Jesus is Greater Series: What Christ Changes at Home (Colossians 3:18-4:1)

Phillip Bates
6 days ago
3 min read

Sermon Guide for April 12, 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

If Christ is truly Lord of your life, you will begin to change the way you relate to the people closest to you. The gospel is not just something we believe—it transforms our everyday relationships.

Scripture

Colossians 3:18–4:1

Main Points

1. Christ reshapes marriage (vv. 18–19)

Wives are called to honor and submit to their husbands in a way that reflects trust in Christ. This is not about inferiority, but about living within God’s design.
Husbands are called to love their wives with sacrificial, patient, and selfless love—like Christ loves the church.

2. Christ reshapes relationships between kids & parents (vv. 20–21)

Children are called to obey their parents, not just because it is right, but because it pleases the Lord.
Parents, especially fathers, are called to lead in a way that builds their children up rather than discourages them.
Healthy parenting includes both love and discipline. Children thrive in homes where they are deeply loved and where clear, consistent boundaries are present.

3. Christ reshapes our work and responsibilities (vv. 22–4:1)

Paul speaks to those under authority and those in authority. The principle is clear: whatever your role, you are ultimately serving the Lord.
Those under authority are called to work sincerely and wholeheartedly. Those in authority are called to lead with justice, fairness, and care.

Key truth: No matter your role, you are serving the Lord Jesus—and that changes everything.

Personal Reflection & Practice

In which relationship (marriage, family, work) do you struggle most to reflect Christ? Why?
Are your actions toward others shaped more by your emotions or by your commitment to Christ?
What is one specific way you can better reflect Jesus in your closest relationships this week?
If you feel discouraged or convicted, remember: God’s grace meets you where you are, and he is eager to help you be faithful in all your relationships.

Practice: Choose one relationship this week and intentionally act in a Christlike way—whether that means showing patience, taking initiative, offering encouragement, or working with greater integrity.

Family Practice

Read together: Colossians 3:18-21

Talk about it:

What does God call wives and husbands to do?
What does it look like for children to obey “in everything”?
What are some ways parents can accidentally discourage their kids?
Why do you think God cares about how we treat each other at home?

Put it into practice this week:

For husbands: Take one intentional step to lead spiritually—pray with your family, read Scripture together, or initiate a meaningful conversation about faith.
For wives: Find a specific way to encourage and support your husband this week—through your words, attitude, or actions.
For kids: Practice obeying right away, all the way, with a good attitude—especially when it’s not easy.
For parents: Make it a goal to encourage your kids more than you correct them. Look for opportunities to affirm, listen, and show affection.

Do together:

Share one way each person can grow in how they treat others in the home
At the end of the week, come back and talk about what went well and what was hard

Pray together: Ask God to help your family reflect Jesus in the way you love, obey, lead, and encourage one another.