Colossians 4:2–6
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. (ESV)
Theme:
Proclaiming Christ with wisdom and grace.
Doctrine:
Watchful prayer fuels missional living and wise witness.
Focus:
The priority of prayer, the urgency of mission, and the power of gracious speech.
Introduction
a. Paul’s closing exhortations: practical outworking of Christ’s supremacy.
b. Prayer, mission, and speech are essentials for Gospel witness.
1. The Priority of Prayer (v. 2)
“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”
a. Steadfastness, persistence, devotion (Acts 2:42; Luke 18:1).
b. Watchfulness – spiritual alertness (Matt. 26:41; 1 Pet. 5:8).
c. Thanksgiving – the atmosphere of prayer (Col. 3:15–17; 1 Thes. 5:18).
2. The Urgency of Mission (vv. 3-4)
“Pray… that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ.”
Open doors, gospel opportunities, come from God (1 Cor. 16:9; Acts 16:14).
a. Clarity & boldness. Even Paul needs prayer (Eph. 6:19–20).
b. Mission focus – not comfort, but Christ’s cause.
3. The Power of Gracious Speech (vv. 5-6)
“Walk in wisdom toward outsiders… your speech always gracious, seasoned with salt.”
a. Wise walking, making best use of time (Eph. 5:15–16).
b. Gracious words, marked by kindness, patience, gospel hope (Prov. 16:24; Eph. 4:29).
c. Seasoned with salt, preserving truth, adding flavour.
d. Personal answers: Each person matters (1 Pet. 3:15).
Conclusion
– Prayer keeps us dependent.
– Mission keeps us focused.
– Gracious speech keeps us winsome.