Reading Paul, Hearing Jesus (GEPC)
Colossians 4
Paul closes his letter to the Colossian church with an encouragement to pray. The whole letter, Paul has shown that Jesus is supreme over everything. If we are to anything good, it is by his power, not ours. Pray.
Monday, August 25
Read Colossians 4. Paul encourages the Colossians to pray with an eye toward Jesus’ second coming. Paul also asks for prayers for him and his ministry. Who do you pray for within the church? Outside the church? What are your opportunities with those outside the faith?
Tuesday, August 26
After reviewing Colossians 4, read Ephesians 6:10-20. Paul asks again for boldness to speak the mystery of the gospel. Why was it such a challenge to speak the gospel? What challenges do you face in speaking the gospel?
Wednesday, August 27
After reviewing Colossians 4, read Acts 14. Near the end of Acts 14, Luke used the phrase, “opened the door of faith.” What does that mean? Where are the open doors of faith around you? Will you walk through them? How?
Thursday, August 28
After reviewing Colossians 4, read James 3. Paul encourages the Colossians to be wise toward outsiders. James talks about two different kinds of wisdom. What is the wisdom that comes from heaven? Why is it so important to be “wise” toward outsiders? How do you do it?
Friday, August 29
After reviewing Colossians 4, read Mark 9:33-50. Paul makes mention be being “seasoned with salt.” What does that mean? How does Jesus use the analogy of salt? What happens around us when we’re “salty?”
Saturday, August 30
After reviewing Colossians 4, read Philemon. Why is Paul writing to Philemon? Who is Onesimus? Paul feels very strongly about this issue. How does he handle himself? How do you handle yourself when you feel strongly about an issue?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com