study, Colossius chapter 3. We left off in verse 19 last week, so we'll pick it up in verse 20,

and we're going to get to verse 1 of chapter 4. I hope you understand that the chapter breaks

are not part of the original translations. They were added later. So this is an unfortunate chapter break.

Verse 1 of chapter 4 should really be verse 21 of chapter 3.

So we're going to treat it as such. And you'll see here in a moment why.

Now if you're able to stand, you can follow along as I read the text,

if not where you're seated is fine. The Apostle Paul now is continuing very practically

in his writing by the spirit to this church there in Colosset. And he says, verse 20,

children, obey your parents in everything for this pleases the

Lord fathers verse 21 do not embitter your children or they will become discouraged. Slaves, verse 22. Now you have to understand in that day

when this letter was written, there were many slaves. In our day, we would be better served to see this not as slaves but more like

employees so if you don't mind i'm actually going to read it as such employees obey your

earthly employers in everything and do it not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor,

but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Since verse 24, you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.

It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Anyone, verse 25, who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs. And there is no favoritism. And then verse

1 chapter 4, masters slash employers, provide your slaves slash employees with what is right and fair and here's why because you know

that you also have a master in heaven let's pray if you would join with me

loving Heavenly Father thank you so much for Let's pray if you would join with me.

Loving Heavenly Father, thank you so much for your word and this portion that we have here before us this morning.

Lord, would you give me the words that you would have me to speak as I teach this passage? And Lord, would you also, by the Holy Spirit, quiet our minds, settle our hearts, and get and keep our attention so our minds

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