GOD GAVE ME EVERYTHING I NEED TO LOVE EVERYONE I MEET. (Colossians 3:12-17)
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SERMON NOTES:
Gospel Clothes (part 2)
Colossians 3:12-17
God gave me everything I need to love everyone I meet.
He gave me…
A new identity. (12a, 13b)
Gospel clothes. (12-14)
Gifts of grace. (13,15-17)
Are you opening God’s gifts?
study questions:
Gospel Clothes (part 2)
Colossians 3:12-17
1. Read verses 12-13. Notice the true statements throughout these verses. What is true about our identity in Christ? What does it mean to be “chosen ones” (Rom. 8:33-35)? What does it mean to be “holy” (1 Peter 2:9)? You are also “beloved” (1 Thes. 1:4). Finally, you are “forgiven” (Col. 2:13-14). Why does Paul, led by the Spirit of God, write these for us? Now look at the list of “Gospel Clothes” we are to put-on. How has God demonstrated each attribute toward you?
2. Read verse 13 again. God acknowledges that people can be hard to love in this verse. Even non-sinful habits or mistakes can be annoying. What does it look like then to “bear” or “forebear” with someone? What complaints often arise around you? It is easy to find things that don’t go your way. Why is God’s solution to difficulties in relationships so good? How is it based on the gospel?
3. Read verse 14. The primary article of “Gospel Clothes” is love. Why? Why is love like a glue that harmonizes people together? In order to grasp the importance of love, think about its absence. What is a friendship like without love? A marriage? A family? A church? Those relationships would crumble fast! How can you “put on” love every day? Why is God’s love toward you so important (1 John 4:19)?
4. Read verses 15-16. God offers us the “peace of Christ” and “word of Christ” and expects them to reside in our hearts. What are they? What does a heart filled with peace and His Word look like according to Paul (teaching, singing, thankfulness etc.)? Does that describe your day so far?
5. Read verse 17. Look at all the times Paul tells us to be thankful in verse 15 - 17. Why is thankfulness commanded of us? Why is gratefulness a natural overflow of the gospel? In verse 17, is there any scenario or activity we should do in “our own name?” Why? What is the difference between volunteering at the homeless shelter in your name and doing so in Jesus’ name?
6. So what? What is one thing from this passage that applies to your life today?