The Grace Message

In this next installment of our “Complete in Christ” series, we explore redemption, reconciliation, and our full assurance in Christ. We uncover the mystery Paul refers to and address false teaching and universalism. We also reflect on the practical implications of being complete in Christ and what it means to labor and strive according to God’s power at work within us. Enjoy! Discussion Questions for Colossians 1:21-2:6: 1. Read verse 22 and react to this statement: I am reconciled to God and holy and blameless forever. 2. Read verse 23. How does this passage respond to those who twist the meaning of this passage to promote a universal salvation? (Hint: Notice the “if” and the condition that follows.) 3. Read verses 26-27 and Colossians 2:2. What is the mystery Paul is referring to? What does this mystery mean to you personally? 4. Read verse 28. What does it mean for us to be complete in Christ? What practical implications does this have in your life? How does this help you avoid distractions? 5. Read verse 29 and react to this statement: It’s not legalism to labor and strive according to God’s power at work within me. 6. Read Colossians 2:2. In your own words, explain what is “the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding.” 7. Read Colossians 2:6. What attitude or approach did we have at salvation? How can we walk in that same approach today (after we’re saved)?

Why do a variety of churches practice communion differently? Is church membership biblical? What does it mean to be not of this world? I argue with my friend about the Catholic view of transubstantiation. What are your thoughts? Why does God reference Able’s blood crying out? Are people who are murdered given another chance in the afterlife to repent and believe?

What does “a dog returns to its own vomit” mean? Did Did Peter, Paul and James have a law-based perspective in their writings at times? How should we view Matthew 18 in terms of church discipline? Was God’s wrath poured out on Jesus?

Do we go immediately to Heaven after we die? My brother committed suicide, and I wonder if he could have a second chance with God? Is suicide an unforgivable sin? How did Catholicism perpetuate this idea? What do you think of the Freemasons movement?

If God remembers our sins no more, are we judged for them? Why does James say to confess our sins to one another? For what reason if we’re already forgiven? Why doesn’t God just forgive and save everyone?

What does repent actually mean in Acts 2:38? I go to three churches, so do I need to tithe to all of them? What does Jesus mean when He says in Matthew 17 that they don’t have mustard-seed-sized faith? My wife wants to divorce me. What should I do?

What is the gift of tongues? I struggle with pornography and sexual fantasy. What can I do? I’ve been a worship leader for many years, but I’m frustrated with my church. How can we keep our worship organic and meaningful?

The book of Colossians is filled with transformative truths! Join me as we explore powerful and encouraging themes from Chapter 1 in the first part of our “Complete in Christ” series. We reflect on the secure hope and inheritance we have in Heaven, fully protected by God. We also delve into a more Jesus-centered view of God’s will and the inspiring result of knowing it. And we address the myth of needing to “put God first,” uncovering the freeing reality that everything is spiritual and Christ is our life in all things. I invite you to check out this message to deepen your understanding of your completeness in Christ! Discussion Questions for Colossians 1:1-20: 1. Read verse 5. What does it mean to you that your hope is laid up in Heaven, fully protected by God? What does it mean for your salvation? Your inheritance? 2. Read verse 6. React to this statement: The message of God’s grace is constantly bearing fruit all over the world. 3. Read verses 9-10. How does this passage inspire a more Jesus-centered view of “knowing God’s will”? What is God’s will? What is the result of knowing it? 4. Read verse 12. React to this statement: The Father has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints. 5. Read verse 13. What exactly do you think this verse is describing? So, what happened to you? And when? 6. Read verse 14. React to this statement: You already have both redemption and forgiveness in Christ. You don’t need to ask God daily for either one! 7. Read verses 16-17. What does it mean to you that Jesus Christ is your Creator? What does this say about His knowledge of you? 8. Read verse 18. React to this statement: Jesus already has first place in the church and in you. He is your life!

How can we best understand the rapture and the tribulation and the millennium? Are we still under the moral law? How does Jesus live through us? What is New Testament prophecy? Who are those with reprobate minds? Is God really slaying us in the Spirit? Are there new apostles today?

What is the purpose of the Mark 7 discussion on dogs eating crumbs from the table? What is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit? I’ve been a pastor for many years and have never taught tithing. Grace giving works!