TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Matthew 1:18-25
She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. - Matthew 1:21
TODAY IN THE WORD
The first Christmas card was designed by the English illustrator John Horsley in 1843 at the request of a friend. HorsleyÕs greeting card resembled a postcard depicting a large family enjoying a Christmas celebration. The people who received the cards were so delighted with them that they began designing and sending out cards of their own, establishing a long-standing Christmas tradition.

We hope you will receive the next weekÕs worth of studies as our Christmas card to you, a biblical portrait of the greatest story ever told that comes with our prayers for a happy and blessed Christmas in your home. As we mentioned on September 1, we are laying aside the book of Colossians for Christmas week to review the story of ChristÕs birth and worship Him.

But even though we wonÕt be studying Colossians for a few days, donÕt let go of the bookÕs central theme, the uniqueness and supremacy of Christ. JesusÕ uniqueness as GodÕs only Son, born of a virgin, is the truth that permeates the BibleÕs accounts of His birth.

The events of Christmas help explain why Paul could write with confidence, ÒIn Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily formÓ (Col. 2:9).

The apostle MatthewÕs report of JesusÕ birth begins and ends with the supernatural and the miraculous. Matthew simply states what Luke explains in more detail, the conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit. JosephÕs reluctance to take Mary as his wife, and his desire to shield her from public humiliation, testify to his godly and tender character.

An angelic visit informed Joseph of the truth, and he obeyed God immediately. Matthew recorded two more angelic visits to Joseph, emphasizing JosephÕs part in the unfolding of GodÕs prophetic plan for the birth of His Son.

MatthewÕs interest in Joseph is natural, given his GospelÕs focus on the lineage of Joseph (1:1-17). The angelÕs greeting, ÒJoseph son of David,Ó is very significant. Because Joseph was a descendant of David himself, his lineage established the rightness of JesusÕ claim to the title Messiah, the Son of David.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The closer we get to Christmas, the more frantic some peopleÕs lives become.

Like many of us, you have probably promised yourself more than once, ÒNext year, Christmas is going to be different.Ó Well, next year is here and you have a full week to make your Christmas a Christ-centered, Christ-honoring holiday. One way you can do that is to pray over your gift list. Why not ask God to help you spend wisely, and choose gifts that will reflect your love for the recipients and enhance their celebration of ChristÕs birth?

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 1:5-25
I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you. - Matthew 11:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
Try to remember the last time you saw a Christmas pageant that included the family of John the Baptist in the story. Most retellings of the Christmas story begin with Luke 1:26, the angelÕs announcement to Mary.

But the Bible gives prominence to the account of JohnÕs birth. JesusÕ slightly older relative was divinely prepared to be the messenger of the Messiah, in fulfillment of IsaiahÕs prophecy: ÒA voice of one calling: 'In the desert prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our GodÕ Ó (Isa. 40:3).

Jesus certainly understood the link between JohnÕs ministry and His own. Jesus submitted to baptism at JohnÕs hand (Matt. 3:13-17), and the Lord spoke the words of todayÕs verse as He explained JohnÕs significance to the disciples.

Luke also understood the importance of the events leading up to JohnÕs birth. He began his Gospel with this fascinating story, which also includes fulfilled prophecy and an angelic birth announcement. In fact, ZechariahÕs visitor was none other than Gabriel, who Òstand in the presence of GodÓ (v. 19).

Luke also took time to recount ZechariahÕs priestly ancestry, adding that Elizabeth was also from the priestly line of Aaron. This was a righteous couple (v. 6), mirroring the godliness of Mary and Joseph. God set aside two very special parents for the holy assignment of bearing the MessiahÕs messenger and a great prophet in the tradition of Elijah (v. 17).

Since the story of JohnÕs birth isnÕt as well known as that of Christ, itÕs easy to overlook details like the one we find in verse 14. Gabriel told Zechariah that John would be Òa joy and delight to you.Ó That delight started even before John was born, since ElizabethÕs pregnancy was a source of great joy for her.

What a tender and interesting glimpse into JohnÕs life! We think of him as a roughly-dressed, desert-dwelling prophet who fearlessly delivered GodÕs message. But John was like Jesus, who was also a joy to His parents even before He was born (see MaryÕs song, vv. 46-55). Both GodÕs Son and GodÕs prophet brought pleasure to the people in their lives.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We talked yesterday about doing some things to slow down the holiday rush and make this Christmas different.

