Building a Firm Foundation in Christ
Summary
In this first part of our new series, "Firm Foundations," we embark on a journey through the book of Colossians, exploring the importance of having a firm foundation in Christ. Just as a solid stance is crucial in football, a firm spiritual foundation is essential for our faith. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, emphasizes the need for maturity in Christ, urging believers to be rooted and grounded in Him. This series will delve into the all-sufficiency of Christ, a central theme in Colossians, highlighting that Jesus is enough for every aspect of our lives.
Paul's letter to the Colossians, written while he was in prison, addresses the challenges of mixing religious beliefs and the dangers of Gnosticism, which claimed a superior knowledge. This is relevant today as we face similar issues in our culture, where spiritual truths are often diluted with various ideologies. Paul reminds us that the gospel is not just the starting point of our faith but the entire journey. It is the foundation upon which we grow and mature, bearing fruit in our lives.
The gospel of Jesus Christ is transformative, offering redemption and forgiveness. It qualifies us for an inheritance, delivers us from darkness, and transfers us into the Kingdom of Light. This redemption is not something to be forgotten or unused, like an unredeemed gift card. Instead, it should be activated and lived out through faith, hope, and love. We are called to enjoy our salvation, to be in love with Jesus, and to live as redeemed individuals, fully utilizing the gift of redemption He has given us.
Key Takeaways:
- A firm foundation in Christ is essential for spiritual maturity. Just as a solid stance is crucial in sports, being rooted and grounded in Jesus is vital for our faith journey. This foundation allows us to withstand challenges and grow in our relationship with God. [02:39]
- The gospel is not just the beginning of our faith but the entire journey. It is the foundation upon which we grow and mature, bearing fruit in our lives. We don't move beyond the gospel; we grow deeper into it, understanding the grace of God more fully. [11:24]
- Redemption in Christ offers us a new identity and purpose. We are qualified for an inheritance, delivered from darkness, and transferred into the Kingdom of Light. This transformation is not just a change in status but a call to live out our redemption daily. [15:38]
- The dangers of mixing religious beliefs and ideologies can dilute the truth of the gospel. Paul warns against the influence of Gnosticism and similar issues in our culture today, urging us to hold fast to the truth of Christ and His teachings. [06:38]
- Enjoying our salvation means living in the fullness of what Christ has done for us. It's not about rules and regulations but about being in love with Jesus and living as redeemed individuals. We are called to activate and utilize the gift of redemption in our lives. [22:09]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:46] - Introduction to Firm Foundations
[01:33] - The Struggle is Real
[02:23] - Walking in Christ
[02:58] - The All-Sufficiency of Christ
[03:50] - Paul's Apostolic Authority
[06:09] - Doctrinal Concerns in Colossae
[07:36] - The Importance of Doctrine
[08:07] - Gnosticism and Its Dangers
[09:25] - Faith, Hope, and Love
[11:09] - The Gospel's Transformative Power
[13:02] - Surrender and Trust in God
[14:31] - Bearing Much Fruit
[15:22] - Realities of Redemption
[18:09] - Transferred to the Kingdom of Light
[20:16] - Activating Our Redemption
[22:09] - Enjoying Our Salvation
[24:30] - Invitation to Salvation
[25:21] - Conclusion and Next Week's Preview
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Firm Foundations - Part 1
Bible Reading:
1. Colossians 1:28-29
2. Colossians 2:6-7
3. Colossians 1:12-14
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Observation Questions:
1. What does Paul emphasize as the goal for believers in Colossians 1:28-29? How does this relate to the concept of spiritual maturity? [01:48]
2. In Colossians 2:6-7, what are the believers encouraged to do after receiving Christ? How does this relate to having a firm foundation in faith? [02:39]
3. According to Colossians 1:12-14, what are the three realities of redemption that Paul highlights? How do these realities impact a believer's identity? [15:22]
4. What were the doctrinal concerns Paul addressed in Colossae, and how are they similar to issues faced in today's culture? [06:38]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Paul’s description of being "rooted and grounded" in Christ (Colossians 2:6-7) illustrate the importance of a firm foundation in faith? What might this look like in a believer's daily life? [02:39]
2. In what ways does the concept of redemption in Colossians 1:12-14 challenge the idea of earning God's favor through works? How does this understanding affect a believer's relationship with God? [15:22]
3. How does Paul’s warning against mixing religious beliefs in Colossians relate to the modern-day challenge of maintaining the purity of the gospel? What are some practical steps believers can take to guard against this? [06:38]
4. What does it mean to "enjoy our salvation" as described in the sermon, and how does this differ from merely following religious rules? [22:09]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own spiritual foundation. Are there areas where you feel your foundation in Christ could be stronger? What steps can you take this week to strengthen it? [02:39]
