Colossians 1:3-8 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,… I. THE DUTY. 1. Arises out of an express command. We are bound to be thankful for all things (Job 1:21; Isaiah 24:15). 2. Is a test of Christian character. All the saints have been distinguished by it, and have treasured up their mercies that they might render it. To be lacking in it is to lack the chief distinguishing grace of Christian character, and to incur the greatest sin- ingratitude. 3. Must always form a prominent feature of spiritual worship- witness the Psalms. 4. Is most reasonable in itself — when we consider that it is the best return we can make for any blessing. II. ITS SPECIAL SUBJECTS. The graces of the spirit in ourselves or others. 1. Faith takes the precedence, because it is the first and root-grace. Think of what faith does — saves, is the evidence of things unseen, casts all care on God, etc. 2. Love which is fruitful in blessed effects. The loveless man is miserable. 3. A good hope through grace — which anticipates heaven. (T. Watson, B. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,WEB: We give thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, |
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