Introduction to Colossians

 

Written in AD 54-55 by Paul when he was imprisoned in Rome to the members of the church in Colosse, a city in the region of Phrygia, which also included the cities of Hieropolis and Laodicea. Some from this city were present on the Day of Pentecost in Jerusalem when the Holy Spirit was poured out (Acts 2:10). Paul had been through this area of the world on his 2^nd and 3^rd missionary journeys (Acts 16:6; 18:23).

 

The church could have been the result of Paul’s work in Ephesus, since the language of the letter indicates that he never personally met the church (Acts 19:10; Col 2:1). The Gospel message was spread throughout most of Asia as a result of the work in Ephesus. Epaphras may have been its founder (Col 1:7; 4:12-13).

 

Through Epaphras himself Paul may have heard of what was ailing the church, which is why he writes this letter, addressing the Colossian heresy of syncretism.

 

Syncretism: Reconciliation or fusion of differing systems of belief, as in philosophy or religion, especially when success is partial or the result is heterogeneous. (Dictionary.com)

 

Paul sends this letter, along with the letter to the Ephesians and another to the Laodiceans and one to Philemon, through Tychicus and Onesimus (Col 4:7-9, 16; Ephesians 6:21).

 

THEME: The Godhood and Preeminence of Jesus Christ

 

Since this letter was written at the same time as the one for the Ephesians and for Philemon, they share many similar passages. However, their themes are entirely different and should be duly noted.

 

The focus is on Jesus as the Head of the church, the Lord of the universe and the center of restoration, reconciliation and righteousness. When we make Him Lord in our heart and mind we will be “like He is”: holy, compassionate and full of grace.

 

If we forget His Lordship in our life the basic principles of the world will regain their foothold in us and cause us to think we have earned Heaven by our good deeds and prevent people from coming into the Kingdom by making them feel they aren’t good enough, or spiritual enough to deserve Jesus as their Lord. Putting yourself as Lord in your life will elevated your philosophy and your ideas above the Scriptures and will cause your fall from grace.

 

Nothing can be elevated above and beyond Jesus for in Him the entire Universe has sustenance.

 

References used:

1- Halley’s Bible Commentary

2- Richard Bagget, Sunset School of Preaching

3- Nave’s Topical Dictionary

4- Strong’s Hebrew and Greek Lexicon