Winter Quarter 2023

Words You Should Know

A. Continue (Colossians 4:2) proskartereo (Gk.)—To give unremitting care to a person or thing.

B. Watch (v. 2) gregoreuo (Gk.)—To give strict attention.

Teacher Preparation

Unifying Principle—Support through Mentoring. Apostle Paul names spiritual disciplines and faithful people as examples for living a new life in Christ.

A. Pray for your students and lesson clarity.

B. Study the entire text.

C. Provide a Spiritual Disciplines Journal for each student (a small memo pad) where they can write prayer requests and pray.

D. Complete the companion lesson in the Precepts For Living® Study Guide.

O—Open the Lesson

A. After receiving prayer requests, open with prayer.

B. Introduce the subject of the lesson and have students read the Aim for Change in unison.

C. Have a volunteer read the In Focus story. Discuss.

D. To begin their journal, have the students keep an account of their prayers. In another section, they should analyze the conversations they have.

P—Present the Scriptures

A. Have volunteers read the Focal Verses.

B. Use The People, Places, and Times, Background, At-A-Glance outline, Search the Scriptures, and Discuss the Meaning sections to clarify the text.

E—Explore the Meaning

A. Ask a volunteer to read Liberating Lesson, and ask the class to discuss: “Has there ever been a time you were not as disciplined as you should have been? How did your life change?”

B. Include the Application for Activation section to further clarify the text.

N—Next Steps for Application

A. Summarize the lesson.

B. Ask the class to continue using the Spiritual Disciplines journal.

C. Close with a prayer.

By the end of the lesson, we will: RECOGNIZE the importance of spiritual disciplines in maintaining a Christian life; REFLECT on people in our lives who mentor us in faith; and ACCEPT the role of mentor for new Christians we may encounter.

Felicia had been a believer most of her adult life. For the first few years of her Christian walk, she made a point to pray every day and to live and speak in a manner that reflected Christ. However, after taking on more responsibility at work, Felicia began to waver in her faith. Instead of maintaining her prayer life, she would often procrastinate and sometimes forget to pray altogether. Her attitude and actions began to change as well. Felicia would get angry quickly when things did not go her way. She became short with people if they disagreed with her. She was often bitter because she began to focus on what she considered broken dreams. The worst of all was that Felicia began to feel that God had abandoned her. One morning, she felt so depressed that she called her former Sunday School teacher to talk. After relaying to him how she had been feeling, he asked her how often she prayed. In that moment, Felicia realized that it was almost never. Her teacher reiterated that she must pray and be mindful of how she spoke and lived to continue to grow in the Lord.

Practicing spiritual discipline is vital to our walk with Christ. Apostle Paul emphasizes that it is a lesson we should never forget.

“And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry
which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.”
(Colossians 4:17, KJV)

Colossae. kuh-LOS-ee(‘).
Colossians. kuh-LOSH-uhnz,
–LAH-shuhnz, also -shee-uhnz.
Epaphras. EP-uh-fras, EP-uh-fruhs.

KJV Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

NLT Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

3 Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains.

4 Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should.

5 Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.

6 Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.

Colossae. Colossae (also spelled “Colosse”) was a prosperous city located in the southwestern section of the Lycus River Valley in Phrygia. It was known for producing wool that had been dyed the color of colossinus, a shade of purple from the cyclamen flower. Intermarriage between Jews and Gentiles was not uncommon. Although the Jewish community was large and the Christians were thriving like their brothers and sisters in nearby Laodicea, many of the Greeks still practiced their ancient, pagan religions.

Prior to writing to the Colossians, it is believed Paul had not ever visited Colossae based on Colossians 2:1 (“I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally,” NIV). Paul wrote his epistle to the Colossians while he was still imprisoned in Rome (A.D. 61). Christian leaders in Colossae included Archippus, Philemon, and Epaphras, who founded the Colossian church. They sought Paul’s help in dealing with the heresy in the city. The Gnostics did not believe in the Incarnation, the act of Christ taking on human flesh, thus they denied His humanity. In addition, they also preached against the supremacy of Christ and His role in creation (Padfield, “The Church at Colosse in Asia Minor”). They were proponents of human logic and philosophy (Colossians 2:8). Paul sought to counter this by explaining redemption, clarifying Christ’s identity, launching a polemic against the Gnostic philosophy, and describing ways to put our beliefs about the death and resurrection of Christ into practice.

