Sermon by Pastor Tom Brown · Jan 04, 2026 · Colossians Series

Today we take a sneak peek into our upcoming sermon series in the book of Colossians, looking at 1:29.

In that powerful sentence I see three qualities of life in the service to Christ.

A life of real purpose
to this end

A life of real struggle 
I toil, struggling

A life of real power
with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

As disciples of Jesus we all share one glorious purpose on earth – the salvation and perfection of human souls in Christ. What a privilege!

There is nothing that gives strength and satisfaction to life like laboring for a worthy purpose.

Like an Olympic athlete, Paul threw himself into his purpose in Christ with focus and dedication.

 

This statement in verse 29 is inspiring, but it is so much more than that. Paul didn’t end with his struggle. He ended with the energy of Christ powerfully at work within him.

 

The grace he received from Jesus at his conversion wasn’t a one time experience. That grace took hold of him and became a moment by moment experience throughout his life.

How do you hold onto your vision and keep up the struggle for a lifetime? You can’t. But Christ living in you will.

Tom Brown is the planting pastor of Vintage Faith Church in Wichita. Tom and his wife, Mandy, have worked together in ministry for over 20 years and have four children. More about Pastor Tom Brown