Set your mind on things above 

Bishop Ridley Church studies Colossians. 

Starting Sunday 4 June, we will be beginning a study of the book of Colossians. During the next couple of months we will focus on the book, what Paul is teaching the church at Colossae - and what we can learn from it too. 

Rev Mark writes:
Picture this: Ancient Colossae, a bustling city in the region of Phrygia (modern-day Turkey), filled with a vibrant community of early Christians. Amidst the backdrop of this bustling city, a remarkable letter emerges from the depths of history, addressed to these faithful believers.

But what makes this letter so intriguing? Well, it centres around a captivating concept—the supremacy of Christ! The writer, traditionally believed to be the renowned apostle Paul, delves into profound theological insights and practical advice that still resonate today.

Imagine unravelling the mysteries of Christ's role in creation and his position as the head of the Church. The letter navigates through false teachings that had crept into the community, including the worship of angels, ascetic practices, and legalistic tendencies. It's a battle of ideologies, with Paul championing the sufficiency of Christ as the ultimate source of salvation.

But it doesn't stop there! The letter also contains ethical instructions that provide a blueprint for living out one's faith. Unity, love, forgiveness, thankfulness—these are just a taste of the virtues explored within its pages. And let's not forget the practical wisdom on how to navigate relationships within families and the workplace.

All of this unfolds within a concise package of four chapters. It's like discovering a treasure trove of ancient wisdom, tucked away within the New Testament. And to add to the intrigue, this letter is believed to have been written during Paul's imprisonment, adding a touch of dramatic tension to its origin.

So, whether you're seeking theological insights, practical guidance for daily living, or a glimpse into the challenges faced by early Christians, the Letter to the Colossians offers an irresistible invitation to explore the depths of its message. Prepare to be captivated by its timeless truths and discover why it continues to inspire believers around the world today!

Excited to get started?
To get the most from the series, you can begin by watching this overview of the book from The Bible Project. It is also recommended that you read the reading for the week ahead of the service. 

Sunday 4 June
Colossians 1:1-14
Thanksgiving and Prayer to God
Rev Mark

Sunday 11 June
Colossians 1:15-23
The Supermacy of the Son of God
Chris Bartlett

Sunday  18 June
Colossians 1:24- 2:5
Labour for the Church
David Snow

Sunday  25 June
Colossians 2:6-15
Spiritual fullness in Christ
Rev Mark

Sunday 16 July
Colossians 2:16-23
Freedom from human rules
Fred Woodley

Sunday 23 July
Colossians 3:1-17
Living as those made alive in Christ
Rev Mark

Sunday 30 July
Colossians 3:18- 4:6
Instructions for Christian households
Karen Freeman

Sunday 6 August
Colossians 4:7-18
Final greetings
Rev Mark