2. Ephesians & Colossians Spring Quarter 2012

3. The Preeminence of Christ Colossians 1:13-29

4. Gnosticism All flesh is inherently sinful Jesus was without sin Thus, Jesus did not come in the flesh Jesus reconciled in his body of flesh by His death (1:22) The spirit of the Antichrist (1 John 4:1-3)

5. A Warning The reward of eternal life for those who have been reconciled (cleansed of sin) is only possible IF one continues in the faith and is not moving away from the gospel

6. The Spread of the Gospel Proclaimed in all creation (to every creature) – Mark 16:15-16

7. Christ Is Preeminent In The Hope of Glory He Provides (1:24-29) Paul was in prison, but rejoicing – He had been given a wonderful responsibility to preach the gospel – He was persecuted because of what he preached Jew and Gentile stand equal before God and have been reconciled to Him in one body, the church (Eph. 2:16) If he had compromised the message or rejected the Gentiles, perhaps the Jews would not have hated him so much

8. The Mystery Hidden for ages and generations, but now made known (revealed) – Eph. 3:3-5; Rom. 15:25-26 The plan had been chosen by God before the foundation of the world, God had sent His prophets who foretold many details, but no one knew when or exactly how God would redeem mankind…until now! – 2 Pet. 1:10-11; 1 Cor. 2:7-8 Christ in you, the hope of glory!

9. Be Built Up In Christ Colossians 2

10. Be Built Up In Christ Walk in Christ as you have received Him (2:1- 7) Do not be taken captive by false teachers (2:8- 12) Let no one condemn you for not keeping the Law of Moses (2:13-17) Let no man rob you of your reward (2:18-23)

11. Keep Seeking Things Above Colossians 3 & 4

12. Keep Seeking Things Above If risen with Christ, set your mind on things above (3:1-14) Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart (3:15-4:1) Let the Word of Christ dwell within you (3:15- 17) Fulfill your responsibilities in the home (3:18- 21) Fulfill your responsibilities in Business (3:22- 4:1)

13. Keep Seeking Things Above Continue in prayer (4:2-4) Walk in wisdom socially (4:5-6)