Exploring the Scripture

The letter was written to counter false doctrines introduced into the church at Colossae. Whether written by Paul or one of his close disciples, Colossians is like other letters known to have been written by Paul. Speculative ideas from other religions, perhaps Gnostic, have mingled with the principles of the true gospel. Even without details, the centrality and lordship of Christ were at the heart of the controversy.

After a traditional greeting, the letter praises the Colossians for their faith, love for others, and hope. As part of the larger movement, their faith expressed connection to and love for other saints. The gospel of grace has made a difference in their lives (“bearing fruit”), and they are growing, serving others, and displaying the fruits of the Spirit. Growth results from outreach and life as a disciple. Church growth was happening throughout the known world, so the Colossians’ service and growth helped unite them with other faithful congregations (v. 6).

Epaphras, the founder of the church in Colossae and a fellow servant, has personally communicated their faithfulness and love to Paul. Paul is pleased with their journey of discipleship and their faithful progress.

Thus, Paul continues to pray that God will give them spiritual understanding and wisdom. His hope is for them to model mature Christian lives and help transform the lives of others. The greeting turns into a prayer that they will be strong, patient in suffering and persecution, and filled with gratitude to God. Prayer unites them with all other followers, wherever they may be, and feeds the hope that keeps them going.

Through their faith in Christ, they share in the “inheritance of the saints in the light” (v. 12). God rescued the Colossians from their prior existence in “darkness” (v. 13) before they knew the light of Christ. The word used for “rescue” is the same as the word used to refer to God’s liberation of the Hebrew slaves in Egypt. Christians used these words to mean liberation from sin and ignorance of Christ’s saving gift. Freedom from ignorance is threatened by false teachings that lead people back into darkness. The language of light and darkness foreshadows later counsel in the letter and hints at the possible Gnostic identity of the false teachers.

The forgiveness and redemption offered by Jesus, God’s Son, provided free entry into God’s kingdom/kin-dom. Only in sacred community can the divisions created by different teachings be overcome in unity. God causes both the rescue from darkness and the transfer to the kingdom. Followers cannot bring about either, but faithful life in the Spirit can contribute to a sacred community that foreshadows God’s future reign.

Faith, forgiveness, and centering on Christ can overcome local divisions over doctrine. Our congregations must be reminded of their connection to the wider, international church. Their faith, prayers, and generosity can make a difference in the lives of other Christians and seekers.

Project Zion Podcast

Hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith consider how this week's scripture connects to our lives today.

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Central Ideas

1. The letter to the Colossians highlights the centrality of Christ in the church and Christ’s lordship over all creation.
2. Teachings centered on anything other than Jesus Christ weaken the church and destroy Christian community.
3. Serving others and displaying the fruits of the Spirit result in growth and unity.
4. The forgiveness and redemption offered by Christ provide free entry into God’s kingdom/kin-dom.

Questions to Consider

1. How obvious is the centrality of Christ in your congregation? What competes with Christ at center stage?
2. How does your congregation “bear fruit?” What efforts to expand service and outreach could result in further growth?
3. How do you live faith, hope, and love in daily life?
4. How does this introduction to the letter of Colossians mirror some of our Enduring Principles?