Studies Of Philippians

& Colossians

A Study Of Philippians

Introduction:

Philippians is the epistle of joy and encouragement in the midst of adverse

circumstances. Paul freely expresses his fond affection for the Philippian Christians

and appreciation of their consistent testimony and support.

Author: The book identifies Paul as the writer (1:1).

Date: Paul wrote the epistle in the early 60’s A.D. while in prison in Rome. The

references to the palace guard (1:13) and Caesar’s household (4:22) seem to bear

this out. The letter likely was written sometime after the beginning of Paul’s

imprisonment recorded in Acts 28.

City: The city was in Macedonia, a Roman colony, named after Phillip, Alexander

the Great’s father in 368 B.C. There appears to have been few Jews, as women are

praying by a river instead of a synagogue.

The church: The church was planted by Paul on his second missionary journey

recorded in Acts 16, approximately 10 years before this. The two most well known

members were Lydia and her household and a jailor and his household. The

congregation had sent a member named Epaphroditus to Rome to find Paul and

take him some support. And they had sent him wages for his preaching work in

Thessalonica and Corinth before this. Epaphroditus is probably the messenger

taking this letter back home to the brethren.

Themes: Philippians is one of Paul’s most personal letters. In it he shares his own

experience with Christ, and his struggle over whether to prefer dying to be with

Christ or living to serve the Philippians and others. The Philippians were in his

heart, a fact which explains the prominent expression of joy. The word “joy” is

found five times and the verb “to rejoice” occurs eleven times…all despite his

unpleasant circumstances.

Paul exhorts the Philippians to have a spirit of unity and mutual concern by

embracing the attitude of humility, the greatest example of which is the

incarnation and crucifixion of Christ.

Greetings, Thanksgivings & Prayer (1:1-11)

Look at vs. 1-2

1. What man is with Paul at this time?

2. Though in a human prison, how does Paul view he is bound?

3. Define the word “saint.”

4. What is a bishop?

5. What other job description names are used in the New Testament for bishops?

6. What is a deacon?

7. How do men become bishops or deacons in a congregation of Christ?

8. How have these three descriptions been altered through the centuries.

9. What is the meaning of the word grace?

10. What is the meaning of the word peace?

11. Suggest a possible significance in the order of these.

Look at vs. 3-8

1. Why did Paul happily thank God continually for the Philippian brethren?

2. What is this fellowship of which he speaks in verse 5?

3. How did the Philippian brethren extend fellowship to Paul?

4. Why does Paul say he has confidence in them?

5. What is “the day of Jesus Christ”?

6. Of what did the Philippians “partake” of with Paul?

7. In verses 7 & 17 Paul describes a defense of the gospel. What does he mean?

8. Why does He bring God into his statement of affection for them?

Look at vs. 9-11

1. What was Paul’s prayer for the Philippians?

2. What is the difference between knowledge and discernment?

3. How does one “approve the things that are excellent”?

4. What are the “fruits of righteousness”?

5. How does what Paul says he prays about differ from what many pray about for

their friends?

6. Once again in verse 10 he mentions a day He looks forward to in all things.

Elaborate on this mindset.

7. How many times does Paul mention God or Jesus Christ in these first 11 verses?

8. According to verse 11, what is the purpose of a Christian’s life?

Christ Is Preached (1:12–18)

Look at vs. 12-14

What has seemingly happened to Paul that he wanted the brethren to know about

and why tell them?

2. How does it seem Paul measures things as good or bad?

3. In what two ways has the gospel advanced even through this adversity?

4. What did the “palace guard” learn about Paul? How might this have happened?

5. What happened to other brethren as a result of Paul’s chains? How can that be?

Look at vs. 15-18.

1. Why did some men preach Christ? Why others?

2. How would the preaching of some add affliction to Paul?

3. What did Paul rejoice in?

4. Does Paul not care that some preach out of impure motives and want to hurt

him?

5. What application can we make from this?

Conflicting Desires (1:19–30)

Look at vs. 19-21

1. Upon what two things is Paul depending to help deliver him? Deliverance from

what?

2. What was Paul’s eager expectation and hope? What two outcomes does he see?

3. What can cause a person to be “put to shame?”

4. How would Christ be “magnified” in Paul’s body?

5. Explain the phrase, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Look at vs. 22-26

1. What would happen if Paul continued to live on earth?

2. Explain the strong conflicting desires of Paul in verses 23-24.

3. Of what was Paul confident? How is this possible if he is unsure of living?

4. Though he has great joy for the Philippians, does he know it is reciprocal? Why

the delight in making joy abound?