HereÕs another suggestion along that line. This weekend, make a list of some special people God has brought into your life, those who have been a particular joy and delight to you maybe a family member, pastor, teacher, or neighbor. Write a short Christmas greeting to each person, if thatÕs possible. And if not, offer God a prayer of thanks for the priceless gift of godly friends and loved ones.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 1:26-45
Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on DavidÕs throne. - Isaiah 9:7
TODAY IN THE WORD
No one has ever arrived on earth with the credentials of Jesus Christ. The nature and mission of BethlehemÕs baby makes Him unique, apart from everyone else, supreme in His person and work. No one but Jesus existed before He was ever born, and no one else could claim to be the Creator of His parents!

This is the inescapable message of the Christmas story. Paul taught the supremacy of Jesus in Colossians, using precise theological terms to describe the God who became flesh. The Gospels of Matthew and Luke describe the actual event in which God became a man.

This is not to downplay the importance of Mary, Joseph, or the other human figures in the drama of the nativity. Mary is clearly in the biblical spotlight in todayÕs portion of the story. Her purity and devotion are key to the unfolding of GodÕs plan for the salvation of the race.

ItÕs awe-inspiring to read about a young, godly Jewish virgin whose heart was so close to God that He chose her to be the mother of JesusÕ humanity and she obediently accepted the divine assignment. There is no question that she is worthy to be called Òhighly favoredÓ (v. 28).

However, Jesus Christ remains the central figure in the biblical narrative of Christmas. Gabriel told Mary that her son would be called ÒSon of the Most HighÓ (v. 32) and ÒSon of GodÓ (v. 35), clear references to JesusÕ deity. Also, ÒHis kingdom will never endÓ (v. 33), a prophecy that could only be fulfilled by one who is eternal.

Mary heard these words and understood that something holy and joyous was going to happen to her. The mention of ElizabethÕs pregnancy with John the Baptist prompted Mary to pay her relative a visit. ElizabethÕs confession of MaryÕs child as her Lord (v. 43) is further testimony to His uniqueness.

Mary spent the last three months of ElizabethÕs pregnancy with her (see v. 56). We can imagine the conversations they had about the sons they were carrying. Even inside his motherÕs womb, John Òleaped for joyÓ at MaryÕs arrival, which meant God was fulfilling His promises to Israel and accomplishing His plan of salvation.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
HereÕs an idea that will add some variety to your familyÕs Christmas devotions.

Read together the names or titles given to Jesus in the great prophecy of Isaiah 9:6. Then write down each of these titles on a slip of paper and give the slips to different family members. Ask each person to think about the name, then offer a brief prayer of thanks to God for what this particular name teaches us about Jesus. Ask younger children to thank the Lord for the love and care they receive from Jesus.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 1:46-56
My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. - Luke 1:46-47
TODAY IN THE WORD
In a recent issue of Worldwide Challenge magazine, Lisa Master tells the story of Dr. Ida Scudder, a medical missionary of incredible determination and vision who spent her life in India. Dr. Scudder, descended from four generations of missionaries, pursued her medical training near the turn of the last century, entering Cornell Medical College in 1898 just as it opened its doors to women. Dr. Scudder then devoted her life to treating the poor in India, also establishing a womenÕs medical college to train Indian physicians.

Throughout history God has raised up a long line of godly, devoted, and truly remarkable women to carry out His will. Mary stands in the forefront of that wonderful line a young Jewish woman who may well have been in her teens when Gabriel appeared to announce JesusÕ birth.

Mary may have been young by our standards, but spiritually she was mature far beyond her years. Even if this magnificent song of praise had never been included in Scripture, we would still know enough about Mary to marvel at her spiritual maturity and obedience.

But MaryÕs song, called ÒThe MagnificatÓ after the first word of the Latin translation, adds immeasurably to our appreciation for Mary and our understanding of the significance of JesusÕ birth. Mary praised God for His mighty work in her life and in the life of His chosen people Israel.

Bible teachers point out that the song almost entirely consists of Old Testament quotes and allusions. Mary knew the Scriptures, so she recognized that God was fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham (v. 55). Imagine how the boy Jesus must have been taught to know and love GodÕs Word!

