Message Notes
Look Back
What did you do this week to help someone understand God’s love and desire for an intimate relationship with them?
Look Up
Read Colossians 3:12-15
- What do these verses say about how God sees us? How easy is it for you to accept & understand how God feels?
- What does the author, Paul, say we are to “clothe” ourselves with? Why does he use the imagery of “clothing” ourselves?
- What do the virtues mentioned in verse 12 have in common? What role do they play in building relationships and which of these is most challenging for you? Which is easiest and why?
- In verse 13, Paul tells his readers to “bear with” and “forgive” others. What are the differences between them? Why is it important to do both?
- Why is it important to “put on love ‘over’” the other virtues? How does a person do this effectively?
- How easy is it for you to let the “peace of Christ rule in your heart”? How does Paul’s reminder to “be thankful” impact a person’s ability to experience the peace of Christ?
Overall (Discovery Bible Study)
- What do these scriptures say about God?
- What do they say about people?
- How will I apply this to my life?
Look Ahead
What will you “clothe” yourself with this week?
Notes
Paul’s words remind us that we are chosen, holy, and dearly loved by God. When we commit to follow Jesus, we get new perspectives and attitudes. In these verses Paul compares this to a new “wardrobe”. However, it is still our choice and responsibility to put the new clothes on. To “wear it”. To an extent we can’t control who sits at our Thanksgiving table or life for that matter. But we can choose what to “wear” everyday. Clothing ourselves in Christlike love, turning a potentially stressful gathering into an invitation for someone to experience Jesus through us. We clothe ourselves with what doesn't come naturally. We put on compassion when the comment stings. Kindness when others are not. Humility when we know we are right. Patience when things turn tense. Gentleness when the conversation circles back to the same old thing. This isn’t a checklist. It’s a calling. Not trying to earn God’s approval by acting better. You’re putting on the clothing of Jesus because you've already been loved.