Look at vs. 27-30

1. What three things does Paul long for in the Philippians that are mentioned in

verse 27-28?

2. How can our conduct “be worthy of the gospel of Christ”?

3. What does “stand fast in one spirit, striving together for the faith” mean and

why is it important?

4. What does “not in any way terrified by your adversaries” mean? Does he mean I

hope they do not terrorize them? Or that they are not afraid when they do?

5. Christianity has been viewed wrongly through the ages. One is found in verse

28. Elaborate on it.

6. What is a “proof” of our salvation? (28)

7. Do verses 29-30 sound like Christianity is a “crutch” for weak people?

Humility (2:1–11)

Look at vs. 1-4

1. What five benefits can we find in Christ?

2. How could the Philippians make Paul’s joy fuller?

3. Explain how verse one is the basis for verse 2.

4. Why is this oneness such a big deal to Paul & God?

5. Through what were they to do nothing?

6. How are we to view on another?

7. What are we to “look out” for?

8. Expand on how we obey verse 4.

Look at vs. 5-11

1. What does it mean to have the “mind” of Christ?

2. List three things Jesus did that demonstrates the mind of Christ.

3. What might we do if we have this same mind?

4. What does the “form of God” mean?

5. Explain the expression found in the NKJV “did not consider it robbery to be

equal with God.”

6. How did Christ make “Himself of no reputation”?

7. To what extent did Christ humble himself?

8. To what extent has the Father now exalted Christ?

9. What are the things “under the earth” mentioned in verse 10?

10. Why should every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord?

Holding Fast The Word (2:12–18)

Look at vs. 12-18

1. How do we “work out” our own salvation? Apply your answer to the immediate

context of the verses before.

2. What part does “fear and trembling” play in our salvation?

3. How does God work in us? Verse 12 says we work. Verse 13 says it is God

working. Which is it?

4. Why should we do all things without complaining and disputing? The answer is

in verse 15.

5. Why is complaining such a bad thing to do?

6. How is the world Christians live in described? How are Christians described

living among them?

7. In this context, what qualities must we have if we are going to be lights to the

world?

8. What would Paul be glad to do in order to help the faith of the Philippians?

9. Was it supposed to be mutual?

Timothy And Epaphroditus (2:19–30)

Look at vs. 19-24

1. Why did Paul want to send Timothy to Philippi?

2. What character in Timothy was so admirable?

3. What do most people seek after? The context seems to be spoken about

Christians. How can this be?

4. How does Paul describe his relationship with Timothy?

5. Why did Paul not send Timothy immediately?

Look at vs. 25-30

1. Who was Epaphroditus? Where was he from? How is he described by Paul?

2. Why was he longing to go back to Philippi?

3. How did God extend mercy to him?

4. Why didn’t Paul just miraculously heal him?

5. How were the Philippians to receive Epaphroditus?

6. How much had he worked for the Lord and Paul?

Confidence In The Flesh (3:1–11)

Look at vs. 1-6

1. How does one “rejoice in the Lord”?

2. Why does the writer not mind repeating himself?

3. Why are the Philippians warned about “dogs”? Who might they be?

4. Elaborate on each of the four names given of these people in verse 2.

5. Who are the true circumcision, the true Jews of the Christian age?

6. What is special about the kind of worship that Christians should give to God?

7. Why should we “have no confidence” in the flesh? What does this mean?

8. List the fleshly qualities in verses 5-6 which Paul could have boasted in.

9. What did Paul mean by “blameless” in verse six?

Look at vs. 7-11

1. How did Paul now view all of these earthly accomplishments or advantages?

2. How is he not overstating it to call it all worth nothing?

3. How did Paul want to be “found” in Christ?

4. Contrast the two types of righteousness mentioned in verse 9.

5. Could even exceptional Jewish law-keeping accomplish right standing before

God?

6. How can we “know” Christ and “the power of His resurrection”?

7. How can we have “fellowship” with the sufferings of Christ?

8. Why would anyone in their right mind wish to share in sufferings of Christ and

be like him in death?

9. How would you qualify for Christ to raise you from the dead?

10. Just how big a deal is attaining the resurrection from the dead in Christ?

The Goal Ahead (3:12—4:1)

Look at vs. 12-16

1. Why did Paul “press on”? What does this mean?

2. What in verse 12 does Paul say his mind must not be?

3. His goal is what?

4. Again in verse 13 he repeats that he does not think or act as having

accomplished the goal yet. Why is this important?

