Podcasts about read colossians

Jesus is King! His name holds all power and authority. In his name, you can find freedom, healing, and joy unlike anything the world can offer. When you have a relationship with the King, you can call on his name to experience the gifts of the Kingdom. Read Colossians 1:15-23 this week to learn about the character and authority of King Jesus.MESSAGE NOTES: https://www.bible.com/events/49439964RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.orgBLOG: https://canyonridge.org/blogs/

Bob Schwahn  |  Lead Pastor  |  May 11, 2025   Referenced Scripture: Matthew 22:36-40, John 13:34-35, Luke 19:10, Matthew 4:19, Genesis 12:1-3, Matthew 9:35-38, Colossians 3:12-14   Reflection Questions:  1. How did you first learn about the love of Jesus and choose to follow Him?    2. If there was a person that was helpful in your learning to follow Jesus, what were they like? How did they relate to you?    3. What is your greatest fear or frustration when it comes to loving people and sharing the good news of Jesus with those around you?    4. What are you hoping to learn or gain from this B.L.E.S.S. sermon series?    5. Read Colossians 3:12-14 How would you rate your character in regard to how Jesus defines the qualities his followers? What steps can you take to grow in these areas?    6. Read Matthew 9:36-38 What parts of your character and perspective need to change to see the world the way Jesus sees the world?  Is there anything described here that you disagree with or find hard to believe?    7. Jesus's nickname was “friend of sinners” (Matthew 11:16–19 NIV). What changes might you need to make in order to be known as a friend of sinners?    8. Who are some of the people around you where you live, work, and play that you would love to impact with the love of Jesus? Pray for the people you hope to B.L.E.S.S.  (Come up with at least 5)    9. How could all of Journey Church simply being a B.L.E.S.S.ing to our neighbors be a strategy for changing our valley and changing the world?   What's your next step?  * Connect: We'd love to connect with you! Fill out our Connect Card to receive more information, have us pray for you, or to ask us any questions: http://journeybozeman.com/connectcard  * Connect: Get your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/children  * Connect: Our Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/students  * Give: Want to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/give  * Gather: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozeman  * Gather: Download our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app  * Gather: Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozeman

The News is Good, 4 of 4 from April 27, 2025 "The good news begins and ends with Jesus who is remaking all things." Colossians 1 & 3 by Michael Lockstampfor (@miklocks)SUMMARYThis sermon explores the transformative power of Christ's work in transferring believers from the domain of darkness to His kingdom. It emphasizes that while Christians still live in a broken world, they are called to live as citizens of heaven, putting to death old sinful habits and embracing Christ-like virtues. The message underscores the importance of community in Christian life and the ongoing process of being renewed in Christ's image.REFLECTION & DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read Colossians 1:15-22. What is God's Word saying to you in this passage? What is God's heart for His people?How would you describe Jesus?... Who was He? Why did He come? What did He do? What did He teach? What was the toughest claim He made?What are some practical ways that we can make Jesus the focus of our lives? To make Him central, our top priority, and truly the Lord of our lives?Celebrating 10 years of God's faithfulness at Encounter... What do you love most about our church? What areas are we strongest in? Weakest in?What would you love to see God do with us as a church in the next 10 years?Who is one person that you'd love to see come to Encounter?Close in prayer- asking God to open up doors to bring those specific people to church... and praising God for His faithfulness for the first decade of Encounter.

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read Colossians 1:15-22. What is God's Word saying to you in this passage? What is God's heart for His people?How would you describe Jesus?... Who was He? Why did He come? What did He do? What did He teach? What was the toughest claim He made?What are some practical ways that we can make Jesus the focus of our lives? To make Him central, our top priority, and truly the Lord of our lives?Celebrating 10 years of God's faithfulness at Encounter... What do you love most about our church? What areas are we strongest in? Weakest in?What would you love to see God do with us as a church in the next 10 years?Who is one person that you'd love to see come to Encounter?Close in prayer- asking God to open up doors to bring those specific people to church... and praising God for His faithfulness for the first decade of Encounter.

CD 1704 Position - Purpose - Power(March 2, 2025 P.M. Service)As we touched on lightly this morning, In this life that has been given to us by our Creator the Lord God Almighty we have a vacuum on the inside of us. We were created with that vacuum in order that we would hunger and desire for something greater than ourselves. If we do not seek the Lord, then the devil will come and fill that vacuum. You cannot stay neutral, you will either be full of the Lord or full of the devil. We will talk more about this vacuum in a future service.This evening we're going to learn about our position in Christ which reveals our purpose in Christ and helps us to receive the power from Christ to live his life through us! *Text: 2 Timothy 1:1-10 (KJV) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.3 I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; 4 Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; 5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. 6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; 9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, 10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:Praise God He as our Father has given us His Grace through Jesus Christ from the foundation of this earth age! He saves us and calls us into His Holy calling, all by His grace! Speaking of salvation “position”:#1 Position*Read Luke 15:24 (KJV) For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.*Read Ephesians 2:8 (KJV) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Now see verse 6:*Read Ephesians 2:6 (KJV) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:Where is Jesus seated?*Read Colossians 3:1-3 (KJV) Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.We are seated on the right hand of power in Christ Jesus. So our “position” is not in question, rather our “position” is absolute in Christ Jesus! When we understand where we're living and operating from then it brings us to our second point our “purpose”:#2 PurposeSo I have a “purpose”? You mean there is more to this life than just getting by?How can I find my “purpose”?*Read Psalm 119:105 (KJV) Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.Support the show

Joshua 5:1-12 | Max Janusch | It's the perfect time for the people of Israel to recommit themselves to the Lord. And what better way to do that than for all the men who had been born in the wilderness, who had never been circumcised to be circumcised. Circumcision is the outward sign for the people of Israel that they are God's and God's alone. For whatever reason, in the wilderness, the practice had stopped, but now is the time for this next generation to commit themselves to the Lord, outwardly and inwardly. So, all the men get the snip with new flint knives. Then the people rest, recover and celebrate the first Passover in their new land.MAIN IDEAOur covenant-keeping God produces covenant-keeping people.OUTLINEI. God establishes relationship with his people. (vv. 1-9)II. God fulfills his promises to his people. (vv. 10-12)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Discuss the ways in which the miracles of the Lord make possible what we read in Joshua 5:1-12 (i.e. being able to circumcise all the warrior aged men and celebrate Passover). What are the ways you have seen the Lord working in your life in ways that only He can?2. We are not asked to circumcise ourselves to show our faithfulness to God, but what are the things that God does call us to do once we are saved by his grace? What are the things he asks us to do that you find the most difficult and how might your community group help you to be more faithful in those areas?3. The people of Israel, here at the beginning of Joshua, are showing themselves to be obedient children to their heavenly Father. Is there anything in your life you find God calling you to? If there has been something keeping you from obeying, what is it and how might you overcome that to walk in His call?4. Read Colossians 3:12-17. We are not the people of Israel, but God has called us as the church to live in a way that sets us apart and builds up the body of Christ. Where do you seeour church excelling and where might we need more work to fulfill the call Paul lays out for us in this passage?5. God asks for hard things from us sometimes, asking grown men to be circumcised in this passage is a good example of that. What do you sense is God's call on your life, in your community group and in our church that might be difficult but is worth the sacrifice?

