Teach and admonish one another
“Teach and admonish one another.” We often think
that these tasks are reserved for the teachers and
leaders of the congregation. Paul often uses these
words in this manner, telling spiritual leaders that
their role is to teach and admonish the congregation
so that they can grow in wisdom, love, and service.
But in Colossians 3 Paul uses these words very
differently: “Let the message of Christ dwell among
you richly as you teach and admonish one another
with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs
from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in
your hearts” (v. 16). This was Paul’s command for
the entire church, not just the leadership. As
Christians, we are called to “teach and admonish
one another.” We all have a role to play in helping
one another grow in wisdom, love, and knowledge.
Paul also tells them a unique way to teach one
another: through music. The congregation sings in
order to teach and encourage each other. Our songs
give glory to God, but they also build one another
up. The words that we sing reflect our faith, and
these words can inspire, strengthen, and lift up our
brothers and sisters in Christ.
Today’s worship will flow differently than normal.
Our sermon will be stretched out throughout our
time together, and we will intersperse our service
with singing. The goal is to let the songs reflect the
text and enlighten its meaning. We also pray that
our songs will encourage you and that you, in turn,
can encourage others. May we “teach and
admonish” one another today.