11:10 Paul's suffering and labor so we could get the Gospel!

To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me. Colossians 1:29

As Gentile beleivers, it is easy to forget that the Gospel we now cherish and even sometimes take for granted came to us from the Jewish converts who suffered much persecution to get the Gospel to the Gentiles. The chief among the preachers of the Gospel to the Gentiles was the Apostle Paul! In this passage, we see his heart and passion to share the Gospel with us!

1-Paul Rejoices, even in his suffering for the Church!

24Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.

2-Paul sees himself as a servant, sent by God to preach the Gospel.
25I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—

3-This Gospel was once hidden but is now revealed to Gentiles!
26the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. 27To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

4-Paul preaches and teaches the Gospel so we will grow!
28We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.

5-Paul labor is powered by Christ!
29To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times when I labor in my own strength or shrink back from sacrifice or suffering. Help me by your power to have the attitude of a servant and labor in the power and energy of Christ. In Jesus Name! Amen!