CD 1692  “Anger Management” - Secrets to Success Series - Week #2*Text Mark 3:1-7 - Note Jesus was angry! Anger itself is not necessarily bad; it is not necessarily wrong. God himself gets angry. What we need to consider is the object of our anger, the motive for our anger, and the outcome of our anger.God's anger, however, is directed against sin and unrighteousness. He blazes hot against evil. His anger, like ours, becomes a consuming fire, but its focus is to eradicate the sin so that the sinner can be restored.Read 1Peter 2:21-25Read James 1:19-20*Read Colossians 3:1-2 & 8-11 (KJV) Read Ephesians 4:26-27Closing Illustration: Steve Tran of Westminster, California, wanted to kill the cockroaches in his apartment once and for all. So, he activated 25 bug bombs (even though the label said 2 should do the trick) and closed the door. The fumes reached the pilot light of his stove and created an explosion that sent his screen door across the street, broke all his windows, and caused $10,000 dollars worth of damage.Steve said, “I really wanted to kill all of them. I thought if I used a lot more, it would last longer.” By the way, Steve said he saw cockroaches again within a week.Support the show

01-12-2025 | Two Critical Truths About The New Testament: 1. The NT reveals who Jesus is. a. Jesus' humanity: the Gospel shows us His life. John 1:1 b. Jesus' mission: He came to save us. John 10:10 & Rom 5:8 c. Jesus' on-going works: the early church. Acts 1:8 d. Jesus' future: The Book of Revelation. Rev 22:13 2. The NT offers life in His Name. Eph 2:1_10 John 20:31 “…but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His Name. The NT was written so that we may know Jesus. Read Colossians 1:15-20

We begin our Annual Advent Series, this year titled, Celebrate Christmas. Join us as we consider how the four Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love all came true in the birth of Jesus Christ 2024 years ago. Pastor Glenn will take us into a wonderful New Testament passage that reveals these four themes in the life of the Christian and the church today. Read Colossians 3:1-17 in advance to prepare for the message and invite your friends this Sunday!

WEEK 6 OF 16  // Brian TateIf you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?Share about a job you have had that you enjoyed. Why did you enjoy it?Share either about an odd job or a job you didn't enjoy. Why didn't you enjoy it?Read Colossians 3:12-15 and share what part of the uniform comes naturally for you. What part do you need to work on?What areas in your life do you try to control (be like God)? What keeps you from releasing that control over to God?Sermon Locations and Times: Sundays Services are at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM at 2601 E Alex Bell Rd Dayton, OH 45459 You can join us online on Facebook or YouTube at 11:00 AM.

-      Happiness, Money (Security), Freedom (debt, find true purpose), Peace, Joy, Balance, Fulfillment, Confidence, Stability, Passion -       “Some treasures aren't bad until they take your focus from the true, fulfilling treasure. When we let treasures lead us away from Christ, that treasure turns to waste." -Michael Grubbs -        What would it look like if we shifted our pursuit to the true treasure that provides all of these? -        Colossians 3:1-4 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. -       Col 3:1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. -       The moment you believe, your pursuit SHOULD shift… -        It starts with the heart. -         Does your heart pursue the same things that Jesus did? -        Col 2:2-3 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. -        Mark 12:30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' -       “…Christians should not determine eternal truths according to “earthly things”; we must interpret the world around us according to the heavenly reality “above” us.” -R. Scott Pace -        Col 3:4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. -         In ALL things, pursue Christ LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS  Starter Question: Matt opened with an adventure of pursuing a great treasure.  Who did you find yourself relating to in that story?  1.      Read Colossians 3:1-4 2.     What are some things that keep you from pursuing Christ? 3.      What are some ways that you “keep seeking” the things that are above? 4.      Read Colossians 3:5-17 5.      Where do you struggle in putting on the new self as Paul lays out? 6.      In what ways do you challenge your thinking?  Where is your thinking focused on what is temporary instead of eternal? 7.      If you were John Chrysostom, would you have stood as boldly hidden in Christ? Why or why not? 8.      In all things, Pursue Christ.  Where God has you in your career, or life in general, how well are you pursuing him?

·      Reach, Next, Own.  ·       What's the difference between owners and renters? ·       What's the difference between the owners of a church and renters of a church?  ·      Colossians 1:18 - And he is the head of the body, the church… ·      The church must keep our eyes on Jesus. ·      1 Corinthians 12:12 - 12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.  ·      PIX – family around fire. ·      PIX – family arguing.  ·      PIX - Bodies move. ·       13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. ·       We all have a life-changing experience with Jesus. ·       Lake Baptism, September 15th.  ·       ADBC must be a place of grace because that is what Jesus wants for his body.  ·       Do not let the failures of people get between you and Jesus.    ·       If you claim Jesus, you belong in the body.  ·       Are you a healthy part of the body or an unhealthy part of the body?  ·       15 Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be?  ·       PIX – eyeball in Dallas.  ·       18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be?  ·       20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.  ·       You have to decide if you are an owner or a renter.  ·       Follow Jesus.  ·       Baptism.  ·       Belong.  ·       Next Starting Point: September, each campus.  ·       Serve.  ·      QR code.  ·       Owners serve. ·       Give.  ·      (1st part of slide) Where we should be: $2,286,158.  (2nd part of slide) Where we are: $2,163,123.  (3rd part of slide) Difference: $123,032.  ·       Abundance brings opportunity.  ·       Step In.  ·       Step Up.  ·       Step Out.  ·       Owners give. ·       27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Starter Question: Pastor Clay used the analogy of owners and renters of church.  Describe an owner of a church.  Describe a renter.  1.     Read Colossians 1:18 2.     What does it mean to you that Jesus is the head of the church? 3.     Read 1 Corinthians 12:12 4.     Fun exercise: Draw a picture of the church as body.  Share why you drew what you drew. 5.     Read 1 Corinthians 12:13-14. 6.     According to this scripture, why is baptism important?  7.     In your opinion, what does it mean to drink from the Spirit? 8.    Read 1 Corinthians 12:15-17. 9.    Why might one part of the church body be unhappy or unhealthy? 10.  Read 1 Corinthians 12:18-20 11.  Where do you think God has placed you in the body?  What is your role?

