Patricia A
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Posts posted by Patricia A
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Q3. (Colossians 4:5-6) What instructions does Paul give us in sharing our faith with non-believers?
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect...." (1 Peter 3:15)
Why, do you think, we sometimes let opportunities slip by?
Sometimes we feel unsure or uncomfortable in sharing the gospel.
How will our conversation being "full of grace" help us represent Christ well?
By showing grace is God shows grace towards us, we do not act in a condescending manner, do not judge and do not have the "holier than thou attitude".
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Q1. (Colossians 4:2) What guidelines does Paul give us to form our praying habits? If you put these into practice fully, how would they affect your prayer life? What problems would they help correct?
Paul tells us to be persistent in prayer, to be alert and mindful as we pray and to always give thanks.
Practicing all of these guidelines would give greater meaning and depth to my prayer life. It would help praying carelessly without giving much thought to prayer and would help in keeping me focused on talking with God.
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Q4. (Colossians 3:25-4:1) What instructions does Paul give masters
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Q3. (Colossians 3:22-24) If you apply Paul's instructions to slaves to the role of being an employee, what is the role of sincerity as an employee? How do we live this out when working under a poor boss? In what sense are we actually "working for the Lord"? What would happen in the workplace, if we actually began to live by these attitudes of heart?
An employee should work to the best of his ability for his employer being honest and even when he is working for a poor boss, he should do his best. Each employee should work keeping in mind his ultimate boss is the Lord and his attitude should be one of serving God. If this were to happen in the workplace, everyone would benefit and there would be more joy and contentment in the lives of all including the employee and employer. We must remember all we do is for the glory of God.
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Q2. (Colossians 3:20-21) In what way does obedience prepare a child for everyday life in the future? For spiritual life in the future? What can fathers do to keep from discouraging their children?
Obedience prepares a child for everyday life in the future by guiding him to respect authority and to show concern for others. Spiritual life in the future is enhanced by accepting and respecting authority and by knowing God is the highest authority. Fathers can encourage their children and not being bitter towards them or discouraging them as they learn new things. Discipline and teach respect to children in aloving manner and encourage them as they learn new things and new ways of doing things.
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Q1. (Colossians 3:18-19) Why do you think Paul chose these directions to give to wives and husbands considering all the things he could have said? Why is true submission difficult for wives? Why is unselfish love difficult for husbands? What prompts harshness in a husband is the cause inner or outer?
When the directions Paul gave to wives and husbands are followed, there is true love and concern for each other. Peace and love begin in the home and radiates to the world outside of the home. True submission of wives will be a joy if the husband truly loves and shows care and consideration for his wife.
This kind of relationship bring happiness and contentment as each cares and loves the other. Harshness in a husband may come because the husband does not understand God's Word, the husband may be insecure or not feel appreciated as well as many other reasons. Perhaps the husband does not realize that God is so important in a loving marriage.
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Q1. (Colossians 3:1-2) What does it mean to "set your heart/mind" on the things above? Does this mean that we're "too heavenly minded to be any earthly good"? If not, what does it mean? What happens when we don't take control and direct our thinking and meditating?
To set your heart/mind on the things above means that our thoughts constantly keep atuned to our eternal life with God. Everything on this earth is temporary but things eternal is where our focus should be and this is what is lasting. We should strive to live Godly lives on the earth to glorify God thus we do good on earth with joy because all the time we have our eternal life with God in mind. If we don't take control and direct our thinking and meditating, we can easily be distracted by the things of the world and lose the focus of why God put us in this world. 
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Q4. (Colossians 2:2-3)
**In what sense are "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" hidden in Christ?
Knowing Christ and His purpose for us unlocks all the secrets of the world. This is the ultimate wisdom.
**What does that mean?
Paul's ultimate goal is that the Colossian believers might know Christ in his fullness and understand enough to appreciate who Christ really is. Paul is aware that for people to understand Christ at a deeper, spiritual level, they need to have hope (thus encouragement) as well as an experience of a loving Christian community ("knit together in love"). Thus it is extremely difficult for social hermits and lone-ranger Christians to really grasp Christ. He can only be understood in the presence of love. With these can come complete25 understanding.
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Q4. (Colossians 2:2-3)
**In what sense are "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" hidden in Christ?
Knowing Christ and His purpose for us unlocks all the secrets of the world. This is the ultimate wisdom.
**What does that mean?
Paul's ultimate goal is that the Colossian believers might know Christ in his fullness and understand enough to appreciate who Christ really is. Paul is aware that for people to understand Christ at a deeper, spiritual level, they need to have hope (thus encouragement) as well as an experience of a loving Christian community ("knit together in love"). Thus it is extremely difficult for social hermits and lone-ranger Christians to really grasp Christ. He can only be understood in the presence of love. With these can come complete25 understanding.
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Q3. (Colossians 1:28-2:1)
What is the purpose of Paul's labors according to verse 28?
"28 We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. Paul wants everyone to know Christ as their Lord and Savior.
What does "perfect in Christ" mean?
"Perfect in Christ means one know Christ as his Savior and has been made perfect by the blood of Christ.
