That was the old me

Big Ideas

• Colossians 3:4-11
• These lists are examples of ways we destroy shalom
• Paul says “put to death” the old practices
• Sin isn’t just what we do, it’s part of who we are
• God’s wrath “is coming” against sin. It is already being experienced, not merely a future promise. Already, not in full yet.
• God’s wrath comes against the destruction of shalom.
• Shalom means wholeness, everything made right.
• We have an old self, but it doesn’t have to be this way
• War against the old self!
• The biggest thing we need to do to help ourselves and our relationships is STOP LYING.
• Be honest and vulnerable with one another. Stop trying to hide. You are known and loved already. Be honest, and pursue healing together.

Questions

• What do you think about the idea that these lists aren’t exhaustive, but instead making a thematic point? That is to say, these aren’t the specific bad “sins” to avoid, but instead lists to give examples of ways we destroy shalom in our relationships
• How does that change how you read passages like this?
• How much do you really think about or feel like you have an “old self” that’s totally different than how you operate now?
• How have you tried to cast off the old self?
• What do you think about the idea that the main thing we need to do is be honest in our relationships?
• Have you experienced that? What is it like? What does it change?