Jesus is Greater Series: Settling For Substitutes (Colossians 2:1-23)

Phillip Bates
6 days ago
2 min read

Sermon Guide for March 29, 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 is sufficient, we must not settle for substitutes that promise what only he can provide.

Main Points

1. Christ Is Sufficient (Colossians 2:1–15)

In Christ, we have everything we need:

All wisdom (v. 3)
Spiritual fullness (vv. 9–10)
Complete cleansing (vv. 11–12)
Our debt canceled (v. 14)
Total victory (v. 15)

2. Don’t Settle for Substitutes (Colossians 2:16–23)

Paul warns against three substitutes that may look wise, but can't transform the heart:

Legalism → Trying to earn what only Christ can give
Mysticism → Chasing spiritual experiences instead of holding to Christ
Asceticism → Trusting extreme self-denial to change what only Christ can

Personal Reflection & Practices

Where am I tempted to look for “something more” than Christ?
Am I relating to God from gratitude or from trying to earn his approval?
Am I relying on my feelings and experiences to determine how close I am to God?
Practice this week:
- Each day, remind yourself: “In Christ, I have everything I need... and because I have everything, I am free to obey him joyfully today."

Family Practice

Read Together: Colossians 2:6–10

Discuss:

What does it mean that we are “filled by Christ”?
What are some things people might think they need besides Jesus?
Why do those things sometimes seem appealing?

Do Together:

Have each person name one thing they sometimes rely on instead of Jesus (approval, success, feelings, etc.)
Pray together, thanking God that Jesus is enough and asking for help to trust him fully.