Faith and fraternity

Paul gives a succinct but rich definition and description of the Colossian church. He identifies where they are (geographically, in Colosse, and spiritually, in Christ) and then - because in Christ - what they are: saints and faithful brethren.

In the light of this, we extract a simple question (where are you? Are you in Christ?); a simple instruction (that there is such a thing as Christ's church, and that we ought to be a part of it, and that we ought to answer to this description); a simple encouragement (that we must be realistic about where we are geographically, but conscious of where we are spiritually: in Christ); and, a simple exhortation (the truths of Colossians were written to Christ's church - they are not for a select few, but are the inheritance of every true saint, to be embraced by all, that we might more know, love, and honour our Redeemer).