Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother. Colossians 1:1
On a warm and beautiful beach in northern Nova Scotia, some godly men with shepherds’ hearts had gathered a dozen or more of us teenage boys for a few days of Bible study. One of the exercises we completed while there was memorizing a portion of Scripture. What we did not realize at the time was our memory portion is actually one of the first hymns sung by Christians in the first century. It is recorded here in the first chapter of Colossians. Although the translation from the Greek that Paul wrote it in doesn’t look exactly like a hymn now, it is thankfully recorded in the lofty and regal language of our King James Bible.
Let’s read the hymn: Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son: In Whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell. Colossians 1:12-19.
We may not be able to put a tune to these lovely words, but there is no mistaking the sense of worship that flows forth even with the reading of this ancient hymn. Consider how those early Christians would have thrilled to hear it and to sing it. Just as our hearts today are lifted up in praise and worship as we sing the grand old hymns of the faith. God has always appreciated the worship of His people in song, and we should not neglect it; especially the singing of hymns that so closely follow the inspiration of the Scriptures like this first century hymn of Colosse. -Jim MacIntosh
Here is the link to the video of this message: https://youtu.be/TDL2eFvmGl0