Soul Food Bible Study 2025: Colossians Week 1

Written by Pastor Jaron Jones

Why Colossians Matters

The Book of Colossians is a powerful letter written by the Apostle Paul to a small church in Colossae, a city in ancient Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Paul wrote this letter while imprisoned, likely around AD 60, addressing challenges the church faced—cultural pressure to worship Roman gods, syncretism (mixing pagan beliefs with Christianity), and even the denial of Christ’s divinity. 

But why do we need Colossians today? Because it clearly teaches the supremacy of Christ and how this truth should disrupt and transform our everyday lives. Unlike watered-down versions of the gospel, Colossians reminds us that Jesus is not just a good teacher or moral example—He is God, the center of all things, and the only hope for humanity.

Key Themes in Colossians 1

1. The Foundation: Faith, Love, and Hope (Colossians 1:3-6)  Paul begins by thanking God for the Colossian believers’ faith in Christ and their love for fellow believers (v. 4). But what fuels their faith and love? Hope—the eternal reward stored up in heaven (v. 5). 

Faith → Belief in Jesus. 

Love → Action toward others. 

Hope → The anchor that keeps them going. 

Application: 

Are we thanking God for others’ spiritual growth, or just our own blessings? 

Is our faith fueled by temporary comforts or by the eternal hope of heaven? 

2. The Power of the True Gospel (Colossians 1:6-8)  The gospel isn’t just a one-time message; it’s a living, growing force that bears fruit in believers’ lives (v. 6). The Colossians learned the true gospel from Epaphras, a faithful teacher (v. 7). 

Warning Against "Gospel-ish" Distortions: 

"God just wants you to be happy." → No, God wants you holy. 

"Follow your heart." → No, follow Christ. 

"Good deeds = guaranteed blessings." → No, salvation is by grace, not karma. 

Application: 

Are we sharing the real gospel—sin, grace, and redemption—or a watered-down version? 

3. Paul’s Prayer for Spiritual Growth (Colossians 1:9-12)  Paul doesn’t pray for their comfort or success but for five crucial things: 

Knowledge of God’s Will (v. 9) – Divine guidance, not human wisdom. 

Spiritual Wisdom & Understanding (v. 9) – Discernment to apply truth. 

Worthy Living (v. 10) – A life that reflects Jesus. 

Fruitfulness in Good Works (v. 10) – Faith that impacts others. 

Strengthened Endurance & Joy (v. 11) – Supernatural perseverance. 

Application: 

How does our prayer life compare? Are we seeking spiritual growth over material blessings?