5. What did Paul want to forget? Were these good or bad things? What is implied

in forgetting, meaning how is it done?

6. Name some other things this principle would apply to.

7. What is the “goal of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”?

8. What makes a Christian “mature”?

9. How can we “walk by the same rule”?

10. Are all Christians to adopt this mindset?

11. Paraphrase verse 16.

12. What is the pattern mentioned in verse 17?

13. Were Christians not only to be noting Paul but others?

14. Who are the enemies of the cross? How are they described? Were these

insiders or outsiders?

15. What does “whose god is their belly” mean?

16. Where is our citizenship? Explain what this means.

17. At the second coming of Christ, how will “transform our lowly body”? What

significance is this?

18. What did Paul call the Philippian brethren? How sweet is that?

Be Anxious For Nothing (4:2–9)

Look at vs. 2-7

1. What do we know about Euodia and Syntyche? What might have been their

issue?

2. Who is Paul’s companion mentioned in verse 3? What is he urged to do with

these women?

3. What is the “Book of Life”? Where else is this book mentioned? Were the names

of some said to be in it?

4. Why should we rejoice in the Lord always? Why is it worth repeating?

5. How is it humanly possible to rejoice all the time in all circumstances of life?

6. How do Christians let their gentleness be known to all men? And what does the

Lord being at hand have anything to do with it? What does this mean?

7. Why is the command to “be anxious for nothing” so difficult to follow?

8. Prayer and supplication is to be accompanied with what?

9. What will the “peace of God” bring us?

10. What is the “peace of God”? How would you explain it to someone who is not a

Christian? Why is this hard to do?

11. Upon what basis did Paul say the God of peace would be with them?

12. Is this peace an unfailing promise of God?

Look at vs. 8-9

1. What are we to think about?

2. Why does he say think on good things?

3. How had Paul taught the Philippians?

4. The command in verse is “think”. In verse 9 it is “do”. Elaborate.

5. Verse 9 says the God of peace not only comes through prayer as mentioned in

verses 6-7, but through what else?

6. Break down in verse 9 how God expects Christians to mature and walk in Christ.

Generosity (4:10–23)

Look at vs. 10-20

1. What did the Philippian brethren do that made Paul glad?

2. What had Paul learned to do?

3. How is contentment also needed when abounding?

4. How could he do this?

5. How could Paul do “all things through Christ”?

6. How did the Philippians “share” in Paul’s distress?

7. How long had the Philippians been assisting Paul?

8. Did many churches have fellowship (share) with Paul in the beginning?

9. What was Paul primarily seeking by graciously accepting their gifts time and

time again?

10. In verse 18 he says he is full. Is it then pleasing to God to accept support from

a church though not in need?

11. How does Paul describe the gift brought this time by Epaphroditus? Explain

what he means.

12. What will God supply to His children?

13. Who should always get all the credit and praise for this good done?

Look at vs. 21-23

1. Why is a big deal made about greetings in these last verses?

2. Who especially greeted them? What makes this so special?

3. Is it possible that Nero heard the gospel?

4. What is different when you have the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ? Why is it so

needed?

Conclusion: What good impressions has this little letter of inspired Scripture

had upon you?

A STUDY OF COLOSSIANS

Introduction to Colossians

Colosse - city in Asia Minor (modern Turkey); one of churches of Asia (not

mentioned Revelation 1-3); near Laodicea (4:16).

See maps

Church not begun by Paul (2:1); probably Epaphras (1:7)...maybe during the time

of Acts 19:10.

May have been where Philemon lived. Compare: Col. 4:9 w/ Philemon

10-12...4:17 w/ Philemon 2...4:10-12 w/ Philemon 23-24

Paul is in prison - 4:18

Written in early 60’s A.D.

Colossians and Ephesians are twin books - eg. Eph. 5:19 & Col. 3:16; Eph. 6:1ff &

Col. 3:20ff

Ephesians emphasizes the church of the Christ -- Colossians emphasizes the Christ

of the church

Thanksgivings And Prayers For The Colossian Christians

(1:1-12)

Look at v.1,2.

1. What relationships do we have mentioned?

2. What does “apostle” mean?

3. By whose authority was Paul an apostle? Why would Paul emphasize that point?

4. Do you read anywhere in the New testament of false apostles? If so, where?

5. What does the word “saint” mean? Are you a saint? How do you know?

6. Describe how YOU treat different kinds of mail. How does the identity of the

sender affect this?

