Maturing Holy People of God

Summary: Paul says that since hearing about the Colossian believers, he and his companions have not stopped praying for them. Their prayer is that the believers would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, with all spiritual wisdom and understanding. The purpose of this prayer is that they would walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in every way. This worthy life is described as bearing fruit in every good work, increasing in the knowledge of God, and being strengthened with all power according to God’s glorious might. Through this strength, they are to have steadfastness and patience, joined with joy. Paul also speaks of giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified them to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.   Teaching: We must hear and understand. It is not enough simply to hear the Word; we must understand it in such a way that real change takes place in us. Paul prays that believers would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that they may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. This means that understanding God’s will should lead to a changed life—a life that pleases the Lord, bears fruit in every good work, and continues to grow in the knowledge of God. This change is the process of becoming a mature and complete person in Christ. It should be visible in our character, our speech, our attitude, and our faith. Others should be able to recognize that we are people of good character, people who love the Bible, people whose words are gracious and honorable, and people whose faith is strong and sincere. True understanding of the Word produces transformation. When we hear, understand, and live according to God’s will, we become people who are worthy of the Lord and faithful in every good work. Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, June 4, 2026 Colossians 1:9-12