Series 8 – Colossians – Lesson 6: Colossians 3:1-4:1

Inductive Study:  Colossians 3:1-4:1

OBSERVE

• Read Colossians 3:1-17 several times.
  • Highlight the verbal phrases of instruction to the readers.
  • Divide your paper into two columns labeled:

Old Nature                  New Nature

• List the appropriate characteristics under each heading
• Contrast the lists and record your observations.
• Read Colossians 3:18-4:1
• Highlight the verbs.

INTERPRET

• How does new life in Christ change one’s thinking?
• How does new life in Christ change one’s attitudes?
• How does new life in Christ change one’s relationships?
• How does new life in Christ change one’s community?
• What relational attitudes are important in the words you highlighted in 3:19-4:1?

APPLY

• Reread verse 13.  In the original, the sense of these words is “Give grace to others as God has given grace to you.”
• Reflect upon what God’s grace means for your life.
• How can you share this grace in your encounters with others?

PRAY

• Pray for the continual renewing of your mind, heart, and attitudes.
• Pray for opportunities to give grace to those with whom you come in contact so that they may see the grace of God through you.
• Be thankful.