Colossians – Page 2 – Be Still…

Colossians 2:16-23 – Whose Rules?

the word RULES in a fancy blue block font with a shiny light effect

Have you ever lamented over all the rules you have to follow? There are best etiquette techniques involving place settings, curfews, and speed limits, to name a few. Then we can look spiritually and never forget the 10 Commandments or the rest of the law God gave Moses in the book of Deuteronomy. While the world’s rules can limit us and direct us, God’s rules empower us for service and loving others.

We’re not to be condemned for living the way God desires. Paul says it plain as day. He also alludes to the fact that Jesus radically changed the rules. For Gentiles not familiar with the ways of the Jews and the rich history of being in relationship with God, this was terrific news. They didn’t have to worry about a lot of ritualistic behaviors. There is freedom in Jesus for everyone!

Colossians 2:6-15 – Dead or Alive?

Read Colossians 2:6-15

Paul knows Christ-filled living is not easy. He wants to encourage us with these verses. Believing and trusting in Jesus is the difference between whether we’re dead or alive. That’s the message Paul is confirming for this new congregation.

Being a Christ follower is not for the faint of heart. Paul gives us a concrete example of what we can do to be strong. “Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him.” What an illustration. Can you picture yourself being built on Jesus? What does that look like?

Colossians 1:24-2:5 – Kept Secret for Centuries

Read Colossians 1:24-2:5

black and white picture of a man holding up his index finger as if to say be quiet

What is the secret? Paul says this about it, “And this is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory.” If I was hearing this for the first time, my first question would be, “How does it work to have Christ inside me?”

If that’s your question, too, Paul doesn’t get into those details here. But in 1 Corinthians 6:19, Paul’s counsel in another setting speaks to the Holy Spirit, a person of the trinity with Jesus. “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself.” Take a moment to reflect on what shape your temple is in to host God himself!

Colossians 1:15-23 – Being Second

Read Colossians 1:15-23

Jesus is first in everything. We read that in today’s passage along with a list of the attributes that make Jesus supreme. That’s a great word, “supreme.” It conjures up all sorts of images for us in our society from a pizza loaded with toppings to a singer from a popular girl group “back in the day.” For our purposes, let’s take Google’s definition, “superior to all others.” That’s who Jesus is.

Are you content being in second place? There is so much focus on being the “best” or #1, especially for sports teams. As you may already know, I’m a huge Green Bay Packers fan. You’ll almost always see someone in the crowd with a big foam finger signifying the coveted “#1”. We’re driven, maybe even pushed, into striving for the top position of whatever group or association we’re part of. Why is that? Don’t we know who is truly supreme?

Colossians 1:1-14 – Paul’s Prayer

Read Colossians 1:1-14

Bible opened with folded hands on top of the Bible

Did you catch how Paul acknowledged the audience? The people of Colosse are introduced as holy and faithful brothers and sisters. What a high honor Paul uses in greeting them. How would someone introduce you and your character?

Interesting to note, Paul had never visited Colosse. The church was founded by someone Paul had converted elsewhere. As often happens, young churches are easily infiltrated by unhealthy trends. It is my understanding the Colossians have been combining elements of paganism and secular philosophy with Christian doctrine. Paul and Timothy write to nip that in the bud so the people can get back on the right track. The timeless truths of this letter focus on the sufficiency and supremacy of Christ.