YouÕll also want to review these verses with your spiritual ears open to hear their testimony of ChristÕs supremacy. No one but Jesus could accomplish the work of redemption in which Mary rejoiced.

MaryÕs song was offered in the presence of Elizabeth (vv. 39-45), in the latterÕs home. Mary stayed with Elizabeth until the time for JohnÕs birth, then returned home to await the birth of Jesus, ÒGod with us.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 2:1-5
When the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman. - Galatians 4:4
TODAY IN THE WORD
Think about the human circumstances and the timing of JesusÕ birth for a minute. He was born in a back stable in an obscure village that was part of an oppressed, occupied nation, to parents who were probably among the poorest people in their culture.

Could someone born under these conditions at this bleak time in IsraelÕs history really be the eternal, sovereign God, the second person of the Trinity? The Bible tells us so (Matt. 1:23)!

TodayÕs verse reminds us that the heavenly Father chose the precise moment to send His Son to earth. The circumstances were, from heavenÕs perspective, perfect. The census decree from the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus was the means God used to bring Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem for JesusÕ birth, so that the prophecy of Micah 5:2 might be fulfilled.

One Bible teacher has suggested that one reason JosephÕs pregnant wife accompanied him to Bethlehem was that this couple knew the prophecy of MessiahÕs birth. Given MaryÕs knowledge of Scripture (see yesterdayÕs study), that could be very possible.

The pair definitely knew their baby was the promised Messiah and Savior. With Mary due at any time, itÕs understandable why Joseph would not have wanted to be separated from her while he went to Bethlehem to be counted. He would not miss the coming of this child sent from God.

Earlier this month, we learned that apostle Paul made it very clear in his Colossian letter that Jesus possessed both a divine and a human nature. The statement of Galatians 4:4 affirms this truth again, in equally clear terms. Jesus is the Son of God sent from heaven, which speaks of His pre-existence as God. And yet, He was born of a woman, making Him fully human. He is, as the church has always taught, the unique God-man.

It boggles the imagination to think that in eternity, the Son of God took council with the Father and the Holy Spirit to determine the time of His incarnation.

We can suggest this based on the BibleÕs teaching that JesusÕ death as the Lamb of God was determined Òfrom the creation of the worldÓ (Rev. 13:. Every detail of our LordÕs earthly existence was settled in heaven before this universe was ever made.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
HereÕs another mind-boggling thought. God chose us Òin [Christ] before the creation of the worldÓ (Eph. 1:4).

You were in GodÕs mind in eternity too! WhatÕs more, you were in His heart, because it was His love (Eph. 1:4b) that moved Him to give His Son for your salvation. This truth is enough to make your Christmas special all by itself. If you feel like praising God, go ahead. Pour out your gratitude for the gift of God that will last for all eternity.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: John 1:1-18
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. - John 1:14
TODAY IN THE WORD
Polycarp, bishop of Smyrna who was martyred about A.D. 155, was a disciple of the apostle John. In his letter to the church at Philippi, Polycarp faithfully passed on what he had learned from those who saw Christ. Polycarp taught and defended the truth of Scripture, and accepted his suffering joyfully, thanking God for the privilege of being able to follow the example of Christ. As a young man, Polycarp had come to faith in Christ and served Him for many years much like his beloved teacher, John the apostle.

We owe a great debt to early Christian leaders like Polycarp. Their faithfulness to the Word of God helped preserve the truth, and pass it on to us. The truth Polycarp learned from John is summarized magnificently in the opening verses of JohnÕs Gospel, which weave together the truth of JesusÕ deity and humanity. John 1 is another passage that should be on our Christmas reading list.

The similarity between John 1:1 and Genesis 1:1 is too close to miss. John was making the strongest declaration possible: that Jesus is, to use the theologianÕs phrase, Òvery God of very God.Ó The apostle identifies Jesus as the Creator, just as Paul does (Col. 1:16).

So the issue of JesusÕ pre-existence as God is settled with the first strokes of JohnÕs pen. Notice how the testimony of John the Baptist also confirmed the truth that Jesus is God. The apostle John says John the Baptist was sent as a witness to Òthat lightÓ (v. 7), meaning Jesus. John the Baptist also affirmed that Jesus existed before him (v. 15), even though we know from the Christmas narratives that John was born a few months earlier than Jesus.

