November 3, 2024 Questions
Changed Measures
Steve Howell
Part of Changed by Christ—Sermons from Colossians
November 1, 2024

‌Use the following questions based on today’s sermon as a starting point for spiritual discussions with your family or a small group of Christian friends this week.

Fellowship—Relationship with a Purpose

• What is the most common “measuring stick” you use to compare yourself to others? How is it helpful? How is it harmful?

Growth—Thinking About Spiritual Matters

• Read Colossians 2:16. What behaviors were encouraged by the legalists? (ex: see Leviticus 11; Exodus 20:9-11). Are those behaviors wrong? If not, what’s the problem here?
• Can you think of any modern forms of legalism that impact Christians? Where have you seen examples?
• Why do we trust in legalism?
• Look at an object and then look at its shadow. What can you tell about the object from the shadow? What would you miss if you only saw the shadow? What do we miss about Jesus if we only look at the shadow (aka the Law – 2:17)?
• Have you had any amazing spiritual experiences? How have you told others about them – as a matter of boasting, or just as a matter of blessing?
• Why do we boast about our spiritual experiences? Do we have any control over them?
• How does a closer connection with Christ surpass any other kind of spiritual experience?
• “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch” (2:21). What might be some modern versions of these statements? Explain how they fall short of helping us better follow Jesus.

Prayer – Taking Your Thoughts to God

• Ask God to help you stop trying to measure up by perfectly following rules. Instead ask for His help in trusting Christ alone.
• Pray for the courage to not boast in your own growth. Instead, ask for God to help you stay humble as you pursue Jesus.