Message from Hunter Hambrick on June 30, 2024

Read Colossians 2:6-10

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments, and questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Romans 13 ○ Lesson 10: "It's All Love" ○ Verses 1-7: Pray for our leaders and government workers § Read 2 Chronicles 36: 17-23 § Read 1 Timothy 2:1-4 § Read Isaiah 61:8 □ "For I, the LORD, love justice. I hate robbery and wrongdoing. I will faithfully reward my people for their suffering and make an everlasting covenant with them." ○ Verses 8-10: It is my obligation to love you § Definition of obligation: something (such as a formal contract, a promise, or the demands of conscience or custom) that obligates one to a course of action; something one is bound to (DUTY, RESPONSIBILITY) § Read "Life Lessons" from book § Read John 15: 9-17 § Read 1 Corinthians 13 § Read Colossians 3: 12-15 § 1 John 4:7-8 □ "Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love." ○ Verses 11-14: Get it together because Jesus is coming back soon! § Read Ephesians 5: 1-9 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

In this concluding message of our Complete in Christ series, we will explore the profound themes of Colossians 3-4, focusing on the transformative power of the word let and the realization that God has already prepared incredible things to happen within us. We will delve into the liberating truth that everything we do can be done in the name of Jesus, and reflect on the beautiful dynamics of respect and love within relationships. Additionally, we will ponder the assurance that God's treatment of us will never exasperate or discourage us. I encourage you to tune in to this enlightening and inspiring conclusion to our series. Let's continue to grow together in the deeper truth of our completeness in Christ! Discussion Questions for Colossians 3-4: 1. The word let appears three times (3:15-16 and 4:6) in this passage. What does the word let tell you about what God has already prepared to happen in you? 2. Read verse 17 and react to this statement: Everything you do can be done in the name of Jesus. Yes, everything. 3. Read verses 18-19. Paul seems to be implying that husbands primarily desire respect and wives primarily desire love. Does this resonate with you? Why or why not? 4. Read verse 21 and react to this statement: God the Father's treatment of you will never exasperate you or cause you to lose heart. 5. Read verse 24. How does the reward of the inheritance throw a wrench in the common view of rewards being earned through good works? How do you get an inheritance? 6. Read Colossians 4:2-4. Would you consider praying for The Grace Message and The Grace Church that God would open up to us a door for the message of Christ to go forth and that He would enable us to make it clear? (We thank you for praying for us!) To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1258/29

Scripture for Study and Reflection:Read Colossians 3: 12-17.1. Today we finish our sermon series “Healing Hearts: A Journey to Wholeness.”What does wholeness mean to you? What do you think it takes to make you,and/or the congregation, whole?2. What are the virtues with which Paul tells us to clothe ourselves? Why doyou think he chose those virtues? What does it mean to clothe yourselfwith them?3. How is clothing yourself with virtue different than putting on the armor ofGod (see Ephesians 6: 10-18)? How do we know when to put on virtuesversus putting on armor?4. Paul says in verse 13 to “bear with each other.” What does he mean by that?Why is this important? Can you think of times when you struggled to bearwith someone?5. Paul says “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” What does this mean to you?Is this easy or hard to do? What are some consequences of not forgivinglike this? What happens when we do?6. Paul describes love as above all the other virtues (see verse 14 and1 Corinthians 13: 13). Why is love so important? What does the kind of lovePaul describes accomplish?7. Paul talks about peace in verse 15. What does peace mean to you? Howdo you understand the Biblical description of “a peace that passes allunderstanding”? (see Philippians 4: 7) How can we find such peace / whatis the source? How are peace and wholeness related?8. Paul says in verse 15, “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly.”What is the message of Christ? How can you let it dwell within you andamong others?9. Why is it important to “sing to God with gratitude in your hearts” as Paulsays in verse 16? How can gratitude lead to peace and wholeness?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God, we humbly and hopefully come before you seeking thehealing and wholeness only you can provide. Bind us together in perfect unitythrough the love of Christ as we share His message with the whole world. Let thepeace of Christ keep us in tune with each other as we give the gospel room towork in all of our lives. Clothe us with righteousness and fill our spirits withforgiveness and gratitude. Grant us the peace that comes from truly beinghumble, hopeful, healed and whole, so we can share that peace with the world.We pray all of this in the name of the One who makes it possible, our Risen Lordand Savior Jesus the Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,one God, now and forever. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Colossians 3-4: The word “let” appears three times (3:15-16 and 4:6) in this passage. What does the word “let” tell you about what God has already prepared to happen in you? Read verse 17 and react to this statement: Everything you do can be done in the name of Jesus. Yes, everything. Read verses 18-19. Paul seems to be implying that husbands primarily desire respect and wives primarily desire love. Does this resonate with you? Why or why not? Read verse 21 and react to this statement: God the Father's treatment of you will never exasperate you or cause you to lose heart. Read verse 24. How does “the reward of the inheritance” throw a wrench in the common view of rewards being earned through good works? How do you get an inheritance? Read Colossians 4:2-4. Would you consider praying for The Grace Message and The Grace Church that God would “open up to us a door” for the message of Christ to go forth and that He would enable us to “make it clear”? (We thank you for praying for us!)

