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What is it that combats the influence of human philosophy and ideologies, of human traditions and secular thinking, from entering the church? In the letter to the Colossians Paul provides the answer. It is a walk, a life that is centered on Christ. Colossians 2:6-7 is one of those theological hinges that instructs the believer that their lives are to be lived in light of what Christ has done. In chapter one and two the facts about salvation and the gospel of Christ are explained. As a gift of God’s marvelous grace, the believer has received and believed the truth of the gospel.  Paul now focuses on the believer’s response – to walk in Christ. He provides transcultural and timeless principles for all who acknowledge Christ as Lord. As Douglas Moo states: “Let Christ – and no other! For he is Lord – establish your values, guide your thinking, direct your conduct.

Please read Colossians 2:6-15

1. Paul starts this section by affirming that believers “receive Christ as Lord”. Briefly read from Col.1:15-2:5 and explain from these verses why Christ is Lord.

2. Paul “urges” the Colossians to “walk in Christ”. (In the NIV the word for walk is translated live). What are the four affirmations in Col.2:7 that are a result of walking in Christ? Are these ongoing actions or a once in a life time experience?

3. Paul warns against false teaching. He moves from the command to walk to the command to watch. Observe Col.2:8-23 and define what the core of this false teaching is? (There are possibly 11 factors) In our current culture what do you think are the elements of false teaching that can easily infiltrate our thinking and our church practice?

4. In Col.2:9, understanding the fullness of Christ (His deity) is presented as a fundamental truth with relation to combating false teaching. Why is Christ’s deity so important? (Also see Col.1:15-23) And why does this fact underscore everything with relation to the truth of Christ?

5. Col.2:11 states that “in Christ we have been made complete” (NASB). How is this completeness described in Col.2:11-12? What do these metaphors of circumcision and baptism mean in this context?

6. God has accomplished 4 things through Christ (Col.2:13-15). What are those accomplishments and how do these truths shape your walk?

“Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.”  Col. 2:6-7 (NASB)

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Bible Study Christ as Lord.Christ's DeityColossiansWalk in Christ