Scripture Reading: Colossians 1:19-23.
Memory Verse: “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love” —Ephesians 1:4
Introduction:
Before a person is saved they might not like to attend church, and they might consider the Bible boring or useless, but when they are converted their attitude changes. Once they despised God’s people—now they love them (1 John 4:7-8); at one time they loathed the Bible—now they cherish it (Psalm 119:127-128); once they sought only their own pleasure and benefit—now they long to serve their Savior (Ephesians 2:2-10). We are Christ’s workmanship, therefore, He receives all of the glory. He is World. (Matthew 5:14-16). This point comes alive with the following story: the Light (John 9:5) and because of Him, we become the lights of the World (Matthew 5:14-16). This point comes alive with the following story:
A little girl was walking through a cathedral with her grandmother. She stopped to stare at a beautiful stained-glass window. She pondered a moment and then asked, “Granny, who’s that?” She pointed at a figure in the ancient window. “That’s Saint John,” she answered. “Who’s he?” she pointed to another. The questioning continued until several of the figures had been identified. As she studied the window the Sun passed from behind the clouds and sent colorful rays through the glass. With a look of wonder on her face she exclaimed. “I know what a saint is! It’s someone who lets the light shine through!”
The little girl’s conclusion was correct. As God’s workmanship we simply allow Christ to shine through us in our good works!
There is a great difference between relationship and fellowship. Our relationship to God is based upon His grace and His finished work. As it is in the physical realm, our spiritual relationship is based upon a blood connection and is a family matter. We are washed in the blood of Christ, and by that blood we are “born again” (1 Peter 1:23).
Fellowship, on the other hand, is based solely on actions. We serve God and follow after good works, not to stay in the family relationship, but to enjoy fellowship with our Savior.
It is common in these days that we live for a household to experience the heart-breaking trauma of family problems. Many times a son or daughter reaching the teenage years will rebel against the authority of their parents. The disobedience and acts of disrespect cause a breach in the fellowship between the parents and the child, but the relationship does not stop! When forgiveness is sought, many times, the fellowship is restored.
Lesson Questions:
- How do we get the ability to serve God? Philippians 2:13.
- What happened to our old man at our salvation? Romans 6:6; Galatians 2:20.
- What are we to do with the new man? Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10.
- Explain why it is a pleasure to preach, teach, and live according to the Gospel. Romans 10:13-15; Isaiah 52:7; 2 Corinthians 4:5-10.
- Should it be a comfort and pleasure to serve God and obey His commandments? Philippians 2:12-16; Titus 2:12-13; Acts 20:24; 2 Timothy 4:6-8; Revelation 22:14; Psalms 149:4.
- List the nine qualities in Matthew 5:3-12 that should be characteristics of those in fellowship with the Lord.
- What peace of mind is there in this life, as we contemplate the things that are to come hereafter? John 14:27; 16:33; 2 Peter 3:11-14; 1 Corinthians 2:9-10.
What responsibility do we have if we say we love Him? 1 John 1:5-10; 3:10-12; 4:20-21; Ephesians 5:15-21.