7.What kind of brethren are addressed? Can there be any other kind?

8. What makes one a “faithful” brother in Christ?

9. What is so desirous about having grace and peace from God and Jesus Christ?

Look at v. 3-5a.

1. Did Paul believe in the power of prayer? (vs. 3 & 9)

2. For what did Paul give thanks?

3. Why is “love for all the saints” a companion of “having faith in Christ Jesus”?

4. How do we express our “love for all the saints”?

5. What is our “hope which is laid up” in heaven? Is it more than heaven itself?

Explain.

Look at v. 5a - 8

1. If our hope is heard in the gospel, then our hope hinges on who or what?

2. What else can we learn about the gospel in these verses?

3.What is the difference between hearing and knowing the grace of God?

4. By the time Paul wrote this letter, how far had the gospel gone outside the city

of it’s origin, Jerusalem, where it began? What is so incredible about this fact?

5. How had the Colossians learned the truth?

6. What kind of person was Epaphras to Paul? What was he to the Colossians?

7. What had he declared to Paul and Timothy about the Colossian brethren? What

does this mean?

Look at v.9-10

1. Why did Paul continually pray for the Christians in Colosse?

2. For what was he praying for them? List at least nine mentioned through verse

12.

3. What is the impact of the word “filled” in verse 9?

4. What do you make of the continued emphasis in verse 10 to “fully”, “being

fruitful”, and “increasing”?

5. What does it mean to “walk worthy of the Lord”?

Look at v. 11-12

1. How were the Colossians to be strengthened?

2. Explain the phrase, “longsuffering with joy”.

3. Did they have just cause for “giving thanks”?

4. How has God “qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in

light”?

5. Can you hear yourself praying this way...about these kind of things for yourself?

6. Do you think these kinds of sentiments ought to be predominant in our prayers

in the assembly? When praying for the whole church?

The Preeminence Of Christ (1:13-23)

Look at v. 13,14

1. Who is the “us” of verse 13?

2. What has God done for us?

3. Who did the delivering? What is the significance of this?

4. What is the “power of darkness”?

5. In this context what is the “kingdom of the son of His love”?

6. Was the kingdom of Christ in existence at the time of this writing in the first

century? What does this say about the doctrine of men that teaches that Jesus

was unsuccessful in establishing His kingdom when He first came and that He is

returning to set it up in the future?

7. What is “redemption”? Check a Greek definition if you are able. Why is this

word so fitting to describe our salvation from past sins?

8. What was the redemption or ransom price? Provide a verse for your answer.

Look at v. 15-20

1. What tense did Paul use when he spoke of Jesus being the image of the invisible

God? What is the significance of that?

2. Is this “image” physical likeness? If not, how is Jesus the image of the invisible

God?

3. Give some thought to the phrase, “the firstborn over all creation.” What do you

think it means?

4. “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” is a question occasionally asked.

According to verse 17, who or what came before either of them?

5. How does this harmonize with the Genesis account of creation?

6. What did Jesus create?

7. Compare verse 17b with Hebrews 1:3. After creation, what does Jesus continue

to do?

8. How many times are "all things" mentioned? What is the point?

9. What are some things the creation reveals about God?

10. What are some things the creation does not reveal about God that Jesus does

reveal?

11. In verse 18, the church is defined as what?

12. What relation or position does Jesus hold?

13. What does “firstborn from the dead” mean?

14. In what does Jesus have pre-eminence?

15. What two things was it the Father’s will to do?

16. How does “all the fullness” dwell in Christ? What does this mean?

17. Verse 20 points out that redemption not only involves forgiveness but also

what?

18. What is the peace mentioned in verse 20?

19. How is peace made through the blood of the cross of Christ?

Look at v. 21-23

1. What is the past, present, and future of this section of the text?

2. What causes man to be alienated from God?

3. What word describes the change? (vs 20, 21)

4. Who does the reconciling? Who gets the credit for the change in us?

5. Explain how the reconciliation is in the “body of His flesh through death”.

6. Because of what Jesus has done, HOW can man be presented?

7. According to verse 22, WHY were we reconciled to God?

8. Is there a condition attached to the assurance of verse 22?

9. List the four things upon which the presentation is conditional?

10. How can Christians “continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast”?

11. How might one be moved away from His hope?

12. To whom had the gospel been preached at that time?

13. What is so amazing about this fact?

Christ’s Preeminence Shown In The Ministry Of Paul (1:24 -

2:5)

Look at v. 24-25

1. How could Paul rejoice in his sufferings?

2. On who’s behalf was he suffering?

3. What does Paul mean by "fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of

Christ?"

