Colossians 2:7
Verse
Context
Sermons
Bill McLeod
Samuel Rutherford
Oswald Chambers
Horatius Bonar
Ignatius of Antioch
John HamesSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Rooted and built up in him - It is not usual with the apostle to employ this double metaphor, taken partly from the growth of a tree and the increase of a building. They are to be rooted; as the good seed had been already sown, it is to take root, and the roots are to spread far, wide, and deep. They are to be grounded; as the foundation has already been laid, they are to build thereon. In the one case, they are to bear much fruit; in the other, they are to grow up to be a habitation of God through the Spirit. See the notes on Eph 2:21, Eph 2:22 (note); Eph 3:17 (note). Abounding therein with thanksgiving - No limitation is ever set to the operations of God on the soul, or to the growth of the soul in the knowledge, love, and image of God. Those who are brought into such a state of salvation should abound in gratitude and loving obedience, as they grow in grace.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Rooted-- (Eph 3:17). built up--Greek, "being builded up." As "rooted" implies their vitality; so "builded up," massive solidity. As in the Song of Solomon, when one image is not sufficient to express the varied aspects of divine truth, another is employed to supply the idea required. Thus "walking," a third image (Col 2:6), expresses the thought which "rooted" and "built," though each suggesting a thought peculiar to itself, could not express, namely, onward motion. "Rooted" is in the past tense, implying their first conversion and vital grafting "in Him." "Built up" is present (in the Greek), implying their progressive increase in religion by union with Him. Eph 2:20 refers to the Church; but the passage here to their individual progress in edification (Act 20:32). stablished--confirmed. as--"even as." abounding therein with thanksgiving--advancing to fuller maturity (compare Col 2:2) in the faith, "with thanksgiving" to God as the gracious Author of this whole blessing.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Rooted and built up in him,.... By these metaphors, the apostle expresses the safe and happy state of these believers; and which he makes use of as arguments, to engage them to walk on in Christ, and as pointing out the manner in which they should. Believers are sometimes compared to trees, and are trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord; and their root is Christ, from whence as such they spring, and by whom they are filled with the fruits of righteousness; in him they are to abide, keep close unto him, and walk in him; deriving all their life, nourishment, fruitfulness, grace, and perseverance in it, from him as their root: they are also sometimes compared to a building, to an house, a temple, an habitation for God; and Christ is the sure and only foundation on which they are laid, and where they are safe and secure; and, being fitly joined together, grow up as an holy temple to the Lord; and this being their case, they are to go on laying the whole stress of their salvation on him, building their faith and hope of eternal glory entirely upon him; and building up one another also on their most holy faith, of which he is the substance, as it follows: and stablished in the faith: that of Christ, or in the doctrine of faith which respects Christ: the apostle here expresses the same thing without a figure, which he had signified by the two foregoing metaphors, and explains what he means by them; namely, that they were well settled and grounded in their faith in Christ, and thoroughly instructed and established in the doctrines of the Gospel; and a very good thing it is to have the heart established with grace, both as a principle and a doctrine; which is God's work, and was the happy case of these persons; wherefore it became them to act as such, and not be like children tossed to and fro with every wind of doctrine, or carried about with divers and strange doctrines, but abide by those which had been preached to them by the faithful ministers of Christ, and they had received: as ye have been taught: by Epaphras their minister, and others; and therefore should not listen to false teachers, and to a contrary doctrine taught by them; considering of whom they had learnt the true doctrine, what evidence it carried with it, and what use it had been of to them, in convincing, converting, comforting, instructing, and establishing them: and therefore should be abounding therein with thanksgiving; that is, in the faith; as in the grace, so in the doctrine of faith; for as saints are to abound in the work of the Lord, and in every good work, and in the exercise of every grace, so in the knowledge of truth; see Co2 8:7; and to make use of all means for the increase of, and growth in Gospel grace and light, and the knowledge of a crucified Christ, which is meant by abounding: for all which there is great reason for thanksgiving; both for the unspeakable gift of Christ, who is received as such by faith, and in whom believers are rooted and built up; and for faith itself, which is the gift of God; and also for the Gospel, and the truths of it; and for every degree of spiritual light in it, and knowledge of it.
