Colossians 3:24
Verse
Context
Serving with Honor
23Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men,24because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.25Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.
Sermons
Leonard Ravenhill
William MacDonaldWilliam MacDonald
Walter Beuttler
J.C. Philpot
A.B. SimpsonA.B. SimpsonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The reward of the inheritance - Here, ye have neither lands nor property; ye are servants or slaves; be not discouraged, ye have an inheritance in store; be faithful unto God and to your employers, and Christ will give you a heavenly inheritance.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the reward of the inheritance--"Knowing that it is from the Lord (the ultimate source of reward), ye shall receive the compensation (or recompense, which will make ample amends for your having no earthly possession as slaves now) consisting of the inheritance" (a term excluding the notion of meriting it by works: it is all of grace, Rom 4:14; Gal 3:18). for ye serve--The oldest manuscripts omit "for," then translate as Vulgate, "Serve ye the Lord Christ;" compare Col 3:23, "To the Lord and not unto men" (Co1 7:22-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance,.... This is said for the encouragement of Christian servants, who, though they may receive little or nothing from their earthly and carnal masters; yet they shall be used and treated as children by the Lord, and by whom they will be possessed of an eternal inheritance, after their work and labour is over: by "the reward of the inheritance" is meant the heavenly glory, called a reward, because the apostle is speaking to servants and therefore uses language agreeable to them; and who, though they may have no reward in this world, yet as there is a God that judgeth in the earth, there is verily one for them in the world to come: and though it is not given for working, yet it is given to those that do good, and continue in well doing; whose works follow, though they do not go before them; and is enjoyed after their work is over, as the servant receives his wages at evening and when he has done his work; though this will not be received as a reward of debt, but of grace; it cannot be of merit, as is clear from the nature of good works themselves, which are all due, to God, prior to the performance of them; and when done in the best manner, are no more than a man's duty, and are done not in his own strength, but by the grace of God; and in many things, yea in everything, he comes short of performing what is incumbent on him; and besides, there is no manner of proportion between: the best services of the saints, and eternal glory: to which may be added, that eternal life is the free gift of their heavenly Father to them, and is here called an inheritance, which never becomes the property of servants in a way of merit, but is the portion of children, from their Father's good pleasure. Wherefore the heavenly glory is such a reward as that it is an "inheritance"; or, as the Syriac version renders it, "in an inheritance"; it lies in an inheritance, an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, that fades not away, reserved in the heavens; and which is not got by industry, or obtained by the works of the law, nor bought with a price, but is a free bequest of God as a Father to his children; for an inheritance is peculiar to children, and this to the children of God, as these believing servants were; and which comes to them by and through the death of the testator; and it may be called an inheritance, because the heavenly glory is substantial, it is substance, a better and a more enduring substance than any inheritance in this world; and is a very plentiful possession and estate, it consists of all things, yea, God himself is the portion of his people, and they that are his children are heirs of God; there is not only a glory, but riches of glory, a plenty, a fulness of it in this inheritance; the way in which they come by it, is receiving it from Christ; "of the Lord ye shall receive it". It is in a way of receiving, and so by gift, as a man can receive nothing but what is given him; and as all grace is in a way of receiving, and therefore boasting in it is excluded, so glory is enjoyed in the same way, and from the same hands, even from Christ, the righteous Judge, that will give it; it is in him they obtain this inheritance, and are in him chosen and predestinated unto it; it is by his resurrection from the dead, and in consequence of it, that they through the power of his Spirit and grace are begotten unto it; it is his grace that makes them meet for it; and he has it in his hands for them; he is a feoffee in trust on their behalf, and is able to give it to them; and will at the last day introduce them into the full possession of it. Now these Christian servants "knowing" all this, having a lively hope of this inheritance, a full persuasion, and a firm faith of right unto it, and meetness for it, and having the Spirit of God as an earnest and pledge of it; the consideration of it must greatly tend to make them quiet and easy in their present servitude, and to encourage them, to the discharge of their duty with diligence, faithfulness, and cheerfulness: since they might assure themselves of the inheritance hereafter, how small soever their reward was now: for ye serve the Lord Christ; who is a good master, and faithful to all his engagements and promises, all whose servants are respected by him, and honoured by his Father, and shall be for ever where he is.
