Bible Study Questions and Notes

Small group Bible studies meet each week to discuss topics relating to the weekend service.  These study notes act as a guide for the Bible study participants.  Note that on weeks where there is a guest speaker or the Bible studies are not in session, there may not be a set of study notes posted.

Scripture passage: Colossian 1:15-17
Speaker: Pastor John Neufeld

As we enter the Easter Season, our minds should be taken up in the cross and the resurrection.  In these events are found the reason why we believe.  Easter expresses clearly why we have confidence in Christ.  We know that Christ rules over all, and no earthly or heavenly power can stand against his rule.  We also know the way he rules – a way that is both shocking and fascinating.  For our king rules not from earthly thrones of power, but from the blood stained instrument of torture – the cross!

A.  The Glorious Picture of the One Who Rules
 1.  He is the visible presence of the invisible God
 2.  He is the preeminent ruler of all creation

B.  The Glorious Picture of the Way He Rules
 1.  In the planning of creation
 2.  In magnificent design and building of creation
 3.  In the purpose of creation – to show his cross

C.  The Glorious Picture of How He Rules from the cross
 1.  By defeating the unseen powers of darkness
 2.  By defeating the seen powers of darkness

D.  The Glorious Supremacy of the One Who rules

MY STORY
What is the most significant thing that has happened in your life since the last time that we met? 

QUICK REVIEW
This week Pastor John spoke about the fact that Christ rules not from earthly thrones of power, but from the cross.  What struck you most from this message? 

DIGGING DEEPER
1a. What emotions do you experience when the name of Christ is disparaged? 
  b. If Christianity is a faith of love for God and our neighbor, and of God reaching out to reconcile us to him, why is it so often the target of hate and anger?
  c. How should we as Christians respond when the name of Christ is disparaged?  See Matt. 5:11–12; 43–48. 

2.   Read Colossians 1:15–17.  At times, what people (or forces) seem to be more powerful than Jesus?  Why?  How do we reconcile this with the fact that Christ is ultimately in control?   

3. “Wherever you look, if there is anything good, it has come from Christ.” 
a. Think of how Christ, through his teachings and through the church, has had an impact in the following areas:
- health
- education
- abolition of slavery
- equality
- human dignity and the value of human life
- art
- economics
- other
b. How does this statement apply to individual lives?  How is the opposite true of those who would walk away from Christ?

TAKING IT HOME
1. What is one area of your own life that you need to submit to the authority of Christ?  What concrete steps can you take to begin to do this? 

2. The hymn, “Fairest Lord Jesus”, ends with this stanza: “Beautiful Savior! Lord of all the nations! Son of God and Son of Man! Glory and honor, praise, adoration, Now and forever more be Thine.”  What are some ways that you can show honor, praise and adoration to during this Easter season?

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