Because we have been raised with Christ, we are called to set our minds and hearts on Him instead of building our lives around earthly desires, accomplishments, or approval. God has already declared us loved, forgiven, and secure in Christ, but we must daily choose to put to death the sinful attitudes and behaviors that pull us away from Him and damage our relationships with others. Instead of clothing ourselves with pride, anger, greed, or selfish ambition, we are to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love. As we fix our eyes on Jesus and allow His character to shape us, we become people who strengthen our families, our church, and our community. The world should recognize us as disciples of Jesus not because of what we achieve, but because of how we love one another.

Group Discussion Questions:

1. When you think about the phrase “set your minds on things above,” what tends to pull your focus most toward earthly things in your everyday life?

2. The message talked about building identity around accomplishments, approval, or personal success instead of Christ. What are some things people commonly use to define their worth, and why do those things appeal to us?

3. Which of the qualities in Colossians 3 — compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, or love — comes most naturally to you right now? Which one feels most difficult or stretching in this season of life?

4. The sermon challenged us to notice both the “big” sins and the more relational sins like anger, bitterness, slander, or unforgiveness. Is there a relationship, attitude, or recurring thought pattern that God may be asking you to surrender or address more honestly?

5. If strengthening the family starts with personal transformation, what is one practical step you can take this week to become more like Jesus in your home, workplace, friendships, or church community? How can this group encourage or support you in that step?