We can all agree that there was someone that helped us make a crucial decision and prompted us to take a step forward towards our calling. Could you recall that instance? In my case, there were several.
Aside from close family and friends, I am most grateful to the leaders of the body of Christ that committed to steward the call given to them from God, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints.1 Their tasks is to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for the building of the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God to mature manhood . . . so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.2
It is implied that the cause of disunity in the faith is the lack of knowledge of God’s word, particularly the mystery previously hidden but now revealed. The word until connotes that there is a process, or conditions that have to be met. The growth toward maturity requires truth about Jesus Christ, who is God manifest3—our Lord and Savior.4 Unless we seek earnestly for the truth through Scriptures, we cannot grow to maturity. This serious search comes with a promise from God—I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.5
The decision births the desire. Without the commitment we shall never start the search; and without consistency we shall never finish. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.6
There is a painful realization even while playing board games—I wonder if people still play Monopoly; much of the concept of passive income may have stemmed from it. Nevertheless, after a long, gruesome game, taking turns throwing the dice, when the game is over we pick up everything and keep everything in the box. Our life here on earth is merely temporal. No matter the numerous accolades that the world may offer, once our time is spent it is over!
Therefore do not be anxious about anything . . . . But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.7 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.8
This is the mystery that was hidden but now revealed to the saints—which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.9
Notes:
1. Colossians 1:25-26
2. Ephesians 4:11-14
3. John 1:1-5, 14
4. Romans 10:8-10
5. Proverbs 8:17
6. Proverbs 3:5-6
7. Matthew 6:31-33
8. Colossians 3:1-4
9. Colossians 1:26-29
