The Heart Of The Matter
Around the table:
Do you find it more difficult to be kind when you’re suffering from hunger or when you’re suffering from exhaustion?
Read the summary for the Sunday sermon:
In this passage, Paul gets personal in his letter to the Colossians Christians. He highlights his suffering, which although difficult was still a source of rejoicing. He opens his heart, honestly admitting his struggle for them. He is prayerfully concerned that they would remain faithful amongst false teaching. He wants them to be clear about the revealed mystery, that the Gentiles through Christ, are brought into God's family. The mystery can be summarized in these seven words, "Christ in you, the hope of glory".
Read: Colossians 1:24-2:5
Discussion Questions:
How is it possible to rejoice in suffering? What perspective or foundation is needed to make it possible? (verse 24)
What does it mean to be a minister or a servant as Paul was? Who was he serving?
How does one make the word of God fully known? (verse 25)
How can we, as individuals, missional families, and a church, join in this ministry?
In verse 29, Paul writes about toiling, or struggling, with all Christ’s energy. Why is it essential to remember both the toil, as well as the fact that it is Christ’s power in us as we minister? What pitfalls might we encounter if we neglect either of those components?
How can we practically encourage one another this year to grow in our unity as a Missional Family and as a local church?
According to the scriptures, how does one grow in their understanding and knowledge of God’s truth?
What steps do you take to discern truth and avoid being deceived or deluded by the false ideas you might encounter in conversation, podcasts, books, etc.?
Prayer: As you go around the circle, have each person offer a simple one sentence prayer reflecting on this passage. Some ideas are:
God, help me learn to suffer well.
God, help me to not be lazy in serving you.
God, help me to rest in your power working in me.
God, help me to grow in my understanding and knowledge of your truth.
God, give our Missional Family and church unity.
