Together in Christ: 'Connections' — Colossians 1:7-8

Satan loves to sow doubt into the hearts of new believers. Epaphras had evangelized and mentored the new Christians in Colossae. However, he wasn't an apostle or a well-known church planter. After he left, ^[1] Satan didn't waste time with these new believers before he sowed doubt into their hearts about the Good News they had received from Epaphras. Soon, they began to wonder if they had received the complete saving message about Jesus.

Paul wrote to assure the Colossians that Epaphras had taught them the truth about Christ Jesus. Epaphras had told them everything they needed to know about Jesus and His way of life. Paul emphasized that they had received the core gospel they needed to be saved and live a productive life for Christ as his disciples. Then, Paul did something we need more of today in our churches, especially since criticizing leaders has become more the norm than the exception. Paul spoke highly and lovingly of Epaphras, describing him as a beloved co-worker, faithful servant of Christ, and someone who spoke well of the Colossians.

For me, there are three leadership and relationship principles in this passage we must not overlook:

1. Leaders need to speak well of other Christian leaders and build up these leaders before their people.
2. We all must value and esteem our leaders by affirming and pointing out their good qualities while emphasizing their importance to us personally as they fulfill their Spirit-anointed role. ^[2]
3. We should value each other and our connections with other believers and their leaders in other cities. We are a worldwide fellowship connected by the Holy Spirit!

Let's find ways to affirm and build up each other and our leaders rather than be the tool of Satan and tear them down!