Sermon Discussion Questions
Sermon Title: Gospel Growth
Colossians 1:1-14
1. This book is written by Paul (along with Timothy) to a church in Colossae which he has never visited. It was likely started by Epaphras, who heard Paul preaching the gospel during his time in Ephesus. Yet Paul expresses deep thanksgiving for this church for which he is constantly in prayer. How might this change our own view of and heart for the global church?
2. In verses 3-5a Paul mentions three important words: faith, love and hope. The Colossians’ faith in Christ has brought love for all the saints, and these elements are grounded in their hope which is laid up in heaven. Faith, hope, and love are inextricably linked. How do these these three aspects of the Christian faith fuel one another? (Consider 1 Cor 13:13).
3. What does Paul mean when he says that the gospel is bearing fruit and increasing? Why is it important for him to reiterate this truth with the Colossians? How is it also important for us to hear today?
4. The book of Colossians is written not only to encourage the Colossian church in the gospel of Jesus Christ, but also to combat some form of false teaching which views the gospel as merely a starting point. These individuals would add to the gospel additional layers of knowledge and practice. How do the opening verses of Colossians remind us of the centrality of the gospel? How is Paul setting the stage for a book that focuses us on the person of Jesus Christ?
5. Verses 9-14 offer a beautifullly extensive list of qualities that come as a result of gospel transformation in the life of a believer. What are these characteristics that show gospel fruit?
6. Where have you seen the gospel increasing and bearing fruit this summer (in your own life or in the lives of others)? Have been struggling to trust that this message is alive and powerful?
7. Verses 12-14 articulate the gospel in terms of a deliverance from darkness to light through the powerful redemption of Jesus Christ. Spend some time praying for this message to continue to grow in our own lives, in our community group, in our families, in our church, and in our surrounding communities.
The book of Colossians is all about Jesus. Pray that we would not lose sight of him or stray from the message of the gospel. Pray that in the coming weeks, we would love and obey him more and more.