The Grace Message with Dr. Andrew Farley Dr. Andrew Farley

Why did Jesus sometimes ask people to keep His miracles a secret? Do we need to take up our cross every day? Die daily? If not, does this mean there’s no struggle? Is this just semantics? How is this an important and powerful truth in the moment of temptation?

Why did Jesus say “go and sin no more” if He knew we’d still sin? What does Hebrews 10 really mean when it says there’s no sacrifice left for those who sin willfully? Why does God allow autism? Which of the Old Testament laws still apply today?

How do we deal with disappointment with God? How can we say God is good when so many bad things happen? Why did Jesus say the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath? Is it okay to express the desires of our heart to God and ask Him for them?

Do angels have gender? What purpose do they serve? Why does Passover come after Easter? Should all Christians observe Passover too? If we believers are totally forgiven, why do some say we will have to answer for every idle word at the final judgment?

Andrew, how was your father saved? Was everyone around Jesus healed? What perspective on healing is healthy today? Is the discipline in Matthew 18 really for Jews under the Law? Why did David mention eating the flesh of bulls and goats? Isn’t there “high sin” that is unforgivable? What about 1 John 1:9? Don’t we need to confess our sins to be forgiven and cleansed?

Colossians 2 is one of my favorite chapters in the whole Bible. Paul writes with electrifying passion and conviction about powerful truths, including the dangers of following religious traditions and the futility of trying to improve or eliminate the “you” whom God has raised up. We also see the entire Gospel message encapsulated in two verses, and we discover the inherent problem with rule-keeping and what it means to “let Christ rule” instead. Engage with this next message in our Colossians series and celebrate your completeness in Christ!
Discussion Questions for Colossians 2:8-23:
Read verse 8. What “traditions of men” can get in the way of truth today? Read verses 9-10. What does it mean to you to be complete in Christ? Read verse 11 and react to this statement: The flesh has been stripped away from me. I’m always in the Spirit. When I choose fleshly thinking, it’s a dead way to me! Read verse 12 and consider: Are you still trying to improve (or eliminate) the “you” whom God has raised up? Read verses 13-14. How do these two verses encapsulate the whole Gospel message? Read verse 15. Who was disarmed by Jesus? How? Read verses 16-17. How is a Sabbath day a shadow? What is the substance? Read verses 18-19. What exactly is the prize? How do some try to defraud us of enjoying the prize? Read verses 20-23 and react to this statement: It’s not about rules. It’s about letting Christ rule by faith.