Comparative Study: Supporting Evidence

(5-8 minutes, easy set-up)
Learners will compare Colossians 1:13-23 and Philippians 2:5-11 to discuss Jesus’ identity.
Provide a dry erase board and marker.

Point out that John emphasized the nature of who Christ was prior to His birth as Jesus. Explain that the apostle Paul also described Jesus as God, Savior, and Creator.

Divide learners into two groups. Instruct Group 1 to look up Colossians 1:13–23 and Group 2 to look up Philippians 2:5–11. Then, write these questions on the board for each group to answer (answers are provided in italics):

How did Paul reinforce John’s message about Jesus’ identity? (Col. 1:14—Redeemer; v. 15—image of God; 16—Creator; 17—sovereign over all things; 18—head of the church; 20—Savior; and 1:22—Savior)
What do we learn from Paul that goes beyond John’s description? (From Phil. 2:6—God; v. 7—humbled Himself, took on nature of a servant, took on human form; v. 8—humble and obedient Savior, died on the cross; v. 9—raised from the dead; v.10—everyone will worship Him; v. 11—Lord)

After three or four minutes, lead learners to share their findings. Then, discuss: How can Paul’s writings strengthen your confidence that Jesus is God and Savior? Conclude by reminding learners that it is not just John and Paul, but the entire Bible that declares that Jesus is both God and Savior.