Colossians 2:7
Alive with Christ
6Therefore, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him,7rooted and built up in Him, established in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
No Root, No Fruit
By Bill McLeod1.8K50:45FruitfulnessEXO 23:1PSA 1:1PSA 103:2PRO 26:20LUK 13:6EPH 3:17COL 2:71TI 6:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Luke chapter 13 and discusses a parable told by Jesus about a fruitless tree in a vineyard. The speaker interprets this parable as a representation of the nation of Israel. The tree symbolizes Israel, which had not produced fruit for three years. The owner of the vineyard decides to give it one more year to bear fruit, and if it doesn't, it will be cut down. The speaker connects this parable to the history of Israel, highlighting the eventual destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70 and the scattering of the Jewish people.
Lest After I Have Preached to Others I Should Be a Castaway
By Keith Daniel8521:18:29MAT 7:21ROM 12:1EPH 4:14EPH 4:27COL 2:71TI 1:61TI 1:19HEB 12:151PE 5:8
This sermon emphasizes the importance of total surrender to God, warning against the dangers of hidden sins, idols, and compromise in the lives of preachers and Christians. It calls for a deep dedication to God, a commitment to daily meditation on His Word, and a vigilant guarding against moral and doctrinal compromise. The speaker urges listeners to steer their roots back to God's Word, good literature, and sound sermons, highlighting the need for a renewed devotion to Christ and a rejection of worldly distractions.
Xxii. to Mr Hugh Mackail, Minister of the Gospel at Irvine
By Samuel Rutherford0PSA 72:6ISA 26:32CO 12:9PHP 4:4COL 2:7Samuel Rutherford expresses gratitude for the spiritual revival he has experienced, comparing it to rain on mown grass and the dew of herbs. He finds security in his current circumstances, acknowledging that salvation surrounds him even in prison. Rutherford's joy transcends his trials, focusing solely on Christ, whom he welcomes to come and go as He pleases. He is confident in anchoring himself on the Rock of Christ during times of darkness and uncertainty, trusting in His grace to sustain him.
The Word Must Precede the Work
By Oswald Chambers0MAT 6:6LUK 17:21JHN 18:361CO 3:6COL 2:7Oswald Chambers preaches about the danger of being consumed by worldly systems that prioritize endless activities over cultivating a private life with God. He emphasizes the importance of the hidden, inner relationship with God, rather than public displays of busyness. Chambers urges Christians to rid themselves of the spirit of the religious age and focus on soaking in the fundamental truths of God's Redemption to remain steadfast in faith when faced with unexpected challenges.
Stand Fast
By Horatius Bonar0Stability in ChristFaithPSA 1:3ROM 15:51CO 16:13EPH 4:14PHP 1:27COL 2:72TI 2:1HEB 6:19JAS 1:61PE 5:8Horatius Bonar emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith amidst the instability and confusion of the last days, where many are swayed by various doctrines and empty promises. He warns against the dangers of being like 'clouds without water,' highlighting the need for believers to be rooted in God's love and grace. Bonar encourages Christians to resist the temptations of novelty in religion and to hold fast to the steadfast anchor of Christ, reminding them that true peace and fulfillment can only be found in Him. He calls for patience and strength, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith despite the storms of life.
Be Established in Faith and Unity
By Ignatius of Antioch01CO 15:58EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 2:71PE 5:5Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of being firmly established in the teachings of the Lord and the apostles to prosper in all aspects of life, both physically and spiritually, in faith and love. He encourages submission to the bishop and to one another, drawing parallels to the submission of Christ to the Father, aiming for unity according to God among believers.
Signs of a Growing Soul
By John Hames0ROM 8:28EPH 4:32PHP 4:7COL 2:7HEB 12:282PE 3:18John Hames preaches about the three things God desires of His children: growth in grace, the planting of Christ's graces in our hearts, and happiness and success through God's provisions. He also discusses the three stages in the Christian experience: regeneration, sanctification, and the maturing of heavenly graces. Hames emphasizes the signs of a growing and maturing soul, such as evenness of temper, a sweet spirit, queenly forgiveness, a sacred feeling, a sense of rest, deep settled peace, trust in God's providence, and refusal to take offense.
