Colossians 2: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Colossians 2 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul desires the Colossians and those in Laodicea to know how greatly he struggles for their comfort and unity (vv. 1-2). He speaks of the mystery of God, found in Christ, where all wisdom and knowledge are hidden (vv.

Key verse

“For in him all the fullness of the Deity dwells bodily, and in him you are made full, who is the head of all principality and power;”
Colossians 2:9-10 (WEB)

Outline

Colossians 2:1–2 Paul's Concern for the Colossians
Colossians 2:3–5 The Mystery of God Revealed
Colossians 2:6–7 Walking in Christ
Colossians 2:8–10 Warning Against Deceptive Philosophy
Colossians 2:11–15 Spiritual Circumcision and Forgiveness
Colossians 2:16–19 Freedom from Judgments and Regulations
Colossians 2:20–23 The Futility of Human Regulations

Discussion questions

In v6, why does Paul encourage the believers to 'walk in him'?
What does Paul mean by saying 'you were dead through your trespasses' in v13?
Paul's warning about 'philosophy and vain deceit' in v8: how does this relate to their faith?
When Paul discusses 'the handwriting in ordinances' in v14, what deeper implications could this have for the readers?
When have you struggled with being judged for observances like dietary laws, like in v16?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Colossians 2: Ephesians 2, Colossians 1, Ephesians 4.

Before next time: read Colossians 3.