01/01/2026
omwenga mwambi on December 31, 2025 at 3:04 pm said:
It is profoundly very important not to miss how Paul addresses believers in both Churches (Philippi and Colossae). Before he tells them anything or what to do, he reminds them who they are in Christ. He affirms their identity in Christ.
1. “I am writing to all of God’s holy people in Philippi who belong to Christ Jesus, including the church leaders* and deacons” (Philippians 1:1, NLT).
2. “We are writing to God’s holy people in the city of Colosse, who are faithful brothers and sisters in Christ…” (Colossians 1:2, NLT).
We as believers, it is critical to note that greetings is not a casual talk, but it will influence a conversation and a relationship. Normally, greetings precede a conversation and shapes its mood. We can clearly deduce that Paul’s greetings are:
a) Spiritual
b) Pastoral
c) Missional
d) Theological
The greetings are Christ centred, they are secured on grace, peace, God the Father and Christ Jesus. All these encapsulates the very essence of the gospel. In fact, one can right say, that greetings is an act of ministry. As Children of God, we should not greet fellow believers with a cold attitude. Greetings should bring a spirit of warmth, fellowship, common purpose and common destiny. This is not just a welcome but should bring a strong sense of reassurance, affection, identity, unity joy, and God’s presence.
Therefore, next time we have an opportunity to greet the brethren, let our greetings go forth with grace, power and bring life to those who are cast down by the spirit of the evil one.