Theme: The Sacrament of Holy Baptism Point 1: The Blood, Point 2: The Word, Point 3: The Covenant, Bible text description: Read Colossians 2

In this next installment of our Complete in Christ series, we explore redemption, reconciliation, and our full assurance in Christ. We uncover the mystery Paul refers to and address false teaching and universalism. We also reflect on the practical implications of being complete in Christ and what it means to labor and strive according to God's power at work within us. Enjoy! Discussion Questions for Colossians 1:21-2:6: 1. Read verse 22 and react to this statement: I am reconciled to God and holy and blameless forever. 2. Read verse 23. How does this passage respond to those who twist the meaning of this passage to promote a universal salvation? (Hint: Notice the if and the condition that follows.) 3. Read verses 26-27 and Colossians 2:2. What is the mystery Paul is referring to? What does this mystery mean to you personally? 4. Read verse 28. What does it mean for us to be complete in Christ? What practical implications does this have in your life? How does this help you avoid distractions? 5. Read verse 29 and react to this statement: It's not legalism to labor and strive according to God's power at work within me. 6. Read Colossians 2:2. In your own words, explain what is the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding. 7. Read Colossians 2:6. What attitude or approach did we have at salvation? How can we walk in that same approach today (after we're saved)? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1258/29

Discussion Questions for Colossians 1:22-2:6: Read verse 22 and react to this statement: I am reconciled to God and holy and blameless forever. Read verse 23. How does this passage respond to those who twist the meaning of this passage to promote a universal salvation? (Hint: Notice the “if” and the condition that follows.) Read verse 26-27 and Colossians 2:2. What is the mystery Paul is referring to? What does this mystery mean to you personally? Read verse 28. What does it mean for us to be complete in Christ? What practical implications does this have in your life? How does this help you avoid distractions? Read verse 29 and react to this statement: It's not legalism to labor and strive according to God's power at work within me. Read Colossians 2:2. In your own words, explain what is “the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding.” Read Colossians 2:6. What attitude or approach did we have at salvation? How can we walk in that same approach today (after we're saved)?

·      Colossians 2:13-15 - 13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. ·       3 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh…  ·       …God made you alive with Christ. ·       He forgave us all our sins… ·       …having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness… ·       …which stood against us and condemned us… ·       John 3:17 – For God did not send his son into world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.  ·       He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.  ·       15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities… ·       …he made a public spectacle of them… ·       …triumphing over them by the cross. ·       Which side will you choose? Group Discussion Questions Starter Question: Have you ever felt like you were forced to choose sides?  What was that like for you? Go Deeper: 1.    Genesis 3:1-7 2.    How would you describe Satan's tactics based on this passage? 3.    Read Matthew 4:1-11 4.    This passage points to a direct attack by Satan.  What do you learn about Satan's temptations based on this passage? 5.    Read Romans 8:3-6 6.    According to this passage, why does the old law with its rules and regulations fail?  What is required for a truly changed life? 7.    Read Colossians 2:13-15 8.    The death of Jesus on the cross paid our sin debt, wiped out the old covenant of law, and defeated Satan.  In your opinion, why could Satan not see what the death of Jesus would accomplish?

In this message, Mark turns the conversation about peacemaking to creation. Exploring scriptures and quotes from theologians, this sermon seeks to move us into a restorative relationship with Creation. www.thevineaustin.org REFLECTION QUESTIONS: 1. What is your favorite landscape? 2. Why is a consumeristic relationship with nature problematic and opposite the way of Jesus? 3. What is something from the sermon that has stayed with you- either as an encouragement, confusion, or frustration? 4. Read Colossians 1:15-16, 19-20. How do these verses frame our understanding of Jesus and Jesus' mission? 5. Discuss Romans 8:19-23. How do you see mutuality and the calling for peacemakers? 6. What is a practice you are considering in response to the call to make peace within creation?

We've analyzed and reacted to sermons in the past together, now it's your turn to analyze one of mine! Read Colossians 2:6-15 with me and analyze my treatment of the text (as good Bereans). I pray this blesses you :)Join my awesome Patreon community: www.patreon.com/WiseDiscipleAccess exclusive discounts to Logos Bible Software: www.logos.com/WiseDiscipleGet your Wise Disciple merch here: https://bit.ly/wisediscipleWant a BETTER way to communicate your Christian faith? Check out my website: www.wisedisciple.orgOR Book me as a speaker at your next event: https://wisedisciple.org/reserve/​​​Got a question in the area of theology, apologetics, or engaging the culture for Christ? Send them here: https://wisedisciple.org/ask/​

We as Americans face a big problem today- loneliness. Today we will talk about one of the ways we as Christ followers can tackle loneliness through the extension of phileo love. Group Questions 1. In what ways have you experienced phileo love? 2. Have you experienced loneliness? How were you able to come out of it?3. What part of John 15:12-17 stands out to you?4. How can you help others experience phileo love within the church? How about outside of the church, to someone who does not YET believe in Christ?5. Read Colossians 3:12-17. How are you living this out? 6. Where do you need to offer forgiveness to one of your brothers or sisters in Christ? Or, where do you need to ask for forgiveness?Challenge: Allow God to use you. Find a moment where you can extend phileo love to someone who seems to be alone. 

Discussion Questions:Scripture MemoryOur church-wide scripture memory this year will be selected passages from Ephesians. This is a great opportunity to dive deep into the goodness God has for us from Paul's letter. Sermon OverviewThe main idea of this week's sermon was to praise God for the finished redemption of His people and the future reunion of all things. Digging Deeper    1.    According to vs 7, what do we have in Christ?[1] 2.    How did we get it?[2] 3.    The Bible describes a way to look at what you've done wrong and deal with it by being forgiven through Jesus' blood. Without Christ, how does the world address wrongs that have been done? 4.    Why is Jesus' forgiveness through his blood better than any solution the world provides? 5.    How can you grow in enjoying the forgiveness you have in Christ? 6.    According to vs 10, God will restore all things to their intended perfection. Why is this exciting for someone who has been forgiven? Why is it terrifying for anyone who isn't forgiven?[3] 7.    Read Colossians 1:15-20 aloud. How does this parallel passage clarify or add to Ephesians 1:10? Take It Home 1.    Are there circumstances in your life that can tempt you to lose hope / be discouraged. How might a greater awareness of (and reflection on) the future that awaits us (because of what Christ has done), help you fight the good fight of faith in this area of your life? 2.    What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week's sermon and discussion?Prayer Requests [1] Ephesians: Your Place in God's Plan by Richard Coekin, pg. 10.[2] Ephesians: Your Place in God's Plan by Richard Coekin, pg. 10.[3] Ephesians: Your Place in God's Plan by Richard Coekin, pg. 11._____________________________Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Rich Kolmus brings the message, "Our All-Sufficient Christ."  Do we need some new things for the New Year? New Year, New You!  Every year millions of people make New Year's resolutions in an attempt to improve their lives.  As we reflect on 2023 and think to the new year ahead, what will we need to love God like we ought?  Paul, writing to the Colossians and Laodiceans, shares exactly what we all need.  Read Colossians 2 and join us on Sunday to learn Paul's "not so secret" formula (hint: there is only one ingredient... and his name is Jesus).

