This course is one attempt to fulfill the second half of the Great Commission. Paul’s letters to the Ephesians and Colossians, however, are perfect examples of continuing teaching. Paul was not content to make converts and then leave them. Though he had to travel on, he made every effort to help them grow. He wrote to them. He sent co-workers to teach them further. He prayed for them continually. (He even prayed for the Colossians whom he had not met.) Notice that Paul’s prayers emphasized growing in knowledge, understanding and wisdom.
I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit30 of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints… (Ephesians 1:16-18).
And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding… (Colossians 1:9).
God’s growing children keep their eyes and ears open. Like all little children,31 they are eager to learn more. They listen to the Spirit’s revealed teaching. There are many things to learn.32 There are vital reminders33 of lessons already heard. The Revelation Jesus sent to Ephesus was a reminder.
Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first…. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches… (Revelation 2:5,7).
To neighboring Laodicea, He said,
Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me…. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches (Revelation 3:19-20,22). M
30. Lit. … may give you spirit of wisdom and of revelation in a (full) knowledge of Him. Translators differ as to whether “spirit” refers to the Holy Spirit or the human spirit or attitude.
31. Matthew 11:25; 18:2-4; 19:14
33. Romans 15:15; 1 Corinthians 4:17; Philippians 3:1; 2 Timothy 1:6; 2:14; Titus 3:1; 2 Peter 1:12-15; 3:1-2; Jude 1:5
Picture: Christ knocks for those who hear.