Christ Above All: Colossians

Small Group Discussion Guide: Colossians 1 - "What's it Gonna Be?"

Opening Prayer:

"Gracious Father, we gather here today to seek your wisdom and guidance. Open our hearts and minds to the truth of your word as we study and discuss it together. Help us to grow in faith and love, and may our time spent together bring us closer to you and to one another. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."

Scripture Readings:

1. Colossians 1:1-14
2. John 1:12
3. Mark 16:15
4. Matthew 28:19
5. 1 Corinthians 15:14, 16-17

Discussion Topics and Related Questions:

1. Faithfulness vs. Part-Time Participation:
   - Question: What does it mean to be a faithful follower of Christ versus a part-time participant? Reflect on the statement, "A lot of Christians want great experiences with Jesus, but accomplish that with little to no fellowship with Him."
   - Follow-up: How can we ensure that our relationship with Christ is a priority in our daily lives?

2.The Object of Our Faith:
   - Question: Discuss the statement, "Faith and belief have no intrinsic value in itself. It is only as good as its object." How does this affect the way we approach our faith?
   - Follow-up: What are some practical ways to keep Christ as the central object of our faith?

3. Living and Proclaiming the Gospel:
   - Question: In what ways are we called to "know, teach, preach, speak, share, talk about, and live out the Gospel" (Mark 16:15)? Share personal experiences or examples.
   - **Follow-up:** How can we encourage each other to be more bold in living and sharing the Gospel?

4. Understanding Syncretism and Identity in Christ:
   - Question: Reflect on the statement, "Christianity is not a potluck - it is a relationship with Jesus Christ." What challenges do we face in maintaining a pure focus on our relationship with Him amidst differing beliefs?
   - Follow-up: How can we deepen our understanding of our identity in Christ to prevent syncretism?

5. The Supremacy of Christ:
   - Question: How do the passages from Colossians 1:15-20 and Hebrews 1:3 reinforce the understanding that "Jesus is God"? Why is this foundational to our faith?
   - Follow-up:*How does recognizing Christ's supremacy impact your daily decisions and the role He plays in your life?

Follow-Up Exercise:

- Personal Reflection: Throughout the coming week, set aside time each day to reflect on what it means to make Jesus the center of every decision. Journal your thoughts and any changes you notice in your daily walk with Him.

- Group Activity: As a group, choose one person with whom you will share the Gospel this month. Pray for each other’s chosen individuals and plan how you can support each other in this mission.

Closing Prayer:

"Lord, we thank you for the opportunity to gather and discuss your Word. May the insights we’ve gained today take root in our hearts and transform our lives. Help us to walk worthy of you, bearing fruit in every good work. Guide us in our efforts to share your Gospel and love with those around us. We ask all this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen."