In the New Testament, we read about crowds of people being converted to Christ. Many of them are unnamed—we don’t know their stories—just that they heard the gospel and responded in obedience to the Lord. However, the Spirit of God gave us several details about the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, and not just his conversion but what he did thereafter. Let’s spend a bit of time considering Paul, the convert to Christ.
What a wonderful thought the apostle Paul presents. Those who are raised with Christ are said to have died, and now have a life hidden with Christ in God! In the rest of Colossians 3, the apostle goes on to tell us what that means in the life of the Christian.
Before we look at the life changes which must take place, Paul alludes to our entrance into Christ. His mention of a death and a resurrection is an allusion to the penitent believer’s baptism. Only those who have been baptized into Christ can be raised to life with Him (Romans 6:3-5). Until we are buried in the likeness of His death, we cannot be in the likeness of His resurrection.
For most religious folks, the word “fellowship” brings to mind thoughts of game nights, potlucks, donuts and coffee, etc.. For most religious folks, the word “fellowship” brings to mind thoughts of game nights, potlucks, donuts & coffee, etc..
Church socials are prominent in most denominational groups as a way to entertain the saved and attract the lost. Some churches of Christ have also made social activities a major part of their focus, calling it “fellowship.” Surfing the internet this past week, I was disappointed (though not surprised) to see many church of Christ web sites promoting potluck Sundays, emphasizing the donuts & coffee in their foyer, etc. One site advertised a free soccer clinic for the community which their “church soccer team” will host in mid-August.
