Session 1

Only one opinion matters

From NewSpring at Home: A Study on Colossians

Scripture

“Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a substance of things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.” - Colossians 2:16-17

Observation

When Paul wrote this letter, there was a lot of confusion about the Christian life. Some people were adding a performance component, saying that to be good Christians they should still observe the Sabbath as well as Jewish festivals and dietary rules. 

When we listen to others’ opinions and get distracted from what God says, the Christian life becomes confusing.

Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, we are His. Nothing can change that. Romans 7:6 says, “But now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so that we serve in the new way of the spirit and not in the old way of the written code.” 

Old Testament rules and observances pointed to the coming of Jesus and His saving work. Jesus saved us once and for all. So we live in response to His favor, not to earn His favor. 

Application

• Do you ever feel like you don’t measure up as a Christian? What makes you feel that way? Ask the Lord to make you aware of when feelings of inadequacy arise and to remind you that His grace and salvation make you compete in Him.
• Do you judge Christians by what they do or don’t do? Are you guilty of imposing performance standards on Christians around you? If so, ask the Lord to soften your heart and make you aware when you are quick to judge others.

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for salvation, for dying on the cross to pay for my sins. Help me to remember that I am complete in you. I don’t have to exhaust myself with rules and performances to be loved by You. Help me to rest in your salvation and to resist the temptation to compare myself or others to any standard you did not call us to.