Sermon Study Guide

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God Made Visible “Colossians: Together for Christ” Colossians 1:15 May 6th, 2018 BIG IDEA Our ability to experience God hinges completely on our view of Jesus Christ. How we see Jesus matters because He is God made visible.

THIS WEEK’S SCRIPTURE Context: In verse 15 we begin to see that Jesus didn’t just live a perfect life and do good works, but that He is a majestic and glorious King who deserves to be at the center of everything we say and do. Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

MAIN IDEA The Colossians were developing a false or diluted view of Jesus. Paul writes to them to say, “Hey, this is what God looks like—He is Jesus!”

DISCUSSION & APPLICATION 1. What Do You See? The foundation of our vision of God is meant to be informed by us clearly seeing Jesus for who He really is.

Ridgewood Church www.myrwc.org

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a. When you look at Jesus, what do you see?

b. Where have you gotten your information from on who Jesus is?

c. From where do you think our culture in the western part of the Twin Cities gets their information about Jesus?

2. Are We Seeing the Real Thing? Colossians 1:15a – The image of the invisible God… Paul is describing that Jesus is the image or likeness of God. He begins in this verse by showing us that Jesus is the representation of God and what He is like. a. For many, it has been very hard to accept that Jesus is God. Why do you think that is?

b. In what ways do you or have you struggled in receiving Jesus as God?

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3. God is Visible The Greek word for image means “icon.” It is used in scripture to show “likeness” or “representation.” Jesus is showing us the “likeness” of God, but this meaning goes a step further to give us a “visible expression.” Because Jesus came on the scene, all the world now knows what God is like and how He loves! a. For you personally, how has Jesus revealed Himself to you?

b. As a group, discuss what traits Jesus demonstrates to us that teach us what God is like: loving, merciful, etc…

4. First Things First Colossians 1:15b – …the firstborn of all creation. Jesus is the Son of God and the firstborn of all creation. For Jesus to be “first” has far more to do with Him being first in priority. He is to be at the center of all things. That is what Paul is saying and he is pointing out that Jesus is the grand ruler over all creation. a. As you consider your walk with Jesus personally, would you describe Him as first in your life?

b. What barriers might be in the way for Jesus being at the center of your world?

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5. Look with New Eyes Take some time this week to spend focusing on who Jesus is and how much He loves you. Let that be what fills your mind as you start and finish each day.

PRAY Jesus, thank you for coming for me. Thank you that you didn’t leave me wondering and struggling, but instead you revealed yourself to me to show me the path to real life. Please continue to strengthen me and give me eyes to see you and confidence to trust you. Amen.

DIG DEEPER For further study this week:  

Seeing and Savoring Jesus Christ – a book from John Piper (Crossway) ”Rejecting the Real Jesus” – a sermon from Timothy Keller

NEXT WEEK’S BIG IDEA In Colossians 1:16-17, Jesus is described as sovereign and upholder of all material creation.

Ridgewood Church www.myrwc.org

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