4. Does this mean that the sufferings of Christ were incomplete? Not adequate?

Fell short in some way?

5. How did Paul receive His ministry?

6. For whose benefit did he work?

Look at v. 26-27

1. How or why does Paul refer to the word of God he preaches as "the mystery”

What does this imply?

2. To whom was it a mystery?

3. Was it still mysterious?

4. What is the glory of this revealed mystery among the Gentiles?

5. How is Christ in us?

6. What is our hope?

7. On whom is the emphasis placed in all this?

Look at v. 28-29

1. What aim did Paul have for "every man"?

2. How was this accomplished?

3. Paul says HE labors and strives, but it is according to who or what?

4. Once again, this stresses what about Christ?

Look at 2:1

1. Why would Paul want the Colossians and Laodiceans to know what a great

conflict he has for them? Clue: verse 2.

2. Paul writes this epistle from prison. What kind of conflict was he likely having?

3. What else in the verse indicates something that might have contributed to his

agonizing over these brethren?

Look at v. 2-3

1. What four things did he so anxiously long that they might attain?

2. Why do Christian hearts need comforting or encouraging?

3. How can two or more Christian hearts be “knit together”?

4.Why might the Holy Spirit use the word “knit” to describe this?

5. What is the benefit of a close-knit band of saints?

6. When it comes to understanding (wisdom) and knowledge of God and Christ,

which is more important?

7. What is the ideal goal in learning and understanding?

8. Is there any spiritual wisdom or knowledge outside of Christ?

9. Once again, the preeminence is seen where?

10. Why is this treasure house of wisdom and knowledge still referred to as hidden

in Christ?

Look at V. 4-5

1. This section begins "...I say this in order that". What is "I say this," referring to?

2. Why has Paul described his work, and the greatness of Christ and the gospel?

3. How are some people deceived with persuasive words?

4. Based on these verses, write a explaining how one can avoid being misled by

false teachers.

5. How was Paul "with" them, and "seeing" them?

6. How did Paul describe the Colossians’ faith in verse 5?

Christ’s Preeminence Over Man-made Religion and Judaism

(2:6-23)

Look at v. 6-7

1. Name the seven things Christians are to do, since they have received the Lord

Jesus.

2. What does it mean to walk in Christ?

3. How can we be “rooted and built up in Him”?

4. Why the emphasis on “as you have been taught”?

5. What is the importance of abounding in the faith?

6. Continual thanksgiving is stressed here and in many other passages of

Scripture. Why is that so important? Where or how do we sometimes fail in this?

Look at v. 8-10

1. What is the power of “Beware”?

2. Some translations say “cheat” you; others say “take you captive”. Elaborate on

what the Spirit is saying here, either translation.

3. What kind of things does Paul say could jeopardize our relationship with Christ?

4. All of these originate where?

5. Does it seem that our relationship with God through Jesus Christ is doctrinally

based?

6. What reason is given in verses 9-10 for not allowing themselves to be cheated

or captured?

7. Is verse nine past tense or present tense? Explain the significance of this.

8. How does all the fullness of the Godhead dwell in Christ “bodily”?

9. Do we need Christ plus something else?

10. If something does not originate with Christ, what is it’s value?

11. How do we determine what is of Christ?

12. According to the latter part of verse 10, why do we only take orders from

Jesus Christ?

Look at v. 11-12

1. There is a “circumcision” for all who are in Christ. Who performs it?

2. When does one receive the "circumcision made without hands"?

3. What is cut off by this circumcision?

4. Thought Question: Why does the Holy Spirit equate baptism and circumcision?

5. Why is it so fitting to speak of baptism as a “burial”?

6. What is the significance of being buried with Christ?

7. When we are baptized, where is the working taking place?

8. Once more, preeminence is placed where?

Look at v. 13-15

1. Describe the before and after states that are contrasted in vs 13.

2. What is the “handwriting of requirements” that is said to have been against us?

3. Why and/or how was it contrary to us?

4. In what act was it taken away?

5. Explain the phrase, “nailed it to the cross”.

6. Who was defeated in all this? How did Christ make a “public spectacle” of

principalities and powers?

