The Colossians were infiltrated by false teachers who intended to misdirect the believers away from the foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. These teachers sought to enslave the Colossians with legalism and asceticism. But Paul teaches that true freedom comes from a mind set on things above and a willingness to put to death the things that are earthly in us. 

Here are some discussion questions to further guide your discussion:

• Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does Paul mean when he says “Seek the things that are above”? What’s the difference between setting our minds on things that are above vs. things that are on earth? How can we practically set our minds on/seek things above?

• What does it mean that the believer’s life is “hidden with Christ in God”? How does this fact change the way we ought to approach this life on earth? 

• Read Col. 3:5-11. Why do you think Paul says we should “put to death” earthly things rather than simply telling us to “stay away from them”? What are some “earthly things” in your life that you know you need to put to death or lay aside?

• Why might lying to one another about our sin keep us from actually getting rid of it? How do we tend to lie about sin? How does honesty create room for real relationships?

• Read Col. 3:12-17. How can we “let the peace of Christ rule (have authority) in our hearts”? What rules your heart now? What would it look like if peace ruled your heart?

• What does it mean to “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly”? What would it look like to teach and admonish each other? How might these things lead to thanksgiving?

• Pray together, asking God to help us seek the things that are above.