"So everywhere you go, we tell everyone about Christ. We warn them and teach them with all the wisdom God has given us, for we want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ. I [Paul] work very hard at this, as I depend on Christ's mighty power that works within me." -Colossians 1:28,29 (NLT)
The Challenge: In response to the first part of this verse - "…everywhere we go, we tell everyone about Christ." - try to mention Christ or your relationship with Christ somewhere outside church. Part two of this challenge (if you're already doing part one), is to double check your relationship with those with which you've shared the Gospel. Will you be presenting them to God as perfect (mature) Christians come judgement day?
I think Paul's attitude here can reflect our own sometimes - "I work very hard at this, as I depend on Christ's mighty power…". Tell others about Christ 24/7 is not an easy task - especially if you are like me (more of an internal processor). We get scared at the word, "evangelism". In New Testament times no one feared an evangelist. They were people who always brought news which was always good - a victory in battle, for example. Really, we are just letting others in on the good news that God blesses His children.
"Discipleship" is another scary word. It means commitment, responsibility, building relationships. Now add what you read above - "We warn them and teach them… for we want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ." I know I'm not perfect in my relationship to Christ much less warning and teaching others in order to present them perfect and mature to God!
But before you get too hopeless in the work we are called to, read Paul's words again.
"I work very hard at this, as I depend on Christ's mighty power that works within me."
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