Let Us Learn About the Word of Christ (Colossians 3:16-17)
Introduction:
1. This chapter contains a number of important instructions for God's people. 2. They all deserve our careful attention. 3. This morning our lesson is based on the instruction given in vs.16a -- "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom." 4. This is the key to carrying out the admonition given in vs.17 -- to say and do the things that the Lord authorizes us to say and do. 5. As we search the Scriptures, "let us learn about the word of Christ." 6. The first observation we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. THE WORD OF CHRIST IS THE NEW TESTAMENT
A. The entire Bible is the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16a). B. We learn from Hebrews 9:15 that Jesus is "the mediator of the new testament." C. The Lord's New Testament is far superior to the Old (Hebrews 8:6-13). D. To help us appreciate the value of the Lord's Word, . . . II. CHRIST PAID A HIGH PRICE FOR HIS NEW TESTAMENT TO BECOME EFFECTIVE
A. Hebrews 9:15 mentions the Lord's death in connection with the fact that He is the mediator of the New Testament. B. Death is required for a testament to become effective (Hebrews 9:16-17). C. Since Jesus died so His new covenant could go into effect, we should appreciate its value. III. CHRIST HAS GIVEN US A NUMBER OF RESPONSIBILITIES THAT RELATE TO HIS WORD
A. Some negative matters are addressed in: 1. John 12:48 2. Galatians 1:6-9; Revelation 22:18-19. B. Some positive instructions are given in: 1. John 8:31-32 2. Colossians 3:16a 3. 2 Timothy 2:15 4. James 1:21-25. Conclusion:
1. The Lord will bless Christians who keep His Word. 2. The Lord will bless congregations that keep His Word (Revelation 3:8, 10).