Give Attendance to Reading
By George Warnock0MRK 16:20ACT 16:31ROM 15:81CO 1:62CO 1:21COL 2:7HEB 2:3HEB 13:9The preacher emphasizes the concept of 'Confirmed' (bebaioo) from the Greek word meaning to make sure, certain, and reliable. The writer assures that the word of salvation is guaranteed, firm, and reliable, inspiring confidence and inner solidity. Various Bible verses are cited to show how the word of salvation was confirmed through signs, promises, and the testimony of ear-witnesses, highlighting the importance of not neglecting this great salvation. The sermon stresses the urgency of accepting Christ as the only way to salvation and the grave consequences of neglecting this opportunity.
Steady in Our Walk
By Charles E. Cowman01CO 16:13COL 2:7HEB 13:9JAS 1:61PE 5:10Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of establishing, strengthening, and settling in our relationship with Christ. He emphasizes the need for intellectual understanding and a committed choice to stand in this new relationship without reservation. Just as a broken arm needs to be set and stabilized, God desires to establish His children in faith until it becomes a permanent habit, despite the challenges and trials they may face.
He Set Up the Pillars Before the Temple, . . .
By F.B. Meyer0Strength in WeaknessEstablishment in Christ2CH 3:17PSA 18:2ISA 41:10MAT 16:18ROM 1:11EPH 3:17PHP 4:13COL 2:7HEB 13:91PE 5:10F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of the pillars Jachin and Boaz, which symbolize God's establishment and strength in our lives. He explains that Jesus has established redemption, the Church, and our standing before God, ensuring that we are rooted in faith and love. Meyer encourages believers to seek Jesus for strength and stability, highlighting the importance of abiding in Him to remain steadfast. He reminds us that our strength comes from Christ, who empowers us to face life's challenges. Ultimately, the sermon calls for reliance on Jesus as our source of strength and support.
Abundant Resources (Ii. Cor. Ix. 8)
By Seth Rees0ROM 15:132CO 9:6PHP 1:9COL 2:71TH 4:12PE 1:82PE 1:11Seth Rees preaches on the abundance of God's grace, emphasizing the law of grace that the more we give away, the more we receive, contrary to human reasoning. He encourages cheerful and even hilarious giving, illustrating how God desires us to be channels of His blessings to the world. Rees reminds believers that God is able to help always, even in the midst of trials and challenges, and urges them to face difficulties head-on, trusting in God's ability to lift them up. He highlights the importance of abounding in every good work after receiving God's abundance, leading to a life filled with faith, thanksgiving, joy, love, pleasing God, liberality, and hope.
A Daily Increase From God
By David Wilkerson0Abiding in ChristSpiritual GrowthPSA 1:3ISA 40:31JHN 6:35ROM 12:22CO 5:17EPH 3:16PHP 1:6COL 2:7COL 2:191PE 2:2David Wilkerson emphasizes that spiritual growth often occurs unnoticed, much like physical growth, and is sustained by a constant flow of life from Christ. He explains that believers may not always feel their growth, but as they trust and abide in Jesus, they receive daily nourishment akin to the manna provided to the Israelites in the wilderness. This divine sustenance strengthens their spiritual immunity against sin and fosters a flourishing faith. Wilkerson encourages believers to recognize that their growth is rooted in Christ, who continuously infuses life into their souls, regardless of their feelings.
June 9. 1678.
By Jane Lead0ISA 50:4JHN 14:272CO 12:9EPH 3:16COL 2:7Jane Lead emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel from God daily, allowing the mind to be focused on Him for renewed strength and guidance. She warns against straying from faith, as it leads to troubles and anxieties, but encourages finding peace and joy through unwavering belief in the name of Jesus. Despite our weaknesses, as we grow in faith, the power of the Spirit within us will strengthen and empower us.
On a Rock in a Hard Place
By Jack Hayford0PSA 1:3ISA 43:2JER 17:8COL 2:7Jack Hayford reflects on the survival of a young redwood tree in the midst of a powerful creek, drawing parallels to our own lives and the dry seasons we face. He emphasizes the importance of going deeper in our faith during challenging times, trusting in God's providence and grace to sustain and anchor us for the future. Hayford encourages listeners to see beyond human interpretations of chance or fate, recognizing God's hand in planting us where we are for a purpose.
