The Mandates of Ministry

Colossians 1:19-29

Intro: See I Peter 4:10 - every believer has a ministry.  Paul was full time, but wasn't paid full time.  There are some requirements for ministry if it is going to be done right.  Notice these.  By the way, Colossians 1:21-29 is one sentence with no periods.  This is one complete thought.

I. Reconciliation - vs. 19-21 - Paul was consumed with reconciling people to God.

            The Peace

            The Person - by him (twice)

            The Power - vs. 21

II. Sanctification - vs. 22 - holy, unblameable, unreprovable...

III. Continuation - vs. 23 - If ye continue...

IV. Tribulation - vs. 24 - sufferings, afflictions for the church

V. Dispensation - vs. 25 - the dispensation of God...given to me...

            Means stewardship - God puts in, and we put out

VI. Manifestation - vs. 26, 27 - the mystery is made manifest

VII. Communication - vs. 28

            Three types: Preaching, Warning (see Acts 20:31), and Teaching (see Heb. 5:12,13)

VII. Motivation - vs. 29

            Labor and Striving - see Phil. 2:12, 13