4 September 2021

And you who were once estranged and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his fleshly body through death, so as to present you holy and blameless and irreproachable before him— provided that you continue securely established and steadfast in the faith, without shifting from the hope promised by the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven. 

Colossians 1:21-23, NRSV

In today’s reading from Paul’s letter to the church at Colossae, Paul makes it clear that the people need to persevere in their faith. Although they have already been saved by Christ’s death and resurrection they still have work to do to develop and grow in their lives as followers of Christ. This was a community that was at risk of being led astray by false teachers and so it was important that they took responsibility for their ongoing development and to hold onto the hope they had been given.

• • Why do you think Paul reminded the Colossians of their previous behaviour and attitudes?
  • What can you do to remain steadfast in your faith?

Reflect on what you might need to do to further develop your relationship with God.