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.
Avoiding Willful Defiance
Even Christians can behave badly. And the Bible acknowledges that a believer can walk away from Jesus all together. To treat God with this kind of contempt is a terrible act of defiance. In the fourth of five warnings in the book of Hebrews, the author tells us about...
The Danger of Falling Away
Salvation is guaranteed the moment one believes Jesus for it. But becoming a Christian never guarantees that we’ll live like one. Spiritual maturity is not automatic. It requires diligent engagement with Jesus if we hope to change and grow. In the third of five...
Beware of Your Unbelief
Even Christians can be people of unbelief. Given tempting circumstances, we might cave under pressure and cease to follow God wholeheartedly. This certainly was the case with the children of Israel who took a major detour of unbelief while on their journey to the land...
Pay Careful Attention
Like other people, there’s a chance you have entertained thoughts about returning to an easier, more comfortable way of life—one that pushes God aside. When the pressure is on, even Christians can become disillusioned with following Jesus. The book of Hebrews is...
Raised Forever
Easter is the celebration of all celebrations! Jesus Christ has conquered sin and death and is raised to life. The resurrection of Jesus is not some legend that has been passed down through the ages meant to give us an excuse for another holiday. In Easter we see the...