Hilton Head Island Community Church Podcast

Counterfeit - Live a Lie vs. Live Alive

·35 min·3 clips

A church member studying Greek reveals the true meaning of 'shadow' in Colossians 2:17.

This episode is the second week of the 'Counterfeit' series at Hilton Head Island Community Church, focusing on the book of Colossians. Lead Pastor Todd Cullen delivers a sermon titled 'Live a Lie vs. Live Alive.' He opens with casual remarks about weather and church attendance, then introduces the core theme: the supremacy of Christ. Cullen explains the historical context of Paul's letter to the Colossians, who were threatened by Gnostic teachings that emphasized secret knowledge over faith. He draws a parallel to modern life, where cultural, political, or philosophical ideas can subtly pull believers away from biblical truth, leading to a counterfeit faith. Cullen uses the analogy of baptism to highlight how many Christians remain 'buried' in old ways instead of walking in new life. He identifies three key points from Colossians 2 for living alive: being captivated by Christ, stopping the strive for spiritual achievement, and accepting only Jesus' approval. Cullen shares personal struggles, like his captivation with college football, to illustrate how good things can become idols. He delves into scripture, particularly Colossians 2:6-20, emphasizing phrases like 'in him' and explaining theological concepts such as Christ's deity and the cancellation of debt on the cross. A notable moment involves a church member named Lydia, who is studying Greek in Greece and provides insight into the word 'shadow' in verse 17, helping distinguish between religious shadows and the substance of Christ. Cullen concludes with a prayer, asking God to help the congregation tear down counterfeit pursuits and live fully satisfied in Christ. The sermon is interactive, with calls for hand-raising, and blends teaching with pastoral encouragement.

As heard by us

A Colossians 2 sermon uses a parent's street-crossing warning to press Christ followers toward a life that visibly matches their faith.

Counterfeit - Live a Lie vs. Live Alive shapes a Colossians 2 message into a plainspoken call for Christ followers whose daily conduct has not yet matched their identity.

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You want a sermon that asks whether your faith is showing up in the way you live?

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