1. Continue in Prayer (Colossians 4:2–4) Today’s lesson text begins in the middle of Paul explaining how Christians should practice their faith. In chapter 3, he exhorts believers to make sure their lives reflect Christ and to not focus on earthly things but instead on things of God because they have a new life in Christ (vv. 1–3). He encourages them to put aside the various sins of their old selves (vv. 5–9) and embrace holiness as defined in verses 12 through 14. Perhaps to ensure that no believer be led astray by Gnostic heresy, Paul wrote: “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (3:16–17, NIV). He wanted the Colossians to learn with the Scriptures, not any outside philosophy, and to understand that in whatever they do, Jesus Christ should play an integral part. He then gives instructions for every facet of Christian society: wives, husbands, children, servants, and masters (3:18–4:1).

In verse 2 of today’s text, Paul, as a mentor of faith for the Colossians, gives further instruction. Matthew Henry posited that this verse continues the duties of the Christian master but that the instruction here is practical for all believers to follow (Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible, online version). Paul writes that the believers should “continue in prayer” (v. 2), giving the sense that prayer should be pursued with urgency, disciplined vigilance, and a thankful heart because prayer is essential to the Christian life. He also encourages the believers to pray for him, the ministers, and leaders in the church with the same diligence so that there would be opportunity for them to preach the Gospel message. This especially involves the mystery of Christ, which is that “through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 3:6, NIV). Paul was imprisoned for this very same message. He asked them to pray that he have the ability to proclaim the message clearly. This was a request Paul had made often while he was imprisoned (Ephesians 6:19). We see here that even the mentors in the faith need the prayers of their charges to help strengthen them in their mission.

2. Speak with Grace (vv. 5–6)

Another discipline Paul encourages the believers to practice is monitoring how they live and speak. He writes, “Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity” (Colossians 4:5, NLT). Christians should take advantage of every opportunity to display lives influenced by their faith (Ephesians 5:15–17). In fact, Paul writes that their “speech” (conversation, discourse) should be “with grace, seasoned with salt” (from Colossians 4:6, KJV). The way Christians speak and, the content of their conversations should suit their positions in Christ. Any kind of foolish talk, obscenities, or insults should not be a part of the Christian conversation (Ephesians 5:4). Paul uses salt, a preservative that prevents spoilage, as a metaphor for grace. “Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, makes it savoury, and keeps it from corrupting” (Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible, online version). Christians must be careful not to allow their words to be corrupted. In light of the hostile environment the Gnostics likely created with their opposition to the Christian faith, the believers needed to be able to address any issue before them. If they were diligent in prayer and monitored their discourses, they would be ready to answer anyone appropriately.

1. How should a Christian pray (Colossians 4:2)?

2. Why should Christians pray for their mentors (v. 3)?

3. Describe the speech of a Christian (v. 6).

What are some concrete ways Christians can maintain diligence in their prayer lives? If we have not already done so, how can we begin to monitor the content of our speech? How can we help new Christians learn to be disciplined in their prayer and speech?

In an age when most have a lot going on in our lives, sometimes we might find ourselves putting our spiritual disciplines on the back burner. However, if we are not diligent, we could compromise our Christian walk. Instead, we should pray and then look to those who encouraged us in the faith to examine how they manage to live for Christ. Once we become disciplined, we can then help new believers learn.

Start a Spiritual Disciplines journal. In one section, you should keep an account of your prayers. In another section, analyze the conversations you have each day, being prayerful about what you should change or maintain so that eventually, you become consistent with your speech. As you become stronger in the disciplines of prayer and conversation, share your process with others so they can begin journaling, too.

