Colossians 3:11-15

English Standard Version

11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all. 12 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

At the end of yesterday’s post I quote from 1 Corinthians 12 about being one body. Those words do not tell us who we are in the body of Christ. Here in Colossians we are given some general instructions that apply to all of us regardless of what gifts, callings, or training we each might receive.

Each of us is called with purpose but finding out what that purpose is will not be obvious to those who have just entered into the family of God. Different gifts have different training requirements. Some callings take years of training. If you don’t know your gift, what training is appropriate?

Titus 2:11-14 English Standard Version

11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, 12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.

The training in verse 12 is not the training we need for the work set for those with specific service gifts but applies to all of us. May I suggest that it is a lifelong pursuit, especially the self-control aspects of life.

1 Corinthians 12:29-31 English Standard Version

29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? 31 But earnestly desire the higher gifts.

Who is to say which gift is higher than any other since all are needed?