STUDIES
IN
THE BOOK OF
COLOSSIANS
1 INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF COLOSSIANS
I. The CITY of COLOSSEE (Or Colossae)
A. Colossee was located in the LYCUS RIVER VALLEY in western Asia Minor. It is now a part of the country of TURKEY. The Lycus River is a tributary of the Meander River. This small City was quite near LAODICEA (about ten miles away and about thirteen miles from HIERAPOLIS). Note Colossians 4:13.
B. Colossae was about 100 miles EAST of EPHESUS. That would be about 160 kilometers.
C. The NATURE of the City of Colossae and its BACKGROUND
1. Colossae had been an important, busy city a FEW CENTURIES EARLIER.
2. At the time of Paul’s ministry in that WESTERN PORTION of Asia Minor, the city had DECLINED in POPULATION and IMPORTANCE. It was a SMALL TOWN in the first century
3. It was located on a major TRADE ROUTE going hundreds of miles to the EAST.
4. The production of WOOL and TEXTILES was its primary business.
5. The City was probably affected by the EARTHQUAKE that struck LAODICEA about 60-64 A. D.. Perhaps, the book of Colossians was written shortly before this earthquake.
6. The RUINS of Colossae were discovered in the year 1835, but it has not yet been widely excavated.
D. The RELIGIOUS CONDITIONS in the city of Colossae consisted of the FOLLOWING in the days of the apostle Paul:
a. The city of HIERAPOLIS (Meaning “Sacred City”) nearby, had a “shrine” to the “goddess” CYBELE.
b. Eastern and Egyptian religions were there, plus the “mystery” religions.
c. The PHILOSOPHIES such as STOICISM and EPICUREAN thought were there.
d. There was considerable JEWISH influence which may have been the 2 source of the FALSE “PHILOSOPHY” which Paul is opposing in the Colossian epistle (Colossians 2:8-23).
e. Josephus, the Jewish historian, stated that about TWO THOUSAND JEWS had been transferred there in the second century B. C.. (Weed, pages 27, 28).
II. The inspired AUTHOR of Colossians is the APOSTLE PAUL
A. The name of “PAUL” is recorded in BOTH the FIRST VERSE of Colossians and the LAST VERSE (Colossians 1:1; 4:18).
B. NOTE that TIMOTHY was with the apostle Paul at the time of writing (Colossians 1:1).
C. The “beloved physician” LUKE and DEMAS were with Paul in addition to EPAPHRAS, etc. (Colossians 4:12, 13). Aristarchus was a “fellow-prisoner” with Paul (Colossians 4:10). Both Luke and Aristarchus were with Paul in his ROMAN IMPRISONMENT (See the “WE” passage, which includes Luke, in Acts 28:16).
D. Paul was in PRISON as is also noted in EPHESIANS, PHILIPPIANS, and PHILEMON. This is a “PRISON EPISTLE!” Note also the introduction of the booklet, “Studies in the Book of Ephesians” concerning the imprisonment of Paul in ROME. PAUL’S IMPRISONMENT IS REFERRED TO IN Colossians 4:3, 10, 18).
III. The CHURCH in the CITY of COLOSSAE
A. Paul, on his THIRD MISSION JOURNEY, had spent THREE YEARS in Ephesus (Acts 20:31), and during TWO OF THOSE YEARS, he taught in the LECTURE HALL of TYRANNUS (Acts 19:9, 10).
a. Because of his teaching during this time in EPHESUS, all who lived in the Province of ASIA heard the “WORD,” both JEWS and GREEKS (Acts 19:10)..
b. Perhaps, EPAPHRAS had been converted by Paul at EPHESUS during Paul’s THREE YEAR STAY in EPHESUS (See Colossians 1:7, 8; 4:12, 13).
c. PAUL did NOT KNOW some of the brethren in the AREA of LAODICEA and COLOSSAE (Colossians 1:4; 2:1). He had “HEARD” of their “FAITH!”
d. If he were released from prison, PAUL WANTED TO VISIT COLOSSAE, for he said this to PHILEMON who lived there (Philemon 22).
3 B. EPAPHRAS may have BEGUN the work in COLOSSAE as well as the congregations in LAODICEA and HIERAPOLIS (Note Colossians 1:7, 8; 4:13, 16).
IV. The PROBLEM of FALSE TEACHING in Colossae
A. The PURPOSE of Paul in writing the book of Colossians was to CONFRONT a false teaching that was affecting the church (Colossians 2:4, 8, 9).
B. This false teaching evidently had a strong JEWISH element, but many Jewish people had been greatly influenced by GREEK PHILOSOPHY and other religions. (Weed, page 31). One GREEK teaching, which was accepted by some, was the denial of a PHYSICAL RESURRECTION of the human body.
C. A DESCRIPTION of this FALSE TEACHING as seen in the book of COLOSSIANS
1. It claimed to have access to special “knowledge” or “wisdom” Paul said that ALL true “wisdom” and “knowledge” are found in GOD’S “MYSTERY” through CHRIST (Colossians 2:2, 3).
2. It evidently claimed to have secret “mysteries” that only a few “mature” people could receive. Paul pointed out that God’s PLAN in Christ brought about true MATURITY (Colossians 1:27, 28).
3. This false teaching emphasized ceremonial FEAST DAYS, etc. (Colossians 2:16).
4. This false teaching emphasized “ASCETIC” living, the HARSH TREATMENT of the physical body (Colossians 2:18, 20-23).
5. It also taught the WORSHIP OF ANGELS (Colossians 2:18).
D. NOTE: It is immediately recognized that SOME OF THE ASPECTS OF THIS FALSE TEACHING became some of the FOUNDATION TEACHINGS of “GNOSTICISM” in the SECOND CENTURY.
E. There also seemed to be a teaching which said that GOD IS FAR AWAY, and that between GOD and MAN was an entire “HIERARCHY” of “spiritual beings.” Out of this would come the “worship of angels” as intermediary beings.
G. Out of this false teaching evidently came the affirmation that CHRIST was ONE of these “spiritual beings” in the HIERARCHY between GOD and MAN. Because of this, PAUL AFFIRMED STRONGLY the TRUE IDENTITY of Christ, and His PRE-EMINENCE in the UNIVERSE (Colossians 1:15-20; 2:9-15).
4 H. Because of Paul’s COMMENDATION of the Colossian disciples (Colossians 1:4, etc.), it seems that this FALSE TEACHING had NOT YET deeply affected the church in that City. NOTE this quotation, “….the situation in Colossae was as yet a threat more than a disaster” (Barclay, page 31). (Underlining by Editor).
SUGGESTED OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF COLOSSIANS i. Paul’s GREETING (Colossians 1:1, 2)
II. Paul’s THANKSGIVING (1:3-8).
III. Paul’s PRAYER for the Colossian CHURCH (1:9-14).
IV. The “HYMN” about the TRUE IDENTITY of Jesus (1:15-20).
V. The APPLICATION concerning the meaning of the “HYMN” (1:21-23).
VI. Paul’s MINISTRY to various churches, including Colossee, to the GENTILES, to ALL (1:24-2:5).
A. The GREAT EFFORT of Paul was possible by the POWER OF GOD (1:24-29).
B. A WARNING: DO NOT BE DECEIVED! (2:1-5).
VII. CHRIST is TRULY “LORD” (2:6-15).
A. “WALK” in Christ the LORD! Do NOT be DECEIVED! (2:6-8).
B. There is SO MUCH that is RECEIVED “IN CHRIST” (2:9-12).
C. The Colossians had passed from “DEATH” to “LIFE” (2:13-15).
VIII. BEWARE of the FALSE TEACHERS (2:16-23).
A. DO NOT LOSE YOUR GREAT “PRIZE!” (2:16-19).
B. AVOID WORLDLY “RULES” (2:20-23).
IX. “SEEK” HEAVENLY THINGS! (3:1-4).
X. “PUT TO DEATH” EVIL THINGS (3:5-11).
XI. “PUT ON” THESE BEAUTIFUL QUALITIES (3:12-17).
XII. HOW the Christian HOUSEHOLD should LIVE (3:18-4:1). 5 A. HUSBANDS and WIVES (3:18, 19).
B. CHILDREN and PARENTS (3:20, 21).
C. SLAVES and MASTERS (3:22-4:1).
XIII. ENCOURAGEMENT concerning PRAYER and CORRECT BEHAVIOR (4:2-6).
XIV. Final ENCOURAGEMENT and GREETINGS (4:7-18).
A. Concerning TYCHICUS and ONESIMUS (4:7-9).
B. A NUMBER of GREETINGS (4:10-15).
C. Concluding TEACHINGS (4:16-18) (Outline Adapted from Ash, pages 141, 142)
REVIEW QUESTIONS ON THE INTRODUCTION TO COLOSSIANS
1. In addition to Colossae, NAME TWO OTHER TOWNS in the LYCUS VALLEY of Western Asia Minor.
2. What were the RELIGIOUS CONDITIONS in Colossae in the first century? Which religions were there?
3. When Paul wrote the Colossians from prison in Rome, who were his COMPANIONS?
4. Discuss HOW the church began in Colossee? Where was Paul at that time? Who evangelized in Colossae?
5. Give a short DESCRIPTION of the FALSE TEACHING that was entering the church In Colossae.
6. What great “heresy” of the second century evidently grew out of this false teaching which began to be taught at Colossae and elsewhere?
STUDIES IN THE BOOK OF COLOSSIANS Colossians Chapter One
I. Paul’s GREETING (Colossians 1:1, 2).
6 A. He included his NAME in both Colossians 1:1, the FIRST VERSE of the book, and Colossians 4:18, the LAST VERSE of the epistle.
B. Paul introduced himself as an “APOSTLE.” He did this in other epistles EXCEPT FOR Philippians, Philemon, and I and II Thessalonians.
1. He is an “APOSTLE OF JESUS CHRIST!” Perhaps he stated this to GIVE more WEIGHT and IMPORTANCE to the MESSAGE he was bringing.
2. He was KNOWN, perhaps, ONLY BY NAME in Colossae. Read what he stated in Colossians 2:1.
3. His CALLING as an apostle of Jesus was according to “THE WILL OF GOD.” See this also in Ephesians 1:1 and his calling in Acts 26:16-18.
C. TIMOTHY was the COMPANION of Paul, the PRISONER (1:1).
1. Timothy is mentioned in TWO OTHER “PRISON EPIESTLES,” Philippians and Philemon (Philippians 1:1; 2:19, 20; Philemon 1:1). NOTE this last passage, “Paul a prisoner of Christ Jesus and Timothy our brother….”
2. When Paul was NEAR DEATH, he wanted TIMOTHY to leave Ephesus and join him in ROME (II Timothy 4:9, 21). It seems that Paul had been released from the first imprisonment, preached some more, was arrested again and taken to ROME a second time, and thereafter killed. He was ready to go (II Timothy 4:6-8).
D. Paul wrote to “SAINTS” and “FAITHFUL BRETHREN” who were “IN CHRIST” at Colossae (Colossians 1:2).
1. Observe the FREQUENT USE of the term “SAINTS” in Ephesians 1:1; 1:15; 3:18; 5:3; 6:18, etc.). This word, “hagiois” not only means “holy,” but it refers to “Christians as consecrated to God” (Arndt and Gingrich Greek Lexicon, page 10). Hereafter, this Lexicon will be abbreviated to “A. and G.”
2. Consider that Christian were also called “SAINTS” in Paul’s opening statement in Philippians 1:1.
3. “FAITHFUL” (pistois) BRETHREN would refer to those brothers and sisters who were “STEADFAST” in their faith. “pistois” means, “dependable,” “inspiring trust,” “reliable,” “trustworthy” (A. and G. page 670). It is also used to speak of GOD as “FAITHFUL” (I John 1:9, etc.).
7 4. The phrase, “IN CHRIST” means “THROUGH CHRIST” and also in a certain “SPHERE” or relationship with Christ such as II Corinthians 5:17. Notice Ephesians 1:3-14 where this phrase, “In Christ,” “In Him,” “In the Beloved” or similar phrases are used a NUMBER OF TIMES.
5. Paul wanted God’s DIVINE “GRACE” and a feeling of “PEACE” or WELL- BEING to BLESS the Colossians. In Ephesians 1:2, Paul desired that “Grace” and “Peace” would come from BOTH God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
II. Paul’s THANKSGIVING (Colossians 1:3-8).
A. This passage, Colossians 1:3-8 is only ONE CONTINUOUS SENTENCE in the Greek text.
B. In his PRAYER, Paul gave “THANKS” to God (1:3). See also 1:9. Consider the following verses in this epistle when Paul spoke of THANKFULNESS (Colossians 1:12; 2:7; 3:15-17; 4:2).
1. It is noted that Paul said in 1:3, “WE give thanks to God….” Did this “WE” include TIMOTHY? Did it include LUKE? Did it include OTHERS? Was there a “GROUP DEVOTIONAL?” We do not know. 2. In the various epistles penned by the apostle Paul, it is OBSERVED that Paul PRAYED FOR MANY PEOPLE (Romans 1:8; I Corinthians 1:4; Ephesians 1:15, 16; Philippians 1:3-5; I Thessalonians 1:2, etc.).
3. AN INTERESTING OBSERVATION: Paul PRAYED for the Colossians (Colossians 1:3): BUT, he wanted the COLOSSIANS TO PRAY FOR HIM (Colossians 4:2, 3).
4. ANOTHER EXAMPLE: Paul PRAYED for the PHILIPPIANS (Philippians 1:3-5, 9, 10). BUT ALSO, he wanted the Philippians TO PRAY FOR HIM (Philippians 1:19).
C. Paul had HEARD of the Colossians’ “FAITH” in Christ, AND their “LOVE” for all the “SAINTS” (Colossians 1:4).
1. There are THREE WORDS that appear in Paul’s writings SEVERAL TIMES: They are “FAITH, HOPE, and LOVE.” Note them here in Colossians 1:4, 5. See also I Corinthians 13:13; I Thessalonians 1:3; Romans 5:1-5, etc..
2. The Colossians’ “FAITH in Christ Jesus” would be their TRUST and
8 RELIANCE on the Lord for SALVATION. Certainly, they had OBEYED THE GOSPEL (Colossians 2:11, 12).
3. Their “LOVE” for “ALL THE SAINTS” is “agape.” (1:4) (John 13:34, 35; I John 3:11-18; 4:10, 11, etc.). They truly LOVED THEIR BROTHERS AND SISTERS, AND WANTED THE VERY BEST FOR THEM!
D. Their “FAITH” and “LOVE” came out of their “HOPE!” (Colossians 1:5).
1. Later in this chapter, Paul URGED them NOT to be “MOVED AWAY FROM THE HOPE OF THE GOSPEL….” (Colossians 1:23). It MUST BE, “CHRIST IN YOU, THE HOPE OF GLORY!” (Colossians 1:27; 3:4).
2. “STEADFASTNESS” will be produced by HOPE (I Thessalonians 1:3).
3. The HOPE of the Colossians was “LAID UP” for them in HEAVEN! (I Peter 1:3, 4). They had HEARD of this HOPE in the “WORD OF TRUTH, THE GOSPEL! Note also I Thessalonians 2:13 concerning the “WORD OF GOD.”
4. The HOPE of the Colossian disciples CAME OUT of the MESSAGE that they had received from EPAPHRAS (Colossians 1:7, 23; 2:6).
5. NOTE the various terms in this passage (1:5, 6) that refer to the “MESSAGE” the Colossians had RECEIVED. THIS MESSAGE IS CALLED:
a. “THE WORD OF TRUTH” (Read I Timothy 2:3, 4; I Thessalonians 2:13).
b. “THE GOSPEL´ (Examine Romans 1:16; I Corinthians 15:1-4).
c. “TRUTH” (1:6). Note also Ephesians 1:13).
6. This MESSAGE OF TRUTH would be in very SHARP CONTRAST to the FALSE PHILOSOPHY to be discussed in Colossians 2. (Read 2:8).
E. The GOSPEL was “BEARING FRUIT” and “INCREASING” “IN ALL THE WORLD” (Colossians 1:6).
1. “BEARING FRUIT” would involve MAKING NEW CONVERTS” (John 15:8).
2. “BEARING FRUIT” and “GROWING” would ALSO involve “SPIRITUAL GROWTH,” that is, GROWING into the IMAGE” of Christ, MATURING!
9 (Galatians 5:22, 23, “Fruit of the Spirit” Colossians 1:28, etc.). Paul PRAYED for this GROWTH (Colossians 1:10). They must “BEAR FRUIT” with “all kinds of good deeds” (A. and G. page 406).
3. NOTE: The phrase, “IN ALL THE WORLD” emphasizes that the GOSPEL is to be a “WORLD-WIDE” MESSAGE! (Matthew 28:19; Romans 1:13; (I Thessalonians 1:8-10; See also Colossians 1:23).
4. It is possible that the teachers of the FALSE PHILOSOPHY at Colossee were urging the people to “GROW” in their “SECRET” KNOWLEDGE.
F. EPAPHRAS had probably EVANGELIZED and FOUNDED the congregation at Colossae, and possibly the whole Lycus Valley including LAODICEA and HIERAPOLIS (Note 1:7).
1. Epaphras is called Paul’s “FELLOW SLAVE” (sundoulou) and “FAITHFUL SERVANT” (diakonos) of CHRIST! This is a wonderful COMPLIMENT! NOTE that Paul called himself a “SLAVE” of the church at Corinth (II Corinthians 4:5). TIMOTHY was the “Lord’s SLAVE” (II Timothy 2:24).
2. The phrase, “On OUR behalf” may suggest that PAUL SENT OUT EPAPHRAS to preach in the LYCUS VALLEY. Examine Acts 19:10 concerning the fact that during Paul’s teaching in the Lecture Hall of TYRANNUS, the gospel was taken THROUGHOUT THE PROVINCE OF ASIA!
3. Some manuscripts say, “On YOUR behalf.” This could suggest that EPAPHRAS was a worker of the Colossian church, and was “one of their own” Note Colossians 4:12.
G. EPAPHRAS had informed PAUL of the LOVE (agapen) of the church at Colossae (Colossians 1:8).
1. It is interesting to note that THEY HAD NOT MET PAUL, BUT THEY LOVED HIM! “Let BROTHERLY LOVE” remain!” (philadelphia) (Hebrews 13:1). Love one another FERVENTLY! (I Peter 1:22).
2. The phrase, “IN SPIRIT” may mean to be led and guided by the Holy Spirit in developing a sincere love in the life of the disciples. The “FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT” is truly “LOVE, JOY, PEACE….” (Galatians 5:22, 23).
III. Paul’s PRAYER for the CHURCH in Colossae (Colossians 1:9-14).
10 A. Paul PRAYED that they would be “FILLED” with the “KNOWLEDGE OF HIS WILL” (Colossians 1:9).
1. KNOWLEDGE, INSIGHT, and UNDERSTANDING of God’s Will produces MATURITY (Colossians 1:28; 4:12). The word, “PERFECT” or “COMPLETE” (teleion) in 1:28 means “FULL GROWN,” “MATURE”
2. If the Colossians are “FILLED” with GOD’S WILL, they WILL NOT ACCEPT the FALSE TEACHING being emphasized in Colossae (Colossians 2:8).
3. NOTE how often the words, “FILLED,” or “FULNESS,” or “FULL” are mentioned in this epistle (Colossians 1:19, 24, 25; 2:2, 9, 10; 4:12, 17).
4. Being “FILLED” with “SPIRITUAL WISDOM” and UNDERSTANDING of God’s Will would enable them to DISTINGUISH between GOOD and EVIL. This is NOT “WORLDLY WISDOM” (Romans 1:20, 21. Examine Philippians 1:9-11.
B. Paul ALSO PRAYED that they would “LIVE A LIFE WORTHY OF THE LORD” (Colossians 1:10).
1. CONSIDER A SIMILAR STATEMENT: LIVE A LIFE “WORTHY OF THE GOSPEL….” (Philippians 1:27). The TWO MUST BE IN HARMONY!
2. NOTE AGAIN: “WALK in a manner “WORTHY OF THE CALLING….” (Ephesians 4:1).
3. “….Be considered WORTHY OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD….” (II Thessalonians 1:5).
4. ALWAYS STRIVE to “PLEASE” THE LORD! (See John 8:29 and Galatians 1:10).
5. HOW CAN CHRISTIANS “BEAR FRUIT?” BY PURSUING ”EVERY GOOD WORK!” (Examine also Ephesians 2:10).
6. IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
a. Which ACTIVITY is given FIRST in 1:10, “BEARING FRUIT” or “INCREASING IN KNOWLEDGE?”
b. SHOULD WE BE INVOLVED IN “EVANGELISM” and “EVERY
11 GOOD WORK” BEFORE WE LEARN ALL WE WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE LORD?
c. WHAT ARE SOME “GOOD WORKS” THAT DISCIPLES SHOULD DO? Please discuss.
C. Paul PRAYED that the Colossians would be STRENGTHENED by God (Colossians 1:11). Read also Ephesians 1:18, 19.
1. This “STRENGTHENING” is made possible because of God’s “glorious might” (II Timothy 2:1). This word is constructed in Greek to emphasize a CONTINUAL strengthening.
