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Colossae
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Our Approach: Reading someone else’s mail—especially ancient letters—requires context, care, and completeness to avoid confusion and misapplication.

✉️ Colossians

Written by Paul to the church in Colossae, a city in what’s now Turkey. Paul had never visited this church—it was started by his friend Epaphras—so clear communication was key.

🧱 Section 1: The Supremacy of Jesus

Colossians 1:15–20 (NIV): The Son is the image of the invisible God… all things have been created through him and for him… He is before all things… and in him all things hold together…

Who is Jesus?

  • The visible image of the invisible God

  • The Creator and Sustainer

  • The Head of the Church

  • The One through whom all things are reconciled

🎯 Application: Because Jesus reigns supreme, we exalt Him in our worship and daily lives. There is no part of life outside His reign.

💥 Sections 2 & 3: Abiding in the Midst of Suffering and Overwhelm

Colossians 2:6–7 (NIV)

Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him…

Colossians 2:8 (NIV)

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy…

🧭 Key Lessons

  • In suffering: Remember Christ’s suffering. Let Him be your strength.

  • In confusion: Don’t get sidetracked by culture wars, conspiracy theories, or religious legalism. Stay rooted in Jesus.

🎯 Application: We’re called to abide in Jesus. Like popcorn stuck in your teeth, our connection to Christ should stick with us all day. That takes practice—saying no to distractions, refocusing our attention, and setting boundaries on what we let in.

🙌 Section 4: Practical Transformation

Colossians 3:12–17 (NIV)

Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience…
And whatever you do… do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus…

🔧 How do we live this out?

  • Forgive as you’ve been forgiven

  • Let love bind everything together

  • Let Christ’s peace rule your heart

  • Let His word dwell in you

  • Worship with gratitude

🎯 Application: Paul isn’t throwing out rules—he’s giving invitations. This is how transformation shows up practically: in your relationships, your heart, and your habits. At Arise, we say it this way: we’re created to connect, gather, grow, and serve.

Suggested Resources for Series

For Reflection

  • How does today’s message resonate with you?
  • What questions does this message raise for you?
  • What actions does this message encourage you to take?
  • How can you dig deeper into today’s message?

Remember: Jesus loves you right where you are, but He loves you too much to leave you there.

 

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