The writer John added his own testimony to the mountain of evidence for JesusÕ true identity. The world may have missed His coming by and large, or even rejected Him (vv. 10-11). But John could say, ÒI have seen God in the fleshÓ (v. 14).

Many years later, John would add that he had touched the Lord (1 John 1:1), proving that Jesus was not a spirit merely appearing to be human. ÒGrace and truth came through Jesus ChristÓ (v. 17). ThatÕs a ringing statement of His sufficiency for any need we will ever have! He told us the truth about our lost condition, but then He extended to us His infinite grace that removes the curse of sin.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
These last two days before Christmas are a perfect time to apply the truth that Jesus is Òthe reason for the season,Ó not the gifts we can buy or the get-together we may attend.

ThereÕs nothing wrong with the smaller celebrations of Christmas. What we are suggesting is an opportunity to practice moderation in our spending and eating. The results of going overboard in either area are not something any of us wants to face in January, so letÕs allow GodÕs grace to keep us balanced and focused on Him.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 2:6-20
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests. - Luke 2:14
TODAY IN THE WORD
Charles Spurgeon wrote, ÒChrist is the great Peacemaker, but before peace, He brings war. Where the truth is, the lie must flee; or, if it abides, there will be a stern conflict, for the truth cannot and will not lower its standard.Ó

This great 19th-century British pastor helps us appreciate the truth behind the angelÕs joyful announcement of peace. The peace that Jesus brought from heaven to Bethlehem is for those on whom GodÕs favor rests another way of identifying those who belong to Him by faith.

The wonder and joy that accompanied JesusÕ birth was because Òa Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the LordÓ (v. 11). Jesus came to earth the first time not to usher in world peace, but to declare war on sin and Satan, winning for us the peace of eternal salvation.

This is the peace that rested on Bethlehem the wonderful night our Savior was born. Joseph and Mary certainly experienced it. Mary Òtreasured up all these things and pondered them in her heartÓ (v. 19), the picture of a godly woman at peace despite the labors of childbirth.

The shepherds also had a taste of GodÕs peace that night, but not until they got the scare of their lives. And they responded the right way to the good news from the angel. They ran to Bethlehem to see and worship the Christ Child, then continued on their way, Òglorifying and praising GodÓ and telling anyone they could find about the wonderful things they had seen and heard (v. 20). The Magi (Matt. 2:1-12) also belong on this list.

Unfortunately, there is also a list of people who refused to recognize and bow before ÒGod in the flesh.Ó King Herod was anything but peaceful. His religious advisors in Jerusalem were also in turmoil because Herod was so upset. Their blindness is the saddest of all, because they knew better (see tomorrowÕs study). Besides these there was the rest of Israel, sleeping through the arrival of GodÕs long-promised Messiah.

That brings us to today. We hope Christmas Eve is special for you and those you love because the peace of Christ is ruling in your hearts. LetÕs adore Christ and glorify the Father today.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Given the holiday season, your schedule today is probably much different than it is most days of the year.

What would happen if God wanted to invade your world today, or anytime this Christmas season, with a special ministry He wanted you to do? Maybe itÕs reaching out to someone around you who is in financial or physical need, speaking a word of forgiveness or encouragement to a family member, or even heading in a new direction for 1999. Would God have a hard time getting your attention? Tell Him you are ready to hear from Him.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Matthew 2:1-12
Coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. - Matthew 2:11
TODAY IN THE WORD
Merry Christmas to you and your family from your friends at Today in the Word!

WeÕre heading toward the finish line of our tenth year of bringing you these devotional studies. We praise God for His faithfulness, and for your prayers, support, and kind words of encouragement. The joyful season of Christmas and anticipation of the new year are a great way to close this milestone year together.

The uniqueness of Jesus Christ is once again on display in todayÕs reading. No other birth has ever stirred such a mixture of reaction: from fear and puzzlement to worship and joy. For many of us, the Magi were, in a way, our ÒrepresentativesÓ in Bethlehem, since they came from the Gentile world to acknowledge and worship Òthe king of the JewsÓ (v. 2).