PROCESSING QUESTIONS> Do you feel like peace is one of ‘those things' in life you constantly chase but rarely seem to catch up with?> Why do you think this is the case?> Where are you struggling to find peace with God, within yourself, and with others?> Why is it difficult to admit that you have a heart problem?> How have you been tempted to live more for the glory of self than the glory of God?> What captures your time and attention more than God?> How do you typically handle disruptions to your peace?> What does the way you respond to disruptions say about your level of peace?> Your need for peace?Read Colossians 3:12-15 together> How is the ‘peace of Christ' different from how you typically think of peace?> What does it offer?> Why is it different?> How can you begin to let the peace of Christ rule in your heart?> What would change in your life?> What should change to experience this peace?> How can you personally pursue peace right now, this week, that will sustain you?> How can you help bring peace to someone's life today (this week)?

The Humble King 1 of 4 from December 3rd, 2023 "Our attitude is shaped by Jesus' selflessness and love." Philippians 2:1-4 by Devon Fox QUESTIONS

Are you ready to uncover the profound implications of your new identity and new life in Christ? In this message, I challenge some long-held traditions and address thought-provoking questions that will shed light on your true identity in Christ. Get ready to explore: * how the resurrection shapes your righteousness * why you should reject the false die to self theology * the difference between a new heart versus mind renewal * why self is not a dirty word for the Christian Discover the freedom, joy, and confidence that comes from understanding the life-changing power of your new identity in Christ! Discussion Questions for 101 Bible Questions New Identity, New Life: 1. Why is the resurrection of Jesus essential to our new identity? 2. Read Romans 4:25 and Galatians 3:21 and react to this truth: Jesus was raised to make you righteous, and you have an imparted-life righteousness. 3. Read Colossians 3:3-4. What does Christ is our life mean to you? 4. Why is it so important to reject the die to self theology? What should we believe instead? 5. Read Romans 6:17. What does this say about your heart? Why is this a big deal? 6. Read Romans 12:2 and react to this statement: You need renewing of the mind, not the heart. 7. Read John 3:30. What is John the Baptist really talking about? Are you in God's way? 8. React to this statement: Self is not a dirty word for the Christian, because you're the new self. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1258/29

RATE! REVIEW! FOLLOW! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Colossians 1:24-2:5 (NLT) § Colossians 1:24-29 § Paul was tasked with bringing the Good News all over the world. God wanted people to know that Salvation was for everyone, Jew and Gentile alike! § The secret, that had been kept hidden for "centuries and generations" is this: Christ lives in you! □ Read Romans 8:10-13 □ Read Colossians 3:11 § "…warning everyone and teaching everyone…" □ It is our duty to go out and tell people about Jesus ® Read Matthew 28:18-20 □ We were saved by grace through faith for good works (Ephesians 2:8-10) ® We have this good news, this secret- we know about the riches and glory of Christ…are you talking about it? Are you sharing your faith? Are you taking your faith with you into every setting you go into? ® How can we set back and watch the world, God's creation, burn, and not tell someone the secret- that Christ lives in you! That we are God's masterpiece! That Christ died for you to put you back into right relationship with the Father! So that you could be called holy and righteous! □ We are called to love God and love people, and the most loving thing we can do for someone is tell them about Jesus! § Colossians 2:1-5 § …I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love… □ Read 1 Peter 1:22- "You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other with all your heart." § …I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God's mysterious plan, which is Christ himself……so that no one will deceive you with well-crafted arguments □ Read 1 Corinthians 2: 7-16 § Paul mentions the church at Laodicea □ This is the church that in Revelations 3, John writes the church a letter on behalf of Christ ® Read Revelations 3: 14-22 □ I leave you with the reminder: live as you should and make sure your faith in Christ is strong --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

Are you ready to uncover the profound implications of your new identity and new life in Christ? In this message, I challenge some long-held traditions and address thought-provoking questions that will shed light on your true identity in Christ. Get ready to explore: how the resurrection shapes your righteousness why you should reject the false “die to self” theology the difference between a new heart versus mind renewal why “self” is not a dirty word for the Christian Discover the freedom, joy, and confidence that comes from understanding the life-changing power of your new identity in Christ! Discussion Questions for “101 Bible Questions” – New Identity, New Life: Why is the resurrection of Jesus essential to our new identity? Read Romans 4:25 and Galatians 3:21 and react to this truth: Jesus was raised to make you righteous, and you have an imparted-life righteousness. Read Colossians 3:3-4. What does “Christ is our life” mean to you? Why is it so important to reject the “die to self” theology? What should we believe instead? Read Romans 6:17. What does this say about your heart? Why is this a big deal? Read Romans 12:2 and react to this statement: You need renewing of the mind, not the heart. Read John 3:30. What is John the Baptist really talking about? Are you in God's way? React to this statement: Self is not a dirty word for the Christian, because you're the new self.