2. The previous verse, 1:10, is emphasizing the CONDUCT of the disciple. This verse stresses some SPIRITUAL QUALITIES of the disciple that come out of the STRENGTH that God supplies through His “glorious might.”.
a. “STEADFASTNESS” (hupomonen). This “bearing up under” any difficulty is also made possible by the GREAT HOPE that the Christian has IN CHRIST (I Thessalonians 1:3).
b. “PATIENCE” (makrothumian). This quality is the ability to hold ourselves “in check” and “bearing with” the weaknesses of another. NOTE that Paul uses the same word in Colossians 3:12 as a quality which Christians must “PUT ON!” See also I Corinthians 13:4; Galatians 5:22.
c. “WITH JOY” (meta charas). It is INTERESTING to observe that PAUL, THE PRISONER, UNCERTAIN WHETHER HE WOULD LIVE OR DIE, is talking about “JOY.” In Philippians, another “PRISON EPISTLE,” he used the word, “JOY” or “REJOICE” about 15 times (For example see Philippians 2:1, 2; 3:1; 4:4, etc.).
3. EXAMINE the “glorious MIGHT” of our God in Ephesians 1:19 and 6:10, in addition to Colossians 1:29 and 2:12.
D. Disciples must continue to give THANKS TO THE FATHER who has “QUALIFIED” US to “share in the INHERITANCE of the saints in light” (Colossians 1:12).
1. NOTE the “THANKFULNESS” that is emphasized in the book of COLOSSIANS (Colossians 1:3; 3:15, 16, 17; 4:2).
2. Through what CHRIST DID, disciples are “QUALIFIED” (hikanosanti) to
12 share in the “inheritance of the saints in light” (I Peter 1:3, 4). The Israelites who “followed the Lord fully” were qualified to inherit the PROMISED LAND of CANAAN (Joshua 14:9) (Weed, page 43).
3. GOD has made Christians “ADEQUATE” to share the “inheritance.” Paul was perhaps saying that the Colossians DO NOT NEED any additional “SECRET” KNOWLEDGE that the false teachers claim to have.
4. NOTE: Christians, by their “OWN MERIT,” are NOT “WORTHY.” It is BY GOD’S GRACE THROUGH CHRIST. We DO NOT “DESERVE” OR “EARN” our SALVATION! There is NOTHING of which man can “BOAST” (Romans 3:24-27; 6:23; Ephesians 2:8-10).
E. GOD, the FATHER, is the one who DELIVERS US from the “DOMAIN” of “DARKNESS” and transfers us into the “KINGDOM” (basileian) of His Beloved Son (Colossians 1:13).
1. By his own SIN, MAN IS IN THE “DOMAIN” (Realm) of “DARKNESS.” NOTE that Paul was told by the LORD, on the Damascus Road, that he was called to TURN MEN from “DARKNESS” to “LIGHT” and from the power of SATAN to GOD (Acts 26:16-18).
2. Examine the realm of “DARKNESS” (Romans 1:21; Ephesians 4:17, 18; 5:11; 6:12; I Peter 2:9).
3. In the “DOMAIN” of “DARKNESS,” the Colossians had previously been “ALIENATED” FROM GOD (Colossians 1:21). But, they had been delivered from the “realm” of “moral and intellectual darkness” (Weed, page 44).
4. GOD transferred them into the “KINGDOM OF THE SON OF HIS LOVE!” They are NOW in the realm of “LIGHT!” NOTE: They did NOT need the false philosophy of the “heretics” that will be described in Colossians 2.
5. The “KINGDOM” is composed of those people who have been “PURCHASED” by the BLOOD of Jesus (Revelation 5:9, 10).
6. CONSIDER that this “TRANSFER” into the KINGDOM took place when they were “baptized” into the Lord (Read Colossians 2:11, 12, 20; 3:1, etc.. Study also John 3:1-5, the story of NICODEMUS, and being “born again” into the kingdom).
7. It will be OBSERVED BELOW (1:18, etc.), that the Colossians, who had been
13 “transferred” into the “kingdom,” are the same people that composed the CHURCH in Colossae.
G. God’s “BELOVED SON” is the ONE through whom “REDEMPTION” and “FORGIVENESS” come (Colossians 1:14). JESUS IS ALL-SUFFICIENT!
1. “IN WHOM” refers to “God’s Beloved Son” “IN HIM,” MAN FINDS:
a. Forgiveness and Redemption (See also Ephesians 1:7) b. Every “spiritual blessing” (Ephesians 1:3) c. Salvation (II Timothy 2:10) d. Eternal Life (I John 5:11, 12)
2. “REDEMPTION” (apolutrosin) means to be “freed,” to be “RESCUED.” In this Passage, it is defined as the “FORGIVENESS” OF SINS!” The original meaning was, “buying back a slave or captive;” “making him free by the paying of a ransom;” “release from sin” (A. and G. page 95).
3. The phrase, “WE HAVE” (echomen) IS IN THE PRESENT TENSE, suggesting that Christians are REDEEMED NOW. Christians have “FORGIVENESS NOW! (NOTE Acts 2:38; 22:16). The disciples to whom Peter wrote HAD BEEN REDEEMED BY JESUS’ BLOOD (I Peter 1:18, 19).
4. In the later teachings of the GNOSTICS, “REDEMPTION” became a popular word, and referred not only to immortality, but also to the reception of certain “secret doctrines” and “rituals” (Weed, page 45). Paul was showing that “REDEMPTION” is also NOW through Jesus’ blood. NOTE: The GNOSTICS of the SECOND CENTURY may have been the successors of some of the false teaching such as that found in Colossians 2.
5. CHRIST is “SUPREME” in the REDEMPTIVE PLAN OF GOD! (Ephesians 1:7).
IV. The “HYMN” concerning the TRUE IDENTITY of JESUS (Colossians 1:15-20).
A. Because of the way it is constructed in the Greek text, some writers feel that this BEAUTIFUL DESCRIPTION of the TRUE IDENTITY of CHRIST was an early HYMN sung by Christians.
B. In speaking of the IDENTITY of Christ, Paul was confronting the FALSE TEACHING which was evidently affirming that JESUS was only ONE of a multitude of
14 supernatural beings, as many as 365, standing between GOD and MAN. There is ONLY ONE “MEDIATOR” between GOD and MAN (I Timothy 2:5).
C. CHRIST IS “SUPREME” IN:
1. The CREATION and the SUSTAINING of the UNIVERSE (Colossians 1:15-17)
2. Christ is SUPREME in God’s Plan of REDEMPTION (Colossians 1:14)
3. Christ is SUPREME in the CHURCH, HIS “BODY,” the GREAT RESULT of GOD’S PLAN (Colossians 1:18).
D. Jesus is IDENTIFIED as “SUPREME” in the UNIVERSE (Colossians 1:15-17).
1. Christ is the “IMAGE” (eikon) of GOD (1:15). The word, “IMAGE” means “Likeness” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 221) or “Representation” (Note also II Corinthians 4:4).
a. Jesus “REVEALED” (“Explained”) the “INVISIBLE GOD” Examine John 1:18.
b. Jesus REVEALED BOTH GOD’S NATURE and WILL to man. When we see the NATURE of Jesus, we then recognize the NATURE of the FATHER.
2. CHRIST is the “FIRST-BORN” (prototokos) of ALL CREATION! (1:15).
a. The word, “FIRST-BORN” suggests that Christ is “SUPREME,” or the MOST IMPORTANT IN CREATION. It DOES NOT mean the FIRST to come into existence! (A. and G. page 734).
b. Please NOTE this DEFINITION in the following Scriptures:
(1) In the Old Testament, the nation of ISRAEL is called God’s “FIRST-BORN” (Exodus 4:22; Jeremiah 31:9). They were truly, “One specially loved by the Father” (Ash, page 159). The word, “FIRST-BORN” is NOT speaking of the ONE WHO WAS BORN FIRST! It speaks of a special nation!
(2) KING DAVID is called the “FIRST-BORN” of GOD (Psalm 89:20-27). He was a “man after God’s own heart” But, he was NOT the FIRST ONE BORN, NOT EVEN in his OWN PHYSICAL FAMILY (I Samuel 16:1-19).
15 (3) JESUS CHRIST is called the “FIRST-BORN FROM THE DEAD!” (Colossians 1:18; Revelation 1:5). BUT, chronologically, JESUS WAS NOT THE FIRST TO BE RESURRECTED! He is the MOST IMPORTANT, the “PRE-EMINENT” ONE to be RAISED! Note LAZARUS in John 11 who was resurrected BEFORE Jesus was..
(4) DOES THIS ALSO SAY SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL ABOUT GOD’S PEOPLE who are the church composed of the “FIRST- BORN ONES” who are “enrolled in heaven?” (Hebrews 12:23). They are GOD’S SPECIAL PEOPLE!
3. NOW, NOTE JESUS as “SUPREME” in the UNIVERSE (Colossians 1:16, 17).
a. GOD CREATED the UNIVERSE “THROGH JESUS” (1:16).
(1) CONSIDER that Paul is STILL SPEAKING about GOD’S “BELOVED SON” (1:13), “IN WHOM” we have REDEMPTION and FORGIVENESS (Colossians 1:13, 14).
(2) EXAMINE the following Scriptures which teach very clearly that GOD made JESUS the CREATOR of THE UNIVERSE (John 1:1-3; I Corinthians 8:6; Hebrews 1:1-3).
(3) THROUGH JESUS, things in HEAVEN, EARTH, things that are VISIBLE and INVISIBLE were CREATED.
(4) “Thrones and Powers,” Rulers and Authorities” may refer to ANGELS and other SPIRITUAL BEINGS, both GOOD and BAD. Study Romans 8:38; I Corinthians 15:24, Ephesians 1:21, 6:12 (Ash, pages 159, 160).
(5) AN INTERESTING THOUGHT: If the statement above is true, Paul was stating that CHRIST WAS THE CREATOR OF THE ANGELS THAT THE FALSE TEACHERS WERE WORSHIPING! (Colossians 2:18). Christ is SUPREME!
(6) “ALL THINGS” were CREATED “BY HIM” and “FOR HIM!” The next verse, 1:17, will teach that CHRIST “UPHOLDS” the UNIVERSE!
b. JESUS CHRIST is the “SUSTAINER,” the ONE who “UPHOLDS” the UNIVERSE (Colossians 1:17).
16 (1) CHRIST was “BEFORE ALL THINGS” (pro panton). The New American Standard Bible footnote says, “….has existed prior to” ALL THINGS.
