Growing as a Disciple
Rusty Wirt   -   February 6, 2026

Growing as a Disciple

Verses: Col 1:9-14

Key Concept: If you love something, then you will protect it. If you love the local church, you will strive to protect it. Let’s strive to see Concord better by the end of 2026, than when we first started.

Your actions toward Concord Church today will affect Concord tomorrow.

Some think that for church members, gaining Bible knowledge should be an end in and of itself. The thinking here is that the more I know about the Bible, the better off I am. The Apostle Paul has a more nuanced understanding of this idea. In his letter to the Church at Colossae, he reveals what the real goal in learning is- and it’s not knowledge for knowledge’s sake. Today, we will focus on what that goal is and why being a part of a small group is so important.

  1. Paul begins his instruction about discipleship with a heavy emphasis on prayer (1:9a)
    1. Bible study and prayer go together.
  2. Paul’s prayer is related to the mind and heart of each church member (1:9b)
    1. You are filled (what is in your tank?)
      1. This is a passive verb, God is the implied subject
    2. The goal is not just knowledge- but knowledge of HIS WILL
      1. Bible study should help you not just know- but do!
    3. This knowledge should impact your personal and public life (1:10a)
      1. Your talkie talkie, should match your walkie walkie
      2. Every aspect of your life is impacted (“in every way)
  • Also see 2:6
  1. The result of this discipline is that
    1. This action will produce fruit in time
    2. Once you live out what you learn- you will gain the knowledge of God (not just facts about God).
  • Your will increase your endurance and patience
  1. Good discipleship leads to a heart ready to worship (1:12)
    1. The more we learn about God, the more thankful we should be

Application

Join a Bible study or connection class

Don’t like what we offer? Let us know and we will help start one.