CG Discussion Questions
The Significance of Baptism
Speaker: SP William Lee
19 October 2014
Scripture: Colossians 2:8-15
Summary Statement: Baptism signifies our union with Christ’s death and resurrection
Summary:
Baptism is central to the Christian faith. It is the public proclamation of our union with Christ
in his death and his resurrection. It is pivotal that we understand the fullness of what we
have proclaimed that we are united to. Jesus’s death and resurrection are two sides of the
same coin; we cannot pay emphasis to one whilst relegating the other. This study will focus
on unpacking the significance of Christ’s death, the hope of his resurrection for us, and the
implication for his Church (read us) in this current time.
Scripture Reading and Discovery:
This study will focus on a number of passages as it progresses. The group might want to
read all the passages before attempting the discussion or read them when prompted by the
questions. Do allow some time for your groups to mull over the implications of each passage
before diving into answering the questions.
Insights into studying the Word together / Discussion:
1. a) In this passage, what does Paul warn against in particular?
b) Paul writes that this threat is founded on two things “human tradition” and
“elemental spiritual forces”. Explain what he means by these things.
2. In Col 2:12, Paul writes “having been buried with him in Baptism…” It is absolutely
important that we understand Paul’s reasoning behind the need to be buried with him
and for what reason Christ (and us through him) is being buried for.
Read Romans 7:14-25 and attempt the following questions:
a) What is Paul saying about our relationship to sin?
b) What is the role of the law in relation to man and sin?
c) How deep is the corruption of Sin?
d) What are the wages of sin (Rom 6:23)? (The answer is death yes, but try to tease
out what “death” encapsulates here.)
e) If we understand that Christ is the substitute that takes the wage of sin, what then
is the significance of our Baptism (in which we identify with Christ’s death)?
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CG Discussion Questions
3. Through our identification with Christ’s death, we too share in His resurrection!
Read Ephesians 2: 4-10 and attempt the following questions:
a) According to Ephesians, now that we are raised with Christ, what is our position
with God? (v6)
b) Why does God raise us with Christ? (v7)
c) What are we raised in Christ for? (v10)
In closing the group might want to read 1 John 3: 2-3 and meditate and pray over the hope
that is presented in those verses.
Application:
How have you buried your old life? What are some of the things that you
are still struggling to bury?
Does the hope of resurrection and new life excite you? Why or why not?
What are some of the “good works” that you think Jesus has called you to
do?
Prayer requests: (write down those who shared their requests)
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