(2) Because CHRIST is the agent of God’s “CREATOR,” (1:16), and because He was “BEFORE ALL THINGS,” (1:17), His PRE- EXISTENCE is clearly taught here. Christ was “BEFORE ABRAHAM” (John 8:58). He had GLORY with the Father “BEFORE THE WORLD WAS” (John 17:5). He was IN THE BEGINNING “FACE TO FACE WITH GOD….” (John 1:1).
(3) Christ’s “SUPREMACY” in the UNIVERSE is also seen in the phrase, “IN HIM ALL THINGS HOLD TOGETHER” (1:17). “HOLD TOGETHR (sunesteken) has the meaning, “CONTINUE, ENDURE, EXIST” (A. and G. page 798). The CONTINUED EXISTENCE of this UNIVERSE is in the “HANDS” OF JESUS! See also this same word, “EXISTED” in II Peter 3:5.
(4) Consider this QUOTE: “Jesus is the ‘glue’ of all that exists…. without him there would be chaos, dissolution, disintegration” (Ash, page 160).
E. JESUS CHRIST IS “SUPREME” OR “PRE-EMINENT” in His BODY, the CHURCH (Colossians 1:18).
1. The “HEAD” CONTROLS the BODY! Jesus is “HEAD” over “ALL THINGS” to the CHURCH, His “Body” (Ephesians 1:22, 23). Jesus is “SUPREME” in the CHURCH, as well as His “SUPREMACY” in the UNIVERSE and in REDEMPTION (Colossians 1:13-17).
2. CONSIDER other Scriptures that picture the CHURCH as the “BODY” of Christ (Romans 12:4, 5; I Corinthians 12:12-26; Ephesians 4:15, 16; 5:23; Colossians 3:15).
3. Christ is the “BEGINNING” (arche), the “FIRST-BORN” (prototokos) “from the dead.” He is the FIRST to gain “VICTORY” over death. But, in addition, He has “SUPREMACY” and AUTHORITY over death (Note Hebrews 2:14). “First-born from the dead” does NOT mean that He was the first one to be raised from the dead. He is the MOST SIGNIFICANT ONE. (Note “first-born” again in Colossians 1:15).
17 4. “IN EVERYTHING” (en pasin), Christ has the “FIRST PLACE” (Supremacy or “Pre-eminence”) (proteuon).
a. The word, “EVERYTHING” points out His UNIVERSAL SUPREMACY.
b. NOTICE the phrase, “ALL THINGS” being used in Colossians 1:16, 17, 20.
c. The word, “PRE-EMINENT” (proteuon) means “BE FIRST, HAVE FIRST PLACE” (A. and G. page 732).
F. ALL “FULNESS” (pleroma) DWELLS IN CHRIST (Colossians 1:19).
1. The word, “God” or “Father” is NOT found in the Greek text of this verse, but is supplied by the translator for clarity.
2. Everything God has been pleased to do finds its “COMPLETENESS” in Christ. See the word, “FULNESS” also in Colossians 2:9.
3. In this verse, Paul may be speaking against the FALSE PHILOSOPHY being affirmed in Colossae (2:8). All those so-called “Intermediate spiritual beings” that were evidently a part of this false teaching COULD ADD NOTHING to the “fullness” of Christ!
4. NOTE: Nothing is lacking in God’s Plan to “RECONCILE” man to God.
5. This word, “FULNESS” (pleroma) has the meaning of the “SUM TOTAL” (Ephesians 1:22, 23; 3:19) (A. and G. page 678). See the “FULNESS OF THE BLESSING OF CHRIST” (Romans 15:29).
G. In the CONTEXT of the GREAT POWER, SUPREMACY, and MAJESTY of Christ in this UNIVERSE, “RECONCILIATION” with God is possible through the BLOOD OF JESUS (Colossians 1:20).
1. All DISCORD and DISHARMONY in the UNIVERSE are resolved through Christ.
2. “RECONCILIATION” (apokatallaxai) is to bring alienated sinners BACK TO God (See II Corinthians 5:18-21).
3. A form of this word is used concerning HUSBANDS and WIVES being “reconciled” after being SEPARATED in their marriage relationship (I Corinthians 7:11). (A. and G. page 415).
18 4. HOWEVER, “RECONCILIATION” with God is only possible THROUGH CHRIST (Ephesians 2:16; II Corinthians 5:18, 19).
5. NOTE ESPECIALLY the great NECESSITY of the BLOOD OF CHRIST (Ephesians 1:7; Philippians 2:5-11).
V. The APPLICATION of the “HYMN” about Jesus’ TRUE IDENTITY and His SUPREMACY (Colossians 1:21-23). Paul will inform the Colossians what this means.
A. In the past, because of their EVIL DEEDS, the Colossians had been “ALIENATED” and “HOSTILE” (Colossians 1:21).
1. Most of those concerning whom Paul is speaking would be GENTILES. Review Ephesians 2:11-16.
2. It has already been NOTED that the Colossians, before becoming Christians, had been in “DARKNESS” (Colossians 1:13).
3. Their “MINDS” had been “Alienated.” This is also seen in the background of the brethren who received the book of Ephesians (Ephesians 2:3; 4:18).
B. BUT, the Colossians had been “RECONCILED” through Jesus’ “FLESHLY BODY,” by His DEATH on the CROSS (Colossians 1:22).
1. In this verse, Paul was distinguishing between Christ’s “FLESHLY BODY,” and His “SPIRITUAL BODY,” the CHURCH. a. Man CANNOT bring about “RECONCILIATION” with God BY HIMSELF!
b. Only the acceptance of Christ’s DEATH can eliminate the “HOSTILITY” mentioned by Paul in verse 21.
2. God has a WONDERFUL “GOAL” for the LIFE of EVERY DISCIPLE ---
a. HOLINESS of life BOTH NOW and HOLINESS at the SECOND COMING of the Lord (I Peter 1:15, 16; Hebrews 12:14; I Corinthians 1:8).
b. The “GOAL” is a “BLAMELESS” (amomous) LIFE. This word was used concerning SACRIFICIAL ANIMALS in the Old Testament. They must be WITHOUT DEFECT! Read how this GOAL of a “blameless” life is mentioned in Ephesians 1:4; 5:27 (A. and G. page 47).
19 c. The “GOAL” is a LIFE “BEYOND REPROACH” The Christian “WALK” must be WITHOUT ACCUSATION of wrong living. Consider that this word, “anegkletous” is found in the qualities an ELDER of the church must have (Titus 1:6). All Christians should be “without reproach.”
C. Paul gave an ENCOURAGEMENT to the Colossians to CONTINUE IN THE FAITH (Colossians 1:23).
1. The phrase “IN THE FAITH” may have reference to the “BODY OF TEACHING,” the TRUTH that had been brought to the Colossian disciples by EPAPHRAS (Weed, page 57). Note Epaphras in Colossians 1:5, 11. Note also Jude 3.
2. Paul did NOT want them to move away from the “HOPE” of the gospel. Truly, the gospel produces a wonderful HOPE! See the “hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27).
3. The phrase, “FIRMLY ESTABLISHED and STEADFAST” suggests the idea of “building” on a SOLID FOUNDATION (Matthew 7:24-27). The word, “STEADFAST” (hedraioi) is the same root word found in I Corinthians 15:58 (“steadfast”) and in I Timothy 3:15 (“support” or “ground”).
4. The GOSPEL had spread throughout the WORLD. It is a “WORLDWIDE” MESSAGE (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46, 47). The FALSE TEACHING in Colossae was probably a LOCAL HERESY!
VI. Paul discussed his MINISTRY to the Colossians, but also his WIDER MINISTRY to other congregations and to the GENTILE WORLD (Colossians 1:24-2:5).
A. Paul’s DIFFICULT MINISTRY was made possible by GOD’S POWER (Colossians 1:24-29).
1. CONSIDER these points made in this paragraph:
a. GOD’S POWER worked mightily in Paul (Colossians 1:29).
b. Paul was SUFFERING for the sake of the Colossians (Colossians 1:24).
c. He SUFFERED in behalf of the Lord’s BODY, the church as a whole (Colossians 1:24)
d. Paul made known the “MYSTERY” among the GENTILES (1:27).
20 2. In this context, it is seen that CHRIST DIED AS A SACRIFICE on the CROSS FOR SINS (Colossians 1:22), AND, Paul suffered in behalf of the brothers in Christ (1:24).
a/ Paul experienced MUCH SUFFERING in his PREACHING LIFE I Corinthians 4:8-13; II Corinthians 11:23-33; Galatians 6:17; II Timothy 2:9, 10).
b. He will mention shortly in Colossians 2:1 that he had STRUGGLED for the Colossians and for brethren at Laodicea. Paul had been opposed by the Jews as he preached to GENTILES. He is perhaps speaking of his OVERALL struggle in reaching as many people as possible.
c. In HIS SUFFERING, Paul had “FILLED UP” what was “lacking” in the SUFFERING of CHRIST (1:24). WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
(1) This is a difficult passage, but, perhaps, Paul is saying that when the gospel is preached, and Paul suffers, the MESSAGE of Jesus’ DEATH reaches more people and the meaning of Jesus’ death spreads more widely. Thus, the suffering of Christ reaches its “COMPLETENESS!”
(2) Without PAUL’S PREACHING, and his suffering, the suffering and death of Christ would NOT have been known to many. Paul was bringing to “COMPLETION” the death of Jesus.
3. Paul was made a “MINISTER” (diakonos) (Colossians 1:25). See again 1:23.
a. Paul not only called himself a “minister” (servant), but also a “SLAVE” of Christ (Philippians 1:1, etc.), and a “SLAVE” of his brethren (II Corinthians 4:5). His “son” in the faith, TIMOTHY, was a “minister” of Christ Jesus (I Timothy 4:6).
b. As a “minister,” Paul had a “STEWARDSHIP” (oikonomian). This word means the “management of a household” (A. and G. page 562). Paul may have been saying, “….a divine office which was given to me” (Weed, page 60). Read also I Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 3:2.
c. He must “fully carry out” the preaching of the Word of God. See Romans 15:19. “Fullness of preaching led to fullness (completeness) of life” in those who hear (Ash, page 169). See Colossians 2:10. Paul preached the “whole counsel (purpose) of God” (Acts 20:27).
21 4. This COMPLETE MESSAGE had been “HIDDEN” as a “MYSTERY” in ages past (Colossians 1:26).
a. Paul had discussed this “HIDDEN” “mystery” in other Scriptures (Ephesians 3:1-11, etc.. See also the words of Peter in I Peter 1:10-12.
b. This formerly “HIDDEN” MYSTERY has been “manifested to His saints.” In Ephesians 3:4, 5, Paul stated that this “MYSTERY” had been revealed to “His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit” Study also Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:9; 3:9; 6:19; Colossians 2:2; 4:3).
