Starter: [In pairs]. Share some good news you have. Worship: Jesus asks the question; 'Who do you say that I am?' Focus on all that Jesus means to you and give thanks for all those who have built up your faith. Reading: Colossians 1:24-29 Read aloud, then allow time for everyone to re-read it for themselves along with the commentary and the personal focus questions – and then reflect alone. Commentary: Paul sets out the very essence of the task that has been given to him by God. The task was to bring to all people a new discovery, the secret kept throughout the ages and now revealed [v.26]. Christ is available to all and so he destroyed forever the idea that the love and the mercy of God were the property of any one people or any one nation. The good news is to be shared in his strength [v.29]. Paul begins this passage with the daring thought that the sufferings and the imprisonment through which he is passing as completing the sufferings of Jesus Christ himself [v.24]. Jesus died to save his church; but the church must be built up, and extended; therefore, anyone who serves a church by establishing a faith in others, is doing the work of Christ. And if such service involves suffering and pain and sacrifice, that affliction is sharing the very suffering of Christ himself. To suffer in the service of Christ is not a penalty, it is a privilege and an honour, for it is sharing in the work of Christ.

Personal focus questions: 1. What thoughts about evangelism come to mind as you read this passage? What might God be saying to you? 2. What are the barriers to your sharing 'God's secret' [v.27]? 3. If you had the opportunity to share your faith what would be the key things you would say? Share together in threes the results of your individual reflection. Return together as a group and share any insights. Then all individually complete the two statements below. Share your thoughts and then deal with question 3. Life Focus Questions: 1. We have each been helped to share faith when…. 2. We would share our faith better if…. 3. What plans and targets should we make for inviting more people to become followers of Jesus Christ over the next year? Review: At the end of this series do you wish to continue to meet as a group? Do you wish to develop your thinking on 'Our Calling' further in the church using the 'KNOW and GROW' programme [Your minister can tell you about this]. Prayer concerns: Jesus is the 'light of the world'. Light a candle. Bring to that light the people around your church, and seek guidance and courage to speak to your contacts.