Developing Convictions

 Colossians 2:1-8


For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.


4 Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words. 5 For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.


6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.


8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.


A seedling needs nutrients and time to grow into a tall, sturdy tree. In the same way, our convictions develop gradually through committed Bible study and prayer. In order to be firmly planted in biblical truth, we can’t simply hold up the Bible and claim we believe every word. We need to know why we’re convinced that the basic doctrines of the faith are true. 


Here are some questions to help you get started:


• Why do you consider the Bible to be true and trustworthy? 


• Why is Jesus Christ the only way to be saved? 


• What is the Holy Spirit’s role in the lives of believers and unbelievers? 


• What does the Bible say about stewardship of the earth?


• How should you think and act with regard to issues of justice and oppression? 


It’s my hope that these questions will cause you to contemplate how your personal philosophies have developed. Study the Bible and make it the cornerstone of your thinking. Evaluate what God says rather than looking at an issue through the lens of personal preference.  Ground yourself in Scripture. Then whenever a new philosophy comes along, you’ll be able to stand firm in the faith without wavering. 





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