Bible Study

Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Col 3:18-4:1, Matt 20:20-28.

Sermon Series: Colossians

Sermon Notes

 “it is in the closest and most familiar relationships of daily living that the reality of one’s Christian profession will normally be manifest, if at all.” - F.F. Bruce

Paul's basic teaching to ancient households (those who know us best!) is to make Jesus the reference point in every relationship.

Practically this means that in every relational encounter, we ask this question: "Lord Jesus, how do I relate to this person, in this moment, in a way that pleases you?"

Paul also gives some specific instructions for various kinds of relationships:

"Wives, honor and respect your husbands"

"Husbands, love your wife with gentleness"

"Children, love your parents through freely chosen obedience"

"Parents, pursue patient relational investment"

"Employees, work hard... for Jesus"

"Employers/managers, you are accountable to the Lord"

Sermon Application

Discussion Questions:

Read 1 John 4:20. How does this relate to the quote by F.F. Bruce above?

Why is the marriage between two Christians not automatically a Christ-centered marriage? Practically, what might it look like to put Christ at the center of a marriage?

Discuss this quote in light of Colossians 3:22-25 - "The only Christian work is good work well done. Let the Church see to it that the workers are Christian people and do their work well, as to God: then all the work will be Christian work, whether it is church embroidery, or sewage farming." (Dorothy Sayers, Why Work)

In a relationship, if you feel like you're the only one "seeking to make Jesus the reference point" what might you do? What resources might you need?

Questions?

Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester ([email protected]).