I shared this today to Lydia House Staff. This message was preached on Sunday and it really encouraged me. I think of these are also qualities of a persevering team!
The one that spoke to me the most was spurring on the fainthearted, not giving up when things get hard but pressing into God and the ministry He gave us.
Colossians 4:7-18
Qualities of a Persevering Church—CityLight Church Pastor Gavin Johnson
1. Creates a culture of encouragement
– Colossians 4:7 – Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord.
– We are our own worst critics
– We do well to encourage each other!
2. Lives as a spiritual family
– Colossians 4:9 – He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.
– They are rooting for each other
3. Works as a diverse team
– Colossians 4:10-11 – My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.) 11 Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me.
– What are gaps you see?
– What passion do you have?
4. Devoted to God’s Word
– Colossians 4:12 – Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.
– Church has a high view of God’s Word
– Love the Bible and not be stiff, rigid and angry. Still show the JOY of Jesus
5. Celebrate other Churches
– Colossians 4:16 – After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea.
– Not in competition
6. Spurs on the fainthearted
– Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.”
– A persevering church spurs on the faint-hearted. It’s about completing the ministry you have received from the Lord. Not giving up because it’s hard. Not going through the motions, it’s pressing into God even more.
7. Stays rooted in the Gospel of Grace
– I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
– Jesus persevered!