Session 1

Love is key to growing in faith

From NewSpring at Home: A Study on Colossians

Scripture

“... that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” - Colossians 2:2-3

Observation

Paul is concerned that the church might be dissuaded from the faith by false teachings which, on their surface, appear to be “fine-sounding arguments.” Paul wanted Colossae to be aware so they would not be deceived.  

Paul goes on to say that love is the key to “reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ ...” 

Without love, we don’t feel safe enough to give or receive correction. As a result, we’ll walk around with a partial understanding of who God is and what He wants for us.

Without love, our words are nothing more than a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal (1 Corinthians 13:1). Love is what allows us to enter a conversation with pure motives. And love is what gives someone a reason to listen. 

Application

• Are there any ideas you hear that make you wonder: “Does this align with what God says?” 
• Practice being vulnerable. Reach out to a believer you respect and trust. Ask them to help you understand what the Bible says about that idea.  

Prayer

Father, show me if I am being led astray by any false teachings that, on the surface, sound fine. Help me to know what is true of you and to welcome correction from people who love me and love you.