We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Colossians 1:3-5

What would someone say about your Church or you , in the matter of your faith? Would someone say “They are really on fire for The Lord” or would they say “ I didn’t even know they were a Christian”? Notice what Paul says about the Church of Colossae, “we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love you have to all the saints”

The Church of Colossae was well known for their faith in Christ and their love for the Church. They were being a great example for everyone , including non-believers. But notice who gets the glory, God! Paul says “We give thanks to God”. The fact that these Christians were so respected was not to their own glory, it was to the glory of God because he transformed them through Jesus Christ

When we demonstrate our faith or our obedience to God, it brings Glory to God and not to ourselves. How did this happen? As Paul said “heard in the word of truth of the gospel” These ordinary sinners became saved through faith in Christ- by hearing and receiving the gospel. This is why sharing the gospel of Christ is so important for the Kingdom of God

Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. Colossians 1:6-8

How do we know this is a spiritually healthy Church? They are bearing fruits of the Holy Spirit, as Paul said “bring forth fruit, as it does also in you” Jesus said “You will be known by our fruits” (Matthew 7) A false convert is always known by the spiritual fruit they produce. The Church of Colossae was demonstrating fruits produced by the Holy Spirit

Paul also said “Since the day you heard of it (the gospel) and knew the grace of God in truth” When God prepares our hearts, we hear and receive the good news of Christ, and we are transformed forever. Not only do Born Again believers know the gospel but they receive it as truth, they put their total faith and trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord

As said in a movie once, I believe it was” God’s Not Dead” If you were put on trial for your faith, would you be found guilty? Are you producing fruits of the Holy Spirit? Give thanks to God for our salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord and the Holy Spirit, Amen!