Follow the Spirit

What God wants me to do?

Remember Your Thoughts

Special insights I have learned?

Colossians 4:2–6 2

Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; 3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: 4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

Paul maintains a consistent theme throughout Colossians 4:2–6. There is emphasis on the importance of faithful “prayer” (Gk. proseuche, pros-yoo-KHAY) and godly speech, which are ultimately pillars to one’s conduct. For the most part, Colossians 4:2–4 can form one particular unit, while Colossians 4:5–6 are distinct. Colossians 4:2 focuses on prayer and attitude. There are three things Paul wishes the church of Colossae would understand and apply to their lives. First, a Christian must be devoted to prayer. Prayer is simply direct conversation with God and should be of primary importance in a believer’s life. Through prayer, we share our thoughts and feelings. It is a means of seeking understanding and guidance from the very God we worship. Authentic prayer is never one-sided because it is a vital way in which God communicates directly to us. Questions are answered and guidance is given through the usage of Christian prayer. Secondly, to “watch” (Gk. gregoreuo, gray-gor-YOO-o), must be accompanied with prayer. One should always avoid unfocused, lackadaisical prayer in which the individual or group treats it as a mere religious routine. Prayer must be intentional, focusing on what we are thinking and saying; always alert for an answer. Lastly, we must have intentionally focused prayer with a spirit of “thanksgiving” (Gk. eucharistia, yoo-kharis- TEE-ah). Our attitude should be one of gratitude, humility, and reverence toward God. Conversely, prayer should not be done with entitlement, arrogance, or pride. Ephesians 6:18 echoes a similar idea: “With all prayer and petition, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints” (NASB).

In Colossians 4:3, the Apostle Paul displays a concrete faith, not only in God but in the transformative power of the Gospel message. He continues with the theme of prayer, asking the church of Colossae to lift him and his group up in prayer so that “God would open unto us a door.” The word “door” comes from the Greek thura (THOO-rah), an expression in Scripture, is a metaphor for opportunities to witness (1 Corinthians 16:9; 2 Corinthians 2:12). The Gospel message of Christ Jesus is what caused the saints’ physical imprisonment (including Paul’s). It is also the sole reason for their spiritual freedom. This same Gospel message is what Paul wished to preach so that those in physical bondage could experience real spiritual freedom. Once again, the letter to the Ephesians complements Paul’s letter to the Colossian church. Ephesians 6:19 states, “and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel” (NASB). Paul’s humility and desire for confidence is shown in this verse. He asks for prayer so that God would grant him the ability “to proclaim this message as clearly as I should” (Colossians 3:4, NLT). Similar to when he wrote Colossians, Paul was imprisoned at the time of writing his letter to the church of Ephesus (Ephesians 6:20). This may explain the similarity between the two letters. In each, Paul speaks from a particular context in which the same perspective influenced him. Philippians 1:13–18 notes that Paul is living in a prison cell. This was the result of his preaching the Gospel message (Philippians 1:13). In a strange twist of encouragement, Paul states that because of his imprisonment, most of the fellow believers in Christ “have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear” (Philippians 1:14, NASB). This was a powerful statement, especially considering the fear that many Christians have in proclaiming the Gospel. Our lives are powerful witnesses to everyone. A faith that isn’t worth the sacrifice if one’s life isn’t worth following. When the Apostle Paul risked freedom and his life for the sake of the Gospel message, everyone took notice and was encouraged to do the same.

5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

The manner in which we express and present ourselves is always important. People judge behavior through the eyes, ears, and mind. With this in mind, Paul turns from an emphasis on prayer to focusing on conduct. For “wisdom” should always influence and mold our conduct. Interestingly enough, the ancient Greek word for “walk” (peripateo, per-ee-pat-EH-o) can be translated as “conduct” as well. The shift to wisdom-influenced conduct may appear out of place on the surface, but it fits neatly within this context. A life devoted to prayer, proper speech, and awareness with a heart of thanksgiving will create godly discipline in our lives. The discernment needed to distinguish between what is appropriate and inappropriate will develop internally.