Most scholars agree that the Magi arrived in Jerusalem and then Bethlehem well after JesusÕ birth. But that doesnÕt take anything away from the story. Matthew recorded the startled reaction of Herod, and the matter-of-fact answer that IsraelÕs religious authorities gave to HerodÕs worried inquiry about the arrival of a new king.

These men should have been the most interested people in Jerusalem to see our Lord, given the MagiÕs startling announcement and the evidence of fulfilled prophecy before them. They should also have been the first to reach Bethlehem. But they simply quoted the prophecy from Micah and then went about their business.

Maybe they were afraid of Herod and his reaction, but that is no excuse for the nationÕs appointed religious leaders not even to investigate the MagiÕs news.

But God will never leave Himself without a witness. His Son would have the worship and praise due Him, even if God had to bring Gentile dignitaries from far away.

The MagiÕs gifts were worthy of a king. Gold speaks of ChristÕs deity, incense of His purity, and myrrh of the death He came to die for sin. Like the shepherds who had seen Jesus, the Magi certainly went back to their homes rejoicing and praising God for what they had seen. We can finish Christmas 1998 in the same spirit.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The worriers and the worshipers. The same two basic groups of people who were present at JesusÕ crucifixion were also there at His birth.

Herod represents the worriers, those who were disturbed by Jesus and wanted to stop Him. The worshipers, led by the Magi and the shepherds, saw Jesus for who He was and bowed at His feet. LetÕs join this latter group by adding our worship to theirs. Why not include time for worship in your celebration today?

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Colossians 4:5-6; Ephesians 5:15-18
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. - Colossians 4:5
TODAY IN THE WORD
The days between Christmas and New YearÕs are unlike any others. It usually takes several days for the glitter, the gifts, and the guests from Christmas to find their place. And just when weÕve dealt with that, we are faced with a new year. Since the holidays often leave us a little fatigued, itÕs easy to coast through the final days of the year without giving them much thought.

We suggest another way to approach this important time of preparation: making the most of every opportunity God gives us to serve Him this week and strengthen our hearts for 1999.

We have some good studies ahead to help you do that, starting today as we turn back to the book of Colossians and finish PaulÕs powerful teaching on the supremacy of Christ. WeÕll stay with Paul the rest of the way, closing out the year with two special challenges from his writings. Who better to spend time with this week than the great apostle?

In the final chapter of Colossians, Paul is showing how ChristÕs Lordship in our lives should impact our relationships. His concern in verse 5 is the way our faith impacts Òoutsiders,Ó unbelievers who are not yet members of ChristÕs body, the church.

Since Christians in PaulÕs day were a relatively new minority in a distinctly pagan world, it was critical for believers to Òmake the teaching about God our Savior attractiveÓ (Titus 2:10). ThatÕs important in every generation, of course, because our lives are either a magnet or a repellent when it comes to our witness before non-Christians.

The opportunities to communicate the gospel to those who donÕt yet know Christ and serve others in the body are abundant. We donÕt have to search for them. Our challenge is to make the most of the openings God brings our way.

Since GodÕs Òkingdom opportunitiesÓ can come at any time, we need wisdom to recognize them and react accordingly (see Eph. 5:15, 17). ItÕs interesting that Paul mentioned our speech as a primary example of wise living (Col. 4:6). If we can use our tongues wisely in 1999, weÕre on our way to a great year!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
While many people struggle to control their speech through their own efforts, we have a divine helper who is ready to take control of our lips and our hearts.

ÒBe filled with the SpiritÓ (Eph. 5:18) is a foundational command and principle that can revolutionize your life in 1999. Notice that the very next words in verse 19 deal with the way we talk. The Holy Spirit can help us make our words Òfull of grace.Ó Why not submit your heart to Him today, asking God to fill you with His love and power in the year ahead?

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Colossians 4:7-10
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. - Romans 12:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
When he was criticized on several occasions for not exercising Òmore vigorous leadershipÓ as president, Dwight Eisenhower had an interesting response. The idea that all power rested in one person, and that the president could do it all alone, was Òbaloney,Ó Eisenhower said. ÒWe must work together.Ó

As a lifelong soldier, ÒIkeÓ knew the value of teamwork and cooperation in reaching a goal. Paul was a team player, too a wonderful example of someone who valued his fellow believers and didnÕt try to do the job alone.

