Part Three "For the Christ follower, Thankful Worship is a Lifestyle" (Colossians 3:16-17)

In part two, we spoke about how the "word of Christ" was to "richly dwell" within us. Apostle Paul teaches us that, as the church, we're to be about the business of "teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs" (verse 16). In the eyes of God, teaching and admonishing one another is a vital function of spiritual growth and maturity! It's a tremendous spiritual growth resource that God has given to the church! This resource can not be found in any place other than the church! Hallelujah! It's part of the "spiritual work of service" that's been given to every Christ follower (Ephesians 4:12). It's part of God's design for the spiritual building up, nurturing, and development of the church! Notice Paul's words to the church at Thessalonica. He said, "We urge you, brethren, admonish the undisciplined, encourage the faint-hearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone" (1 Thessalonians 5:14). To the church at Rome, Paul had this to say, "And concerning you, my brethren, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one another" (Romans 15:14). In our text, Paul is saying that we're to teach and admonish one another both through the Word of Christ as well as through songs that are doctrinally sound! The songs that we sing should instruct us in sound, wholesome doctrine! They're to teach solid Bible truth. Biblical songs are to convey biblical truth! So, what are we learning? The word "teaching" means communicating doctrine; "admonishing" means to provide correction, warning, and training in righteousness. "Wisdom" means the skill in applying the Word of Christ in specific situations. In other words, whether it comes from the pulpit, in home fellowships, or in one on one conversations, whether through speaking or singing, the Word of Christ must be at home in every one of us so that we'll use the wisdom of God in living it and edifying one another! Biblical truth is vital for worship. The object of the Christ follower's ambition should be to worship God. We can't worship God in biblical truth unless we know Him as He's revealed Himself in the Bible. In other words, true worship is supported by knowing God as revealed in the Scriptures. As I stated earlier, "thankful worship starts by engaging our minds with the Word of Christ!" Let's determine to be true worshippers! Christ said, "for such people the Father seeks to be His worshippers" (John 4:23). Your move. Be a true worshipper! Be encouraged!