Colossians 3:1-11
Who has been the favorite “coach” in your life? Why?
Allan described a coach’s job as cultivating “behavior that is shaped by a desire to live into a vision of life.” He spoke of the importance of all three of these aspects (behavior, desire, and vision). Which of these three would you say you have developed the most in your Christian life? Which one the least?
Allan encouraged us to cross out any subtitles in our bibles that describe chapter 3 as something like “Rules for Holy Living.” As a coach who is seeking to instill behavior, desire and vision, what is the problem with understanding this passage as a set of “rules for holy living”? What is missing (behavior, desire, vision) if that is what chapter 3 is about?
Based on what we have read in Colossians thus far, how would you describe the desire that Paul wants to shape our behavior? What is the relationship between desire and behavior? Is there some wisdom in obedience even if the desire is lacking?
Allan summarized Paul’s message in 3:1-11as, “This is who you are; (vv.1-4) therefore be who you are.” (vv. 5-11). Who does Paul say we are? How would you describe the vision of life that Paul offers to us here?
Is Paul successful in giving you a vision that instills a desire that will shape your behavior? Why or why not?
Paul says we should “put to death” those things that threaten our true identity in Christ. Allan summarized these into two categories—disordered sexual practices and desires and behavior that threatens community life. Which of these two categories have been more destructive in your life?
Allan talked about three keys to overcoming the impediments to being who we are in Christ. They are:
• Don’t ignore the obvious
• Don’t do it alone
• Begin where you are
How can this small group help each other live into the reality of who we are in Christ?
