New Number same Name (3)

Living Out God's Will: More Than Just a Saying

Bible Passage: Colossians 3

Summary: In Colossians 3, Paul instructs believers to seek things that are above and to practice a life reflective of their new identity in Christ, emphasizing the importance of aligning daily actions with God’s will.

Application: This sermon can help Christians understand that finding and living out God’s will is not just about vague concepts or feelings, but involves intentionality and action rooted in Scripture. It encourages believers to evaluate their daily lives, decisions, and values against the call to reflect Christ’s love and grace.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that living out God’s will requires a transformation of the heart and mind, focusing on heavenly realities rather than earthly distractions, and emphasizes practical steps for daily living in light of the Gospel.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage shows how Christ fulfills the law and the call for believers to embody His righteousness, highlighting the transformative power of His resurrection in leading us to fulfill God’s will.

Big Idea: God's will is not ambiguous; it is a clear, actionable path that reflects our new identity in Christ and requires us to actively pursue righteousness in our everyday choices.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider using Logos to delve deeper into the cultural background of Colossians and how Paul’s message directly addresses the issues facing the early church. Pay attention to the implications of terms like “above” and “earthly” in their historical context. Additionally, explore commentaries that discuss the theological significance of our new identity in Christ as it relates to understanding God's will.

1. Setting Minds on the Sacred

Colossians 3:1-4

You could emphasize how believers are called to set their minds on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. By focusing on heavenly realities, we align our thoughts and desires with God's will. Encourage the congregation to continually seek Christ, finding their identity in Him rather than in earthly things. This mindset transformation is essential to living out God's will and reflects the transformative power of the resurrection.

2. Purging the Past Patterns

Colossians 3:5-11

Perhaps this section could highlight the practical steps of putting to death earthly desires that are contrary to God's will. Paul lists behaviors that belong to the old self and urges believers to rid themselves of such things. Encouraging the church to actively discard sinful habits reflects our new identity in Christ. Stress the importance of living out the will of God through holiness and purity, showing how transformation affects how we interact with the world and one another.

3. Clothing in Christ's Character

Colossians 3:12-17

Maybe focus here on the virtues believers are to put on as God's chosen ones: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Emphasize love's binding power, which perfectly fulfills God's will. Highlight the active pursuit of righteousness through the Word of Christ dwelling richly in us. Encourage congregants to express gratitude, work in unity, and do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, thus manifesting God's will in real-time actions and attitudes.

4. Integrating Faith Into Function

Colossians 3:18-25

Consider discussing how our roles within the family and workplace are opportunities to live out God's will. This passage teaches the application of Christian virtues in everyday relationships, indicating that God's will impacts all areas of life. Urge the congregation to reflect Christ in their homes and work environments, showing that God’s will is consistent and holistic, calling for integrity and service as unto the Lord in both seen and unseen moments.