For Paul, wise conduct is instrumental to a Christian’s witnessing power. Conducting ourselves in a godly manner is beneficial not only for ourselves but for others as well. This includes individuals with whom we have a closer relationship and those who we may influence from a distance: “Enthusiasm must be accompanied by common sense and tact. Witness without wisdom often produces ill will and negative results” (Patzia, 97). The Apostle Peter makes a similar declaration in 1 Peter 3:15: “But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence” (NASB). Inevitably, Christians will face situations and people who demand explanations for their choices in life.

6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

In Colossians 4:6, Paul returns to the importance of proper speech. Grace pervades every aspect of the Christian’s life, even within one’s speech. Paul makes it clear that peace, love, compassion, and other traits should guide each verbal expression we exhibit. Consider what Jesus says in Mark 7:20, “That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man” (NASB). Many people fail to realize that speech is merely an expression of the conditions of the heart and mind. We speak in a manner that symbolizes the state of our feelings, thoughts, and overall worldview. Language is merely indicative of our spiritual condition. If your spirit is evil, then your speech will be the same. “The Christian who is in God’s grace will demonstrate that fact by the nature of his or her speech” (Patzia, 97-98).

Sources:

“The Aegean Region.” Travel Guide to Turkey. http://www.guidemartine.
com/aegean12.asp(accessed November 4, 2011).
“Bible Words – Phonetic Pronunciation.” Better Days Are Coming.
com. http://betterdaysarecoming.com/bible/pronunciation.
html#e/ (accessed November 4, 2011).
Browning, W. R. F. “Colossae.” A Dictionary of the Bible. 1997.
Encyclopedia.com. http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Colossae.
aspx (accessed November 4, 2011).
“Colossae.” Catholic Encyclopedia. http://www.newadvent.org/
cathen/04131a.htm (accessed November 4, 2011).
“Colossae.” Holy Land Photos.org. http://holylandphotos.org/browse.
asp?s=1,3,7,23,62 (accessed November 4, 2011).
“Colossians.” The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary. Chicago: Moody
Press, 1988.
Henry, Matthew. “Colossians.” Matthew Henry’s Commentary on
the Whole Bible, Vol. VI – Acts to Revelation. Christian Classics
Ethereal Library.org. http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.Col.
html (accessed November 4, 2011).
Martin, Ralph P. Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon. Interpretation,
a Bible Commentary for Teaching and Instruction. Atlanta, GA:
John Knox Press, 1991.
New Testament Greek Lexicon. Bible Study Tools.com. http://www.
biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/ (accessed November 4,
2011).
Padfield, David. “The Church at Colosse in Asia Minor.” The Church
of Christ in Zion, Illinois. Padfield.com. http://www.padfield.
com/2005/colosse.html (accessed November 4, 2011).
Patzia, Arthur G. Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon. New International
Biblical Commentary: Vol. 10. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson
Publishers, 1990.
Strong, James. Free Bible Study Tools – Strong’s Concordance with
Greek and Hebrew. Tim Greenwood Ministries. http://www.tgm.
org/bible.htm (accessed November 4, 2011).
Vine, W. E. Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New
Testament Words. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1996.

MONDAY
Following Jesus
(Matthew 20:29–34)
TUESDAY
Devoted to Prayer
(Acts 1:6–14)
WEDNESDAY
Living in Harmony
(Romans 15:1–6)
THURSDAY
Living to Please God
(1 Thessalonians 4:1–12)
FRIDAY
Guarding Your Words
(Ecclesiastes 5:1–6)
SATURDAY
Supporting Others in the Faith
(Colossians 4:7–17)
SUNDAY
Devotion and Conduct
(Colossians 4:2–6)

When life gets busy, we tend to get caught up in the stressors that surround us. You already know it is better to lean on the Lord and place our trust in Him rather than worry.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

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