5. Paul also emphasized that this “MYSTERY” included GOD’S PLAN OF REDEMPTION for the GENTILES (Colossians 1:27). See again Ephesians 3:4-9.
a. The “SECRET” is NOW REVEALED! (Colossians 2:2; The Gentiles also inherit the BLESSINGS IN CHRIST!
b. The Old Testament DOES TEACH that God would “BLESS” ALL NATIONS through the GREAT SERVANT to come, the “SEED” of Abraham, who is the Christ (Genesis 12:1-3; Isaiah 49:6).
c. Paul spoke of the “RICHES of the GLORY of the MYSTERY among the Gentiles….” Relate this to Romans 11:12, 33).
d. The apostle ended this verse by saying, “Which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Because of the context, Paul may be stating, “Christ AMONG you Gentiles….” (Weed, page 62). Gentiles also have a GREAT HOPE OF GLORY! Certainly, the Scripture also teaches that Christ dwells through faith in the heart of all disciples (Ephesians 3:17).
e. NOTE ALSO Paul’s reference to “GLORY” in Colossians 3:4.
6. Paul’s “GOAL” was to “PRESENT EVERY MAN COMPLETE IN CHRIST” (Colossians 1:28).
a. Paul used the phrase, “EVERY MAN” THREE TIMES in this verse.
b. Note the words, “WISDOM” (sophia) and “PERFECT” (complete) (teleion). The false teachers of Colossians 2 may have used these
22 words with respect to the FEW of their number who might have claimed these qualities.
c. The apostle was “WARNING,” “admonishing” (nouthetountes) everyone and teaching everyone. See this word used in Acts 20:31; I Corinthians 4:14; I Thessalonians 5:12.
d. Paul was SEEKING to make “every man” MATURE in Christ (teleion en c hristo). This same word, “teleioi” is translated “PERFECT” in Colossians 4:12.
e. This word for “PERFECT” or “MATURE” does NOT mean “SINLESS” (See I John 1:7-10). The word does mean, “Having achieved the end or purpose,” “full grown, mature, adult” (A. and G. pages 816, 817). NOTE how the word is used in Ephesians 4:13; Hebrews 5:14; I Corinthians 14:20.
7. Paul’s LIFE was filled with “LABOR” and “STRIVING” according to God’s power “working mightily” in him (Colossians 1:29).
a. We REMEMBER that PAUL WAS IN PRISON AT THIS TIME! But, his life was still filled with ACTIVITY with God’s power! (Review Colossians 4:3, 10, 18).
b. The word, “LABOR” (kopio) conveys the idea of working until “weary,” to “toil, and to “strive,” “struggle” (A. and G. page 444). Examine its use in II Timothy 2:6; Ephesians 4:28; I Corinthians 4:12.
c. The word, “STRIVING” (agonizomenos) was used for “striving” in a sports contest (I Corinthians 9:25). It is also translated “FIGHT!” (I Timothy 6:12; II Timothy 4:7). NOTE Epaphras “agonized” concerning the Colossians in PRAYER, Also, Paul wanted the Roman brethren to “AGONIZE” with him in PRAYER concerning his future plans (Romans 15:30). Paul WORKED HARD under God’s POWER!
d. The word “WORKS” in 1:29 is “energeian.” It is also seen in Ephesians 1:19; 3:7; 4:16. God “worked mightily” within Paul!
REVIEW QUESTIONS ON COLOSSIANS CHAPTER ONE
1. Was Paul personally well-known in Colossae? Please discuss this.
2. In what other “prison epistles” is Timothy mentioned?
23 3. Discuss the meaning of the word, “saints” in Colossians and other Scriptures.
4. Give TWO Biblical meanings of the phrase “IN CHRIST.”
5. From Colossians 1:4-8, what had Paul heard about the Colossians?
6. Give THREE WORDS in Colossians 1:5 that are found several times in Paul’s writings. Please give other Scriptures.
7. Where was the GOSPEL “BEARING FRUIT” and “INCREASING?” (1:6)
8. HOW is EPAPHRAS described in Colossians 1 and 4?
9. FOR WHAT did Paul PRAY concerning the Colossian church in 1:9-11?
10. From Colossians 1:12-18, discuss THREE AREAS where Christ is “PRE-EMINENT.” Discuss the meaning of this word.
11. Discuss the “PRE-EXISTENCE” of Christ from this passage and other Scriptures.
12. Please discuss: “People in the kingdom are the same people as those in the church” (A good beginning would be Colossians 1:13, and 1:18).
13. What great BLESSINGS are found “IN CHRIST?”
14. What is the primary meaning of the word, “FIRST-BORN?”
15. What is the meaning of the statement, “FULNESS” DWELLS “IN CHRIST?” (1:19).
16. What does “RECONCILIATION” mean as seen in 1:20?
17. From Colossians 1:21-23), what should the real “IDENTITY” of Christ (1:15-20) mean to the Colossian Christians? From this passage, what is GOD’S “GOAL” for every Christian?
18. What is the “HIDDEN” mystery discussed by Paul in Colossians 1:26-29? ______
NOTES ON COLOSSIANS CHAPTER TWO
B. A WARNING TO THE COLOSSIANS! Do NOT BE DECEIVED! (Colossians 2:1-5).
1. Paul had a great STRUGGLE (agona) concerning his brethren (Colossians 2:1).
24 2. A form of this word is used in 1:29 above. We REMEMBER the “AGONY” of Jesus in GETHSEMANE (Luke 22:44).
PAUL “STRUGGLED” (agonized) ON BEHALF OF:
a. The Colossian disciples (Colossians 2:1). b. The brethren in LAODICEA (See also 4:16). c. He also “struggled” (was in “agony”) for those “who had not seen his face.”
3. Paul wanted EVERYONE to be “ ENCOURAGED ( paraklethosin ) IN HEART” (Colossians 2:2). See “exhortation” in I Thessalonians 2:3; II Timothy 4:2.
a. Much of the preaching of gospel preachers should be ENCOURAGEMENT (I Timothy 4:13). TYCHICUS, when he visited Colossae, would “ENCOURAGE THEIR HEARTS” (Colossians 4:7, 8).
b. Paul desired fervently that ALL would be “KNIT together (UNITED) in LOVE” Love is a quality that “binds” people together (Colossians 3:14) (Ash, page 174).
c. Paul wanted them to have the “RICHES” (“Wealth”) that comes from the full assurance of a complete understanding of God’s “mystery.” Review Colossians 1:9. NOTE: With a full understanding of the “MYSTERY” of God, the heresy at Colossae would not appeal to them.
d. In this verse, 2:2, the best translation at the end of the verse seems to be, “…. God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself.”
4. IN CHRIST are “HIDDEN” all the “TREASURES” of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3). Examine how this word, “treasures” (thesaupoi) is used in II Corinthians 4:7 and Matthew 6:21. Note how the same thought is found in Romans 11:33.
5. Paul DID NOT WANT the Colossians to be DECEIVED! (Colossians 2:4).
a. The word, “DECEIVE” (paralogizetai) means to “DELUDE,” and even to “reckon fraudulently” (A. and G. page 625). Observe its use in James 1:22.
b. NOTE how false teachers can have “SMOOTH, PERSUASIVE SPEECH”
25 (Romans 16:17, 18). The false philosophy at Colossae must have had this kind of teachers.
6. Though Paul was “absent in body,” he was with them “in spirit,” and was “REJOICING” in their DISCIPLINE and STABILITY OF FAITH (2:5)
a. The word for “DISCIPLINE” (taxin) was a military term, and had the meaning of “ORDERLINESS” of life, “in an orderly manner.” This is the same word that is used in I Corinthians 14:40.
b. “STABILITY” in their faith meant that their faith was characterized by “FIRMNESS.” Note that it is translated “FIRM IN YOUR FAITH” in I Peter 5:9 and “STRENGTHENED” IN THE FAITH in Acts 16:5.
VII. CHRIST is truly the LORD (Colossians 2:6-15).
A. Paul encouraged them to “ WALK” IN CHRIST THE LORD (Colossians 2:6-8).
1. The word, “RECEIVED” (parelabete) is often used in Scripture to describe the RECEPTION of the GOSPEL (I Corinthians 15:1, 2; I Thessalonians 2:13, etc.).
2. The Colossians must “WALK,” which means “LIVE A LIFE” in harmony with the GOSPEL which they had heard (2:6). It is NOTED that they evidently “RECEIVED” the gospel from EPAPHRAS (Colossians 1:7).
a. When disciples were obedient to the GOSPEL, they “RECEIVED” Jesus as the CHRIST (See Matthew 16:16; Mark 8:29; Acts 2:36-38).
b. They also “RECEIVED” Him as the LORD! (Acts 2:36; 10:36; Read also Romans 10:9; 14:8, 9; I Corinthians 12:3, etc.).
c. NOTE that the “heresy” at Colossae would NOT ACCEPT THIS, for it taught a “hierarchy” of “intermediate spirit beings” between GOD and MAN.
3. The Colossian Christians had been “ROOTED” or “PLANTED” in Christ and were CONTINUALLY being “BUILT UP” and ESTABLISHED in their faith (Colossians 2:7).
a. Consider the word, “ROOTED” also in Ephesians 3:17.
26 b. The expression “BUILT UP” is in a CONTINUOUS action construction, and means that they continued to be strengthened. Study also I Corinthians 3:10, the words, “is building” and “he builds.”
c. The phrase, “established (bebaioumenoi) in your faith” means “make firm” or “strengthened” (A. and G. page 138). See its use in I Corinthians 1:8 where it means “CONFIRM.” Examine the same translation also (“confirmed”) in Mark 16:20. Their faith was the “Cement of the building” (Weed, page 67).
d. The Colossians were “OVERFLOWING WITH GRATITUDE! (2:7).
(1) The beautiful word, “OVERFLOWING” (perissountes) is often translated “abounding” and means to “progress MORE AND MORE,” “MORE THAN ENOUGH” (A. and G. pages 656, 657). Examine “abounding in the work of the Lord” (I Corinthians 15:58).
(2) The word, “GRATITUDE” (eucharistia) is also translated “THANKFULNESS.” Examine how often Paul urged them to be “THANKFUL” in Colossians 1:12; 3:15, 17; 4:2). Study also Acts 24:3 concerning Luke’s use of this word.
(3) The concept of being “THANKFUL,” even though this particular word is NOT there, is SEEN VERY CLEARLY in II Corinthians 5:15. Because Jesus DIED and ROSE “FOR US,” we should “LIVE FOR HIM!” Notice what the Lord has done “FOR US” as seen in Romans 4:25; I Corinthians 15:1-4; Romans 8:34, etc.
