Not Your Momma's Bible Study Podcast · Chrystan Ferrell

The Fullness of Christ

·29 min·2 clips

Kristen Farrell explains why burning sage to cleanse your home misses the point—you only need Jesus.

Host Kristen Farrell continues her study of the Book of Colossians, focusing on the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. This episode examines Colossians 1:15-29 to provide a "full picture" of Jesus for everyday believers. Farrell unpacks Paul's letter to the church in Colossae, which was written to combat false teachings and clarify Christ's identity. The central text describes Jesus as "the image of the invisible God" and "the firstborn of all creation," establishing his divinity and role in creation. Paul writes that all things were created through and for Jesus, and in him "all things are held together." Farrell connects the "head of the body" metaphor to Jesus's leadership over the Church. She contrasts this with modern practices like "manifesting," burning sage, or using crystals, arguing these are unnecessary additions to faith. The host shares a personal anecdote about seeing sage bushes in Wyoming that "explode" when fire, suggesting we need to be "on fire for Jesus" instead. A key insight is that Jesus acts as an intercessor, whispering believers' names to God the Father. Farrell emphasizes that nothing else can fill the void meant for Jesus, calling her years of seeking tangible substitutes "lost years." The commentary notes Colossae was in an earthquake zone, making Paul's call for a "steadfast" foundation particularly resonant. The phrase "Christ in you, the hope of glory" is highlighted as the core mystery and hope for Gentiles. Farrell states that Paul rejoiced in his sufferings because they authenticated his message and increased his faith. She reminds listeners that God did not recruit perfect people to write the Bible or be disciples. The episode's goal is presented as making "heaven crowded" by proclaiming Jesus so that "every man" desires this hope. Discussion questions prompt reflection on how Christ holding all things together brings peace and how Paul's view of suffering challenges the listener. The tone is conversational, encouraging, and pastoral, blending scriptural exegesis with personal application and gentle admonishment. Farrell speaks directly to her audience as "sister" and creates an accessible, informal Bible study atmosphere. Listeners seeking an uplifting, practical, and Christ-centered exploration of scripture will appreciate this episode. Those preferring a strictly academic, historical-critical, or interfaith approach to biblical texts might find it less aligned with their interests.

As heard by us

A clear Colossians teaching that keeps circling back to Jesus alone.

Kristen Farrell keeps the Colossians 1 teaching clear and grounded. She leans on plain language and stays focused on Jesus as the one over everything, not one option among many.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

If you want Colossians explained like a friend at the table, press play.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Not Your Momma's Bible Study Podcast