RATE! REVIEW! FOLLOW! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Colossians 1:15-23 (NLT) § Colossians 1:15-20 § Supreme- "highest in rank or authority"; "highest in degree or quality" § To affirm the supremacy of Christ, is to affirm that Jesus is God (which is what we Christians profess; the triune God: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit) § The first 5 chapters of the Book of Hebrews speaks on the Superiority of Christ □ Read Hebrews 1:1-4 □ Read Colossians 2:9 □ Read John 1:1-5, 14 § Jesus is fully God! He is not just a good man or teacher or prophet, or even simply a man made greater than the rest of mankind, but Jesus is Truly above all creation, as only God can be! § Christ is supreme over everything! □ Matthew 28:18, Jesus says, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.” □ Read Philippians 2:6- "Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to." □ Read Hebrews 9:11-12 § Colossians 1:21-23 § Verse 20: "He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth…" § We were once enemies of God, but He has now reconciled us back to Himself □ Read Romans 5:10-11 § In verse 23, Paul gives us our charge, and its one I will leave you with today: "But we must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don't drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News." --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! REVIEW! FOLLOW! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com • Colossians Background ○ Paul is the author of Colossians ○ Paul did not visit the Church at Colossae personally, because he was on house arrest in Rome when he wrote this letter (AD 60-63) [Acts 28:16-31] ○ Likely written around the same time Paul wrote the letter to Philemon and to the Ephesians ○ The Church at Colossae was predominantly a Gentile church ○ The faith of the new converts was being distorted and perverted by Greek mystery religions and mysticism as well as being threatened by some Jewish laws and customs. ○ Evidently, Epaphras had brought word to Paul of these heretical things that had begun to infiltrate the church. (Timothy had also evangelized in this city) ○ Paul's purpose behind this letter is to urge the Colossians to preserve true doctrine in the church regarding the sufficiency and supremacy of Christ. ○ The Letter to the Colossians also provided a practical theology for everyday living and growth in the faith. • Read ○ Colossians 1:1-14 (NLT) § Colossians 1:1-8 § Paul starts off by encouraging them…we have heard of your faith in Christ…..which comes from your confident hope. □ Paul reminds them of what they already know- that God has treasures reserved for us in heaven. □ Read 2 Corinthians 3:7-11 § I want to point out briefly two things: □ Verse 6: It [the Good News] is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives… ® Read: Acts 8:4-"But the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went." ® Read: Romans 10:17-"So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ." ® Read: Hebrews 10:14-"For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made perfect." □ Verse 8: …about the love for others that the Holy Spirit has given you. ® Remember Galatians 5:22-23 ® Love is a fruit of the Spirit, that we cannot fully possess and bare without Him § Colossians 1:9-14 § Paul mentions some of the prayers he, Timothy, and likely others, have been praying for the Colossians: □ Ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will □ Give you spiritual wisdom and understanding ® We need knowledge of God's will, spiritual wisdom and understanding to live lives that …always honor and please the Lord…produce every kind of good fruit…while learning to know God better and better □ That you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have the endurance and patience you need with joy § Verses 12-14, Paul reminds them [and therefore us] of God's grace and mercy Reread verses 12-14 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

Values, 2 of 7 from September 3rd, 2023 “WE PUT JESUS FIRST. We center everything on His love and grace because He alone has set us free.” By Michael Lockstampfor (@miklocks) QUESTIONS

Discussion Questions As a child, what are the first Bible stories you remember? Has your view of those stories changed at all? What has made the Bible challenging or difficult for you to read? What are some habits or practices that have made it more accessible? Read Colossians 1:15–20. How does this passage connect to Tim Mackie's quote of the Bible being a unified story that leads to Jesus? How do we recognize the whole Bible? Why do you think it is important for Christians to read the Bible or have an understanding of the whole Bible?

