Colossians: The Main Game (Col 1:28-2:5)
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We continue in our Colossian study with Col 1:28-2:5. I've entitled this passage as 'The Main Game.' We are given a nutshell of Paul's ministry - his message is none other than Jesus Christ. And the heart of Paul is revealed that all believers be presented mature in Christ. Christ, as the mystery of God, is again emphasised - a truth introduced earlier in chapter 1. Read and re-read this passage. Let the Spirit bind your head and heart together to the truths of this passage - they are glorious and transformational.
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Questions
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1. What memories do you have as a child hunting for "buried treasure" or Easter eggs?
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2. What is Paul's goal in his ministry (v28)? See also Eph 4:11-13. What do you understand his goal to practically mean?
3. To what end is Paul contending with all Christ's strength (v29)? What difference does labouring in Christ's strength make to Paul, as opposed to labouring in his own?
4. What is God's mystery now revealed (v2)? See also 1:26, 28. Why is the term 'mystery' used by the Holy Spirit through the pen of Paul?
5. What is the practical application for the believer that "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" are hidden in Christ (v3)?
6. In verse 4 Paul identifies one (of many) false teachings that were impacting the church at Colossae. There are numerous other false teachings mentioned in passing in the rest of chapter 2. Paul strategy for combating false teaching is to magnify the greatness, the supremacy and all-sufficiency of Christ. Why does he take that approach rather than going into detailed rebuttal of every aspect of false teaching infiltrating the church? What is the relevance of Paul's approach for us in the modern western world?
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7. Is Paul's stated purpose (1:28; 2:2) a reality in your life? Or are you somewhere along the way?
8. Why is reaching full maturity (transformation into Christlikeness) God's desire for us?
9. How can we become "fully mature" in Christ? What is the first step to maturity in Christ?
10. Paul desires the Colossian Christians to be "united in love" (v2)? Why is the love of God the foundation of our lives? Share an experience of God's love that you've had. How has the encountering of God's love changed your life?
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11. An important key to maturing in Christ is to be in true fellowship with others. How can we, as the family of Oaktree, continue to grow into full maturity in Christ?
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