PaulÕs heart for his coworkers is really on display in the closing verses of Colossians. Paul concluded many of his letters with personal greetings and instructions. The temptation for us is to hurry through these sections, the way we might do when weÕre reading a biblical genealogy.

But that would be a mistake, because the people around Paul have much to teach us about the Christian life. Tychicus (vv. 7-8) is a good example of this. He was one of the men to whom Paul entrusted the delivery of the Colossian letter. That was a major assignment, not just a messenger service, given the value of this Spirit-inspired epistle.

Acts 20:1-4 reveals that Tychicus also faced life-threatening circumstances as one of PaulÕs companions. LetÕs pray that in 1999 we might have the dependability and courage of Tychicus.

Another name mentioned in PaulÕs final greetings, Onesimus, should be familiar. He was the former runaway slave and thief who was the subject of PaulÕs letter to Philemon. Put Onesimus with Mark (v. 10), who had deserted the apostle (Acts 15:36-40) but eventually made up for it with his work of Christ, and thereÕs encouragement enough for anyone to keep trying.

Aristarchus is the other name in todayÕs reading. He was imprisoned along with Paul in Rome at the time of this letter. What an encouragement this man must have been to Paul! We can be challenged and motivated by AristarchusÕs willingness to Òendure hardshipÓ for the sake of Jesus Christ (2 Tim. 2:3).

No one could accuse Paul of trying to do it all by himself. He needed every fellow worker God gave him, just as we need our fellow believers today.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
One way you can express appreciation and value to others is by your faithfulness in saying Òthank youÓ for the gifts and greetings you received during Christmas.

Most people consider thank-you notes to be just a social nicety. What about approaching this yearÕs Christmas thank-youÕs as an opportunity to express your love for valued friends and share a blessing with them? An extra sentence or two on a note will only take a minute but your thoughtfulness could encourage someone for a long time!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Colossians 4:11-14
Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. - Hebrews 13:7
TODAY IN THE WORD
Few Christian leaders in any generation have suffered the criticism, attacks, and outright slander that Charles Spurgeon endured. Some of this was inevitable, since Spurgeon was a world-renowned preacher and the leading pastor of his day in England. Much like the apostle PaulÕs enemies, SpurgeonÕs critics attacked his gospel message and accused him of self-seeking motives. During one stressful period, Spurgeon wrote to a friend: ÒFriends firm. Enemies alarmed. Devil angry. Sinners saved. Christ exalted. Self not well.Ó

Paul could have written these same words from his cell in Rome. We want to focus on the firm faithfulness of his friends in the ministry, and encourage you to be this kind of friend and blessing to your spiritual leaders in the year ahead.

One of PaulÕs dear friends was a man named Jesus, a common Jewish name in that day. This man was also known as Justus, one of PaulÕs three Jewish companions along with Mark and Aristarchus. Justus and these other two were such a ÒcomfortÓ to Paul that the apostle used an unusual word to describe them. These men were literally a ÒreliefÓ to Paul.

We learned early in this study that Epaphras was probably the founder of the church at Colosse (Col. 1:7). Like Onesimus, Epaphras was one of the Colossians, a faithful minister of Christ who loved his fellow Christians so much he was ÒwrestlingÓ for them in prayer (4:12).

Epaphras knew the Colossians (and their Lycus Valley neighbors in Laodicea and Hierapolis, v. 13), needed to resist the false teachers and stand firm in Christ. His heartbeat for these believers was the same as PaulÕs.

We know this because the apostle used the same word, translated ÒwrestlingÓ in 4:12, to describe his own efforts in Colosse (Òstruggling,Ó 1:29). And just as Epaphras prayed and worked hard to help the Colossians stand firm in their faith, this was PaulÕs desire for them as well (2:5).

Luke was another dear friend who supported Paul. The apostleÕs friends were firm with the sad exception of Demas, who folded in the heat of battle and later deserted Paul for Òthis worldÓ (2 Tim. 4:10).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
WeÕre convinced you want to stand firm and not fold when it comes to supporting your spiritual leaders in the new year.

