THE TREASURES IN CHRIST

Colossians 2:1-4 For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.

Paul's desire and prayer is for the body of Christ at Colosse, was to be united in love. With this strength of unity, they could experience spiritual growth. They could receive the full benefits reserved for the children of God - the riches available to all Christians, that attain the true understanding of the mystery of salvation, available from God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Wisdom and knowledge are to be sought, far more diligently that silver and gold, because their value is infinitely greater. The writer of Proverbs tells us the only place this can be found is in the Lord (Prov. 2:1-7). In God's word we find described the most wonderful blessings that can be attained during our lifetime here on earth - blessings far more precious that silver or gold. Although hidden by God, how wonderful it is that, He also, tells us where these spiritual blessings may be found, as well as where they cannot be found.

We can search forever, throughout the four corners of the world, but there, the treasures of heaven cannot be found. There is evidence throughout the bible, that men of the world will try to convince others, especially the children of God, that they hold the "keys to heaven." In the lesson text we are told that ungodly men will beguile you with enticing words. Bible students be assured; this is the work of Satan. Just as sure as the devil beguiled Eve in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:1-13), he has attempted to beguile every person thereafter, and will beguile you today, through the enticing words, of those that trust in worldly wisdom, rather that the wisdom of God.

Consider these warnings from inspired writers of God's word. The apostle John tells us, Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world (1 John 4:1). Again, John wrote: For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh (2 John 7a). Paul told Timothy that some Christians would depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils (1 Tim. 4:1b). He also said that some would turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables, seeking teachers with doctrines that would justify their lustful ways (2 Tim. 4:3-4). Peter also gives us a very strong warning against false prophets and teachers that shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that brought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of (2 Pet. 2:1-2).

Searching in the doctrines and philosophies of men, the pathway to eternal life, the greatest blessing ever known, cannot be found. It is only found in Christ Jesus, through whom the mystery of God is revealed. Coming to Christ, believing Him to be the Messiah, the Son of God, accepting Him as your personal Savior, obeying His will, and being baptized into His body, the church of Christ, is the only way a person can discover, and have access to, the treasures of godly wisdom and knowledge. To the people of the world they are hidden, and will remain hidden as long as they are searched for in the wrong places - in the enticing words of men. Eternal life can only be found in Jesus Christ. Here, all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, although hidden from the world, are made known to the children of God - followers of Christ - faithful Christians.

If the greatest treasure known to mankind is eternal life in heaven, and if it can only be found in Jesus Christ, consider His teaching: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matt. 6:19-21). Worldly treasures can be found in the worldly wisdom of men. The treasures of heaven can only be found in God's wisdom through Jesus Christ. In your quest for eternal life, the question is, where are you searching? The true, eternal treasures you seek are in the Son of God, hidden from the world, but found only in Christ Jesus - in His body, the church of Christ.