Growing in Christ: Seven Marks of a Worthy Walk
Based on Colossians 1:9–20 (KJV)
Introduction
Paul’s prayer for the Colossians is for spiritual maturity—that believers would walk in a way that reflects the worth and glory of Christ (Colossians 1:10). This outline walks through seven marks of that worthy walk.
1. Being Fruitful in Our Good Works (v.10a)
- True Christian growth shows in action.
- John 15:8; Titus 3:8
2. Increasing Our Knowledge of God (v.10b)
- Growth comes from knowing God personally.
- Hosea 6:6; Philippians 3:10
3. Strengthened with All Might According to His Glorious Power (v.11a)
- We grow not by our power but by His.
- Ephesians 6:10; Isaiah 40:31
4. Patience and Longsuffering with Joyfulness (v.11b)
- Spiritual growth includes joyful endurance.
- James 1:2-4; Romans 12:12
5. Recognizing Christ as the Lord and Head of the Church (v.18)
- Christ is not part of the Church—He is the Head.
- Ephesians 1:22–23; Revelation 1:12–13
6. Believing Christ is Fully God the Son (vv.15, 19)
- Jesus is fully divine.
- John 1:1; Hebrews 1:3
7. Resting in Christ Our Reconciler Through the Cross (vv.20–22)
- Growth begins and continues through the cross.
- Romans 5:10; 2 Corinthians 5:18
Summary – The 7 Ways We Grow in Christ
# Way We Grow Scripture Spiritual Focus
1 Good Works Col. 1:10 Visible fruit
2 Knowledge of God Col. 1:10 Intimacy with God
3 Strengthened by His Power Col. 1:11 Spiritual endurance
4 Patience with Joy Col. 1:11 Godly attitude
5 Christ the Lord of the Church Col. 1:18 Submission to His rule
6 Christ Fully God Col. 1:15, 19 Right theology
7 Reconciled by His Blood Col. 1:20 Gospel-centered life
Final Challenge
Are you walking worthy of the Lord? These seven markers show a healthy, growing Christian life—and they all revolve around Jesus.
Colossians 2:6 – 'As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.'
