The Impact of the Gospel

Small Group Discussion Questions for May 12, 2019

“The Impact of the Gospel”
Colossians 1:3-8

Ice Breaker – How are you at receiving complements or encouragement?  What’s your typical reaction?  What kind of complement means the most to you?

Discussion Questions:

1. Read Col 1:1-2. Talk about where Paul was and where Colossae was and why Paul wrote this letter.
2. Read Col 1:3-8.  The Planting of the Gospel. How did the Gospel message reach these people in Colossae?  What does Paul mean when he calls the Gospel “the word of truth” in v.5?  Is there a difference between something being “true” and being “truth”?
3. The Planting of the Gospel (continued). Paul uses another phrase to describe the Gospel in verse 6, “bearing fruit and growing in the whole world.”  How does this describe the two-fold mission of the church then and now?
4. The Planting of the Gospel (continued). Paul uses another phrase to describe the Gospel in verse 6, “the grace of God in truth.”  In what way is the Gospel a message of grace?  How would you describe that to someone who doesn’t know the Gospel?
5. The Fruit of the Gospel. In verses 3-5, Paul commends these believers for their faith, their love and their hope.  It’s a favorite “triad” for Paul.  Talk about these three spiritual qualities and why each one is so important.  How do they impact each other?  Share which quality is most challenging for you.
6. The Fruit of the Gospel. If Paul were to write a letter to Trinity Church of Marble Hill, what would he commend us for?  Or not commend us for?

Action Steps:

1. Send someone an encouraging letter, email or text this week.  Commend them for a spiritual quality you see God developing in their life.  Tell them how thankful you are and that you are praying for them (use Paul’s letter here in Colossians as a model).
2. Who was your Epaphras?  Take time to thank God for the person or persons God put in your life to introduce you to the Gospel!