Some may ask, “Why should we study the missionary methods of Paul? Surely, in all this time, we have grown beyond his old ways and have found better ways of accomplishing ministry.”
To this I would say, look around at the condition of the church at large throughout the world today, and see if you can find a model of success that compares to Paul. Yes, we have our “mega-churches.” They have huge congregations and lots of money, but are they successful in the sight of God? Are they raising up a generation of mature, Bible-instructed believers? I think not. The ignorance of the average believer today is astounding. Many cannot even give a clear presentation of the Gospel message.
In a recent survey across the United States, only about 13% of regular church goers said that they believe in hell, and about the same number doubted the inspiration and infallibility of the Bible. The church as a whole is in a shambles, and the reason is that we have forsaken the God-given way—exemplified by Paul—to achieve the great commission of “making disciples of all nations” (Mat 28:19).

Gene Cunningham - December 2, 2006

Colossians Lesson 22

Colossians Lesson 22

We are 'clothed' with our conduct as illustrated in Col 3:5 'put to death your members'; Col 3:8 'put off...'; and Col 3:12 'put on...'. Death is separation from God (Gen 3:17; Rom 6:23; Rom 4:5). Union with Christ equals death to sin (Rom 6:1-7); our union includes the fact that we are 'alive to God' (Rom 6:8); this condition is permanent (Rom 6:9-10). Separation and sanctification is a matter of focus of soul -- 'reckon ourselves dead to sin' and 'present ourselves to God' (Rom 6:11-12; Rom 12:2; 1Th 4:3). How? Depart from iniquity (2Ti 2:19-22); Joseph illustrates separation by fleeing temptation.

Scripture References: Romans 6:9-10, Colossians 3:8, Romans 6:8, Romans 6:1-7, 2 Timothy 2:19-22, Romans 4:5, 1 Thessalonians 4:3, Romans 6:23, Romans 12:2, Genesis 3:17, Romans 6:11-12, Colossians 3:12

Related Topics: Newness of Life | More Messages from Gene Cunningham | Download Audio

From Series: "Colossians - 2006"

Paul never met the Colossians but wrote to them from a Roman prison around 62 AD to counter misconceptions of his day. It magnifies the character of Jesus Christ more than any other book in the New Testament, and counters misconceptions of our day as well. The key verse may well be Col 1:18 "...that in all things, He might have preeminence."

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