Jesus is the Point
Heresy is not a word that should be used lightly. Colossians was written to correct certain errors about the identity of Jesus. What are some common misperceptions or errors about Jesus that are popular in our day?
In writing to the believers in Colosse (1:2), Paul begins with very encouraging words. Read 1:3-8 and highlight the specific ways Paul encouraged the Colossian believers. Now think of people to whom you could provide similar encouragement (Who are they and what would you say?).
In addition to encouraging the Colossians, Paul prays for them. Read his prayer in 1:9-14. What is different about this prayer compared to the kinds of prayers you are more likely to hear? What part of Paul’s prayer do you most need to have answered in your life?
Paul paints a breathtaking portrait of Jesus Christ—the exalted Lord overall. Read 1:15-18. What do you find in these verses that confirm that Jesus was much more than a prophet or good teacher?
Spend more time reflecting on 1:15-18 by personalizing the passage into a prayer. Pray these verses back to Jesus by inserting the word, “you” in place of “He.” (For example: “You (in place of He) are the image of the invisible God…”). As you pray through these verses, you might want to include additional praises for who Jesus is and what He has done for you.
Further Reading
Courageous Authenticity
We may have several roles we play in society: as a spouse, a parent, or a co-worker, to name a few. At the same time, there are cultural standards for what it means to be “good” at the various roles we find ourselves in. But these cultural standards are sometimes in...
New Life in Jesus Christ
Practical Christian living is built on the foundation of theological truth. Because we know that Jesus was raised from the dead, our identification with Him becomes real. This should lead us to see things from God’s perspective and to put His priorities for us into...
Remember Who You Are
Compromise is everywhere. It’s a potential pitfall even for the most well-intentioned Christian. No wonder Paul reminds the Colossians to remember who they are in Christ. Affirming the life-changing benefits of a relationship with Jesus means we’re alert to even...
Look Out & Look Up
As we survey our current surroundings, we find a wealth of perspectives on “how the world works.” Which of these ideas we embrace will determine how we act and behave. The same was true in Colossians when Paul warned against “fine-sounding arguments” or “hollow and...
Moving Toward Maturity
Through Jesus, all things are reconciled to God. That doesn’t mean that all will be saved but that all are now savable. A believer who continually pursues Christ will grow and move toward maturity in Him. But some believers who ignore their need to mature will remain...