Colossians for Beginners
Colossians 2:15-23
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is on the gospel message accomplished by the cross of Christ. Of special note in this lesson Paul’s continued admonition to not be pulled away from the core teaching of the cross.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand Paul’s teachings of the pre-eminence of the teachings of Jesus.
- Feel: Recognize the pre-eminence of the teachings of Jesus over all other religious doctrines.
- 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.
- Jesus is pre-eminent in our relationship with God – Jesus only is our link to God, not angels or any other being or philosophy.
- The doctrine of Christ – Belief in Christ unlocks the mystery of heavenly wisdom and knowledge, especially knowledge of God's plan for our salvation.
- Other religions, especially Judaism – Our baptism in Christ destroys the old man and identifies us as God's people. Religious rights, traditions, and ceremonies, specifically circumcision cannot save us. Of special interest is that this issue of circumcision was address in Acts 15 with the Jerusalem Council, but it continued to be an issue. In a similar way, as we bring others to Christ, they bring with them the teachings they have from their past. Be aware that it might take a while to replace these with the complete truth of God's word.
Answers will vary but look for statements conveying the truth that the victory of Jesus through the cross destroyed sin, gives us eternal life, and that no man-made religions or traditions could accomplish.
The Judaizers continued to insist on keeping the traditions and practices of the Old Law and Judaism. They claimed a false authority over the simple and all-encompassing message of salvation by grace through faith. The imagery used by Paul is a judge – a ruler similar to the leaders from the book of Judges (not a "judge" as we interpret the role today.).
The true prize of freedom from condemnation granting us an eternal relationship with God. God grants us a superior level of spirituality through Christ. Man's philosophies and desires cannot give us a relationship with God. In truth, they interfere with our relationship with God.
The only true source of authority and spiritual growth is God Himself through Christ.
We must be careful of false teachers who continue to use the same practices as those trying to weaken our faith as was happening with the Colossians and others in the first century church. Paul and Peter both gave strong warnings in other letters (Ephesians 6:10-18; I Peter 5:8-9; II Peter 2).
Because of the pre-eminence of Jesus and the doctrine of the cross, we can be confident in our salvation. We must be on guard to let no one rob us of the joy of our salvation.