January 8, 2023

Paul likely wrote his letter to the believers at Colossae around AD 61-62 while he was under house arrest in Rome. He wrote to counter false teaching and to encourage growth toward Christian maturity.

Study the Word: Our view of Jesus Christ affects everything else in life.  When we see Him as worthy of all praise and devotion, we are motivated to please Him.

Key Truth: Believers keep growing in knowing and living out God's will (Colossians 1:9-14). In order to glorify God, our lives should be marked by fruitful good works and an increasing understanding of God and His will.

Key Truth: Christ is preeminent over all creation (Colossians 1:15-20). We worship and work for Jesus because He is God the Creator, Sustainer, and Savior of the universe.

Key Truth: Christ died to reconcile us to God (Colossians 1:21-23). While our wicked works made us God's enemies, Christ's death made us saints, at peace with God.

Family Connection: Continue the discussion after church! We should live in ways that are worthy of Christ as Lord; what does that mean to you? How can we grow in the knowledge of God's will? In what area of your life can you live more for Jesus?