has called you to 00:44:09.039 --> 00:44:10.579 Then you either 00:44:10.579 --> 00:44:11.460 Don't understand 00:44:11.460 --> 00:44:12.199 The importance of it 00:44:12.199 --> 00:44:12.779 That's possible 00:44:12.779 --> 00:44:13.739 You just haven't seen 00:44:13.739 --> 00:44:14.980 That being a follower 00:44:14.980 --> 00:44:15.659 Of Jesus Christ 00:44:15.659 --> 00:44:16.159 Means 00:44:16.159 --> 00:44:17.859 That I make disciples 00:44:17.859 --> 00:44:18.659 That I'm about 00:44:18.659 --> 00:44:19.759 Sharing my faith 00:44:19.760 --> 00:44:21.080 With other people 00:44:21.080 --> 00:44:22.000 Or 00:44:22.000 --> 00:44:23.020 You don't have 00:44:23.020 --> 00:44:23.560 Your priorities 00:44:23.560 --> 00:44:24.120 Set right 00:44:24.120 --> 00:44:25.440 They're all askew 00:44:25.440 --> 00:44:26.060 Right 00:44:26.060 --> 00:44:27.240 You serve yourself 00:44:27.240 --> 00:44:28.780 Much more 00:44:28.780 --> 00:44:30.280 Than the living God 00:44:30.280 --> 00:44:32.040 Set your face 00:44:32.040 --> 00:44:32.660 Towards God 00:44:32.660 --> 00:44:33.540 Ask what he would 00:44:33.540 --> 00:44:33.980 Have you do 00:44:33.980 --> 00:44:34.560 With your days 00:44:34.560 --> 00:44:35.280 And I can promise you 00:44:35.280 --> 00:44:36.200 It'll have very little 00:44:36.200 --> 00:44:37.080 To do with you 00:44:37.080 --> 00:44:38.380 And it'll have much 00:44:38.380 --> 00:44:39.900 To do with serving him 00:44:39.900 --> 00:44:41.460 By serving the church 00:44:41.460 --> 00:44:42.540 And when I say that 00:44:42.540 --> 00:44:43.300 I mean those who are 00:44:43.300 --> 00:44:44.100 Yet to be part of it 00:44:44.100 --> 00:44:44.480 As well 00:44:44.480 --> 00:44:46.300 God is calling together 00:44:46.300 --> 00:44:47.420 Christ died 00:44:47.420 --> 00:44:48.820 For the church 00:44:48.820 --> 00:44:49.500 And he is calling 00:44:49.500 --> 00:44:50.179 Its number together 00:44:50.179 --> 00:44:51.179 And when it's completed 00:44:51.179 --> 00:44:52.360 He'll come back 00:44:52.360 --> 00:44:53.320 Praise God 00:44:53.320 --> 00:44:55.159 Come thou fount 00:44:55.159 --> 00:44:55.820 Of every blessing 00:44:55.820 --> 00:44:58.960 And then verse 18 00:44:58.960 --> 00:45:02.079 So we are needy 00:45:02.079 --> 00:45:03.639 And we are needed 00:45:03.639 --> 00:45:07.179 And he closes it out 00:45:07.179 --> 00:45:07.579 I Paul 00:45:07.579 --> 00:45:08.179 Write this greeting 00:45:08.179 --> 00:45:08.920 With my own hand 00:45:08.920 --> 00:45:09.940 He often was speaking 00:45:09.940 --> 00:45:10.400 To somebody 00:45:10.400 --> 00:45:11.179 Who was transcribing 00:45:11.179 --> 00:45:11.800 For him 00:45:11.800 --> 00:45:13.019 He takes the time 00:45:13.019 --> 00:45:14.480 I'd love to see 00:45:14.480 --> 00:45:15.940 That original manuscript 00:45:15.940 --> 00:45:16.719 I wish we could 00:45:16.719 --> 00:45:18.360 That original handwriting 00:45:18.360 --> 00:45:20.579 Remember my chains 00:45:20.579 --> 00:45:21.159 Don't forget that 00:45:21.159 --> 00:45:21.780 I am in prison 00:45:21.780 --> 00:45:22.400 For the gospel 00:45:22.400 --> 00:45:23.199 Of Jesus Christ 00:45:23.199 --> 00:45:23.960 Back at the beginning 00:45:23.960 --> 00:45:24.480 Of chapter 4 00:45:24.480 --> 00:45:24.920 We talked about 00:45:24.920 --> 00:45:26.039 Praying for opportunity 00:45:26.039 --> 00:45:27.380 To share the gospel 00:45:27.380 --> 00:45:28.119 To be opened up 00:45:28.119 --> 00:45:28.880 And then he says 00:45:28.880 --> 00:45:30.420 Grace be with you 00:45:30.420 --> 00:45:31.179 And this is a common 00:45:31.179 --> 00:45:32.099 Closing salutation 00:45:32.099 --> 00:45:32.780 You see it at the end 00:45:32.780 --> 00:45:33.559 Of Romans 00:45:33.559 --> 00:45:34.800 Into 1st and 2nd Corinthians 00:45:34.800 --> 00:45:36.420 The end of 1st and 2nd Thessalonians 00:45:36.420 --> 00:45:37.340 1st and 2nd Timothy 00:45:37.340 --> 00:45:38.300 Titus 00:45:38.300 --> 00:45:40.079 Very common closing 00:45:40.079 --> 00:45:41.380 Salutation 00:45:41.380 --> 00:45:43.000 Grace be with you 00:45:43.000 --> 00:45:44.719 And really that little phrase 00:45:44.719 --> 00:45:45.480 Is kind of the summary 00:45:45.480 --> 00:45:46.059 Of Paul's letter 00:45:46.059 --> 00:45:46.800 To the Colossians 00:45:46.800 --> 00:45:48.320 Salvation comes 00:45:48.320 --> 00:45:49.380 By grace alone 00:45:49.380 --> 00:45:50.579 Through faith alone 00:45:50.579 --> 00:45:51.619 And the all sufficient 00:45:51.619 --> 00:45:53.139 Supreme work of Christ 00:45:53.139 --> 00:45:53.800 Alone 00:45:53.800 --> 00:45:54.920 And the Christian life 00:45:54.920 --> 00:45:55.860 Is sustained 00:45:55.860 --> 00:45:57.139 By the same 00:45:57.139 --> 00:45:58.940 And so as we talk 00:45:58.940 --> 00:45:59.400 About being 00:45:59.400 --> 00:46:01.400 Needy and needed 00:46:01.400 --> 00:46:02.599 It is the grace of God 00:46:02.599 --> 00:46:03.820 To us in Christ 00:46:03.820 --> 00:46:05.039 Like put into play 00:46:05.039 --> 00:46:06.019 By the work of his spirit 00:46:06.019 --> 00:46:07.059 By the word of God 00:46:07.059 --> 00:46:07.840 Right 00:46:07.840 --> 00:46:09.460 That sustains us in this 00:46:09.460 --> 00:46:10.719 And encourages us 00:46:10.719 --> 00:46:11.440 In the right way 00:46:11.440 --> 00:46:12.460 That we should go 00:46:12.460 --> 00:46:12.840 And so 00:46:12.840 --> 00:46:13.880 As you're considering 00:46:13.880 --> 00:46:14.700 These things 00:46:14.700 --> 00:46:16.700 I want you to recall that 00:46:16.700 --> 00:46:17.519 I want you to remember 00:46:17.519 --> 00:46:18.500 That it is God 00:46:18.500 --> 00:46:19.659 Who is at work 00:46:19.659 --> 00:46:20.619 In you 00:46:20.619 --> 00:46:21.420 To accomplish 00:46:21.420 --> 00:46:22.220 These things 00:46:22.220 --> 00:46:23.360 And I want you to 00:46:23.360 --> 00:46:25.079 Do so by 00:46:25.079 --> 00:46:26.360 Reflecting with me 00:46:26.360 --> 00:46:27.019 On 1st Corinthians 00:46:27.019 --> 00:46:28.000 Chapter 15 00:46:28.000 --> 00:46:29.320 Verses 8 through 11 00:46:29.320 --> 00:46:30.099 I'll read it carefully 00:46:30.099 --> 00:46:31.039 To you 00:46:31.039 --> 00:46:33.159 Paul has been talking 00:46:33.159 --> 00:46:34.380 About the resurrection 00:46:34.380 --> 00:46:35.260 Of Jesus Christ 00:46:35.260 --> 00:46:36.119 And his appearing 00:46:36.119 --> 00:46:37.460 To varying groups 00:46:37.460 --> 00:46:38.099 Of people 00:46:38.099 --> 00:46:38.839 And in verse 8 00:46:38.839 --> 00:46:39.339 He says 00:46:39.339 --> 00:46:40.860 Last of all 00:46:40.860 --> 00:46:41.699 As to one 00:46:41.699 --> 00:46:42.920 Untimely born 00:46:42.920 --> 00:46:44.539 He appeared also 00:46:44.539 --> 00:46:45.599 To me 00:46:45.599 --> 00:46:47.179 For I am the least 00:46:47.179 --> 00:46:47.860 Of the apostles 00:46:47.860 --> 00:46:49.039 Unworthy to be called 00:46:49.039 --> 00:46:49.500 An apostle 00:46:49.500 --> 00:46:50.519 Because I persecuted 00:46:50.519 --> 00:46:51.400 The church of God 00:46:51.400 --> 00:46:53.480 But by the grace of God 00:46:53.480 --> 00:46:54.199 I am 00:46:54.199 --> 00:46:55.360 What I am 00:46:55.360 --> 00:46:56.400 And his grace 00:46:56.400 --> 00:46:57.039 Toward me 00:46:57.039 --> 00:46:58.579 Was not in vain 00:46:58.579 --> 00:46:59.159 Right 00:46:59.159 --> 00:47:00.440 So he was converted 00:47:00.440 --> 00:47:01.239 From one who was 00:47:01.239 --> 00:47:02.400 Persecuting the church 00:47:02.400 --> 00:47:03.599 Of Jesus Christ 00:47:03.599 --> 00:47:05.139 Into one who served 00:47:05.139 --> 00:47:05.559 The church 00:47:05.559 --> 00:47:06.779 Of Jesus Christ 00:47:06.780 --> 00:47:07.580 And he says 00:47:07.580 --> 00:47:08.700 By grace 00:47:08.700 --> 00:47:09.360 This happened 00:47:09.360 --> 00:47:10.440 This grace for me 00:47:10.440 --> 00:47:11.100 Was not in vain 00:47:11.100 --> 00:47:11.960 On the contrary 00:47:11.960 --> 00:47:14.260 I worked harder 00:47:14.260 --> 00:47:15.300 Than any of them 00:47:15.300 --> 00:47:16.840 Though it was not I 00:47:16.840 --> 00:47:18.460 But the grace of God 00:47:18.460 --> 00:47:19.560 That is with me 00:47:19.560 --> 00:47:20.920 Whether then it was I 00:47:20.920 --> 00:47:21.400 Or they 00:47:21.400 --> 00:47:22.600 So we preach 00:47:22.600 --> 00:47:24.019 And so you 00:47:24.019 --> 00:47:24.840 Believed 00:47:24.840 --> 00:47:26.260 Let's pray together