Community Groups

Week 10: Nov 10-16

Series: Colossians - The Supremacy of Christ & Living with Thanksgiving

Sermon Title: Dangerous Distortions

Text: Colossians 2:16-23

Outline:

1. Legalism, vv. 16-17
2. Mysticism, vv. 18-19
3. Asceticism, vv. 20-23

My Story:

1. What, if any, has been your experience with “legalism” in the church?

2. Do you have to regularly remind yourself that “Christ is enough” regarding your salvation? What other things might you be tempted to add to Jesus for your salvation?  

3. What inspired or challenged you in the sermon this week? What raised questions for you?

Digging Deeper:

1. Read Colossians 2:16-23.  What stands out to you in this passage? Is there a specific phrase or verse that particularly resonates with you?

2.  Legalism (vv.16-17) -  Verse 16 speaks about not letting anyone judge you based on "food and drink" or religious festivals. What kind of practices were these, and why might some people have emphasized them? Why do you think some people are drawn to a rule-based approach to spirituality? What does verse 17 mean by calling these things “a shadow of the things to come”? 

3. Mysticism (vv. 18-19) -   Verse 18 mentions the “worship of angels” and “visions.” How might these reflect a mystical approach to faith? Mysticism can involve the pursuit of special spiritual experiences or secret knowledge. How might this become a substitute for genuine faith in Christ? Verse 19 warns that these practices do not hold fast to Christ, the head of the body. How might a focus on mysticism cause someone to lose connection with Christ?

4. Asceticism (vv 20-23) –  Asceticism is often focused on self-denial as a means of spiritual growth. When can this be healthy, and when might it become problematic? In verse 23, Paul notes that these practices “have an appearance of wisdom.” Why might they appear wise or spiritual, even if they lack value? How can we discern when self-denial or discipline becomes more about self-reliance than reliance on God?