Jesus is Greater Series: A Life That Counts (Colossians 1:24-29)

Phillip Bates
Feb 26
3 min read

Sermon Guide for March 1, 2026

How to Use This Guide:

These guides are designed to help you engage more deeply with my weekly sermon. Use this guide to prepare your heart to receive God's Word before worship, or to reflect on God's Word the week following worship.

Parents, use the information in this guide (especially in the "Family Practice" section) to have meaningful conversations with your kids that nurture their faith and help them grow in God’s love.

Big Idea

Because Christ lives in us, our lives are meant to count eternally by investing in the spiritual growth of others.

Five Convictions for a Life That Counts

Embrace the Cost of Following Jesus (v. 24)

Following Jesus is not always comfortable. Paul rejoiced in suffering because it strengthened the church.
A life that counts is willing to endure inconvenience, awkwardness, sacrifice, and even hardship so others can grow in Christ.

Carry Out Your Commission (v. 25a)

Paul believed he was on assignment from God.
We all share the same mission (make disciples), but how we live it out depends on how God has gifted us and where he has placed us.
Someone who wants to maximize the impact of their life asks this daily: “What has God placed in my hands, and how do I steward it for his kingdom?”

Make Christ Fully Known (vv. 25b–27)

The “mystery” once hidden is now revealed: Christ in you, the hope of glory.
The creator of the universe lives in believers. That changes everything.
A life that counts does not just share opinions or advice. It makes Christ known through word and action.

Take Ownership of Someone’s Discipleship (v. 28)

Paul proclaimed Christ so people would become mature.
A life that counts is not inward-focused. It intentionally invests in someone else’s growth.

Depend on Christ’s Power (v. 29)

Paul labored hard, but not in his own strength.
We do not manufacture an impactful life. We strive, but we rely on Christ's power.

Personal Reflection

Take time this week to prayerfully consider:

Where am I avoiding discomfort that might help someone grow?
Do I see my daily life as a divine assignment?
Am I more vocal about my opinions or about Christ?
Who am I intentionally helping grow in Christ?
Where do I need to depend on Christ’s strength instead of my own effort?

Prayer Prompt: “Lord, help me live a life that counts. Not in my strength, but in yours.”

Family Practice

This week, focus on one simple goal: Help someone grow in Christ.

Talk About It Together

At a meal or bedtime, ask:

What does it mean to “live for something bigger than yourself”?
Why do you think Paul was willing to suffer for others?
Who has helped you grow in your faith?

Identify One Person

As a family (or individually), choose one person:

A friend
A classmate
A teammate
A neighbor
A church member

Ask: "How can we help this person grow closer to Jesus?"

Maybe it’s:

Encouraging them
Inviting them to church
Praying for them
Having a spiritual conversation
Serving them in a practical way

Pray This Together

“God, thank you for living in us. Help us live for something bigger than ourselves. Show us who we can help grow in you, and give us courage to take the next step.”

For Parents

Remember: You don’t have to be perfect.

Taking ownership of discipleship in your home may look like:

Starting one spiritual conversation.
Praying with your child before bed.
Modeling repentance.
Talking about how you depend on Christ’s strength.

Small faithfulness over time shapes eternity!