The Role and Purpose of Paul’s Ministry

The Role and Purpose of Paul’s Ministry Colossians 1:24–2:5 Paul’s Role in God’s Work (24–29) 1. He is to suffer (24). • Physical (“in my flesh”) …far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death. Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; 2 Corinthians 11:23–25 Paul’s Role in God’s Work (24–29) 1. He is to suffer (24). • • • Physical (“in my flesh”) Purposeful (“for your sake/the body”) Partnering (“filling up what is lacking”) …far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death. Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; 2 Corinthians 11:23–25 Paul’s Role in God’s Work (24–29) 1. He is to suffer (24). 2. He is to proclaim (25–29). • • • Ministry: fill up knowledge Mystery: Christ in you (Eph 3:9–10; Rom 16:25–26) Mission: to present mature saints Paul’s Purpose in Writing 1. He is to encourage them (1–3) • • Sign 1: United in love for each other. Sign 2: Settled in God’s love for them. 2. He is to protect them (4–5) • Delude: deceptive tactics (James 1:22) • Method: “Convince” + “speech” Applications 1. Expect suffering, but never alone. 2. Prize Christ enough to suffer and labor. 3. Love those God has given you. 4. Be taken by the wisdom of Jesus. The Role and Purpose of Paul’s Ministry Colossians 1:24–2:5