4. The FALSE “PHILOSOPHY” (philosophias) is INTRODUCED (Colossians 2:8).
a. The Colossians must NOT be “taken captive” (sulagogon) by this false teaching. The word means, “Carrying someone away from truth into slavery of error” (A. and G. page 784). Examine II Timothy 3:6 and Galatians 5:1 for the same thought, but with different words.
b. This heresy was a “HOLLOW AND DELUSIVE SPECULATION” (New English Bible Translation). Consider the “empty words” of Ephesians 5:6).
c. This “philosophy” was “according to the TRADITION OF MEN.” In
27 Scripture, there are “HUMAN traditions” which are OPPOSED (Note Matthew 15:1-14), BUT, there are “GOD’S TRADITIONS,” (paradosin) revelations from GOD, which are COMMANDED! Study II Thessalonians 3:6.
d. This “philosophy” was “according to the elementary principles (stoicheia) of the world.”
(1) This word, “ stoicheia ” is used sometimes in the New Testament to mean “elementary” teachings (Hebrews 5:12) or even the “elements” of the UNIVERSE (II Peter 3:10, 12). Examine Also Galatians 4:3, 9.
(2) Some writers feel that this word means the “rudimentary” teaching of the natural world (Weed, page 68).
(3) Other scholars feel that, in this context, the word may refer to the so-called “intermediate spirits” of the false teaching at Colossee.
e. Whatever the specific meaning may be here, this FALSE TEACHING was “NOT ACCORDING TO CHRIST.” This teaching was NOT how they had “RECEIVED CHRIST” (Colossians 2:6).
B. There are so MANY RICH BLESSINGS “in Christ” the LORD (Colossians 2:9-12).
1. ALL of the “FULNESS” (COMPLETENESS) (pleroma) “DWELLS” in Christ (2:9). Please READ Colossians 1:19 again.
a. The false “philosophy” perhaps taught that “FULNESS” belonged to the many “intermediate spirits” standing between God and man in their teaching.
b. The word, “DEITY” or “GODHEAD” (theotetos) is used only here in the New Testament, but a similar word, “theiotes” is found in Romans 1:20 and is translated in the New American Standard, “divine nature.”
c. Jesus has ALL the “divine attributes” and “power” of Deity (Weed, page 69). He has “the very nature of God” (Ash, page 179).
d. The word, “BODILY” (somatikos) may refer to Jesus’ INCARNATION (John 1:14; Philippians 2:5-8). The construction of this sentence says that “FULNESS” “CONTINUES” to DWELL in Jesus.
28 2. It is a great BLESSING that “IN HIM” disciples of Christ have been made “COMPLETE” (pepleromenoi) (Colossians 2:10). The New English Bible says, “brought to completion.”
a. This “COMPLETION” involves their “REDEMPTION” (Colossians 1:9-13, 22, 28; Ephesians 3:19).
b. Christ is “HEAD” over all “rule and authority.” He is “Head” over all “BEINGS.” The Colossians do NOT need to fear “intermediate beings.”
3. The Colossian disciples had received a SPIRITUAL “CIRCUMCISION” (Colossians 2:11).
a. NOTE: The teachers of the FALSE “PHILOSOPHY” described below evidently had a JEWISH background. Were they possibly urging GENTILE Christians to obey physical circumcision? This is not certain (Refer to Galatians 5:1-4).
b. When they were baptized “INTO CHRIST,” they received a circumcision “made without hands, the “true circumcision” (Examine Philippians 3:3; Romans 2:28, 29; Galatians 6:15). It was “IN HIM” that they received this circumcision.
c. The “circumcision” of Christ was the “putting off” of the “OLD MAN,” the things of the flesh (Romans 6:6, etc.).
4. These disciples had participated in this “circumcision of Christ” by their “DEATH,” “BURIAL,” and “RESURRECTION” (Colossians 2:12).
a. They had “DIED” to the SINFUL, CARNAL LIFE (Study Romans 6:1-6; Galatians 5:24). They were now to “LIVE FOR HIM” who DIED FOR THEM (II Corinthians 5:15).
b. They had been “BURIED WITH HIM IN BAPTISM” (Note also Romans 6:1-5).
c. They had been “RAISED UP WITH HIM” to that “New Life” in Christ. Study especially Romans 6:4, 5; Ephesians 2:6 and Colossians 3:1. They were “NEW CREATURES” in Christ (II Corinthians 5:17).
d. This would seem to contradict the false teachers who taught that MANY
29 “intermediate spirits” or “mediators” would stand between man and God.
e. The disciple of Jesus has “FAITH” in the “WORKING OF GOD,” the One who RAISED JESUS.
C. The GENTILE Christians at Colossae had PASSED from “DEATH” to “LIFE. (Colossians 2:13-15).
1. These Gentiles were those with the “UNCIRCUMCISION OF YOUR FLESH” who had been “DEAD” through their “TRESPASSES” (Colossians 2:13).
a. Consider Ephesians 2:1; 2:11, 12). They had been “separated” from God. They, like other Gentiles, had been WITHOUT “HOPE” and “WITHOUT GOD” (Ephesians 2:11, 12).
b. They had been “DEAD” because of “TRANSGRESSIONS” (paraptomasin). This word means “FALSE STEP” (A. and G. page 627). Study its use in Ephesians 1:7 and Galatians 6:1.
c. They had also been “dead” in the “UNCIRCUMCISION” (akrobustia) of their flesh. This word literally means “foreskin” (A. and G. page 33).
d. BUT, they were made “ALIVE” with Christ, and were FORGIVEN of all TRANSGRESSIONS (2:13). Refer to Ephesians 2:1 again.
(1) Note that Paul changed pronouns in the latter part of this verse, moving away from “YOU” and “YOUR” and using “US” and “OUR.” Paul included HIMSELF in the group of the FORGIVEN.
(2) The word, “FORGIVEN” (charisamenos) is BEAUTIFUL! It is related to “GRACE” and “GIFT.” Its meaning is, “Give freely or graciously as a favor,” and “To show oneself to be gracious to someone” (A. and G. pages 884, 885). Consider how it is used in Ephesians 4:32 and Colossians 3:13. Forgiving involves a GRACIOUS and loving attitude! When God forgives, He shows His “FAVOR,” His “GRACE!”
What about US? Do we have a “GRACIOUS,” forgiving spirit?
2. The SACRIFICE of Jesus “CANCELS” our GREAT “DEBT!” (Colossians 2:14).
30 a. God “BLOTTED OUT” the “BOND” or the “CERTIFICATE of DEBT.” See the same word for “blotting out” in Acts 3:19 and Revelation 3:5.
b. The word for “Certificate of Debt” (cheirographon) referred to what we call an “I.O.U.”
c. This “Certificate of Debt” consisted of “DECREES” (dogmasin) which were against us and hostile to us.
(1) We obtain the word “dogma” from this word for “DECREES.” It means a “decree, ordinance, decision, command” (A. and G. page 200).
(2) To the JEWS in Colossae, these “decrees” would refer to their “Code of Conduct,” the LAW OF MOSES It was a LAW that “was against us…..” (Note Ephesians 2:15; Galatians 3:10, 12).
(3) To the GENTILES who were disciples at Colossae, these “decrees” would seem to be the “Code of Conduct” handed down from generation to generation concerning right and wrong action. One writer said, “rules and regulations which have been recognized by all mankind” (Weed, page 73).
(4) Another writer wrote the following about these “decrees:” “…. Any code of conduct under which a man stood, but which he could not keep” (Ash, page 184).
d. By being “nailed to the cross,” Jesus cancelled the “DEBT.” Those who are “in Him” are released from the “DEBT” (Examine Hebrews 10:10).
3. The forces of EVIL had been “DISARMED” by the CROSS (Colossians 2:15).
a. By the CROSS, Jesus became VICTORIOUS over Satan and his forces, over “rulers and authorities” (John 12:31-33; Hebrews 2:14, etc.).
b. This verse, (2:15) gives a picture of a king coming home in victory, leading his “captives” in a “public display” (Note II Corinthians 2:14).
VIII. Christians were FREE FROM the FALSE TEACHING at Colossae. BEWARE of these FALSE TEACHERS! (Colossians 2:16-23).
31 A. Paul urged them NOT TO LOSE THEIR GREAT “PRIZE” (Colossians 2:16-19).
1. NOTE: Paul said that they should NOT permit anyone to “DEFRAUD” them of their “PRIZE” in the Lord (Colossians 2:18).
2. The word, “THEREFORE” (2:16) begins a CONCLUSION from the previous verses (2:16).
3. Observe that the JEWISH BACKGROUND of these FALSE TEACHERS is seen here in their TEACHINGS about FOOD LAWS, FEAST DAYS, etc.
4. Paul stated, “LET NO ONE ACT AS YOUR JUDGE!” (Colossians 2:16).
a. They should permit NO ONE to “judge” them by imposing the FOOD LAWS and regulations concerning “DRINK.” The FOOD LAWS of CLEAN and UNCLEAN FOODS of the Old Testament should NOT be “bound” on Christians (Mark 7:18, 19; I Timothy 4:1-3). Since very little regulation of “drink” is found in the Law of Moses, some scholars wonder if some GENTILE ritual is involved in the word “drink.”
b. BUT, the word, “DRINK” may perhaps refer to some ASCETIC practice (Harsh treatment of the physical body) which might have been urged by these false teachers (Note Colossians 2:18; and 2:23). This is uncertain.
c. The word, “FESTIVAL” may refer to the ANNUAL FEASTS of the Law of Moses such as the PASSOVER, FEAST OF TABERNACLES, etc. (Leviticus 23:4-44).
d. The words, “NEW MOON” may refer to the JEWISH MONTHLY CEREMONIES. For example, Numbers 10:10.
e. Finally, the word, “SABBATH DAY (sabbaton) would refer to the WEEKLY DAY of REST (Exodus 20:8-11; Leviticus 23:3, etc.).
5. These LAWS concerning FOOD, DRINK, FESTIVALS, etc. were a “MERE SHADOW” of the things to come (Colossians 2:17).
a. Paul considered ALL of these observances NOT to be relevant. Notice what he said about Old Testament “DAYS” which some observed (Galatians 4:9-11; Romans 14:17-23).
b. These “DAYS” and FESTIVALS, etc. had GREAT VALUE in the PAST
32 as “SHADOWS” (skia) of what was to come, in contrast to the “SUBSTANCE” which “belongs to Christ” (Hebrews 8:5; 10:1).
c. The “SUBSTANCE” (soma) “belongs to Christ!” The word, “soma” is the common word for “BODY” in the New Testament.
