Big Idea

Christ is in you, so live in Christ.

Scripture

Colossians 3:1-14, John 14:1-4, John 14:15

Ice Breaker and Opening Thought

1. Do you have any special hobbies or favorite pastimes?
2. In the book of Colossians, Paul is writing a letter to the Christ-followers in the city of Colossae. They had sort of gotten off track, and Paul is writing them to help them course-correct and mature in their faith. So, he begins his letter in chapter one by reminding them what and who needed to be at the center of their lives: Jesus! The whole life of a Christ-follower centers on Jesus. He is to be GREATER THAN anything or anyone else in our lives. What helps you focus on a life with Jesus?

Bible Discussion

3. Read Colossians 3:1-14. How are we made different through living in Christ?
4. Read John 14:1-4 and 14:15. For what was Jesus preparing, and how do you see him preparing?

Life Application

The reality is we can’t really be an apprentice of Jesus until we understand that He is greater than anything else in our life. We need to decide every day to give our full allegiance to Him. And when we choose to follow Him, it changes the way we live.

5. “What does it look like to live an authentic, Christ-following life?”

If you are a Christ-follower, you already belong to Jesus. Your identity is found in Him. Not your job. Not your finances. Not even your family. Your identity, your label, is first and foremost that you belong to and are loved by Jesus. You are united with Him! In her book, On Purpose for a Purpose, Shelley Hendrix states, “We do not behave out of our identity, we behave out of our understanding of our identity in Christ”.

6. When we understand who we are, it changes how we live. But let’s be honest, far too often our label doesn’t match our lives. What is something you struggle with but just can’t seem to overcome? A virtue you aspire to which you have struggled to achieve?
7. Read Ephesians 4:31-32. Ask yourself: Am I compassionate toward people in need? Does kindness permeate my relationships with my neighbors? Am I humble as I work through challenges in my marriage or other significant relationships? Am I gentle and patient when dealing with difficult people? What steps can you take this week?