Colossians 3:24
Serving with Honor
23Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men,24because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.25Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Ravenhill Humor - Our Inheritance
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K00:19Ravenhill HumorEternal PromisesSpiritual InheritanceROM 8:17EPH 1:11COL 3:24HEB 9:151PE 1:4Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the incredible nature of our spiritual inheritance, which is incorruptible and undefiled, contrasting it with the fleeting and corruptible things of this world. He uses humor to engage the audience, likening their response to auctioneering to a deaf and dumb crowd, highlighting the importance of recognizing and valuing this divine gift. Ravenhill encourages believers to appreciate the eternal promise that awaits them, which is beyond comparison to earthly possessions.
Verses to Cope With Crises
By William MacDonald1.5K45:47CrisesPSA 126:5ROM 8:312CO 2:122CO 2:14COL 3:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark chapter 4, verses 35 to 41. He emphasizes the idea that even when we feel like the boat is about to sink in the midst of adversity, Jesus is with us and can bring peace to our lives. The speaker also highlights the importance of staying faithful to God's mission, even in the face of challenges and discouragement. He shares examples of individuals who remained steadfast in their service to God and encourages listeners to trust in God's power and grace.
Gwh-Ladies Missionary Seminar-1985 Verses to Cope With Crises
By William MacDonald1.5K54:15CrisisPSA 126:5PSA 136:1MAT 28:6ROM 8:312CO 2:12EPH 6:10COL 3:24In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark chapter 4, verses 35 to 41. He emphasizes that it is common for believers to feel like their boat is sinking when faced with challenges and difficulties. The speaker shares his own experiences of feeling like nothing is being accomplished in his daily routine, but finding encouragement in Ecclesiastes 11:1, which encourages believers to cast their bread upon the waters and trust that it will be found after many days. He concludes by reminding the audience that in times of defeat and failure, they can find consolation in Christ and encourages them to thank the Lord for His love and faithfulness.
Commentary Notes - Joshua
By Walter Beuttler0EXO 15:3DEU 7:3ROM 8:37ROM 16:26EPH 1:11COL 3:24HEB 2:10HEB 3:7HEB 4:11JN 2:1Walter Beuttler preaches on the book of Joshua, highlighting the historical account of Israel's conquest of Canaan, where God led them into victory. The key phrase 'the Lord fought for Israel' emphasizes God's role as a warrior. Joshua, a type of Christ, leads his people to victory and allots them their portion, mirroring Christ's role as our Savior and Advocate. The book of Ephesians serves as the New Testament counterpart to Joshua, emphasizing the importance of obedience, faith, and God's intolerance towards sin.
A Peculiar People
By J.C. Philpot0MAT 21:38JHN 17:22ACT 20:32ROM 8:17EPH 1:14EPH 1:18COL 3:24HEB 9:151PE 1:4In this sermon on Inheritance, the preacher delves into the concept of kleronomia, which refers to the portion or heritage one receives by lot or special gift. While it can pertain to property already received or expected, in the New Testament, it symbolizes the salvation and blessings reserved in heaven for believers. The inheritance is likened to a promise granted by God, with the Holy Spirit serving as a pledge of what is to come. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding God's desire for His children to inherit eternal blessings and glory.
The Christian in Colossians
By A.B. Simpson0Christian CharacterHope in ChristCOL 1:3COL 1:10COL 1:13COL 1:21COL 2:13COL 3:3COL 3:10COL 3:17COL 3:24A.B. Simpson emphasizes the foundational Christian graces of faith, hope, and love as essential to the character of the Colossian believers. He illustrates their transformation from darkness to light, highlighting their redeemed, resurrected, and hidden life in Christ. Simpson encourages believers to embody these principles in their daily walk, speech, and interactions, while also stressing the importance of spiritual education and a joyful disposition. He concludes with a reminder of the hope laid up in heaven, urging Christians to live in readiness for Christ's return.
