Identity in Christ: Colossians 1:1-8

Anxiety and depression are hitting all time highs. Consider how many messages we absorb regarding our value and worth on a daily basis. Could it be that these ideas, while quiet or subtle; are evil and destructive lies? What if the deeper threat of temptation isn’t being tempted towards a certain act but the slower progression of being tempted away from our truest identity - as ones loved by, and belonging to God?

Respond:

• When lies embed themselves in our story, they drastically impact our wellbeing and behaviour in ways that can be harmful to ourselves and the people we love.

  • What might be the deepest lie(s) embedded in your life and story? (ie. you are not worthy of love, you are unwanted, you are hopeless to change etc.)

  • What truth does Jesus have to reveal (here and now & in Scripture) about these lies in your journey?

• Make a list of ways you think about who you are (some might be truth and some lies). Reflect on how being ‘God’s holy people’ who belong to a family in Christ changes all of that. What role does community have to play in fighting against the lies of culture?

• We see in these verses an identity of those who follow Jesus, the three trademark distinctions of a life grounded in faith, hope and love. Would these three characteristics define your character and thoughts? Which of these three areas might the Spirit desire to deepen in this season?