You can make that commitment today by resolving to pray for your pastor and other leaders on a regular basis in 1999. It might help to designate a particular day each month when you will pray for these men and women. You could even go ahead and mark this day on each monthÕs page of your 1999 calendar. The regular reminder will help you keep an important commitment.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Colossians 4:15-18
Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. - 1 Thessalonians 5:11
TODAY IN THE WORD
A Christian college student in China who was able to get a Bible reported an incredible desire among the other dorm residents to see and read the precious book. The hunger was so great that each person was only allowed to borrow the Bible for a certain number of hours because someone else was eagerly waiting for a turn to read and memorize as much of GodÕs Word as possible.

Can you imagine all the churches in your community trying to share one copy of the Scriptures among themselves? ItÕs safe to say that people would listen very carefully to the reading of Scripture when it was their churchÕs turn to borrow the precious book.

Such was the situation in the first-century church. There was only one original of the Colossian letter, hand-delivered to the church by Tychicus and Onesimus with PaulÕs express wish that it be read aloud to the church. This was the primary way GodÕs Word was communicated for hundreds of years.

In this case, Paul had a further word from the Lord for the Colossians. It was contained in a letter he had written to the Laodiceans a circular letter that many Bible teachers believe was Ephesians. Whatever the case, these two groups of Christians were instructed to exchange letters (v. 16) and double the benefit of PaulÕs revelation to the church.

Paul had a few more people in Colosse to address, including a man named Archippus. He may have been the son of Philemon (Phile. 2), and was a leader in the Colossian church. For some reason, Archippus was not completing his ministry which was important if the believers at Colosse were to be completed or brought to ÒperfectÓ maturity in Christ (Col. 1:28).

Paul then closed with a personal word of greeting to authenticate the letter, and a prayer for GodÕs grace to be with the Colossians. He summarized his own situation with the simple request, ÒRemember my chains.Ó Not much more needed to be said, since the Colossians would understand what this meant.

WeÕre finished with Colossians, but not with December. As we get ready to make the final turn in the Christian race for this year, letÕs pray that God will help us finish well.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Back on December 1, we encouraged you to read all of Colossians in one sitting and mark key passages.

Now that we have completed our study, why not read these four chapters again today before moving on? If you didnÕt mark key passages in your earlier reading, you may want to do so now especially those verses God used in your life. Try reading Colossians as if your Bible were the only one available, and you had to give it back in a few hours!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: 2 Timothy 4:1-8
Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season. - 2 Timothy 4:2
TODAY IN THE WORD
Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy just a few years after he wrote to the Colossians, but those few years brought a dramatic change in the apostleÕs circumstances.

Although Paul wrote to Colosse from prison in Rome, that was not his final imprisonment. He was released, then re-arrested and brought back to Rome, this time to be sentenced to death and, no doubt, thrown into a dungeon to await execution.

This setting gives 2 Timothy a very personal and tender tone in places. Paul is the elderly apostle, lonely and cold in his cell, longing for the companionship of Mark and the warmth of his cloak.

But Paul saves his personal needs and reflections for the end of the letter. The majority of 2 Timothy is a strong and impassioned plea for faithfulness to Christ no matter what the cost. This is the spirit in which we need to read the opening verses of chapter 4 and accept the challenge Paul lays down. Nothing less than faithfulness to Jesus Christ will get the job done in 1999.

We need to be alert on two fronts. First and foremost is the ministry of GodÕs Word, both to us and through us to other people. Most of us are not pastors, but the church needs many teachers of the Word who will explain and apply GodÕs Word in a way that touches lives.

The second reason we need to be alert is because of the presence and prevalence of false teachers. We know the Colossian believers were being bombarded by those who were pushing heresy in an attempt to build their own kingdoms. Timothy was facing the same kind of threat in his ministry at Ephesus.

ÒKeep your head in all situations,Ó Paul told Timothy (v. 5). Given the possibilities for everything from computer failures to international upheaval that may await the world in 1999, thatÕs good advice for us. In times like these, the only people who will be able to keep their heads are those who keep their heads in GodÕs Word.

PaulÕs testimony about his own ministry (vv. 6-8) gives us good reason to be faithful. The Lord is storing up the Òcrown of righteousnessÓ for us, a reward worth the devotion it takes for us to attain it (v. .
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Is there something special you want God to do in your personal, family, work, or church life next year?