How does Paul accomplish this goal?
Paul witnesses about Christ, he prays and interceeds for others and admonishes wrong behavior and teaches about Christ.
In what way is he "struggling" for them?
He struggles in prayer as he interceeds for them. Paul wants so much for them to know Jesus as their Savior that his prayers come as he struggles.
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Q2. (Colossians 1:26-27)
- What is the mystery that Paul talks about? That Christ, the Messiah, would indwell not only the chosen Jewish people, but also the Gentiles who made up the bulk of the church at Colossae and elsewhere
- In what sense was, "Christ in you, the hope of glory," hidden prior to this? But for Gentile believers in the first century, who were being enticed to adopt Judaism, to realize that the Messiah came for them, too, was truly marvelous.
- In what sense is "glory" used here? To rejoice triumphantly
- What does "the hope of glory" mean in this context?"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." (1 Peter 5:10)
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Q1. (Colossians 1:24)
- How could Paul's sufferings in prison complete what is lacking in Christ's afflictions?
Of course, Christ's redemptive suffering on the cross for our atonement was complete and finished, "once and for all" (Romans 6:10; Hebrews 9:26-28). But that doesn't mean that Jesus is the last to suffer for the gospel. It was Christ's time to suffer on the cross. Now it is Paul's, and perhaps soon it will be yours.
Paul sees something still lacking in Christ's afflictions,5 a "need, want, deficiency." 6 It's as if there's something preordained about this suffering. Consider the vision in Revelation:
"When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, "How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed (plēroō)." (Revelation 6:9-11)
- Is Paul referring to Christ's sufferings on the cross? Or is he seeing suffering in some kind of cosmic sense?
There's also a sense in which we are united with Christ in our sufferings. We share in his sufferings; our sufferings are a part of his.
"We are ... heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." (Romans 8:17-18)
"I want to know Christ ... and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings." (Philippians 3:10)
- If so, in what sense are your sufferings for Christ of value to the church?
The same as for Paul.
In what way do Paul's sufferings benefit the Church at Colossae -- and us today?
- Inspiration. Paul's example in suffering inspires us to endure as well.
- Accomplishment. Paul's willingness to endure whatever is necessary to get the job done enables him to touch more lives. He doesn't quit when the going gets tough.
- Corporate unity and completeness. Since both Paul and we are part of Christ's body, then Christ's sufferings affect us and our sufferings affect Christ. There will come a day when the last martyr is killed, the last suffering is done, and the afflictions of the Messiah will be complete.8 Then Christ will return in glory. This is a more mystical idea, harder to get our head around, but I believe Paul has this in mind in verse 24.
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Q4. (Colossians 1:23)
- If our salvation depends upon the grace of God, not us, why is it necessary for us to "continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved"?The true Christian faith is lived in union with Jesus, by faith in him, walking with him, receiving his encouragement and forgiveness throughout our lives.
- What happens if we don't?The true Christian faith is lived in union with Jesus, by faith in him, walking with him, receiving his encouragement and forgiveness throughout our lives.
- What is the nature of the security we have in Jesus according to this text (and this text only)? (Please don't use proof texts from other verses in the New Testament, but interpret Colossians 1:23 in its appropriate context.)The true Christian faith is lived in union with Jesus, by faith in him, walking with him, receiving his encouragement and forgiveness throughout our lives.
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Q3. (Colossians 1:22) How can we be presented "holy," "without blemish," and "free from accusation" since we are not perfect? How is this possible?
That we can be presented "holy" and "free from accusation" is such a joy that it is hard to comprehend. It is our comfort in life that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and by His grace through faith we can be "without blemish". -
Q1. (Colossians 1:20-22).
- What does "reconcile" mean?
22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation."
- What was our state before reconciliation? (verse 21)
"21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.
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Q4. (Colossians 1:18) How should the assertion that Jesus is the "head of the body, the church" affect the way we conceive of the church? WE SHOULD CONCEIVE OF THE CHURCH IS THE BODY OF PEOPLE FOLLOWING CHRIST AND LETTING GOD'S WORD MAKE THE DECISIONS.
Is he talking about the universal church or a local congregation, or both? CHRIST IS THE HEAD OF BOTH THE LOCAL CONGREGATION AND THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH.
If we believe that Jesus is the head of the church, how should that affect the way we conduct our life and ministry as the church? WE SHOULD CONDUCT OUR LIFE AND MINISTRY ACCORDING TO GOD'S WORD. WE SHOULD DO EVERYTHING TO GLORIFY GOD.
In what ways does the visible church represent the "head"? THE VISIBLE CHURCH CAN REPRESENT CHRIST BY TEACHING HIS WORD AND LIVING TO GLORIFY HIM.
How well do we as the body follow his leadership? WE NEED TO CONSTANTLY STRIVE TO DO THIS.
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Q3. (Colossians 1:16) "Thrones," "powers," "rulers," "principalities," "authorities," etc. probably refer to both earthly as well as angelic and demonic dominions. What does this passage teach about the relation of these powers to Jesus?This passage ends with the words, "All things were created by him and for him" (1:16e). Jesus is not just one among various spiritual authorities. He is the Creator of them all and they exist to serve him. How should this affect our fear of them?The Bible is clear. Jesus, whom we serve, is their Master and Creator and is over them all. If Jesus is their Master, we should not fear them. How should it affect our prayers? Our prayer should glorify and give thanks to God.
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Q4. (Genesis 46:2-4) Faith is what quiets our fears. What in God's word to Jacob at Beersheba quiets his fears? Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt." I will go down to Egypt with you," God promises him, "and will surely bring you back again."
God had brought the same assurance to Jacob before (28:15; 31:3). Why do you think he had stopped believing it?So often we forget the companionship God offers, and turn to our own dwindling resources. There's an old hymn that expresses it well:
"O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer....
Are we weak and heavy laden, Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer."
What is the relationship between faith and God's words?We must believe God's words by faith in order to gain peace and comfort.
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Q3. (Genesis 45:4-8) Contrast Jacob and Joseph. Jacob has suffered great loss. Joseph has suffered great injustice. Why is Jacob's vision so bleak but Joseph's, so broad?
What have been their differing responses to fear? Jacob did not turn to God in his suffereing. Joseph knew God had a purpose which could work for good.
What insight has kept Joseph from being bitter towards his brothers? Joseph had insight into the fact that God had a purpose in what had happened to him.
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Q2. (Genesis 42:35-43:14)
1. What is Jacob's state of mind after the first trip to Egypt?
Jacob is depressed and feels despondent--doesn't feel any hope.
2. If you were a psychologist, how would you diagnose him?
I would diagnose him with depression and with being paranoid--unable to find any hope and any reason to feel positive.
3. What factors have paralyzed Jacob mentally and spiritually?
Jacob is worried about his sons, Joseph and Simeon and doesn't want to lose his youngest son, Benjamin. Also, he know they need grain.
4. Why do you think Jacob changed his mind about going again to secure grain?
Sometimes when we reach a point where we have no other choice, we turn to God. It is sad that we do not turn to God as our first choice for help. Jacob waited as we often do. However, when he made decision to turn everything to God, he finally felt some peace.
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Q1. (Genesis 37:31-35)
*What does bringing the blood-stained robe to Jacob say about these sons' attitude toward their father? THIS ACT INDICATES THE SONS HAD VERY LITTLE CONCERN AND COMPASSION TOWARD THEIR FATHER. THIS WAS A VERY UNCARING AND SELFISH ACT.
*How does this loss affect Jacob? JACOB BECOME DEPRESSED AND FULL OF SELF PITY.
*How do you think it affects his future behavior? THIS AFFECTS HIS FUTURE behavior AS HE IS DESPONDENT. WHEN HE FINALLY CALLS ON GOD FOR HELP, HE IS ABLE TO FEEL SOME PEACE.
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Q5. (Genesis 35:22)
What is the significance of Reuben's sin? Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, the first sign of my strength,
excelling in honor, excelling in power.
Turbulent as the waters, you will no longer excel,
for you went up onto your father's bed,
onto my couch and defiled it." (49:3-4)
In what way does it go beyond a sexual sin? This was more than youthful passion, it was a direct insult to his father.
We're not told, but how do you think this affected the family dynamics? I would think this would affect the relationship between father and son.
Extra credit: Reuben has acted dishonorably here. In what ways does Reuben act honorably in the future? (37:21-29; 42:22, 37) He tries to protect Joseph from being sold into slavery.
Genesis 37:21 But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, "Let us not take his life."
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Q5. (Genesis 35:22)
What is the significance of Reuben's sin? Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, the first sign of my strength,
excelling in honor, excelling in power.
Turbulent as the waters, you will no longer excel,
for you went up onto your father's bed,
onto my couch and defiled it." (49:3-4)
In what way does it go beyond a sexual sin? This was more than youthful passion, it was a direct insult to his father.
We're not told, but how do you think this affected the family dynamics? I would think this would affect the relationship between father and son.
Extra credit: Reuben has acted dishonorably here. In what ways does Reuben act honorably in the future? (37:21-29; 42:22, 37) He tries to protect Joseph from being sold into slavery.
Genesis 37:21 But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, "Let us not take his life."
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Q4. (Genesis 35:9-15)
Why do you think God appears to Jacob yet another time?
"After Jacob returned from Paddan Aram, God appeared to him again and blessed him." (35:9)
God confirms to him the name of Israel, which Jacob had first received at Peniel (32:28). Then God reaffirms to him the Blessing of Abraham. I think God appears to Jacob yet another time as reaffirmation.
What are the primary promises that God renews to Jacob?
1. "I am God Almighty" (El Shaddai, 35:11b).
2. "Be fruitful and increase in number" (35:11c).
3. "A nation and a community of nations will come from you, and kings will come from your body" (35:11d).
4. "The land I gave to Abraham and Isaac I also give to you, and I will give this land to your descendants after you" (35:12).
Q4. Charge to Archippus
in 8. Final Instructions and Greetings (4:2-18)
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