In Week 7, we will spend time in four of Paul's letters: to the churches in Rome, Colossae, and Ephesus; and his one-chapter letter to Philemon.  

In Romans 9-16, Paul addresses God’s sovereignty, emphasizing that salvation is not based on ancestry but on faith in Christ. He urges believers to be living sacrifices, using their gifts to serve others, and to live peaceably. Paul concludes with encouragements and personal greetings to various church members.

In Colossians, Paul warns against false teachings and encourages the church to focus on Christ alone, who is supreme and central to their faith. He highlights the importance of living out this faith through love, forgiveness, and unity in Christ.

In Philemon, Paul appeals to Philemon to forgive and accept his runaway slave, Onesimus, now a fellow believer. Paul’s letter shows the power of Christian brotherhood in transforming relationships.

In Ephesians 1-3, Paul celebrates God’s plan of salvation and the unity between Jews and Gentiles through Christ. He encourages believers to understand God’s immense love and their identity in Christ, building a foundation of faith and unity.

Let's enter into our rhythm of LEARN, READ, INTERACT.

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Romans:

Phrase: Death to life
Theme: Through Christ, God brings his chosen ones from death to life.
Christ-focus: Jesus died to sin and lives for the glory of God (Romans 6:10).
Implications: We have died to sin through the death of Christ, and through the resurrection of Christ we live for God's glory (Romans 6:11).
Questions: What harmful habits are you having a hard time kicking?  What is standing in your way to a more fulfilling life?

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Philemon:

Phrase: Brotherhood
Theme: God shows Philemon how his slave, Onesimus, has become a Christian brother.
Christ-focus: The Son of God himself calls us his brothers and sisters (Hebrews 2:11).
Implications: Our partnership in the faith should lead us to love one another as brothers and sisters (Philemon 6).
Questions: Do you regard all believers as your brothers and sisters?  What if they're different than you?  What are you willing to risk to bring brothers and sisters together?

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Colossians:

Phrase: Exalted Christ
Theme: God has exalted his Christ above all human wisdom and tradition.
Christ-focus: The Father himself has exalted his Son (Acts 5:31).
Implications: In the power and authority of the exalted Christ, let us serve him with gratitude and confidence (Colossians 2:9-10).
Questions: What is the most important thing in your life?  What would other people say is the most important thing in your life?  In what concrete way have you served the exalted Christ today?

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Ephesians:

Phrase: Shalom
Theme: God establishes the church as the firstfruits of his shalom.
Christ-focus: Christ is our peace (Ephesians 2:14).
Implications: In the strength of the Spirit, let us imitate Christ by working toward peace (Ephesians 4:2-3).
Questions: Do you know peace in your life?  Do others see peace in your life?  Where do you look for peace?

Share your insights, questions, and reflections through our Encounter blog.  Click below to go to the blog.