THE FRUIT OF THE GOSPEL IS CHANGED LIVES!
Paul used personification in describing the “Good News” (“Gospel”) as being like a world traveler that had brought the news of “God’s wonderful grace,” not only to Colossae, but also “going out all over the world.” He quickly changed metaphors and described the Good News as being like a plant “bearing fruit’ everywhere it went. And what was that fruit? “Changed lives!”
Of course, in the next verse, Paul identified the one who had actually carried the Good News to Colossae as Epaphras, one of his beloved co-workers. For although the Gospel has the power to change lives, it does not carry itself. It requires a newspaper-boy (or girl). 🙂
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for the Gospel. For we have heard and believed it, and by grace through faith we have been saved. Now empower us to carry the Good News to others, so that it continues going out all over the world. We want to see others experience the life-change that You have brought to us. Thank You for Your wonderful grace! In Jesus’ name, amen.