GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: Paul writes his letter to the Colossians to encourage them to be sure that they have a correct picture of Jesus and are not being swayed with alternative views of who Jesus is or what it means to follow him. In particular, Paul clarifies that just as suffering was a significant part of Jesus' life on earth, it is often also a part of the lives of those who follow him. As his disciples, we should not run from the challenges that come from following Jesus, but should actually view them as a part of a thriving life and faith, seeing them as stepping stones to becoming fully mature in Christ.
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
What does Psalm 1 (our the guide to our “How to Thrive” theme this year) have to say about getting our picture of Jesus straight? How are we to do it?
Can you see any ways in which this teaching of getting our picture straight in Psalm 1 relates well to what Paul is teaching the Colossian church to do in this week’s passage?
Paul encourages the Colossian believers not to fall prey to the false teaching that suffering is not a sign of following Christ (1:24). Where do you see suffering at play in the lives of Christ followers today? What type of Christian suffering have you experienced?
Today’s passage calls us to pursue maturity in Christ. Can you identify one specific way you feel the Spirit is calling you to take a disciplined step in following Christ? Share this with the others in the group.
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life?
PRAYER
How can we pray for you as a group?
Next week: Colossians 2:6-23
