Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture Focus

“Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth.” — Colossians 1:5b–6 (ESV)

Devotional Thought

Paul makes one of the most encouraging statements in all of Scripture about the power of the gospel. He reminds the Colossian believers that it was “the word of the truth, the gospel” that transformed their lives. Through the faithful preaching of Epaphras, they heard the message of Jesus Christ, believed it, and became part of God’s family.

Paul’s description of the gospel as “the word of truth” is significant. In a world filled with competing philosophies, opinions, and false promises, the gospel stands alone as the greatest truth in human history. From the beginning of creation, God has been unfolding His plan to redeem sinners through the life, death, and resurrection of His Son. Every promise, every prophecy, and every act of redemption points to this glorious message.

But Paul doesn’t stop there. He pulls back the curtain and gives us something of God’s-eye view of history. He says this gospel is “bearing fruit and increasing” throughout the whole world. This is not wishful thinking. It is the unstoppable plan of God. He has determined to redeem people from every nation, tribe, and tongue, and nothing can prevent Him from accomplishing His purpose.

That truth ought to encourage every believer.

Sometimes we become discouraged because we do not immediately see the results of our witness. We faithfully share Christ with a friend, a family member, or a coworker, only to be met with indifference or rejection. We may even begin to wonder whether our efforts matter at all.

Paul reminds us that the success of the gospel has never depended on us. God is the One who gives life. God is the One who opens blind eyes. God is the One who awakens dead hearts to believe. The same God who rescued you is still rescuing sinners today.

There will always be those who reject Christ. Jesus Himself told us that would be the case. Yet there are also lost sheep whom the Good Shepherd intends to call to Himself. As they hear the gospel, they will believe because God is faithful to accomplish His saving work.

That means we can proclaim the gospel with confidence. We are not responsible for producing the harvest—we are simply called to faithfully sow the seed.

If there is any mission worth giving your life to, this is it. Every earthly kingdom will one day fall, but Christ’s kingdom will endure forever. Every human movement will eventually fade, but the gospel will continue bearing fruit until Christ returns.

If you enjoy being on the winning side, there is no greater team to join. You may never receive earthly recognition or applause, but you are participating in the eternal mission of God. His victory is certain. His kingdom is advancing. His gospel cannot be stopped.

So do not grow weary. Continue sharing the good news. Continue praying for the lost. Continue trusting God to do what only He can do.

The gospel that transformed your life is still transforming lives all around the world, and God will surely finish what He has begun.

Reflection Questions

1. How does remembering that the gospel is God’s work encourage you when you feel discouraged in sharing your faith?
2. Is there someone in your life with whom God may be calling you to share the gospel this week?
3. Are you trusting in your own ability to persuade people, or in God’s power to change hearts?
4. How does knowing that God’s mission cannot fail give you confidence and hope for the future?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth of the gospel that rescued me from my sin and brought me into Your family. Thank You that Your plan of redemption cannot be stopped and that Your gospel continues to bear fruit throughout the world. Help me to remain faithful in sharing the good news, even when I cannot immediately see the results. Give me confidence that You are still drawing people to Yourself and that You will accomplish all that You have promised. Keep me faithful to Your mission until the day Christ returns. In Jesus’ name, Amen.