Bible Studies To-Go | Spiritually Complete in Christ

"You will never know the fullness of Christ until you know the emptiness of everything else." - Charles H. Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our short studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. More detailed Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

Study Prayer: "Dear Lord, we know that all wisdom and understanding come from you. Please grant us your wisdom as we read your Word, to avoid dependency on our own understanding. Help us discern your truth and be transformed by what we learn. In Your name, Amen."

Background Information: In Colossians 2:10, Paul was addressing the believers in the church at Colossae, a city in modern-day Turkey. He wrote this encouraging letter from prison to counter a specific false teaching, or heresy, that was threatening their faith.

Topic for Study: Spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ. 

In the passage mentioned above, the focal point is on how believers are made complete in Christ. This is a state of spiritual fulfillment and wholeness that is found exclusively in Him, who is the head of all spiritual authorities. 

These authorities can be individuals or institutions holding divinely-delegated power and the right to guide, teach, and govern in religious or spiritual matters. Regardless, Jesus Christ has sovereign authority and lordship over the church and the cosmos. 

Thought-Provoking Questions: What is the central message of  Colossians 2:10? What does it mean for believers to be "complete in Him?"

Study the above questions carefully. You may want to write your thoughts down to help you stay on task and limit diversions. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers here, just be upfront.

Below, I have provided some scripture passages that are associated with our topic of discussion. You will find these related verses will help to clarify some of the points raised in the discussion.

• John 1:16
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Ephesians 1:21
• Colossians 1:16-17
• 1 Peter 3:22

** Read Colossians 2 prior to answering the following questions!**

 

Contextual Questions: 

1. What traditions or practices were the Colossian believers being pressured to adopt that Paul argues against by emphasizing their completeness in Christ?
2. How does understanding that the Colossians were a mix of Jewish and Gentile Christians help explain the pressure they were facing to adopt new rituals and beliefs?

Evidence-Based Questions:

1. How does Paul's declaration that believers "are complete in Him" directly contradict the specific legalistic, ritualistic, and ascetic teachings that were troubling the Colossian church (Colossians 2:8, 2:16–23)?
2. How does Christ's victory over the rulers and authorities (Colossians 2:15) provide reassurance to the Colossians that they are secure in their union with Christ and do not need to seek protection from false religious practices?
3. Given that the Colossians were warned against practices involving angel worship (Colossians 2:18), how does Colossians 2:10's emphasis on Christ as head over all rule and authority address this specific heresy?

Questions for Personal Insight/Application: 

1. How does a correct understanding of Colossians 2:10 impact the Christian's daily life? 
2. If a believer is already "complete in him," how should this truth influence their attitude toward spiritual striving, legalism, and reliance on external rituals?
3. How does the concept of being "complete in him" challenge the modern idea that personal fulfillment and meaning must be found outside of a relationship with Christ?

Food For Thought:

• How does knowing that you are "complete in Him" impact your daily life as a Christian?

I hope that this condensed study format paves the way for more time to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and retention of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited about our next Bible study, and eagerly look forward to our next meeting!

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle