Point One: Baptism Is A Critical Step for a Follower of Jesus

Point Two: Salvation Is A Work of God

Point Three: Baptism and Resurrection Give Us Complete Liberty

Discussion Questions:

Watch the past message, then choose questions to get your group thinking and create openness.

  1. What was something that stood out to you from the past Sunday’s message? Share what you learned and how it will impact your life.

  2. Read Colossians 2:12-20. Verse 13 says God “made you alive together with him” by “forgiving all our trespasses.” What does this mean to you, and how does it help you understand justification and being united with Christ?

  3. Paul says God “canceled the record of debt that stood against us… nailing it to the cross”. What do you think it means for our “record of debt” to be nailed to the cross?

  4. Read Colossians 2:12-20. Verse 15 says, “He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame.” How might Christ’s victory over spiritual powers change the way you see temptation, fear, or cultural pressures? Is there a practice of resistance or prayer you could try because of this?

  5. Read Colossians 2:12-20. In verse 16, why are food, drink, festival, new moon, and Sabbath observances no longer reasons for judgment under the gospel? What does this show about the law’s role after Christ?

  6. Read Colossians 2:12-20. Verse 17 says, “For these rules are only shadows of the reality yet to come. And Christ himself is that reality.” What do you think it means for these rules to be “shadows” and for Christ to be the true “reality”?

  7. Are there any rules or habits that distract you from focusing on Jesus? What is one simple change you could make this month to help you focus more on him?

  8. Read Colossians 2:18 and Galatians 1:6–9. How are Paul’s warnings about “pious self-denial,” angel-focused spirituality, and visionary pride (Colossians 2:18) connected to his warning against “a different kind of Good News” that adds to Christ (Galatians 1:6–9)? What helps you tell the difference between true Christ-centred faith and spiritual add-ons that change the gospel?

  9. Read Colossians 2:20–21. If you belong to Jesus, why act as if following rules can make you holy? Name one helpful habit you want to keep (wise), and one rule you want to let go of (legalistic). Why did you choose these?

  10. Read Colossians 2:19 and John 15:4–5. How can you stay closely connected to Jesus? This week, what are two small practices you can put first so your growth depends on Jesus, not just on being busy or meeting goals?

DOWNLOAD THE STUDY GUIDE