Colossians Chapter 2 the Christian in Colossians
By A.B. Simpson0Christian CharacterHope in ChristCOL 1:3COL 1:10COL 1:13COL 1:21COL 2:13COL 3:3COL 3:10COL 3:17COL 3:24A.B. Simpson emphasizes the foundational Christian graces of faith, hope, and love as essential to the character of the Colossian believers. He illustrates their transformation from darkness to light, highlighting their new life in Christ, which is characterized by a redeemed and resurrected existence. Simpson further discusses the importance of living a life that reflects Christ, including the need for a new wardrobe of virtues and a walk that pleases God. He concludes with the hope of eternal glory, urging believers to be prepared for Christ's return and to live in a manner that honors their calling.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The reward of the inheritance - Here, ye have neither lands nor property; ye are servants or slaves; be not discouraged, ye have an inheritance in store; be faithful unto God and to your employers, and Christ will give you a heavenly inheritance.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the reward of the inheritance--"Knowing that it is from the Lord (the ultimate source of reward), ye shall receive the compensation (or recompense, which will make ample amends for your having no earthly possession as slaves now) consisting of the inheritance" (a term excluding the notion of meriting it by works: it is all of grace, Rom 4:14; Gal 3:18). for ye serve--The oldest manuscripts omit "for," then translate as Vulgate, "Serve ye the Lord Christ;" compare Col 3:23, "To the Lord and not unto men" (Co1 7:22-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance,.... This is said for the encouragement of Christian servants, who, though they may receive little or nothing from their earthly and carnal masters; yet they shall be used and treated as children by the Lord, and by whom they will be possessed of an eternal inheritance, after their work and labour is over: by "the reward of the inheritance" is meant the heavenly glory, called a reward, because the apostle is speaking to servants and therefore uses language agreeable to them; and who, though they may have no reward in this world, yet as there is a God that judgeth in the earth, there is verily one for them in the world to come: and though it is not given for working, yet it is given to those that do good, and continue in well doing; whose works follow, though they do not go before them; and is enjoyed after their work is over, as the servant receives his wages at evening and when he has done his work; though this will not be received as a reward of debt, but of grace; it cannot be of merit, as is clear from the nature of good works themselves, which are all due, to God, prior to the performance of them; and when done in the best manner, are no more than a man's duty, and are done not in his own strength, but by the grace of God; and in many things, yea in everything, he comes short of performing what is incumbent on him; and besides, there is no manner of proportion between: the best services of the saints, and eternal glory: to which may be added, that eternal life is the free gift of their heavenly Father to them, and is here called an inheritance, which never becomes the property of servants in a way of merit, but is the portion of children, from their Father's good pleasure. Wherefore the heavenly glory is such a reward as that it is an "inheritance"; or, as the Syriac version renders it, "in an inheritance"; it lies in an inheritance, an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, that fades not away, reserved in the heavens; and which is not got by industry, or obtained by the works of the law, nor bought with a price, but is a free bequest of God as a Father to his children; for an inheritance is peculiar to children, and this to the children of God, as these believing servants were; and which comes to them by and through the death of the testator; and it may be called an inheritance, because the heavenly glory is substantial, it is substance, a better and a more enduring substance than any inheritance in this world; and is a very plentiful possession and estate, it consists of all things, yea, God himself is the portion of his people, and they that are his children are heirs of God; there is not only a glory, but riches of glory, a plenty, a fulness of it in this inheritance; the way in which they come by it, is receiving it from Christ; "of the Lord ye shall receive it". It is in a way of receiving, and so by gift, as a man can receive nothing but what is given him; and as all grace is in a way of receiving, and therefore boasting in it is excluded, so glory is enjoyed in the same way, and from the same hands, even from Christ, the righteous Judge, that will give it; it is in him they obtain this inheritance, and are in him chosen and predestinated unto it; it is by his resurrection from the dead, and in consequence of it, that they through the power of his Spirit and grace are begotten unto it; it is his grace that makes them meet for it; and he has it in his hands for them; he is a feoffee in trust on their behalf, and is able to give it to them; and will at the last day introduce them into the full possession of it. Now these Christian servants "knowing" all this, having a lively hope of this inheritance, a full persuasion, and a firm faith of right unto it, and meetness for it, and having the Spirit of God as an earnest and pledge of it; the consideration of it must greatly tend to make them quiet and easy in their present servitude, and to encourage them, to the discharge of their duty with diligence, faithfulness, and cheerfulness: since they might assure themselves of the inheritance hereafter, how small soever their reward was now: for ye serve the Lord Christ; who is a good master, and faithful to all his engagements and promises, all whose servants are respected by him, and honoured by his Father, and shall be for ever where he is.