7. Christ is depicted as triumphing over them in it. How is that?

Look at v. 16-17

1. In what matters did Paul say men were no longer to judge (condemn) another?

2. After looking at v. 16, what is v. 14 referring to?

3. Does this include the “Ten Commandments”? Explain.

4. How could one judge another regarding food, drink, festival, new moon, or

sabbath?

5. Is there a sabbath requirement of God still binding on men today?

6. If these things were shadows, what cast the shadows? (v 17)

7. Think of two or three characteristics of a shadow.

Look at v. 18-19

1. In what other way might the prize (reward) be taken from the Colossians (v

18)?

2. This is the fourth thing in this chapter about which Paul warns the Colossian

Christians. List all four found in vs. 4, 8, 16, 18.

3. Elaborate on what you think was involved in “taking delight in false humility”.

4. Elaborate on what you think was involved in “worship of angels”.

5. How can one intrude into things which he has not seen? Why is this so wrong?

6. One who follows these errors (vs 18) is doing what (vs 18)?

7. One who follows these errors is NOT doing what (vs 19)?

8. Verse 19 describes how GOD wishes Christians to grow and how is that?

9. If Christ is shown to be the origin, predecessor, reality, ruler, etc. of all earthly

(human) products, such as philosophy, religion, and science, does that mean that

His instruction (to follow) would change as civilization evolves?

Look at v. 20-22

1. “If you died with Christ” refers back to what event mentioned in verse 12?

2. Being in Christ sets us free from what?

3. What generally is Paul’s argument or reasoning in these verses?

4. Elaborate on verse 21.

5. What are the two fallacies of this error mentioned in verse 22?

Look at v. 23

1. What things had “an appearance of wisdom”?

2. What makes such appear to be wise?

3. Explain what is meant by “self-imposed religion”.

4. How can humility be false?

5. What might neglect of the body include?

6. Can being religious, humble and restrictive appear to be beneficial and

appropriate?

7. Does being religious, humble and restrictive automatically benefit one in their

efforts to stop sinning?

8. Therefore, is it possible for a person, to appear wise, humble, religious and

austere, yet be given over to the indulgences of sin?

9. So, where do so many go wrong along these lines?

Christ’s Preeminence Is To Be Demonstrated (3:1-17)

Look at v. 1-2

1. “Raised with Christ” refers back to what event in 2:12?

2. Does the word “if” imply the possibility of this being otherwise? Explain.

3. What are we commanded to do in these two verse since we have joined

ourselves to Christ?

4. Where is Christ now?

5. What is the significance of Him sitting at the right hand of God?

6. How does one seek and set his mind on things above?

7. Does it seem God thinks man has power to determine his attitude, mindset,

mental focus, etc.? Elaborate.

8. Describe a person who sets his mind on things that are on the earth.

9. Describe a person who sets his mind on things above?

Look at v. 3-4

1. What reasons are given that we should set our minds on things above?

2. How is the Christian’s present and future state depicted in these verses?

3. What is meant by “for you died”?

4. How is a Christian’s life “hidden with Christ”?

5. What do you think the phrase "Christ who is our life" means?

6. When are Christians to appear?

7. Therefore, how long is a Christian’s life to remain “hidden” in the background?

8. Christians will appear with Christ in glory. Explain.

Look at v. 5

1. If we hide our lives in Christ and seek things above, what will it be necessary

that we do according to this verse?

2. How does one “put to death” his members?

3. What are “members” and why and how is the word used in this connection?

4. Discuss the list of verse 5. Check alternate translations for meanings of some.

Here is the NKJV...

fornication -

uncleanness -

passion -

evil desire -

covetousness -

5. Why and how is covetousness idolatry?

6. How can one put covetousness to death?

Look at v. 6-7

1. What is indicated about the wrath of God?

2. Upon whom does the wrath of God come?

3. Is it correct to say that some people live in a certain sin?

4. Who are the “sons of disobedience”? Why are they called “sons”?

5. Are those ("sons of disobedience") who are not in a covenant relationship with

God subject to God's moral laws?

Look at v. 8

1. What contrast is suggested by "but now" in v.8?

2. Why the seeming redundancy in saying “you yourselves” (NKJV)?

3. What do the things to be put away in verse 8 have in common?

4. What is the distinction between anger and wrath?

5. In Ephesians 4:26 we are urged to be angry, but not sin. In Col. 3:8 we are

commanded to put off anger. Harmonize the apparent contradiction.

6. Maliciousness is difficult to imagine any Christian still possessing. True or false?

Explain why the admonition to put it aside.

