Colossians 2:5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing and beholding your order… I. A POWER THAT IS COMMON TO MAN AS MAN. "Though I be absent... spirit." Here is a power of going forth from the body — visiting distant scenes and taking an interest in them. This power we are always using. Our minds are ever away somewhere — they move with lightning rapidity across oceans, continents, and even worlds; they span the ages in a moment. We thank God for this power. Brutes have it not; it makes us indepen dent of time and space, and gives to life an eternal freshness and an infinite variety. II. A SPIRITUAL CONDITION PECULIAR TO SOME MEN. 1. Spiritual order- harmony with ourselves, the universe, God. 2. Stability. Steadfastness to Christ, settled in hope, confidence. What a blessed state! how devoutly to be desired! III. A SOCIAL DELIGHT EXPERIENCED BY CHRISTLY MEN. "Joying," etc. Though Paul's body was in Rome, his spirit was in Colossae rejoicing in the happiness of the Christians there. (D. Thomas, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. |
    |