Sunday, January 31st, 2016
Colossians 3:1-17
Intro to Colossians:
The theme of Colossians is the complete adequacy of Christ as contrasted with the emptiness of mere human philosophy. Christ is Lord over all of creation, including the invisible realm. He has secured redemption for his people, enabling them to participate with him in his death, resurrection, and fullness.
As you read, study and apply, ask the Holy Spirit to lead your group discussions. Work hard to make sure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Close by praying for one another.
- Read Colossians 3:1-2. This verse speaks of our “position” in Christ and the challenge to “posture” ourselves towards Christ. The first is in regard to our salvation which is eternal and never changes. The second is in regard to our formation and maturation in Christ. We are at the same time “raised with Christ” yet must also “set your minds on things that are above”. How are you posturing yourself in your relationship to Jesus? How is He growing/maturing you to think on things above?
- In verse 5 Paul instructs the church to put certain things “to death”. What are those things and do you struggle to kill the things in you that are earthly? What steps do you take to see earthly things die in you?
- What does it look like for you to daily put on the new self? Gives some examples of how you practically do that.
- What are some of the lies you tell yourself and others as Paul talked about in Colossians 3:9?
- What does it mean to you to “set your mind on things above” (v2)? What does that look like, practically?
- Which of the ‘virtues’, found in versus 12-14, do you find the most difficult to live out in the day-to-day? How can you seek God and the support of your community to grow in that area?