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 deceptive philosophy.” These cautions, and Paul’s commands regarding them, have as much relevance for us today as they did when Paul originally wrote them.
What are the most important “values” in our culture today? Can you think of movies, commercials, or TV shows that communicate the ideas behind these values? Would Paul consider any of these ideas to be “hollow and deceptive philosophy?” Why? Which of these ideas might we have embraced without realizing it? How can you tell? What can we do about it?
Paul commands the Colossians to live “rooted and built up in Him…” What does that mean? Is this a command that also holds true for us today? How does one accomplish this? (Hint: look ahead to Col 3:1,2, also Ps 1:1-3, Ps 119: 97, Josh 1:8).
A.W. Tozer said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us…” In verses 9 &10 Paul talks about “fullness.” How does this relate to Tozer’s thought? What does it mean for you to have “fullness?”
Paul also commands the Colossians to be “overflowing with thankfulness.” What does that mean? Have you ever met someone like this? What does he/she look like? Can you imagine yourself being like that? Would you even want to be like that? What would it take to get there? (Hint: see all of the above)
Grace in the Ordinary
A right relationship with Jesus Christ manifests itself not in some extraordinary otherworldliness, but in and through our Christ-like conduct and loving human relationships in this world. It is in our conduct and relationships that we are most in need of...
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...
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...