Colossians 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.… Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Consider - I. THE PERSONS WHO ARE TO BE INFLUENCED BY OUR WALK, "Them that are without." Christians are those who are within (1 Corinthians 5:12). Unbelievers arc "without" - outside the Church, without God, without Christ, without hope in the world. They are those whom "God judgeth" (1 Corinthians 5:13). Believers ought to have regard to such persons, not only in their prayers, but in the wisdom of their personal walk. II. THE NATURE AND IMPORTANCE OF THE BELIEVER'S WALK BEFORE THE WORLD. "Walk in wisdom,.., redeeming the time." 1. It is a wise walk. "Be ye wise as serpents" (Matthew 10:16). Zeal is not enough. Love is not enough. Walk circumspectly, so as to give no offence or put occasions of reproach in the way of sinners. This is done by believers (1) walking in the light of God's Word (Psalm 119:1); (2) walking in all faithfulness of their calling (1 Thessalonians 4:11, 12; 1 Timothy 6:1); (3) walking in love to one another, without murmurings or disputings (Philippians 2:15, 19); (4) walking in meekness toward all men (Titus 3:1, 2; James 3:13); (5) walking in all patience and constancy under rebuke or injury (1 Peter 3:13-16). 2. Such a walk is influential toward unbelievers. (1) A believer ought to be more careful of his walk before them than before believers. (2) Such a walk has a winning effect upon the world, which thus sees the reality of true religion. Believers are to be" living epistles of Christ, known and read of all men" (2 Corinthians 3:3). (3) A foolish walk will cause the enemy to blaspheme. 3. Believers ought to seek constant opportunities of obeying this command. "Redeeming the time." External opportunities are to be sought for, and never to be neglected. Ministers must preach while the door is open; people must pray at every opportunity (Ephesians 6:18; Luke 21:36). They must walk in the light before the night comes. The times may not always be favourable. - T.C. Parallel Verses KJV: Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.WEB: Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. |
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