The message of Jesus – the "Good News," as the Bible calls it – has been changing lives for over 2,000 years. And it's as powerful today as it was the first time it was spoken.
Key Points:
- The “Good News” is the message that Jesus came to rescue us. Paul had seen this firsthand in his own story. Colossians 1:13
- The Good News changes lives everywhere it goes. God wants to transfer all of us “into the kingdom of his dear son.” Colossians 1:6
- The Good News changes the way believers see reality. As citizens of a new kingdom, we live to honor God and we grow into the people he truly made us to be. Colossians 1:9-12.
- The Good News changes what is actually true about us. When our sins are forgiven, we are “born again” and recreated into the people God wants us to be. Colossians 1:12-14, John 3:3
Discussion:
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Do you follow the news? Why or why not?
- Read Colossians 1:13. In your own words, what is “the gospel”? When was the first time you really understood it?
- What do you think it means to live in the “kingdom of darkness” versus the “kingdom of light?” Is it just about being a good, moral person versus being a bad or immoral person? Explain.
- Share a story of someone’s life that was changed after hearing the good news of Jesus. How does your story compare?
- Read Colossians 1:9-12. How has the message of Jesus changed your perspective on life? Give an example.
- What does it mean that the message of Jesus changes what is actually true about us? How would you communicate that to someone who struggled with guilt or shame?
- Read John 3:3. Why do you think Jesus describes faith as a type of “rebirth?” What should all of us take away from this teaching of Jesus?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
