2025.11.09_JESUS_OVER_EVERYTHING_3_CHOOSE_WISELY.docx

of the Sermon**

This sermon, rooted in Colossians 2:6-23, calls us to make a clear and intentional choice to walk in the fullness of Jesus Christ. Paul’s message to the Colossians—and to us—is that Jesus is supreme and sufficient; nothing needs to be added to Him, and nothing should be taken away. The temptation to complicate faith with human traditions, philosophies, or religious practices is strong, but these are empty and powerless compared to the reality of Christ. The fullness of God dwells in Jesus, and when we are rooted in Him, we are set free from the captivity of hollow teachings and the empty judgment of others. The sermon challenges us to examine what we truly believe about Jesus and to let that belief shape our daily choices, not just our thoughts. Ultimately, it is a call to intentional, transformative discipleship—choosing Christ above all else, and living in the freedom and fullness He provides.

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Key Takeaways

• 1. The Simplicity and Clarity of Christ’s Supremacy Paul’s message is not complicated: Jesus is enough. The temptation to add complexity to our faith often comes from a desire to avoid making hard choices or to appease others. But clarity about Christ’s supremacy and sufficiency demands a response from us—a life rooted in Him, not just a set of beliefs. Simplicity in the gospel is not a lack of depth, but a call to wholehearted commitment.
• 2. The Danger of Empty Philosophies and Human Traditions Human wisdom and traditions can appear wise, but when they are not rooted in Christ, they become empty and even enslaving. These philosophies often promise fulfillment or spiritual advancement, but they actually distract us from the fullness we already have in Jesus. True freedom is found not in spiritual additives, but in the sufficiency of Christ alone.
• 3. Freedom from Judgment and the Trap of Performance Paul warns against letting others judge or disqualify us based on external practices or religious observances. Even good spiritual habits can become traps if they replace the substance of Christ with the shadow of ritual. Our security and identity are found in Christ’s finished work, not in our ability to perform or conform to others’ expectations.
• 4. Intentional Pursuit and Transformation in Christ Walking in Christ is not a passive state but an intentional pursuit. It means allowing His word, Spirit, and example to shape our desires, decisions, and daily lives. Transformation comes not from memorizing doctrine alone, but from a living relationship with Jesus that changes how we think, act, and love.
• 5. The Courage to Choose Christ Above All Alternatives Every day, we are faced with choices—some mundane, some life-altering. The call to “choose wisely” is ultimately a call to choose Christ, even when it means standing apart from the crowd or facing discomfort. The question is not whether Jesus is lacking, but whether we trust His sufficiency enough to let go of lesser things. In making this choice, we find freedom from empty judgment and the fullness of life God intends.

1. According to Colossians 2:6-7, what does Paul say should characterize the way we “walk in Christ”?
2. What kinds of things does Paul warn the Colossians not to be taken captive by in verse 8?
3. In verses 16-17, what are some examples Paul gives of practices or rules that people might use to judge others?
4. How does Paul describe the difference between “the shadow” and “the substance” in these verses?

1. Why does Paul emphasize that Jesus is “enough already” and that nothing needs to be added to Him? What does this say about the nature of our faith?
2. How can human traditions or philosophies become a trap for believers, even if they seem wise or spiritual on the surface?
3. What does it look like, practically, to be “rooted and built up in Christ” rather than in religious practices or the approval of others?
4. The sermon mentioned the pressure to conform to others’ expectations. How might this pressure show up in a church or Christian community today?

1. The sermon challenges us to examine what we truly believe about Jesus. If you’re honest, are there areas where you feel Jesus isn’t “enough” and you look for something extra? What are those areas?
2. Are there any traditions, habits, or “spiritual add-ons” in your life that you rely on more than your relationship with Jesus Himself? How can you shift your focus back to Christ?
3. Have you ever felt judged or disqualified by others because you didn’t follow certain religious practices or expectations? How did that affect your faith or sense of belonging?
4. The sermon talked about the “trap of performance.” In what ways do you find yourself trying to earn God’s approval or the approval of others through your actions?
5. What would it look like for you to intentionally pursue transformation in Christ this week, rather than just going through the motions of faith?
6. The call to “choose wisely” means making daily decisions to put Christ first. Can you think of a specific choice you’re facing right now where you need courage to choose Jesus over something else?
7. Is there a fear or discomfort that holds you back from living fully rooted in Christ? What is one step you can take to trust His sufficiency and let go of that fear?