Background:
The early Christians were often viewed by outsiders with suspicion, distrust, and disdain. They were even considered atheists because they would not worship the gods of Rome or Greece. Many labeled them unpatriotic because they would not participate in the burning of incense at the emperor’s statue. Others thought they were cannibals because they ate and drank the flesh and blood of their Lord (communion). With such misrepresentations of Christian belief and practice running rampant in the culture, it was imperative for those misunderstandings to be dispelled by the virtuous and impeccable lives of Christian believers. Paul exhorts his readers to live lives that are attractive to outsiders, and then he closes his letter with accolades of his partners in ministry, his fellowship of believers, who supported him and were with him even while he was imprisoned for the Gospel.
Memory Verse:
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” (Colossians 4:6, ESV)
Study Guide Available
For the corresponding study guide, please contact Melissa Renner at melissar@stonebriar.org.
