Having stated the fact of his thankful prayer, the apostle now outlines the substance of it and reasons for it. It is based on a report received from Epaphras - this at least tells us that there was something worthy of being reported, and able to be reported: there was gospel fruit growing on Colossian trees.
The first two things reported were faith in Christ Jesus and love for all the saints. The former has to do with the life of faith expressive of union with Christ. The latter is caring and sacrificial interest in and concern for all those who share that life of faith, abiding in Christ Jesus.
By way of application, we asked four questions: (1) Do you have this faith and love that speak of saving union with Christ and an abiding love for him and all who are his? (2) If you have been given these graces, are they evident? Are we in danger of downplaying our religion, which ought to have substance of which to make report? (3) If they are evident, how much are they evident? What report might your pastors give to an apostle, not of your reputation or your performance, but of the reality of gospel fruit in your lives? (4) If they are evident, are they increasingly evident? Are you cultivating these graces through a thoughtful and affectionate dwelling upon the Christ who has redeemed us, and working out the implications for a life of vibrant faith and sacrificial love?
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