(1) Does Paul have the “BODY OF CHRIST” in mind? This is uncertain. But, Christ is the “REALITY!” These rituals, feasts, etc. are just the “SHADOW.”
(2) Consider this quote: “The shadow is also now superseded and rendered obsolete by virtue of the presence of the reality” (Weed, page 77). Observe that Paul said that the Law of Moses was a “tutor” to bring the Jews to Christ. But, after faith came, they were no longer under the “tutor” (Galatians 3:24, 25).
6. Paul then stated, “LET NO ONE KEEP DEFRAUDING YOU” (Colossians 2:18).
a. The apostle was using a word found in ATHLETIC CONTESTS. It meant to “DISQUALIFY” (katabrabeueto). It means, “decide against,….. rob of a prize, condemn” (A. and G. page 410). Note that Paul was seeking the “PRIZE” in Philippians 3:14.
b. These false teachers “delighted” in “SELF-ABASEMENT.” This word, “tapeinophrosune,” meant “humility that expresses itself in fasting” (A. and G. page 812). Thus, it is used for “GOOD” humility. Observe its use in Colossians 3:12 for the correct kind of humility. See the notes on “SELF-ABASEMENT” below in Colossians 2:23. c. In this Scripture, this “humility” would be considered a “BAD” HUMILITY, a “FALSE HUMILITY.” This is seen in the fact that these false teachers were “puffed up” or “inflated without cause by his (their) fleshly mind.”
d. This teaching was emphasizing the “WORSHIP OF ANGELS” (2:18).
(1) Were they worshipping the “intermediate spirits” that , in their teaching, stood between God and man? It is noted that the Scripture forbids people to worship angels (Read Revelation 22:8, 9, etc.) (2) Some have another idea: Some writers feel that these false
33 teachers were trying, in their so-called visions, to join angels in worshipping God. The former thought under (1) above is probably correct.
e. This “heresy” was “taking his stand on visions he has seen.” Was this done in an “initiation” into some kind of “spiritual experience” promoted by this false teaching? We do not know. Were these people having TRUE VISIONS FROM GOD? NO! If not, WHY NOT?
f. These false teachers were “PUFFED UP” with a “MIND OF THE FLESH.” Observe that Paul urged Christians to have a “NEW MIND” (Ephesians 4:23).
g. The expression that is used by Paul here means, “Groundlessly inflated by his fleshly mind” (A. and G., page 877). The New English Bible states, “Bursting with futile conceit.” Paul would emphasize that “Knowledge puffs up,” but LOVE will “build up” (I Corinthians 8:1)
7. Again, these false teachers were NOT HOLDING FAST to the “HEAD” (Christ) (Colossians 2:19).
a. Study again the emphasis on JESUS as the “HEAD” (“kephale”) of the BODY (Colossians 1:18, 24; Ephesians 1:22; 4:15, etc.).
b. The phrase, “HOLD FAST” (“kraton”), which the false teachers were NOT doing, is also seen in II Thessalonians 2:15, and is translated in the New American Standard translation, “STAND FIRM.”
c. Through Christ the “HEAD,” the church is “equipped” and “knit together” The Greek construction shows that the church is CONTINUALLY “equipped” and “knit together” through Christ. Paul had said earlier that they were “knit together” or “united” in love (2:2). Please observe a SIMILAR teaching in Ephesians 4:15, 16.
d. Therefore, we see that the “HEAD,” Christ is the source of the POWER and ENERGY of the church (2:19)
e. NOTE; The growth and development of the BODY is from GOD! Examine Ephesians 4:11-16 again.
B. Disciples must ALWAYS AVOID WORLDLY “RULES” and DECREES (2:20-23)
34 1. When the Colossian disciples were baptized, they had “DIED” to the “elementary principles” of the world (Colossians 2:20).
a. They had “DIED” to the “OLD LIFE” and had been “BURIED” in their baptism. Examine the fact that disciples have “DIED” to “SIN” Romans 6:2, they have “DIED” to “SELF,” II Corinthians 5:14, 15, and they “DIED” to the “LAW,” (Romans 7:6, etc.).
b. In this verse, (2:20), the Colossians had “DIED” to the “elementary spirits” or “elementary principles” of the world. Review the notes above on Colossians 2:8 (Page 28 of these notes).
QUESTION: Is it possible that the false teachers believed that angels were “in charge of,” and controlled the universe, and, therefore, should be worshipped? This is not certain.
c. At their baptism, these disciples were released from any subjection to the “decrees” being forced upon them. Some of these “decrees” will be noted in 2:21-23. See also 2:16 above. WHY SHOULD CHRISTIANS SUMBIT TO THE “DECREES” OF MEN? Christians are “in the world, but NOT OF the world!” See also John 15:19.
2. “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!” (Colossians 2:21). The New International translation, AND the New American Standard translation place quotation marks with this statement, believing that Paul is QUOTING what the false teachers were saying. This may be correct. This “heresy” may have been teaching the Colossians NOT to touch “unclean” things. See 2:16 above.
3. Because they were HUMAN COMMANDS, the “decrees” of the false teachers would “PERISH” (Colossians 2:22).
a. There are TWO important points made by Paul here:
(1) The “decrees” or “rules” of the false teachers would PERISH (See Galatians 6:8; I Corinthians 6:12, 13). That which is of the flesh will PERISH!
(2) These “decrees” or “rules” of the false teachers were of HUMAN ORIGIN, NOT DIVINE ORIGIN! (Ash, page 191).
b. If Paul has been discussing some of the food laws mentioned in 2:16, we remember that God, through Jesus, had made ALL FOODS CLEAN
35 (Mark 7:19; Romans 14:14; I Corinthians 8:8; I Timothy 4:3). Forcing people to obey former food laws would be of HUMAN ORIGIN!
4. These HUMAN “decrees” “APPEARED” to be or “SEEMED” to be based on “WISDOM,” BUT THEY WERE NOT! (Colossians 2:23)
a. They included “SELF-IMPOSED RELIGION” (Jerusalem Bible). The Greek word here, “ethelothreskia” seems to mean ”self-made religion,” or perhaps, “would be religion” (A. and G., page 217). Could this be described as a RELIGION MADE BY MAN?
b. These human “rules” also included a “FALSE HUMILITY” (Jerusalem Bible). The New American Standard Bible translates “Self-abasement” here. This word does mean REAL, GENUINE HUMILITY in Scriptures such as Colossians 3:12 and Philippians 2:3. But, here, it does suggest a FALSE HUMILITY. Is it possible that their “humility” was only OUTWARD, and that there was NO HUMILITY in the HEART?
c. These human “decrees” also included “severe treatment of the body.” This HARSH TREATMENT of the human body, this “asceticism,” became an important teaching and practice of one group of the Gnostics who grew stronger in the second century.
d. Paul may be saying that the harsh treatment of the physical body may PRODUCE more sensual actions that these false teachers were seeking to avoid. Paul said that these practices, these “rules,” were of “NO VALUE AGAINST FLESHLY INDULGENCE!” (Colossians 2:23). (Weed, page 80). Examine also Philippians 3:19.
QUESTION: Does the human “decree” of a CELIBATE (Unmarried) PRIESTHOOD have any “value” against fleshly indulgence?
REVIEW QUESTIONS ON COLOSSIANS CHAPTER TWO
1. Discuss concerning HOW MUCH of gospel preaching should involve POSITIVE, ENCOURAGING TEACHING (Colossians 2:2; I Timothy 4:13; II Timothy 4:2, etc.)
2. Please discuss concerning how Christians TODAY can be “DECEIVED” (Colossians 2:4). Is SIN “DECEITFUL?” (Hebrews 3:12-14).
36 3. Was the “LORDSHIP” of Jesus a MAJOR TOPIC of first century gospel preachers? (Colossians 2:6). Please find other Scriptures on “LORDSHIP.”
4. Should OUR “GRATITUDE” or “THANKSGIVING” be our primary MOTIVE in Christian living? (Colossians 2:7; 3:15-17; II Corinthians 5:15).
5. The false “philosophy” at Colossae was based on the “elementary principles of the world” (Colossians 2:8). Please discuss the possible meanings of this phrase.
6. Suggest some BLESSINGS that are “IN CHRIST” which Paul mentions in Colossians 2:9-12.
7. What is the “spiritual circumcision” that Christians have “in Christ?” Study (Colossians 2:11; Romans 2:28, 29, etc.).
8. HOW did the Colossian disciples BECOME CHRISTIANS? (Colossians 2:11, 12). Compare this to Romans 6:1-5.
9. Please discuss the Biblical meaning of the phrase “spiritual death” Note Colossians 2:13; Ephesians 2:1, 2; Isaiah 59:1, 2).
10. What was “BLOTTED OUT” at the CROSS? (Colossians 2:14).
11. The Colossians should NOT permit anyone to bind on them or “JUDGE” them concerning WHAT PRACTICES? (Colossians 2:16).
12. In WHAT WAY could the Colossian disciples be “DEFRAUDED” or “ROBBED?” (Colossians 2:18).
13. Please LIST all the FALSE TEACHINGS and PRACTICES of the “heresy” at Colossae that are mentioned in Colossians 2:16-23.
14. What is the meaning of “WILL-WORSHIP” in Colossians 2:23?
______
NOTES ON COLOSSIANS CHAPTER THREE
IX. The disciples of Jesus MUST SEEK HEAVENLY THINGS (Colossians 3:1-4).
A. Examine the importance of the “BAPTISM into Christ” of the Colossian disciples (Colossians 3:1).
37 1. They had been “raised with Christ” from their baptism (3:1). Examine also Colossians 2:12, 13 and Romans 6:1-5.
2. Their “RESURRECTION” to the “NEW LIFE” carried with it the ETHICAL DEMANDS OF GOD!
a. They must “PUT TO DEATH” certain things (Colossians 3:5-11).
b. They must “PUT ON” certain things (Colossians 3:12-17).
3. Paul was urging them “To become what they (you) are” (3:1) (Ash, page 196). YOU ARE GOD’S PEOPLE! THEREFORE, LIVE IT!
4. Paul encouraged them to “SEEK” the things that “are above” (3:1). The word “SEEK” is in a CONTINUOUS action form. “Continue seeking the things above….” The same meaning is found in Matthew 6:33, “Continue seeking first the kingdom….”
5. The “THINGS ABOVE” are “ETERNAL THINGS,” NOT the things that perish which were taught by the false teachers (Colossians 2:22).
6. They were to “seek things above” where CHRIST IS SEATED “AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD.” Please examine Mark 12:35, 36; Acts 2:34-36; Hebrews 1:1-3, etc..
B. The Colossian disciples, and all Christians, MUST HAVE A “MIND SET” that places a focus and emphasis on HEAVENLY THINGS! (Colossians 3:2).