7. Why is slander or blasphemy wrong?

8. Why is obscene or filthy talk not fitting for Christians?

Look at v. 9-10

1. Why is lying condemned?

2. How do we put on a new man?

3. The new man is to be taking on what appearance?

Look at v. 11

1. What types of divisions were inappropriate among Christians when Paul penned

this?

2. What might be the application today?

3. How does “but Christ is all and in all” do away with such distinctions?

4. Who are Scythians? Why mentioned here?

Look at v. 12-13

1. What three ways does Paul address them and what is the significance of each?

2. Contrast the lists of verses 8-9 with 12-13.

3. What is meant by the Christian is to “put on” certain things?

4. Give an illustration of each of the five qualities of v. 12.

5. What does “bearing with one another” connote?

6. Forgiveness of other brethren may involve overlooking complaints. True or

false? Elaborate.

7. When forgiving our fellow Christian, what must always be in our minds?

8. Why is forgiving imperative for the Christian?

Look at v. 14

1. Why is love to be “above all else”?

2. Why does love put it all together perfectly?

3. How does love do this?

Look at v. 15

1. What is to rule within us?

2. What is meant by allowing God’s peace to “rule” in our heart?

3. The reference to being called into “one body” may mean the peace under

consideration is to be seen where?

4. How does being thankful tie into to this discussion?

Look at v. 16

1. What is to dwell within us? What does the parallel passage in Ephesians 5:18-19

call it?

2. To what extent or degree is the word of Christ to dwell within us? How does the

word dwell within us? What does “in all wisdom” mean?

3. If the Word of Christ is within us, what will be coming out of us?

4. What is the difference between psalms, hymns and spiritual songs?

5. What are these type songs to be used for? Who are we to teach and admonish?

6. Thought Question: Does God authorize the use of uninspired words to teach the

Word of Christ?

7. How are these songs to be sung to one another and explain.

8. When these songs are sung to one another, who else is listening?

Look at v. 17.

1. Verse 17 is a summation of everything said in chapter 3 thusfar. With that in

mind, what does the writer mean in this verse?

2. How can we do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus?

3. If everything is to be in the name of Jesus, why must we give thanks to the

Father THROUGH Him? Why not just thank Jesus?

4. How does this verse once again speak to the theme of the entire book: The

Preeminence of Christ?

Christ’s Preeminence In Relationships (3:18-4:1)

Look at vs. 18-19

1. What is required of wives?

2. With verse 17 still fresh in mind, what does “as is fitting in the Lord” mean

about a wife’s submission to her husband?

3. So much more could be said of a wife’s responsibility to her husband, why this

one?

4. What does submit mean?

5. What is required of husbands?

6. So much more could be said of a husband’s duty to his wife, why just this one?

7. Why the negative warning, “do not be bitter toward them”?

8. How could a husband be bitter towards his wife?

9. What effect will it likely have if either spouse waits for the other to perform his

or her part before he or she obeys the Lord’s commandment for them?

Look at vs. 20-21

1. Children’s obligation to their parents is summed up in what one word?

2. Is the Scripture addressing children directly or indirectly through their parents?

What is the significance of this?

3. Are there limits to how much children are to obey their parents?

4. What is to be the motivation for a child’s obedience to his parents?

5. What one thing are Fathers warned to be certain not to do? Explain.

6. What is the sad result should they not heed the Lord’s instruction along these

lines?

7. Name ways a father may tend to provoke and/or discourage his children?

8. Why are only fathers warned? Can mothers not be guilty of provoking her child

to resentment?

Look at v. 22

1. Why didn't the church of the first century openly oppose slavery and seek to

destroy it?

2. In a word, what does the bound servant always have to do toward his earthly

master?

3. Is simply obeying sufficient to please God? What else does the Lord expect?

4. Give examples of working with eye-service, as a men-pleaser?

5. From the verse, how does one best develop sincerity of heart in the things we

do?

Look at v. 23-24

1. What new dimension is added to the work we do? How would this affect the

quality of work if all followed these admonitions?

2. What is meant by doing all things “heartily”?

3. What is meant by “as unto the Lord”? How does one do that?

4. Explain what the writer means when he says, “knowing that from the Lord you

will receive the reward of the inheritance”.

5. Ultimately, who are we serving in all our mundane earthly endeavors?

6. Do these instructions to slaves have any application to employees today? If so,

what.

