INTRODUCTION

To some, Jesus of Nazareth is a revolutionary, leading the masses in their struggle for freedom from oppression. Others see him as a staunch conservative, fully supporting and representing the status quo.

Still others view Jesus as a pious, meek and mild do-gooder who loves everyone and avoids confrontation at all costs.

GROUP DISCUSSION. How did you view Jesus before you became a Christian?

PERSONAL REFLECTION. How has your picture of Jesus changed?

Praise God for the privilege of knowing Jesus. What is Jesus really like?

Confusion about the identity and character of Jesus was also a problem in the first century. From both inside and outside the church, distortions of the truth about Jesus and the Christian life had arisen. Against this background Paul writes to the Christians at Colossae, reminding them of who it is they follow as Lord.

Read Colossians 1:15-23.

1.⁠ ⁠What characteristics of Jesus Christ impress you in this passage?

2.⁠ ⁠According to verse 15, " Christ is the visible expression of the invisible God". What are some of the difficulties we have in trying to know and relate to an invisible God?