A man at the airport has three minutes at the security belt, and out of those three minutes, over years, he builds a friendship that changes someone’s life and eternity. That story sits at the heart of a reflection on the close of Colossians, where Paul, himself in prison, asks not for his cell door to open but for an open door for the gospel (Colossians 4). The sermon points to a third way toward the world: neither isolation nor assimilation, but a wise use of time and of speech seasoned with salt. Listen if you are looking for a way to talk with those who live nearby yet are far from God.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- While in prison, Paul does not ask for the doors of his cell to open, but for a door to be opened for the word (Colossians 4:3). What does this request reveal about his priorities and what he lived for?
- For early Christians accused of atheism, cannibalism and immorality, what might the call to act wisely toward outsiders and speak graciously have meant?
- The sermon describes two extremes in relating to the world: isolation and assimilation. Which one do you lean toward, and what helps you take the path of mission and relationship instead?
- The story of two women, one who went to Ecuador and one who stayed home, shows you can be part of mission without going. How can your prayer involve you in reaching those who are far away?
- Paul compares making the most of every opportunity to buying something on sale that you still have to pay for. What cost is hardest for you to pay when a chance to talk about Jesus comes up?
- For years Bob used three minutes at airport security to build a friendship with Adrian. Who is an Adrian in your life, and how can your speech be gracious and seasoned with salt this week?
