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2. Paul’s Epistles To The Churches & Saints In
Galatia
Philippi
Ephesus
Colossae

3. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Asceticism (Wikipedia) is a lifestyle characterized by abstinence from sensual pleasures, often for the purpose of pursuing spiritual goals. Ascetics may withdraw from the world for their practices or continue to be part of their society, but typically adopt a frugal lifestyle, characterized by the renunciation of material possessions and physical pleasures, and time spent fasting while concentrating on the practice of religion or reflection upon spiritual matters.

4. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Fasting in the context of Col. 2
Brethren were admonished not to bind or be bound by the commandments of men (2:22)
We have Christians an example: (Acts 13:1-4)
Purpose:
Reflection
Often coupled with intense prayer
Not to be seen of men
The argument could be made the fasting is not a rite to employ but a natural companion of intense devotion.

5. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Purpose
Christ is everything you need – 1:1-29
Do not let anyone spoil what you have – 2: 1-23
A picture of the true child of God – 3:1-4:18
Alternatively
Consider the blessings that you have – Col. 1-2
Live in a way that is pleasing – Col. 3-4
What is the theme of the letter?
Christ is all you need

6. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Outline: Colossians 3:1 – 4:6
Picture of the true child of God
Concentrate on heavenly things (3:1-4)
Put away sinful attitudes (3:5-11)
Put on positive characteristics (3:12-17)
Human responsibilities (3:18-4:1)
Continue steadfastly (4:2-4)
Walk wisely among those who are not Christians (4:5-6)

7. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Concentrate on heavenly things (3:1-4)
What are we to do?
Actively Seek (Matt. 6:33; 13:45)
What are we to seek?
Spiritual things above this earth (1:14; 2:3)
Why do we set our minds on things above?
Raised with Christ
Christ is at the right hand of God
Christ died for us

8. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Put away sinful attitudes (3:5-11)
What is to be done with the Old Man?
Put to death (v.5)
Put off (vv. 8,9)

9. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Put away sinful attitudes (3:5-11)
What were behaviors of the Old Man?
Fornication
Uncleanness
Passion
Evil desire
Covetousness
Anger
Wrath
Malice
Lying

10. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Put on positive characteristics (3:12-3:17)
Compassionate hearts
Kindness
Humility
Meekness
Longsuffering / Patience
Bearing with one another
Forgiving one another
Love – “binder joining everything together”
Peace of God rules one’s heart
Thankful
Word of Christ dwells in one

11. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Actions of a New Man (3:12-3:17)
He worships God in song
He abides by the rule of Christ

12. Paul’s Epistle To The Colossians
Human Responsibilities (3:18-4:1)
Wives (v.18)
Husbands (v.19)
Children (v.20)
Parents (v.21)
Servants (3:22-25)
Masters (4:1)

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