Preface to God's Hymnal
By Warren Wiersbe0PSA 1:1JER 17:7MAT 5:6EPH 3:17COL 2:7Warren Wiersbe preaches on the importance of delighting in the Word of God, emphasizing that what we delight in directs our lives. He compares the blessed person to a tree with deep roots, contrasting them with the ungodly who are like chaff blown away by the wind. Wiersbe highlights the significance of meditating on God's Word to strengthen our spiritual root system, which is essential for nourishment, stability, and strength during life's storms.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Rooted and built up in him - It is not usual with the apostle to employ this double metaphor, taken partly from the growth of a tree and the increase of a building. They are to be rooted; as the good seed had been already sown, it is to take root, and the roots are to spread far, wide, and deep. They are to be grounded; as the foundation has already been laid, they are to build thereon. In the one case, they are to bear much fruit; in the other, they are to grow up to be a habitation of God through the Spirit. See the notes on Eph 2:21, Eph 2:22 (note); Eph 3:17 (note). Abounding therein with thanksgiving - No limitation is ever set to the operations of God on the soul, or to the growth of the soul in the knowledge, love, and image of God. Those who are brought into such a state of salvation should abound in gratitude and loving obedience, as they grow in grace.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Rooted-- (Eph 3:17). built up--Greek, "being builded up." As "rooted" implies their vitality; so "builded up," massive solidity. As in the Song of Solomon, when one image is not sufficient to express the varied aspects of divine truth, another is employed to supply the idea required. Thus "walking," a third image (Col 2:6), expresses the thought which "rooted" and "built," though each suggesting a thought peculiar to itself, could not express, namely, onward motion. "Rooted" is in the past tense, implying their first conversion and vital grafting "in Him." "Built up" is present (in the Greek), implying their progressive increase in religion by union with Him. Eph 2:20 refers to the Church; but the passage here to their individual progress in edification (Act 20:32). stablished--confirmed. as--"even as." abounding therein with thanksgiving--advancing to fuller maturity (compare Col 2:2) in the faith, "with thanksgiving" to God as the gracious Author of this whole blessing.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Rooted and built up in him,.... By these metaphors, the apostle expresses the safe and happy state of these believers; and which he makes use of as arguments, to engage them to walk on in Christ, and as pointing out the manner in which they should. Believers are sometimes compared to trees, and are trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord; and their root is Christ, from whence as such they spring, and by whom they are filled with the fruits of righteousness; in him they are to abide, keep close unto him, and walk in him; deriving all their life, nourishment, fruitfulness, grace, and perseverance in it, from him as their root: they are also sometimes compared to a building, to an house, a temple, an habitation for God; and Christ is the sure and only foundation on which they are laid, and where they are safe and secure; and, being fitly joined together, grow up as an holy temple to the Lord; and this being their case, they are to go on laying the whole stress of their salvation on him, building their faith and hope of eternal glory entirely upon him; and building up one another also on their most holy faith, of which he is the substance, as it follows: and stablished in the faith: that of Christ, or in the doctrine of faith which respects Christ: the apostle here expresses the same thing without a figure, which he had signified by the two foregoing metaphors, and explains what he means by them; namely, that they were well settled and grounded in their faith in Christ, and thoroughly instructed and established in the doctrines of the Gospel; and a very good thing it is to have the heart established with grace, both as a principle and a doctrine; which is God's work, and was the happy case of these persons; wherefore it became them to act as such, and not be like children tossed to and fro with every wind of doctrine, or carried about with divers and strange doctrines, but abide by those which had been preached to them by the faithful ministers of Christ, and they had received: as ye have been taught: by Epaphras their minister, and others; and therefore should not listen to false teachers, and to a contrary doctrine taught by them; considering of whom they had learnt the true doctrine, what evidence it carried with it, and what use it had been of to them, in convincing, converting, comforting, instructing, and establishing them: and therefore should be abounding therein with thanksgiving; that is, in the faith; as in the grace, so in the doctrine of faith; for as saints are to abound in the work of the Lord, and in every good work, and in the exercise of every grace, so in the knowledge of truth; see Co2 8:7; and to make use of all means for the increase of, and growth in Gospel grace and light, and the knowledge of a crucified Christ, which is meant by abounding: for all which there is great reason for thanksgiving; both for the unspeakable gift of Christ, who is received as such by faith, and in whom believers are rooted and built up; and for faith itself, which is the gift of God; and also for the Gospel, and the truths of it; and for every degree of spiritual light in it, and knowledge of it.