Reflections of His Image

In depth, side-by-side study of Ephesians and Colossians

Both Ephesians and Colossians emphasize the transformative power of Christ in the life of a believer, calling us to shed our old selves and embrace our new identity in Him.

This study can help Christians understand that their struggles with sin and their old identities can be overcome through the transformative power of Jesus Christ. My hope is to encourage believers to actively participate in the process of renewal and to embody the characteristics of Christ in their lives.

The key teaching here is that being transformed in Christ is not just a one-time event but a continuous process that results in living out the character of Christ.

Believers are to actively put off the old self and put on the new self that is created in the image of God.

This theme points to Christ as the ultimate example of what it means to be transformed and to reflect God’s image.

All Scriptures point to Christ as the one who enables believers to be renewed and to live out a life of holiness and righteousness.

1- United in a Broken World- Who we are in Christ

Eph 1:1-14.

Col 1:1-14.

1. Chosen Before Creation- Foundation of Faith

Eph 1:1-4, Col 1:1-3.

Ephesians begins with the Apostle Paul confirming the long-range plan of redemption of Mankind- How it is centered around Christ- The Son of God.

This divine selection provides believers with a secure identity and reminds them of their inherent worth.

The point of Christ's sacrifice—uniting us with God— should encourage believers to find confidence and stability in their spiritual journey as they appreciate their unique role in God's redemptive plan.

Paul opens Colossians giving thanks for the faith of the Colossians commending them for “Bearing Fruit from the time they first heard and believed to Gospel message.”

Paul's greeting sets the stage for the theme of completeness in Christ.

By thanking God, Paul emphasizes that their spiritual vitality is rooted in divine grace. And can come from no other source.

This opening should also remind us that our completeness is founded upon faith in Christ and the love that flows from it.

As we grow in understanding, our lives should be showing an overflow of gratitude, and grace. Demonstrating the sufficiency of Christ in our foundational beliefs.

The sufficiency of Christ is where our baseline flag should be planted- Everything else grow from that one root.

2. Adopted and Accepted- Fruitful Faithfulness

Eph 1:5-8, Col 1:4-6.