God can do it, because you have this promise from Him: ÒHe who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ JesusÓ (Phil. 1:6). Tell God about your objective, and remind Him of this promise. We also encourage you to write down your goal somewhere, maybe in the front of your Bible, with the reference to this verse as an encouragement.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Philippians 3:7-14
Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize. - Philippians 3:13-14
TODAY IN THE WORD
New YearÕs Eve is probably the one day out of the year that we are most conscious of looking in two directions: where we have come from and where we are going.

ItÕs natural to be reflective at a time like this. We think about the year we are leaving behind all that has happened and, perhaps, could have happened. And we canÕt help but look ahead to the new year with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty.

TodayÕs very familiar verses might make it sound like Paul is telling us never to look back, to forget that the past ever happened.

But that is not his point. Paul was discarding the things from his past that had caused him Òto put confidence in the fleshÓ (v. 4) and, as a result, try to please God by his own efforts. He had to learn that the only righteousness God accepts is based on faith in Christ, not on works of the law (v. 9).

But Paul was not against reflecting on the past. In fact, yesterday we read his reflections on his own life as he waited for his death sentence to be carried out. The right way to look back is to recall what God has done for you, rejoice in His faithfulness, and determine to press on in faithfulness to Him.

The wrong way to reflect is to brood over past mistakes and allow Satan to put you on a guilt trip for things that are forgiven and cleansed by ChristÕs blood. So we hope your reflection over 1998 causes you to gain new hope and strength as you see GodÕs hand leading you.

But itÕs also time to look ahead. Once Paul got his theology of salvation straight, he was ready to go. He knew God had taken hold of his life for a specific purpose, and he didnÕt want anything to sidetrack him from that purpose.

Paul also knew he had not reached the finish line of his race yet, so he was straining with every spiritual muscle he had to get there victoriously.

Paul was after the Òcrown that will last foreverÓ (1 Cor. 9:25) the eternal prize of JesusÕ commendation and rewards for faithful service. By faith, Paul could see the prize. Can you see it? Then go for it in 1999!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Yesterday we talked about spiritual goals for the new year.

To get yourself ready, it might be helpful to spend some time today reflecting on 1998. For example, are there any habits, attitudes, ways of talking, or other things you would be better off leaving behind when the new year rolls around? Jot down whatever God may bring to mind and then pray over each item, asking God to help you discard anything that might weigh you down spiritually next year.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. - Deuteronomy 6:4
TODAY IN THE WORD
Welcome to the last year of the millennium! It's safe to say that 1999 will produce much excitement, uncertainty, and speculation. The countdown to 2000 has begun in earnest, and many people will be looking for something solid to hold on to amid predictions of computer meltdowns and end-time upheavals.

All of this makes January 1999 a perfect time to anchor our souls in 'the word of the prophets made more certain' (2 Pet. 1:19). These are the great truths of Scripture that will never change or fail, because 'the words of the Lord are flawless' (Psalm 12:6).

In other words, theology matters! It's not just a branch of study for religious professionals. The word theology itself means the study of God, literally 'the word of God.' That alone tells us theology should matter for every Christian. What we believe has a profound affect on the way we live and the decisions we make.

Therefore, we need to know and affirm what the Bible teaches especially in these days when truth is defined as whatever feels right to any given person in any given situation.

At Today in the Word, we want to encourage you in every way possible this year. You may already have noticed one important addition to our ministry lineup for 1999, a column entitled 'Theology Matters,' written by Moody faculty member Dr. Harry Shields, who is chairman of the Pastoral Studies Department.

Each month, Dr. Shields will shed light on the great truths God's people have confessed and affirmed for centuries. Our studies this month are another effort to help you lay a solid foundation for your Christian life in this new year.

Deuteronomy 6 is a logical place to start, since verse 4 affirms the basic truth that our God is unique in His oneness. Notice that Moses does not simply state the fact of God's character and then leave it. Theology always demands a response.

That is very clear in today's reading. Since the Lord is the only true God, we are called to love Him with every part of our being, and impress His truth on our children. Fulfilling these commands is a challenge worth our best efforts in 1999!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
One of the best ways to let God's Word sink down into your heart and guide your actions is to memorize Scripture.

If you have been a Today family member for very long, you know how much value we place on Scripture memory. Writing Deuteronomy 6:4-5 on the 'doorframes' of your mind is a great way to begin the year. And, if possible, why not make it a group project to memorize these life-changing verses? Encourage your family, roommates, prayer partners, or others to join you in this project.