2. Consider the concept of redemption as a gift card that needs to be activated. Are there aspects of your redemption in Christ that you have not fully utilized? How can you begin to activate them in your life? [20:16]
3. In what ways have you experienced the mixing of religious beliefs or ideologies in your own faith journey? How can you ensure that your beliefs remain rooted in the truth of the gospel? [06:38]
4. How can you cultivate a deeper love for Jesus and enjoy your salvation more fully? Identify one specific way you can express your love for Jesus this week. [22:09]
5. Think about a time when you felt spiritually mature. What were the circumstances that contributed to that feeling? How can you recreate or maintain those circumstances in your current faith journey? [01:48]
6. Identify one area of your life where you feel you are still living in "darkness" rather than the "Kingdom of Light." What practical steps can you take to move towards the light this week? [15:38]
7. How can you actively bear fruit in your life as a result of your faith in Christ? Choose one specific action you can take this week to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit in your interactions with others. [14:31]
Devotional
Day 1: Rooted in Christ for Spiritual Maturity
A firm foundation in Christ is essential for spiritual maturity. Just as a solid stance is crucial in sports, being rooted and grounded in Jesus is vital for our faith journey. This foundation allows us to withstand challenges and grow in our relationship with God. Paul emphasizes the importance of being deeply rooted in Christ, as it provides the stability needed to navigate life's trials and temptations. When we are firmly grounded in our faith, we can grow and mature, bearing fruit in our lives. [02:39]
Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV): "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
Reflection: What are some practical ways you can deepen your roots in Christ this week, ensuring that your faith remains strong and unshaken by life's challenges?
Day 2: The Gospel as Our Lifelong Journey
The gospel is not just the beginning of our faith but the entire journey. It is the foundation upon which we grow and mature, bearing fruit in our lives. We don't move beyond the gospel; we grow deeper into it, understanding the grace of God more fully. This journey involves continually exploring the depths of God's love and grace, allowing it to transform every aspect of our lives. As we delve deeper into the gospel, we become more aware of its power and significance, leading to a more profound spiritual maturity. [11:24]
Colossians 1:9-10 (ESV): "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."
Reflection: How can you intentionally grow deeper into the gospel this week, allowing it to shape your thoughts, actions, and relationships?
Day 3: Embracing Our New Identity in Christ
Redemption in Christ offers us a new identity and purpose. We are qualified for an inheritance, delivered from darkness, and transferred into the Kingdom of Light. This transformation is not just a change in status but a call to live out our redemption daily. Embracing this new identity means recognizing the profound change that has taken place within us and living in a way that reflects our new status as children of God. It involves actively participating in the Kingdom of Light and allowing our lives to be a testament to the transformative power of Christ. [15:38]
Ephesians 1:13-14 (ESV): "In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."
Reflection: In what ways can you live out your new identity in Christ today, demonstrating the transformation that has taken place in your life?
Day 4: Guarding the Truth of the Gospel
The dangers of mixing religious beliefs and ideologies can dilute the truth of the gospel. Paul warns against the influence of Gnosticism and similar issues in our culture today, urging us to hold fast to the truth of Christ and His teachings. In a world where spiritual truths are often compromised, it is crucial to remain steadfast in our faith, discerning the truth from false teachings. By grounding ourselves in the Word of God and seeking His wisdom, we can protect the purity of the gospel and ensure that our faith remains untainted by external influences. [06:38]
2 Timothy 4:3-4 (ESV): "For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths."
Reflection: How can you actively guard the truth of the gospel in your life, ensuring that your beliefs remain aligned with Christ's teachings?
Day 5: Living in the Fullness of Salvation
Enjoying our salvation means living in the fullness of what Christ has done for us. It's not about rules and regulations but about being in love with Jesus and living as redeemed individuals. We are called to activate and utilize the gift of redemption in our lives. This involves embracing the freedom and joy that comes from knowing Christ and allowing His love to permeate every aspect of our existence. By living in the fullness of our salvation, we can experience the abundant life that Jesus promised and share His love with those around us. [22:09]
John 10:10 (ESV): "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to fully embrace and enjoy the salvation you have in Christ, allowing His love and joy to overflow in your life?
