In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see, this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Today’s column concludes this series for 2020.

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. ~ Colossians 3: 16-17

As we wrap up The New Life series today, we focus on the last two verses in my favorite section of Scripture. Here the Apostle Paul encourages his readers with some important words that perfectly cap off our study. Let’s look at four points and apply them to our lives today.

Let the Word of Christ Dwell In You Richly

It’s easy to allow our Bible reading to become a rote habit, flying through a chapter of Scripture just to get it checked off our to-do list. If we’ll take time to slow down and chew on a verse slowly we will find God’s Word more nourishing to our soul and spirit. As we meditate on Scripture it will become more a part of who we are. Little by little a change will show up in our words and behavior. Soon our life will begin to reflect the character of Christ for others to see.

Teach One Another with All Wisdom

This verse flows so beautifully to talk next about teaching each other. As we have filled our spirits on God’s Word we will naturally want to share it with those around us. The more we know Christ, the more we will want to tell others about Him. We will be drawn to opportunities where we can share God’s goodness with those who need to hear it.

Sing psalms to God with Gratitude in Your Hearts

One of the most important things we can do is sing songs of gratitude and worship to God. It not only lifts our spirits but it honors God for who He is and what He has done for us. The book of Psalms is the best place to go when troubled. The songs there span every human situation and emotion imaginable. The psalmists put words to our heartache and troubles. They help us process our pain while the Holy Spirit brings healing and wholeness in a time of need.

Do Everything Representing the Name of Jesus

To top it all off, we must do everything as a representative of Jesus Christ. As Christians we are ambassadors for Christ to the world. We are in essence presenting what may be the only Jesus some people may ever see. Our words and actions must be in harmony with Jesus’ identity and be under His authority. Wherever we go, whatever we do, we are leaving an impression on people. Will they see Jesus Christ when they see and talk to me? It’s my prayer that others will see will see more of Him and less of me. That they truly will see Christ in me.

Take a few minutes and be blessed with this beautiful song by Jeremy Camp.

Today we bring this series to a close. If you’ve missed any of the columns this year, please check out all the previous articles here: THE NEW LIFE SERIES. I hope this series has been a blessing to you like it has been for me.

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH. TODAY’S COLUMN CONCLUDES THIS SERIES FOR 2020.

In The Spiritual Disciplines series we’re learning 12 disciplines that guide us as we grow deeper in our walk with God. Spiritual Disciplines are not a list of religious duties but rather habits that nurture and mature our spiritual growth. They are inward, spiritual attitudes walked out by behaviors and actions. These habits are critical for lasting spiritual growth and true life transformation.

FELLOWSHIP: Engaging with other disciples in the common activities of worship study, prayer, celebration, and service, which sustain our life together and enlarge our capacity to experience more of God. ~ The Life With God Bible

The whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love. ~ Ephesians 4:15-16

Usually when we think of fellowship a social gathering comes to mind. But it’s more than a cup of coffee and small talk with a friend. Fellowship is the united body of Christian believers working together to grow spiritually as individuals, mentor each other in discipleship and share the gospel with a lost world.

Fellowship: koinoonia: communion, commonalities, participation, friendship

Naturally as fellow believers in Christ, we fellowship because we have many things in common: the same faith in God through Christ and we can converse about the same subjects of prayer and Scripture. Fellowship is not only a state of being or identity with Christ. Fellowship is also an activity: such as assembling together for the shared purpose of study and worship.

Fellowship for Spiritual Growth

Fellowship provides a solid foundation for our spiritual growth. Contact with fellow believers shapes us; sometimes with sparks flying like an axe being sharpened, other times a gentle polishing to a smooth shine. Whichever the case, fellowship strongly influences our spiritual foundation and should be used to the full.

Ideas for Spiritual Growth Fellowship In Person or Virtual

1. 1. Join a small group in your church.
  2. Find a prayer partner and meet regular to pray.
  3. Lead a Bible study in a local retirement home.
  4. Start an online Bible Study or Small Group.

Fellowship for Discipleship

We become like those we spend time with. So if we want to grow stronger and mature in our faith, we need to spend time with those further along the spiritual journey than we are. As we continue to grow and mature we in turn can reach out to those new in the faith and mentor them as well.

Ideas for Discipleship Fellowship In Person or Virtual:

1. 1. Find a mentor, spiritual director or friend who models their faith.
  2. Meet regularly for spiritual growth and accountability.
  3. Find a friend or neighbor seeking guidance that you can share.
  4. Invite neighbors to an online worship service watch party.

Fellowship for Evangelization

Before becoming a Christian most of us had no problem spending time with strangers. The Church today is lacking in social activities that would draw in the unchurched of our world. We as individuals need to create ways to reach the people in our circle of influence: neighborhood, public transportation, maybe even a fellow coworker.

Ideas for Evangelism Fellowship In Person or Virtual:

1. 1. 1. Pray for God to open doors and boldly walk through them.
    2. Create a list of folks to pray for regularly.
    3. Find ways to reach out to lost friends.
    4. Record your testimony and share it on social media.

For some of us fellowship isn’t always as easy as 1, 2, 3. Many of us are introverts and prefer to not be in the spotlight. However, Jesus commanded us to follow him and share His good news.

Sadly, with this season of Covid-19, fellowship has taken a back seat in most churches. And we are all suffering for it. Above are a few suggestions to help find or create some fellowship opportunities in person or virtually if you are high risk.

I encourage you to look over the list of ideas and find one or two that can work for you. Take a leap of faith. God will meet you there and give you what you need to be successful in fellowship whether it be for spiritual growth, discipleship or sharing the gospel. You will definitely be blessed as you do!

Enjoy one of my favorite songs by Hillsong United. Here Now sings of the ultimate experience of fellowship available to us as believers… Fellowship with God!

Today we bring this series to a close. If you’ve missed any of the columns this year, please check out the previous articles here: The Spiritual Disciplines Series. I hope this series has been a blessing to you like it has been for me.