Colossians for Beginners
Colossians 3:22-4:18
Teaching Strategy
This lesson is a continuation of Paul’s teachings on elements of Christian ethics established by Jesus. Of special note in this lesson is the elements of Christian standard as applied to society.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand Paul’s teachings of the pre-eminence of the teachings of Jesus.
- Feel: Recognize the pre-eminence of Jesus in how we interact with society.
- Do: Follow the teachings of Jesus for our salvation and faithfulness.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as "right or wrong" responses.
Answers will vary but look for responses indicating holy living, a thankful heart, and an orderly family.
Holy living – Applying the teachings of Jesus in how we live, especially sexual purity.
A loving nature – God is love (see also I John 4:7-8). Love of God and others from the heart as a faithful Christian.
A thankful heart – As we realize more about our salvation and God's love for us, we grow in our thankfulness and how we express it through our faithfulness.
An orderly family – We follow God's plan for how our family is structured and functions.
Each of these elements are of a personal nature as we, as saved individuals, work out our salvation.
As Christians, we live in various societies and bring others to the Lord from different backgrounds. This impacts how we are seen and interact in our societies. We must be seen as different from the world in order to better show Jesus.
Slaves (servants/workers) Fulfilling these roles from a position of humility and submissiveness. We do so as if serving God, which we truly do. We will be judged by our faithfulness to God, regardless of our role in society.
Masters – Masters (those in positions of influence and power) are to represent the characteristics of Christ to all, regardless of position. God requires us to have mercy if we are to receive mercy. Paul teaches, in other passages, that those in authority and influence will be held to a higher standard.
Paul encourages us to devote ourselves to a variety of elements. A key element is devotion – to make a focused effort to develop, grow in and express these elements. In doing so, we are better able to show our Lord to the world.
They are not to use his or their situation to withdraw from their role in growing in faithfulness and to continue in their efforts to show our Lord in truth. This is a fitting overall summary of the pre-eminence of Christ and how we are to have the focus of faithfulness to Christ in all things regardless of our situation or role.
As faithful Christians, we must grow to the point where we become Christlike in all facets of life.