Quotes
"Therefore as you received Christ Jesus so walk in him so we need to walk in him not just accept him here which is so very important rooted and grounded in him established in the faith just as you were taught abounding in Thanksgiving so this is all about a firm foundation being rooted in ground founded in Christ the overarching theme of Colossians is the all-sufficiency of Christ he's all sufficient it's all about Jesus." [00:02:58]
"Now the Gospel of Jesus Christ the same gospel that saves us is the same gospel that grows us let me let me you got to catch this you got to catch this here the gospel that saves us grows us and bears fruit with within us see we don't grow we don't grow Beyond The Gospel we grow deeper into the gospel see many people and this is what the problem was in colosi they wanted teaching they they were again mixing mysticism and humanism and Judaism and all these other ISM isms into Christianity and they were getting diluted here." [00:11:09]
"The gospel comes to us through surrender and receiving we surrender to Christ Our Hearts and our lives and we receive his forgiveness we receive his grace that he gives us based on his cross here so let me ask you a question is surrendering to to God and receiving his grace easier for you now or more difficult than the day you met him no is the grace and the strength and the power of God is it is it easier for you to surrender or is it more difficult for you to surrender see that really defines it here the more we follow after God the easier it should be to surrender because he's a God who can be trusted and will be trusted and is a joy to be trusted that's the truth of it right there." [00:13:02]
"Jesus's Redemption provides these three realities in our lives here we're qualified for an inheritance we've been delivered from darkness and we've been transferred to the Kingdom of Light we have to understand all three of these Colossians 1:12 giving thanks to the father who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the Saints in light he has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us us into the kingdom of his beloved Son in whom we have Redemption the Forgiveness of sins." [00:15:22]
"Redemption is the ransom price that was paid for you and me to release us from the bondage of sin really the Redemption that they're speaking about in this text here in colosi it's actually referred to also in the book of filon a little bit later again has to do with the Saints very very important here just a simple one chapter book it's about the ransom paid for slaves to release them from slavery we were slaves of sin and Redemption purchases US in somewhere along the way and all Christians get this confused if I only do these certain things and God will bless me no God's already blessed you so why not just walk in them." [00:18:09]
"He's qualifying us he makes us fit aren't you glad like listen aren't you glad you don't have to keep trying to prove yourself to God you don't have to do that he's already qualified he has set you in place here wow I could just go really deep there but I'm going to keep moving and that is this that we were delivered from Darkness delivered from darkness that means we were rescued now I this word doesn't just mean that he releases us it means he pulls us to himself see he didn't just open the door he opened the door to Darkness for you and me and Redemption by what he did on the cross and said come to me." [00:20:16]
"See Darkness depresses us it hides things listen when you go without too much vitamin D from the sun we live in Pittsburgh we know what this is like depression gloomy downcast we live in darkness so much it just becomes normal to be gloomy when God has opened the door and he says come on out come into the light here and he transfers us into the Kingdom of Light and what this literally means he picked us up from one place and put us in another see in biblical times when a king with an army would conquer another kingdom they would literally take those people and take them back to their Kingdom so they understood when you were transferred from one Kingdom to another you were transferred you were taken from this Kingdom and you were carried over to a New Kingdom." [00:22:09]
"Why do so many people have Redemption but they're not using it for the new life I'll tell you why we forget we have it just like the gift card right we just forget we have it we misplaced our Redemption we didn't redefined PR or we didn't activate the card did you activate the the the card I went recently with a gift card I thought I could use it and it said oh you have to activate it so I had to go and activate and then come back and it was such a hassle here but if we don't activate the card with faith hope and love based on the real Jesus Christ and what he has done we have so much Redemption inside of us that we can't even imagine what he's given us." [00:24:30]
"Are we really enjoying the Gospel of Jesus Christ that's the question are you really enjoying Jesus are you really enjoying your salvation or has it just become rules and regulations and work I just think we got to go back to just being in love with Jesus I've been redeemed my life has been redeemed Jesus has bought me not only do I have a gift card now I am the gift card I'm the gift card that can be used by Jesus however he wants and it's joy and surrender and sacrifice and receiving." [00:25:21]
"God does not call the qualified he qualifies the called and right now God is calling men and women to know in realize and and have knowledge and wisdom and understanding of the real Jesus not the one made up not the one where we've just pick and choose pieces of the Bible that we believe but the real Jesus Christ is lifegiving the real Jesus Christ is is is is is a joy he has so much for us and so much to give us and so much more for us here the new life is redemption and forgiveness of sin." [00:27:09]
"Have you asked Jesus to forgive you of your sin and falling short have you said Jesus Christ I want I want your life I want to surrender to you and if you've asked him to reveal who the real Jesus is then he he he will qualify he qualifies you not because you're so good but because he's so great and what he did on the cross for you really matters that's what this is all about if you don't have a day a moment or time when Jesus Christ has opened the door for you and you walked out of darkness and into his light I want to offer you this moment where Jesus Christ can take you from Darkness to light and you too can walk in a manner you too can be a saint set apart from the world and set apart for God for his purposes." [00:29:00]
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