I consider these verses from the letter of Paul to the church in Colossae about a succinct of a description of what it means to be “saved” as can be found in all of Scripture. I have purposely made the verses personal (see below). Recite these verses and let them wash over your soul. Better yet, memorize them and preach the Gospel to yourself EVERYDAY!!!

Colossians 1.12-14

12 I give thanks to the Father, who has qualified ME to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13 He has delivered ME from the domain of darkness and transferred ME to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom I have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ I found this definition of the word qualify: to be entitled to a particular benefit or privilege by fulfilling a necessary condition. Can you think of any example where another person qualifies a different person for something? I can’t either!!! Then why is this word used in v. 12? How does God qualify us?

+ What kind of people receive an inheritance? What is God’s inheritance and how do you feel about the fact that God is sharing His with you?

+ What is the domain of darkness and how did Paul (or any person) end up there? According to this verse, how does one get out of there? According to Scripture, is there any other choice of a final destination? Why is that significant?

+ Can someone be forgiven and not receive redemption? How and why does God do both for us?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ The idea of knowing our true citizenship is in heaven is a wonderful truth on which we can rely if we have placed our trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. But that doesn’t mean our work down here on earth is finished. We have both an obligation and a privilege to spread the Gospel of Jesus to everyone we meet. The idea of playing a part in the story of someone being plucked out of the domain of Satan and placed in the kingdom of Jesus should drive us, first to prayer, then to action.

Lord, forgive us for being selfish in all aspects of our lives. Enable us to see people as you see them, especially those who are caught in the clutches of the evil one and need to be delivered. Instill in us the strength and courage to be part of Your Rescue Team here on Earth. Amen.

Romans 10.14-15 says:

14 How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?