August 31, 2008
Summary: This Sunday we continued with our study of Colossians by examining those things from which believers are to separate themselves. Last Sunday we saw that this list from Colossians 3 included immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire and greed. This Sunday we examined six additional things.
Questions:
- Read Colossians 3:1-11. Because of their spiritual position in heaven, Paul encourages Christians to separate from anger. This is “the churning, boiling anger that often lies just below the surface” (John MacArthur). They are also to separate from wrath. This wrath is “the sudden and passionate outburst of that feeling” (Expositor’s Bible Commentary). The NIV translates it as “rage.” Have you ever known an angry or wrathful person? What was it like being around him or her? Did you feel like you had to “walk on eggshells” when that person was around? What is God’s “anger management program?” See Galatians 5:13-26.
- Paul also encourages Christians to separate from malice. J. B. Lightfoot says that malice is “the vicious nature which is bent on doing harm to others.” It is so sad that some people delight in doing harm to others. Have you ever witnessed such malice? How did it make you feel? Have you experienced malice from others? What is God’s answer to separating from a nature of malice? Reflect here upon the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5.
- Paul also encourages Christians to separate from slander. This term relates to “injuring other people with our words.” The old saying is that “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” That saying is not only old; it is also wrong. Of course, words hurts! Share from your own experience how important it is to separate from slanderous words that hurt and destroy.
- Paul also encourages Christians to separate from abusive speech. This is “foul-mouth speech” (Lightfoot). Have you known people who had a “potty mouth?” Their speech was laced with profanity and obscene speech. Why can this be so damaging not only to their lives but to those around them? How can a Christian learn to “tame his or her tongue?”
- Paul further encourages Christians to separate from lying. According to John 8:44 who is the father of lies? Why is it important for Christians to be people of truth? How can a person go from being a liar to a truth teller?
Next Week: Sunday, September 7, we will examine “The Clothing of the Chosen.” In doing so we will see the things we are to “put on” having “taken off” the deeds of the flesh. Plan to join us for this important message from God’s Word!
God bless you! Have a great week and please remember to pray for the people of the GulfCoast as they face the prospect of another major hurricane.
Pastor Mike Laramie
