Pastor Matt reminded us that the gifts we have been given, in Jesus, are not meant to be hoarded – they're meant to be shared, in order to bear fruit for God's Kingdom.
MY STORY
What has been the most wonderful, tangible gift you've ever received? What was your heart posture towards it when you found out what it was? How did you end up using it?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison — that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person (Colossians 4:2-6)
What is Paul telling the Colossians to rely on? What should be their hearts' stance towards it?
For what is Paul asking? What doors would you like to see God open for you?
Who is Paul describing as "outsiders"? Why does the way we speak with them matter to God?
Give an example of speech that "seasoned with salt. " Give an example of communication seasoned with "Carolina Reaper Ghost Pepper" flakes.
Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here. I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. (Colossians 4:7-9, 18)
What were the characteristics or roles of each of the brothers or sisters known by the Colossians?
What does Paul encourage the Colossians to do in regard to these spiritual siblings?
Why does Paul want his readers to "remember his chains?" For what hardship do you want others to remember in prayer for you?
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passage and the questions above, what "takeaways" do you think God has revealed to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
What are your gifts or special talents? What empowers you to use them well?
What obstacles do you face in exercising them?
How can we use those to draw people closer to Jesus?
Who needs to be encouraged (by your gifts) in your circle of influence?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit's leading, call us to?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Think about your interaction with others who think differently than you. How can you season your speech toward them in such a way that they are honored, and so is God?
How can you get non-Christians to tell you what they believe about God? How would you respond if they asked you what you believed?
Prayerfully ask Jesus how you can share His love and goodness daily.
As we finish the study of Colossians, what is something that resonated with you … a principle that you're ready to put into action?
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you, personally, toward?
Message Notes
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