In Christ
Being in Christ is what gives Christians their true identity, regardless of culture or circumstance.
Pastor Phil Christiansen
Part of Freedom in Christ—Colossians
April 7, 2024

Colossians 1:1-14

Paul

the church in Colossae. God used to do that.

Greeting (v 1-2)

As an apostle, Paul spoke with

.

They may reside in Colossae,

in the sphere of Christ.

Giving Thanks (v 3-8)
Being in Christ encompasses every bit of the believer—including how we love others.

The hope that Paul is describing is

, built on circumstances or feelings, but on what God has accomplished in Christ.
This kind of hope is not optimism but assurance.

He’s thanking God for

of the gospel.

Paul thanks God for the

Epaphras laid by sharing .

Prayer (v 9-14)
You don’t need to know someone personally to

.

Paul prays that the Colossians would

.
He is the vine, we’re the branches. Apart from Him we can do…nothing (John 15:5).

said spiritual wisdom and understanding could be attained through .

As we walk in obedience to God’s will, our

.
Is my greatest desire to please God in every way?

Knowing God

in a culture that celebrates knowing everything but God.

Paul prays that God would give them

to not only discern but .
God’s power is available to those who are in Christ because God is faithful.

Our lives please God when we

to Him for all He’s done.
Our assurance gives us the privilege of choosing joy filled gratitude.