Sermon Summary
- We can’t NOT make exclusive truth claims, because for something to be true it must exclude that which is contrary.
- The main point of Colossians 2:2-8 is that we should live according to the truth of Christ and not deceptive philosophies.
- There are three ways that the text shows we should do this.
- First, we do it by understanding the mystery of Christ; that is everything that Christ is and did (the gospel) (Col 2:2-4).
- Secondly, we must continue to live rooted in Christ (Col 2:5-7).
- Thirdly, we should not be taken captive by deceptive philosophies (Col 2:8).
- It is not certain exactly what philosophies there were that were affecting the Colossians, but what we do know is that they focused on things other than Christ.
- Our world - just like the Colossians - is chock-full of philosophies that are not grounded in Christ.
- Some examples of those deceptive philosophies:
- “Jesus came to teach unconditional love for others.”
- “My good deeds outweigh my bad deeds so I will go to a good place when I die.”
- “I choose reason over faith.”
- Any philosophy, no matter how reasonable, or alluring, or fine-sounding, if it is not rooted in Christ, will never get you to God (John 14:6).
Discussion Questions:
1. What comes to your mind when you hear “live your truth”?
2. What are some deceptive philosophies that you encounter?
3. How can we stay rooted in Christ today?
4. How would your non-Christian family or friends respond to John 3:16
