COLOSSIANS SERIES

TEXT: Colossians 3:17-4:1

 Today’s topic about relationships gets real practical. Notice the set up: “Whatever you do in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus” (vs. 17). There are three things about relationships: 1) Relationships are to be routine (our faith must work in everyday living) 2) Relationships have different roles, defined roles (husbands and wives, parents and children, employers and employees) 3) Relationships are to be reciprocal.

Paul teaches us how we’re to relate to one another in everyday life.

GOD’S MODEL FOR MARRIAGE

·         vs. 18 - Wife, submit to your husband

·         The Requirement of Submission

·         “submit” literally means “to arrange one’s self under a delegated authority”

·         “military word” – chain of command

·         Wives are to be submissive to their husbands because he has the responsibity of headship and leadership in the home

·         The Reason for Submission

·         “as is fitting in the in the Lord”

·         Another translation: “This is what the Lord planned for you”
You’re fighting against God’s plan when you refuse to be submissive.

·         vs. 19 - Husband, sacrifice for your wife

·         The Requirement

·         “love” is “sacrifice” Why? The word for love is “Agape” and it’s sacrificial.

·         The measure of a man’s love for his wife is not seen only in gifts and words, but in acts of sacrifice and concern for her happiness and welfare.

·         “husband” originally meant “one who holds the house together” - by loving her unconditionally.

GOD’S PRINCIPLES FOR PARENTING

·         vs. 20 - Children, obey your parents

·         When? - “in everything”

·         Why? - “this is pleasing in the Lord”

·         vs. 21 - Fathers, encourage your children 

·         4 things that can discourage a child 1) Ignore them 2) Indulge them 3) Insult them 4) Intimidate them

GOD’S WAY IN THE WORKPLACE

·         About 50% of the Roman Empire were slaves or bondservants.

·         Employees Responsibilities

·         Work Submissively - “obey in everything” - vs. 22

·         Work Sincerely - “wholeheartedly, fearing the Lord” - vs. 22b

·         Work Spiritually – Jesus is the Boss! - vs. 23-25

·         Employer’s Response – Colossians 4:1

·         Be fair and just, you have a Boss too.

CONCLUSION

The word “Lord” is used 6 times. When the Lord is over you, you don’t “lord it” over others, whether a husband, parent, or employer. These are practical lessons. What role do you need to work on?