RATE! REVIEW! FOLLOW! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Galatians 5:22-23 ○ 1st and foremost, remember that these Fruits of the Spirit are all characteristics of God • Gentleness ○ Gentleness- the quality of being kind, tender, or mild-mannered; softness of action or effect ○ An exert from a devotional by Lauren Abraham: ○ A common misconception is that gentleness is weakness or passivity. True gentleness, however, is just the opposite. It requires great strength and self-control. Gentleness comes from a state of humility. Therefore, someone who lacks gentleness is often prideful and easily angered, or feels the need for revenge. (From ) ○ Gentleness is the humble and meek attitude of wanting to help others instead of wanting to be superior to them- an attitude that flows from a spirit of real love. ○ (Humility- a modest or low view of one's own importance.) ○ God's gentleness is characterized by love, grace, mercy and judgement. • Gentleness demonstrated by Jesus ○ Read Luke 5:27-31 ○ Read Luke 6: 35-36 ○ Read Luke 10:30-37 ○ Read John 8:1-11 • What about Us? ○ Read Philippians 2:1-8 ○ Read Philippians 4:5- Let your gentleness be evident to all. The LORD is near. ○ Read Colossians 3:12-13 ○ Read Galatians 6:1-2 Hebrews 13:8- Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! SHARE! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com  Show Notes: ○ Galatians 5:22-23 ○ 1st and foremost, remember that these Fruits of the Spirit are all characteristics of God • Kindness ○ Kindness- the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate; the quality of being generous, helpful and caring about other people ○ Read Isaiah 63:7-9 ○ Read Ephesians 1:7-8 NLT ○ Read Ephesians 2:4-7 NLT ○ Kindness requires intentionality. We must constantly choose to shift our minds from ourselves to looking for the needs of others. ○ Read Matthew 5:44-48 NLT ○ Look at Jesus's ministry on earth, He was Kind ○ In John 4, we see a familiar passage, Jesus talking with the Samaritan Woman ○ Jesus disregarded some of the social rules at that time: § During that time and in that culture, women were seen as inferior to men § Jews and Samaritans hated each other because Jews believed that Samaritans had betrayed their faith because they had intermarried with foreigners § No self-respecting man, let alone a teacher, would ever speak to a woman with a reputation like the woman we see Jesus talking to at the well ○ But Jesus was Kind. He saw a woman, in need of something that she could not attain for herself…living water § Read John 4:7-14 ○ Jesus did not sugarcoat her current situation…she was a woman who had been married and divorced (men divorced the women) 5 times, and was currently with a man who she was not married to. ○ Despite that, Jesus was Kind. He did not condemn her, but rather He showed her that what she really needed was a right relationship with God § Read John 4:21-26 ○ In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas are speaking to a group of people who, after seeing them heal a man who had been lame since birth, thought they were Zeus and Hermes. Paul after hearing this says: ○ Read Acts 14:14-17 ○ Read Romans 2:2-4 ○ Read Romans 11:22 ○ Read Colossians 3:12-17 I challenge you to consider God's kindness to you, and to imitate Christ and show kindness to others, not just the people we know and like --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! SHARE! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Galatians 5:22-23 ○ "Peace" in the New Testament: § Peace as the absence of war or chaos § Peace as a right relationship with God § Peace as a good relationship among people § Peace as an individual virtue or state, that is tranquility or serenity § Peace as part of a greeting ○ Peace as an individual virtue or state, that is tranquility or serenity § Under this type of "Peace" I want to highlight two types of situations □ Situations out of your control ® These are the storms that come into your life unprovoked that you don't see coming or can't do anything to stop ® Read Matthew 8:23-27 ◊ To experience peace in these types of situations, you have to take a step back and remember who God is and what He has promised you! ® Read Psalms 23 ® Read 1 Peter 5:7-"Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." ® Read John 14:27-""I am leaving you with a gift- peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid." ® Read Isaiah 26:3-"You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!" □ When you find yourself in a situation that you didn't see coming that tries to rob you of your peace, remember what Jesus said he would give us-peace! You have to choose to have faith and trust that God will fulfill his promises to you! □ Situations within your control ® These are the storms that you knowingly walk into ® Read Acts 27:9-44 (this is a long one) ® These storms are avoided using wisdom and discernment ◊ Read Proverbs 25:24-"Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife." ◊ Read Proverbs 27:12-"The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty." ◊ Read Proverbs 28:26-"Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe." ® Sometimes you may have to choose between doing what you want to do and having peace ○ A few other verses about peace to remember: § Read 2 Thessalonians 3:16 □ "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all." § Read Colossians 3:15 □ "And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful." § Read Romans 8:6 □ "So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace." § Read Proverbs 16:7 □ "When people's lives please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them." § Read 1 Peter 3:11 □ "Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it." § Read Philippians 4:6-7 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! SHARE! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Listen and enjoy! Show Notes: ○ Galatians 3:23-4:20 § Galatians 3:23-4:7 § Verses 23-25 □ From bible commentary (paraphrased): the law was never intended to justify sinners, rather as a guardian, the law was given as a standard to reveal human sinfulness and inadequacy (specifically apart from God). The role of a teacher is to instruct, protect, and correct, and while the law is still a teacher, Jesus is the Savior and the Holy Spirit, which is God's Spirit, now is our teacher Read John 14:26-"But the Advocate, The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." § Verses 26-29 & 4:1-7 □ We are now clothed in Christ, Covered! □ Read Colossians 2:11-12 □ Read Romans 8:14-17 (sound familiar?) □ Take some time to look up the promises of God, because as we have been talking about in this episode as well as in the last episode, we as believers are considered children of Abraham and more importantly, God's children and heirs of God, therefore all of the promises God made his children in the OT apply to you too! So go seek and find out what our Heavenly Father has to say in your personal devotion time with the Lord. § Galatians 4:8-20 § Read verses 8-12 in the NLT § The "them" that Paul is referring to is the same "them" from chapters 1 & 2- false believers who had come in and "infiltrated our ranks" (Gal. 2:4) teaching that salvation for the Gentiles meant circumcision and adherence to the Mosaic law. § Paul, a spiritual parent or father to the believers at the churches he helped establish on his missionary journeys, was worried about his children who he labored and worked for, both physically and spiritually § The Galatians who were being turned by these false teachers had lost the joy of their salvation, so whenever you feel confused or discouraged when it comes to your faith, always go back to what Jesus did when he died on the cross and the grace of God when he chose to let his Son be the sacrifice for all sin, putting us back in right standing with Himself --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! SHARE! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions: caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Listen and enjoy! Show Notes: § Galatians 2:1-10 (read in NLT) § Similarly to how chapter 1 ended, with Paul defending the fact that the gospel message he was preaching to the Gentiles came from God and not from man, not even the apostles, chapter 2 is a continuation of those thoughts ( to the audience: read chapters 1 and 2 together for better context when studying) § The last time Paul was in Jerusalem was 14 years previous, when he went to stayed with Peter for 15 days and also met with James, Jesus's brother (who wrote the Book of James which we did a series on) § Paul came back to Jerusalem because God revealed that he should go (a revelation) § He went and met with the church leaders to make sure that the message he had spent the last 14+ years preaching was in agreement with the gospel message the other apostles where preaching § In verse 4, Paul brings up how false believers came in to take away the freedom we have in Christ Jesus, and force us to follow their Jewish regulations (or the Old law) § Paul mentions how Peter is the apostle to the Jews while he is the apostle to the Gentiles, and that Peter, James and John consider Paul and Barnabas to be co-workers, encouraging them to keep preaching to the Gentiles § Galatians 2:11-21 (read in NLT) § Paul confronts Peter □ Paul publicly opposes Peter to his face (not behind his back) about the inconsistency and hypocrisy of Peter's actions towards the Gentiles. ® (We will get more into "holding ourselves and our brothers and sisters accountable later on in Galatians) ® Acts 15 is an account of another situation where Pharisees or legalists tried to say that the Gentile believers had to be circumcised and follow the law of Moses, and in Acts 15, Peter and James, saying the same thing that Paul says here in Galatians 2 ◊ (read Galatians 2:16) § Verses 20 & 21 □ Read Colossians 1:26-27 □ Read Ephesians 2: 4-10 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

REVIEW: “What did you take away from last time?” [Refer to the things you discussed last time.] "How did that go?” Read Colossians 2:6-13 D-Group Questions: 1. What “hollow and deceptive philosophies” based on human tradition and worldly principles do you see around you? What's the be benefit? Is there a downside? 2. How does the mercy of Jesus triumph over the world? 3. Where in your life do you His mercy? Where does it need to flow through you? RESPOND. Ask God, how can today's discussion further your relationship with God, one another, and the world? Pray together. [Record responses and prayer requests.]

Main Point: We grow in faith as we trust in God and are transformed by His truth.Questions:1. What impacted you from the message this weekend? What challenged you or encouraged you? How did the message impact your understanding of spiritual growth?2. What do you remember from last week? What does it mean, “What we behold we become”?3. How are love and trust related? Can you have one without the other? How is believing that God loves you related to your ability to trust God's transforming work in your life?4. Read Colossians 3:1-11. What words and ideas stick out to you in these verses? How do these verses relate to spiritual growth and transformation?5. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does Paul mean that Christians have been “raised with Christ”? What does he mean that Christians have “died”? How does being saved change the heart and mind's orientation?6. How does a Christian progressively change the orientation of the heart and the mind from earthly things to things above?7. Read Colossians 3:5-11. What practices does Paul list as being part of the earthly nature? What reason does he give for putting these things to death?8. What differences are there between the new self and the old self? What is the defining quality of the new self?9. Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. What role does Scripture play in spiritual transformation? How important is meditating on Scripture to spiritual transformation?10. Read Psalm 1:1-3. How does the Psalmist describe the person who meditates on God's word. What impact does it have on that person? How do you meditate on the Scripture?11. What is one thing you can do this week to put into practice what you learned in this message?

