A brief introduction and overview of the book of Colossians
The Bible Brief’s Colossians Summary:
When:
Likely written between A.D. 58 and 60.
Who:
The Apostle Paul.
People & Places:
Christ; Paul; Timothy; Aristarchus
Sound-Bites:
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. (Ch.1:15)
Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him. (Ch.2:6)
Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (Ch.3:1)
Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. (Ch.4:5)
The Messianic Link:
He is the Image of the Invisible God (Colossians 1:15)
The Head of the body, the Beginning, and the Firstborn from the dead (Colossians 1:18)
The Hope of Glory (Col 1:27)
Colossians Summary:
Paul begins his letter to the Colossian church, with greetings and thanks giving, however he is soon onto the main purpose which is to counter heresy that had been making some headway amongst the members.
In chapter 2 he exhorts them not to be led astray with deceptive argument or indeed to pay attention to ‘human philosophy’ but instead to consider the absolute sufficiency of Christ.
Chapter 3 & 4 encourages the believers to deal fairly with one another and to deal wisely with outsiders (Ch.4:5-6). He finishes by emphasizing that the letter was written with his own hand—lending authority in case of any doubt.
Notes & Quotes:
In this letter, Paul again has to instruct the early Christians on the person of Christ, and his all-encompassing work of Grace amongst the believers.
The fact is that sometimes we need to be reminded that Jesus is ALL we need. Bells & smells, signs and wonders, dreams and visions, they all have their place; however they cannot replace a clear understanding of just exactly what salvation means, and the true benefits to us of Jesus’ sacrifice.
A clear understanding leads to a stronger faith, and better relationships that are not easily shaken when doubt or turmoil come visiting!
Colossians In A Nutshell
Paul writes to the church at Colossae and emphasises the divinity of Christ and his ‘Begotten not created’ status. Exhorts the Christian community to lead Godly lives and to deal wisely with outsiders.