Eugene Peterson in “The Message” translated our text this way.

"Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ- the Message- have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives- words, action, whatever- be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way."

This text calls the whole church to be grateful to God. It is a joyful text and expresses what we should all want in the congregation we attend. The thankful church can be easily discerned when these characteristics are present.

The Peace of God is Ruling in the Church.

The Precepts of God are Rooted in the Church.

The People of God are Rallying in the Church.

The Praise of God is Rising in the Church.

The Preeminent Son of God is Reigning in the Church.