Session 1

Don’t stop believing

From NewSpring at Home: A Study on Colossians

Scripture

“And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.” - Colossians 1:21-23

Observation

Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we are considered “holy and blameless and above reproach” by God Himself. 

We do not have to carry the shame of our past, the shortcomings of our present, or the anxiety of our future. Instead, we can hold fast to the promise that Jesus’ death and resurrection were enough to fully transform us in a way nothing else could.

The only thing we need to be holy and blameless in God’s eyes is to believe. We must continue to believe and hold fast to our faith in Jesus. 

Hebrews 10:24-25 says one of the best ways to be encouraged and to remain faithful to Jesus is to continue spending time with other Christians. In the church, we share our struggles, lean on our brothers and sisters in the faith, and find the strength to fight doubt and unbelief.

Application

• How has community been important to your walk with Jesus?
• What are some ways you can maintain fellowship with other Christians?

Prayer

Jesus, thank you that my standing with you is not based on my actions but on your sacrifice for me. Help me to hold fast to your truth even when the world tries to convince me I shouldn’t. Bring men and women who love you into my life to bolster my faith, and help me to encourage others.