Reading Paul, Hearing Jesus (GEPC)
Colossians 1:15-23
Nothing is greater than Christ. Nothing. Apparently there was some competition for
Christ in Colosse. Paul puts that to rest in our reading for this week. Jesus is supreme.
Stand firm in him.
Monday, July 28
Read Colossians 1:15-23. Who is Jesus? Why do you think Paul needs to hit this so hard? How are you tempted to place Jesus in a position other than supreme? What takes his place?
Tuesday, July 29
After reviewing Colossians 1:15-23, read John 1:1-18. We usually think of God the Father as creator of all things. Why is it helpful for us to see Jesus in that role too? What does it mean to you to have the creator of everything become his creation for us?
Wednesday, July 30
After reviewing Colossians 1:15-23, read John 8:31-59. Put yourself in the position of the Jews debating Jesus. How do you react when Jesus says “before Abraham was born, I am!” What claims of Christianity sound unbelievable to others? How do you communicate these things?
Thursday, July 31
After reviewing Colossians 1:15-23, read Ephesians 4. We all have a role to play in the body of Christ. Who is the head? What does it mean on a practical day-to-day basis for Jesus to lead the church?
Friday, August 1
After reviewing Colossians 1:15-23, read Ephesians 2. We were enemies of God. We were dead in our transgressions and sins. How have we been reconciled? How do we hold on to that reconciliation?
Saturday, August 2
After reviewing Colossians 1:15-23, read Acts 4. Paul encourages the Christians in Colosse to be steadfast and immovable in their hope. How do we see that in Peter and John. What situations do you face where you need to make a similar stand?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com