Together in Christ: 'Connections' — Colossians 3:7-8

Satan loves to sow doubt into the hearts of new believers. Epaphras had evangelized and mentored the new Christians in Colosse. However, he wasn't an apostle or a well-known church planter. Satan didn't waste much time with these new believers before he sowed doubt into their hearts about the version of the Good News they had received. They began to wonder: Since one of the apostles or great missionaries had not brought them the Good News about Jesus, had they received the entire, saving message about Jesus?

Paul wrote to assure the Colossians that Epaphras had taught them the truth about Christ. While they needed to learn more about Jesus and His way of life, they had the core gospel they needed to be saved and live a productive life for Christ as a disciple. Then, Paul did something we need more of today in our churches, especially in a time where running down leaders has become more the norm than the exception. Paul spoke highly and lovingly of Epaphras — a beloved co-worker, faithful servant of Christ, and someone who spoke well of the the Colossians.

For me, there are three leadership and relationship principles in this passage:

Leaders need to speak affectionately and well of other Christian leaders and build them up before their people.
1. We all must value and esteem our leaders, affirming them and pointing out their good qualities as well as their importance to us personally and in their Spirit-anointed role.
2. 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!