Look at v. 25

1. What are the immediate wrongdoings under consideration in the verse?

2. The repayment mentioned in this verse has a counterpart in the previous. What

is it?

3. Explain the meaning and import of there being no partiality.

Look at 4:1

1. How were masters to treat their servants?

2. What was always to factor into their thinking along these lines?

3. Does this seem to indicate that Christians were sometimes owners of bond

servants? How could this possibly be? Isn’t having servants immoral?

4. Give an Bible example of a Christian “master”.

5. Give practical examples as to how 4:1 could apply today.

General Admonitions And Salutations (4:2-18)

Look at v. 2

1. List the four things Paul says ought to characterize our praying.

2. What does “continue” in prayer connote?

3. Where is “pray without ceasing” found in the New Testament?

4. What does it mean to earnestly pray?

5. How can one be vigilant in prayer?

6. Why and how does mixing in thanksgiving factor into all prayers?

7. Give one other New Testament passage where thanksgiving and prayer are

joined?

Look at vs. 3-4

1. What did Paul ask them to pray for? What might he have meant by that?

2. The open door was for “the word”. Explain how that can be.

3. He continues to call something the “mystery of Christ” (see also 1:26-27;

2:2-3). What did we say about such when studying those passages?

4. How could Paul call “the word” the reason for his incarceration?

5. What else did Paul hope prayers would help accomplish (vs. 4)?

6. How can prayers affect this?

Look at v. 5

1. How can we conduct ourselves wisely toward outsiders?

2. Why are they called outsiders? What is the significance?

3. Explain what the Spirit means by “redeeming the time” (NKJV).

4. In Ephesians 5:16, what additional thought is added to the idea of redeeming?

5. How can one make the best use of time?

Look at v. 6

1. How often should our speech be gracious?

2. How is speech gracious?

3. What is the significance of seasoning speech with salt.

4. What qualities does literal salt possess that would figuratively apply to

speaking?

5. Discuss the latter part of this verse with I Peter 3:15 and Ecclesiastes 10:12.

Look at v. 7

1. How was Paul getting this letter from Rome to Colossae?

2. Where else in the Bible is Tychicus mentioned?

3. Comment on the three ways Paul describes Tychicus.

4. What was Paul also hoping he could tell the Colossians?

Look at v. 8

1. What can be inferred from the things said in this verse?

2. What does this say about the love of the brotherhood?

Look at v. 9

1. Where else in the Bible do we read of Onesimus?

2. How does this then likely connect the two books?

Look at v. 10.

1. Where do we hear of Aristarchus elsewhere in the Bible?

2. What is his condition in Rome with Paul?

3. In Acts 15:36-40, what do we learn about Mark?

4. How does Paul seem to regard Mark these years later? See also II Tim. 4:11.

5. What lesson is there in this?

Look at v. 11.

1. Were there many Jewish Christians assisting Paul in prison in Rome?

2. There are two other places in the NT the name Justus appears. Locate them and

does it seem one, both or neither is the same as this one?

Look at vs. 12-13

1. Where else in the Bible have we heard of Epaphras?

2. How can prayers be something we labor in fervently?

3. What was the ultimate aim of the prayers of Epaphras for the Colossians?

4. Why is this important?

5. What other two churches did Epaphras have a relationship with?

6. How can one have a great zeal for congregations?

Look at vs. 14-15

1. What was Luke’s occupation?

2. What else do you know about Luke from other places in the Bible?

3. Where else do we read of Demas and what seems to have transpired after the

writing of Colossians?

4. Where else do we read of the Laodicean church?

5. What sadly has taken place over the years?

6. What does “the church that is in his (or her) house” mean?

Look at v. 16

1. Was this letter to the Colossians meant only for their eyes and ears?

2. What does this imply?

3. Why do we not have in the NT the epistle sent to the Laodiceans?

Look at v. 17.

1. Where else do we read of Archippus?

2. What charge is given him?

3. With this verse joined with II Tim. 4:5, what might we deduce about the work

Archippus did?

Look at v. 18.

1. Why might Paul have included so many personal references in this letter (in

contrast to the Ephesian letter which has very few)?

2. In II Thessalonians 3:17, what is the significance of Paul’s salutation being by

his own hand? What else do we know about this? Why is it important?

3. Comment on “remember my chains” in light of Hebrews 13:3.

4. What is always needed by all saints? Why?

5. Is it ok to say amen to your own remarks? As opposed to others “amening”?

6. What stands out in your memory as this study of Colossians concludes?