Colossians 3:23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not to men; I. UNITY OF PURPOSE IS NECESSARY. 1. For the development of character. 2. For success in life.Glory, self-interest, benevolence, each gives unity and force, whereas a man without any such governing principle becomes weak; and it is only by making one object predominant and seeking that object that great results are achieved. II. THAT WHICH GIVES UNITY TO THE CHRISTIAN LIFE IS CHRIST. 1. He is the unifying principle of Christian theology. 2. Of the inward life of the Christian. 3. Of his outward and active life.We have an illustration of this in Paul, in his theology, experience, and work. Negatively he did not seek wealth or honour, either as his main or subordinate object. He simply sought the glory of Christ. III. THE GLORY OF CHRIST SHOULD BE OUR AIM. 1. Because it is our duty. This is the highest thing we can do. Whatever else we do will, in the end, be regarded as nothing. 2. Our inward holiness and happiness will thereby be best advanced. 3. Only thus can we be really useful. Thus only do we associate ourselves with the saints and angels. The extension of Christ's kingdom is the only thing worth living for. 4. Christ has died for you, redeemed you. You are not your own but His. Serve Him, then, under the constraint of His love. (C. Hodge, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;WEB: And whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men, |
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