A CHRISTIAN’S NEW LIFE IN THE HOME AND AT WORK
Colossians 3:18-4:1
Key Verse: 3:23
* We should not apply these verses to others, but find the appropriate verse(s) for ourselves.
* CHRISTIAN HOUSEHOLDS (3:18-21)
After addressing the Christian community, what is Paul’s next focus? (3:18-21) What direction does he give to wives? What does it mean to “submit”? Why should wives have this attitude toward their husbands? (Eph5:22-24)
What must husbands do and not do for their wives? (19) What does it mean to love one’s wife? (Eph5:25-28) Why might a husband be harsh with his wife? How can he love her instead?
What is children’s obligation to parents? (3:20) What basic attitude does “in everything” suggest? What are the limits to this? (Eph 6:1) Why is obedience to parents pleasing to God? (cf. Eph 6:2,3)
What must fathers not do to their children? (3:21) How can fathers avoid doing this and instead, encourage their children? (cf. Eph 6:4)
* CHRISTIAN WORK ETHICS (3:22-4:1)
How should slaves serve their masters? (3:22,23; compare Eph 6:5-8) Why was it hard for them to do this wholeheartedly? What reward is promised for those who serve like this? (3:24) How does this principle apply to us today?
In verses 22-25, how often is “the Lord” repeated? Who are we really serving? How does he reward and punish? (24,25) Why is our attitude in serving him so important?
What should masters do for their slaves? What must they know? (4:1) In light of the above study, how should the Lordship of Christ affect our family and work life?