Reading Paul, Hearing Jesus (GEPC)
Colossians 1:1-14
Paul hears about the church in Colossae and writes them a letter. He wants to encourage the young Christian church there to remain true to what they had been taught, even though others may teach them differently.
Monday, July 21
Read Colossians 1:1-14. Paul has never visited Colossae. While Paul obviously doesn’t have the personal closeness to the people, is he distant? What is his prayer for the Colossian church? What is your prayer for other churches around you?
Tuesday, July 22
After reviewing Colossians 1:1-14, read Matthew 24:1-14. The gospel was being proclaimed “to all nations!” The people of Colossae had a church! What opposition did the church face as it bore fruit? What opposition do we face? How do we “endure?”
Wednesday, July 23
After reviewing Colossians 1:1-14, read Psalm 98. The world belongs to God. He chooses to use us to bring his salvation to the ends of the earth. What does your “new song” sound like today?
Thursday, July 24
After reviewing Colossians 1:1-14, read Matthew 7. Paul prays that the Colossian church would bear fruit in their good works. What does Jesus have to say about bearing fruit? What does it take to bear good fruit? Examine the source of your own life and your works.
Friday, July 25
After reviewing Colossians 1:1-14, read Matthew 5:13-20. We belong to the kingdom of light. According to Matthew 5, who is the light of the world? Where does that light shine? Give examples of how your light shines in the darkness. When do you tend to hide your light?
Saturday, July 26
After reviewing Colossians 1:1-14, read Matthew 17:1-13. We have been brought into “the Kingdom of the Son he loves.” We hear this language at the Transfiguration. Since this isn’t news to Jesus, how do these words benefit us?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com