Main Point: We grow in faith as we trust in God and are transformed by His truth. Questions: 1. What impacted you from the message this weekend? What challenged you or encouraged you? How did the message impact your understanding of spiritual growth? 2. What do you remember from last week? What does it mean, “What we behold we become”? 3. How are love and trust related? Can you have one without the other? How is believing that God loves you related to your ability to trust God's transforming work in your life? 4. Read Colossians 3:1-11. What words and ideas stick out to you in these verses? How do these verses relate to spiritual growth and transformation? 5. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does Paul mean that Christians have been “raised with Christ”? What does he mean that Christians have “died”? How does being saved change the heart and mind's orientation? 6. How does a Christian progressively change the orientation of the heart and the mind from earthly things to things above? 7. Read Colossians 3:5-11. What practices does Paul list as being part of the earthly nature? What reason does he give for putting these things to death? 8. What differences are there between the new self and the old self? What is the defining quality of the new self? 9. Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. What role does Scripture play in spiritual transformation? How important is meditating on Scripture to spiritual transformation? 10. Read Psalm 1:1-3. How does the Psalmist describe the person who meditates on God's word. What impact does it have on that person? How do you meditate on the Scripture? 11. What is one thing you can do this week to put into practice what you learned in this message?

Put on, Put in, Put first! Read Colossians 3:12-17 Put on, Put in, Put first Let's Pray! Put Christlike Qualities ON V. 12-14 The word chosen ones is the word we get elect from, the word holy can also be translated as saints, as it is in Col. 1:2. The word beloved is in the perfect tense, meaning those whom God has already made beloved! A sight of God's glory humbles. The stars vanish when the sun appears. -Thomas Watson God will bless this church if we intentionally put off sinful speech and actions, and put on Christlike qualities. Our church will die if we keep pushing people away through unbiblical expectations and don't practice agape love. Put IN yourself the 3 S's V. 15-16 First, Put in God's Shalom (Peace) Second, put in Scripture. Third, put songs in. Put Jesus Christ first in all things V.17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him!

The Christian and Sexual Purity LOVE, TRUTH, HOPE. God put all those things in the Bible because of the very real and very present struggle Israel and then members of the early church had to be pure – the same struggle seen in our church and churches everywhere today! Read Colossians 3:5-7 The Christian and sexual purity Let's Pray! Every Christian is called to the “mortification” of their sexual sin V. 5 Last time we saw that believers are positionally dead to the sinful priorities they had when they were non-Christians. But because the old fleshly nature is still around, believers need to be practically killing sin every time it comes around. “You must always be a killin' sin, or sin will always be a killin' you.” -John Owen, On the Mortification of Sin The Greek word for sexual immorality is porneia (G 4202) – that includes any sexual satisfaction gotten outside of the marriage covenant of a husband and his wife, including the use of pornography, pre-marital sex and adultery. The Bible is clear that God's perfect plan is for 100% of human sexual satisfaction to come between a husband and his wife, with 0% tolerance for pornography, pre-marital sex, or adultery. Every non-Christian who refuses to repent is still heading for judgment V. 6 God allows turns to Him and U-turns back to Him V. 7

Goodbye Gaslighting – Hello Truthliving! Gaslighting is “the act or practice of grossly misleading someone especially for one's own advantage.” As I thought about the word gaslighting and the ways modern people are gaslighting others to believe their lies and call wrong and sinful things right, I thought about the best gaslighter, who was also the first gaslighter – Satan. Read Colossians 3:1-4 Goodbye gaslighting, hello truthliving! Let's Pray! If you are a believer, God says in today's passage that there really is a sense in which you died with Jesus on that cross, were buried with Jesus in that tomb, were raised back to life with Jesus, and already dwell with Jesus in Heaven. The believer's past death, burial and resurrection with Christ has given them a guaranteed positional status as a saint of Heaven V. 3 The believer's future is physically being with Jesus in glory V. 4 The believer's present is truthliving – increasingly matching our present walk with Christ up to our timeless position in Christ V. 1-2 Every time we as believers give in to sinful choices in response to the Devil's gaslighting lies, we cheat ourselves out of the abundant life Jesus wants us to experience not just in the future but in the present, the eternal now!

I Repeat: Only be Ruled by JESUS! Read Colossians 2:20-23 I repeat: Only be ruled by Jesus! Let's Pray! The death Christian believers have already experienced V. 20a But beyond physical death (the first death) and spiritual death (the second death), the Bible adds that believers have died to their pre-Jesus way of living. Before you became a Christian, you were dead to God's ways and alive to the world systems' ways – Jesus didn't matter to you at all. When you become a believer, your situation reverses – you become dead to the world system's ways and alive to God's ways – now Jesus is all that matters to you! “Don'ts” didn't save you and “don'ts” won't sustain you V. 20b-22 Every generation has wise guy teachers that give you extra legalistic ways to obey God's simple and beautiful instructions in Scripture. Inevitably those teachings wind up doing harm to many people. My point IS that in many areas we gravitate toward legalistic checklists in religion rather than what biblical discipleship is – a long walk together with fellow believers as we become faithful and fruitful followers of Jesus Christ. The real problem when shallow legalism replaces real discipleship V. 23 The real problem with shallow legalism and rigid checklists is that they don't work in helping you be a faithful and fruitful follower of Jesus Christ! Are you going to be ruled by Jesus and His biblical expectations of you, or ruled by others unbiblical and/or extrabiblical expectations of you? As your Pastor I am zealous for you and this church to keep the main thing the main thing! If you have been in the faith for 3 years or more, we should be talking together about the best way for us to impact the world for Christ!

I believe in YouAnd then I don'tI trust in YouThen I get scaredI waver and doubtI mess up and hideI don't cling to You like I shouldI rest in peaceAnd then I wake scaredI cry to YouThen I turn awayI stumble and fallI don't live like I know I shouldTake imperfect meKeep me close to You • Emily Acker.• Even when we give up on God, He never gives up on us (Luke 19:10; 2 Timothy 2:13). When we are doubting, He remains with us, always patient and merciful (Hebrews 13:5; Jude 1:22). How can these truths give us hope when we feel far away from God?.• Read Colossians 2:6-15. When we start to doubt God, how could it be helpful to look at Jesus and remember the good news of what He has done for us? (If you want to know more about this good news, check out our "Know Jesus" page)..• Throughout our lives, we all have questions, frustrations, and concerns about Christianity. Who are trusted Christians in your life you can talk to about these things?.Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIV)