Outsiders In

Colossians 4:5-6 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. 
 
LET’S stop and think about Paul’s instructions, “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside.” Of course it is godly advice, isn’t it? God is in the business of seeking outsiders – people who do not believe in him. Adam made us all outsiders as we are born into his sin nature. Paul also remembers how he was once an outsider. He knows of Jesus’ eternal kindness to welcome him, a hard-hearted sinner, into the Kingdom. He remembers the actions of Ananias and others who were kind to him even when they thought he was still an outsider. Acts 9:17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” This is wise action as Ananias acted in the Lord’s instructions.
    Certainly Paul’s advice is biblical truth we want to follow. But let’s keep this in mind: “outsiders” means that there is a difference between those who call Christ “Lord” and those who do not. People on the outside of Jesus’ fellowship are outside of the Kingdom of God. They are in jeopardy until they confess Christ of being outside of heaven, condemned to eternal hell forever.
    That’s why Paul’s words are more than nice, good advice. That’s why Ananias’ action is a good example. Paul’s teaching is an imperative – a must – on how we are to act toward unsaved people. What you do and say in the presence of “outsiders” can drive them from Jesus or welcome them into his presence. The next time you might be inclined to use harsh or impatient words with someone, pause and consider what Jesus wants you to say.
 
Life Thought: Jesus died to bring you inside.