Colossians
Colossians 3:1-17 | Zach Games | January 4, 2026
Colossians 3:1-17 will begin in the context of Christ’s resurrection and its implications for the life of the believer. Paul will urge his readers to orient themselves towards Christ who is in heaven and away from the things of the world as they await the hope of glory and final resurrection with Christ (3:1-4). Paul will then describe what a resurrection life requires of the believers: to put to death the deeds of their former life which greatly affect their own desires and those of inter-personal relationships (3:5-9a). But why? Paul says that these believers have a new identity, deeply rooted in the taking off of their old way of life and putting on the new, renewed identity they have found in Jesus, as He is “all and in all” (3:9b-11). Paul finishes the passage by describing what it means to put on the “new” self (or way of life) and its implications for the community of believers as they strive for a resurrection lifestyle that seeks to glorify God in all they do (3:12-17).
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Where did the Holy Spirit speak or challenge you through God’s Word? Were there any “ah-ah” moments?
2. What does it look like in my everyday choices to “set my heart and mind on things above” rather than on earthly things?
3. If my life is truly “hidden with Christ in God,” how should that shape the way I see my identity, purpose, and hope—especially in seasons of uncertainty or struggle?
4. What old attitudes, habits, or sins might God be inviting me to “put to death” or “take off,” and what would repentance look like in practical terms?
5. How does remembering that I have put on a “new self” in Christ change the way I speak, act, and respond to others—especially when it feels difficult?
6. Which of the qualities Paul lists—compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, or love—do I find hardest to “put on,” and why?
7. What would it look like for the peace of Christ to truly rule in my heart and shape my responses in moments of conflict or stress?
8. How can I more intentionally let the word of Christ dwell in me richly—through gratitude, worship, and teaching—so that everything I say and do reflects Jesus?
9. Who in my life do I need to forgive and how can I reflect on the forgiveness God has shown towards me in Christ to shape my response?
Redemption in Ruth
Ruth 4 | Chris Meade | December 21, 2025
Ruth 4 reveals deeper truths about character, legacy, and redemption. Set against ancient practices like the kinsman-redeemer and sandal exchanges, the story contrasts Boaz’s joyful, sacrificial integrity with the self-preserving choice of the unnamed redeemer who fades into obscurity. Through God’s providential hand, Boaz’s obedience brings restoration to Naomi and Ruth and advances a far greater story—leading to King David and ultimately to Jesus, our true Kinsman-Redeemer. The message calls us to consider what kind of legacy we are building, to value character over convenience, and to trust that God is at work beyond what we can see, using faithful obedience to bless generations to come.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Where did the Holy Spirit speak or challenge you through God’s Word? Were there any “ah-ah” moments?
2. Traditions and Customs Reveal Values
o Christmas traditions often reflect what we value most. Looking at your life beyond the holidays, what every day “traditions” or habits reveal your deepest priorities? How do those line up with the character and values we see modeled in Boaz?
3. Read Ruth 4:1-7. “Mr. So and So” Forgotten:
o Doing What’s Right When It Costs You --The unnamed redeemer was willing to do what was right when it benefited him—but backed out when it required sacrifice. Can you think of a time when obedience to God or doing the right thing cost you something? How did you respond, and what did you learn?
o Legacy vs. Self-Preservation -- Mr. So-and-So protected his own estate but lost his legacy, while Boaz gave generously and is remembered. What are the ways we can subtly prioritize self-preservation (comfort, reputation, finances, control) over faithfulness? What would it look like to choose legacy over safety this season of life?
4. Read Ruth 4:8-22. Boaz, Character, and the Plan of God
o Seeing the Unseen --Boaz consistently noticed and honored people others might overlook—Ruth, Naomi, and their future. Who are the “unseen” people God has placed in your path right now (at work, church, family, neighborhood)? How might God be inviting you to act with intentional generosity toward them?
o Integrity in a Compromising Culture --We live in a world where integrity, honor, and character are often treated as expendable. Where do you feel the most pressure to compromise your values? What do you believe was Boaz’s key? What practices, accountability, or relationships help you stay grounded in Christlike character?
o God Working Beyond What You Can See-- --Ruth ends by revealing a much bigger story—God was doing far more than Naomi, Ruth, or Boaz ever realized. How does this truth change the way you view your current struggles, sacrifices, or acts of obedience that feel small or unnoticed?