SERIES: FOR PEOPLE ON THE GROW (1 OF 6)

NOTE: This sermon is part 1 and 2 of a 12 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 1: How to Get Started
Series: For People On The Grow
Stuart Briscoe
Colossians 1:1-8

Paul's letter to the church in Colosse was written in the customary style of his day but it contains truth of lasting importance for people in diverse cultures in all ages. His opening greetings contain much information about the beginnings of spiritual experience.

I. A Description. v. 2a

A. Spiritually they were "in Christ."
B. Morally they were "holy."
C. Intellectually they were "believing."
D. Sociologically they were "brothers."
E. Geographically they were "in Colosse."

II. An Appreciation.

A. The expression of appreciation to God. v. 3
1. Carefully described.
2. Specifically acknowledged.

B. The evidence of the working of God.
1. Faith in Christ Jesus. v. 4
2. Love for all the saints. vv. 4, 8
3. Hope that is stored in heaven. v. 5

III. An Explanation.

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Part 2: The Search for Fulfillment
Series: For People On The Grow
Stuart Briscoe
Colossians 1:9-14

It is ironic that a "growing vanguard of society perceives what Christianity calls the 'good life' to be a threat to self-fulfillment" (Carl F.H. Henry) because God made people to be fulfilled, and only He can make it happen.

I. Fulfillment Through Purposefulness. vv. 9, 10a

A. The knowledge of God's will.
1. Full knowledge - "Epignosis."
2. Filled with this knowledge.
3. Applied through spiritual wisdom and understanding.

B. A life worthy of the Lord.
1. Live a life - walking.
2. Worthily - remembering your status before Him.

C. Pleasing Him in every way.
1. Desire to please.
2. The One to please.

II. Fulfillment Through Fruitfulness. v. 10b

A. Fruitfulness as productivity.