1. The phrase, “SET YOUR MIND” is the word “phroneite.” In Philippians 1:7, this word is translated “FEEL THIS WAY.” Disciples are to have a “FEELING” in their heart about HEAVENLY THINGS! The Greek construction is a CONTINUOUS ACTION form. “Continue setting your mind on things that are above!”
2. Consider Matthew 16:33, where PETER was NOT “SETTING HIS MIND” on God’s INTERESTS, BUT ON MAN’S! The same word is used! (A. and G., page 874). Disciples MUST HAVE the CORRECT “MIND SET!”
C. WHY should disciples have this “MIND SET?” (Colossians 3:3). WHY? “For you have DIED and your life is HIDDEN with Christ in God!”
1. Their “OLD LIFE” was gone! NOTE that this thought about “DYING” is
38 continued in 3:5, where Paul stated that they MUST “PUT TO DEATH” certain things.
2. The phrase “HIDDEN with Christ in God” suggests peace of mind, security, and safety. Please read Philippians4:4-6.
D. For those “hidden with Christ in God,” the FUTURE IS GREAT! (Colossians 3:4).
1. NOTE that “Christ is our life!” Read Philippians 1:21. He is EVERYTHING to the disciple!
2. At Christ’s COMING, the faithful in Christ will “APPEAR” with Him in “GLORY!” Examine Philippians 3:20, 21; I Corinthians 15:42-44; II Corinthians 5:1-8; I John 3:1, 2. The FUTURE is GLORIOUS!
X. Therefore, “PUT TO DEATH” THESE THINGS BELOW! (Colossians 3:5-11).
A. “Putting to death” is also suggested in Colossians 2:11, 20 and 3:3.
1. The phrase, “PUT TO DEATH” is a construction that suggests that this action can be done in ONE MOMENT of time, but it will be evidenced continually in one’s life.
2. The TWO LISTS of EVIL ACTIONS which must be “put to death” are similar to the teaching of Paul in Ephesians 4:17-32.
3. The disciple must “PUT TO DEATH” his “EARTHLY NATURE!” This is the translation of the New International Version.
B. NOTE the “FIRST LIST” of EVIL ACTIONS which the disciple MUST “PUT TO DEATH” (Colossians 3:5).
1. “IMMORALITY” (“porneia”). This is the word, “fornication.” This word refers to “every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse” (A. and G., page 699). It includes prostitution. We obtain the word, “pornography” from this word. Study its use in I Corinthians 5:1; 6:13; II Corinthians 12:21).
QUESTION: Would HOMOSEXUALITY be included in the meaning of the word, “fornication” (“porneia”)?
2. “IMPURITY” (“akatharsian”). This is a general word for anything impure or unclean.
39 a. It is used for ceremonial “uncleanness” such as the uncleanness of a GRAVE, a TOMB (Matthew 23:27).
b. It is also used for IMPURITY OF LIFE. It is translated “impurity” in Romans 1:24 and “unclean” in II Corinthians 6:17.
3. “PASSION” (“pathos”). This is violent emotion. It is sometimes accompanied by an adjective such as “degrading passion” (Romans 1:26) and “lustful passion” (I Thessalonians 4:5).
4. “EVIL DESIRE” (“epithumian kaken”). The word, “desire” (“epithumia”) can be either GOOD or BAD depending on a particular context of Scripture.
a. This word, “DESIRE” can be used for a “GOOD DESIRE” (Luke 22:15; Philippians 1:23; I Timothy 3:1, “desires a good work”).
b. It can also be used for a “BAD DESIRE” It may be translated “LUST” (I John 2:15-17; II Timothy 2:22; 4:3). BAD DESIRES PRODUCE SIN! (James 1:14, 15).
5. “GREED” (Covetousness) (“pleonexian”) which amounts to IDOLATRY. Jesus’ statement in Matthew 6:24 seems to be very relevant here: “You cannot serve God and Mammon (riches). Note also Luke 12:15-21 and Ephesians 5:5. “Covetousness” may be called a “rival religion” (Ash, page 199)
C. The “WRATH” of God is coming! This is God’s JUDGMENT! (Colossians 3:6). Examine also Romans 1:18 and Ephesians 5:6.
D. Paul gave a CONTRAST in their former life, and their NEW LIFE in Christ (Colossians 3:7). Study other Scriptures which show the SINFUL LIFE Christians FORMERLY LIVED (Ephesians 2:2; 5:8; Titus 3:3; I Peter 4:3-5).
E. Paul gave a “SECOND LIST” of SINS that must be “PUT OFF” like old clothing (Colossians 3:8, 9; See also Ephesians 4:31).
1. “ANGER” and “WRATH.” The Stoic philosophy taught that “ANGER” referred to a CONTINUING state of ANGER, whereas “WRATH” is a sudden, momentary ANGER. Whether Paul meant this, or whether he was simply stating BOTH for emphasis is difficult to determine. See also Ephesians 4:26, 27.
2. “MALICE” (“kakian”). This means “ILL WILL, malignity” (A. and G., page
40 397). It seems to be an ill will that seeks to HURT ANOTHER PERSON. Note the use of this word in I Peter 2:1; Ephesians 4:31.
3. “SLANDER” (“blasphemian”). This word can refer to SLANDER or speaking against God or man. In Titus 3:2, it is translated “malign.” Note also Ephesians 4:31 and I Corinthians 10:30.
4. “ABUSIVE SPEECH” (“aischrologian”). This word can mean BOTH “OBSCENE” and “ABUSIVE” speech (A. and G., page 24). Read also Ephesians 5:4 where it is translated “filthiness.”
5. A NOTE: There is a great emphasis in these verses concerning “SINS OF THE MOUTH!
6. “DO NOT LIE!” (Colossians 3:9).
a. Please consult also Ephesians 4:25.
b. They must realize that, at their baptism, they “LAID ASIDE” the “OLD SELF!” They are “NEW CREATURES!” (II Corinthians 5:17). See similar verses in Ephesians 4:17-24.
F. The “NEW SELF” is to be in the “IMAGE” of the CREATOR (Colossians 3:10).
1. In CONTRAST to the “FALSE KNOWLEDGE” of the false teachers, the Colossian Christians have a “TRUE KNOWLEDGE” (Colossians 1:9; 2:3).
2. The “NEW SELF” is to be CONTINUALLY “RENEWED” (II Corinthians 4:16).
3. This is according to the “IMAGE” of the One who CREATED him. The “CREATOR” here may refer EITHER to the FATHER, or to JESUS. Note that God created the UNIVERSE through JESUS (Colossians 1:15, 16). Observe also that CHRIST is the “image” of God the Father (II Corinthians 4:4). Study also Ephesians 4:24.
G. Within the “BODY,” the CHURCH, there is NO DISTINCTION among those who are “NEW CREATURES” (Colossians 3:11). In their FORMER LIFE, there had been “racial, religious, cultural, and social BARRIERS” (Ash, page 203). Now, in Christ, these “barriers” MUST NO LONGER EXIST!
1. There is NO DISTINCTION between JEW and GREEK See Galatians 3:26-29.
41 2. There is NO DISTINCTION between CIRCUMCISED and UNCIRCUMCISED.
3. The word, “BARBARIAN” was used by Romans and Greeks to describe the REST of the people of the world whose language was considered unintelligible. These would be Gentiles who did NOT speak Greek.
4. The word, “SCYTHIAN” would refer to the lowest form of “barbarian.” In Christ, there ARE NO SUCH DISTINCTIONS!
5. In Christ, there is NO DISTINCTION between SLAVE and FREE. Note that PHILEMON was to receive his former slave, ONESIMUS, no longer as a slave, but as a BELOVED BROTHER (Philemon 15, 16). See Colossians 4:7-9.
6. The ONLY IMPORTANT ONE is CHRIST who “IS ALL” and is “IN ALL” (See Romans 10:12)
XI. They must “PUT ON” the following BEAUTIFUL QUALITIES (Colossians 3:`1-17).
A. Paul stated the IDENTITY of those who must “PUT ON” these qualities (3:12).
1. They are the “CHOSEN ONES” of God. Christians are “chosen” “in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3, 4; Romans 8:28, 33; I Peter 2:9).
2. They were the “HOLY” ones. This is the word “hagioi” which is translated “SAINTS” (Colossians 1:2, 4, etc.). Examine also I Peter 1:15, 16 for the word, “HOLY.” “Saints” and ”holy” are the same Greek word.
3. They were “BELOVED!” (“agapemenoi”). The apostle John used another form of this same word in I John 3:2.
B. They MUST “PUT ON” new, spiritual clothing --- A HEART OF: (3:12-15).
1. “COMPASSION:” (3:12). There are TWO Greek words here, “splagchna” and “oiktirmou” which literally mean “ENTRAILS OF PITY.” The intestines were considered the seat of emotion. Thus, we have the old expression, “Bowels of mercy.” In Luke 1:78, “splagchna” plus “eleous,” mercy, means the “TENDER MERCIES” of God (Bauer, pages 762-763). This is “HEART- FELT COMPASSION” (Weed, page 88). Are we truly compassionate?
2. “KINDNESS:” (“chrestoteta”). This word means “kindness,” or “goodness” or “generosity.” NOTE how many of these characteristics in this Scripture are ALSO FOUND IN THE “FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT” (Galatians 5:22, 23).
42 See the “loving kindness” of God (Psalm 107:1). Examine II Corinthians 6:6. ARE WE TRULY “KIND” AND “GENEROUS” TO OTHERS?
3. “HUMILITY:” (“tapeinophrosunen”). This word means “modesty,” or “lowliness” of spirit. It is the same word that is used in Philippians 2:3; Ephesians 4:2 and I Peter 5:5. Consider the meaning of “POOR IN SPIRIT” found in Matthew 5:3.
4. “MEEKNESS:” (“prauteta”). This word does NOT convey the idea of weakness. Jesus was “MEEK,” but NOT WEAK! (Matthew 11:29). Some translations such as the New English Bible and the New American Standard use the word “GENTLENESS” (Galatians 5:22, 23, etc.). This word suggests, “A quality of self-control and strength which allows its possessor to avoid excessive concern for self” (Weed, page 89). Study also II Timothy 2:25; Matthew 5:5; 21:5.
5. “PATIENCE:” (“makrothumian”). (3:12). This is a “long-suffering” spirit.
a. God has been PATIENT and “LONG-SUFFERING” with man. Read Exodus 34:6; II Peter 3:9.
b. The Lord’s DISCIPLES must ALSO BE “LONGSUFFERING” and PATIENT with others, with everyone (Ephesians 4:1-3; I Thessalonians 5:14).
6. “BEAR WITH ONE ANOTHER….” (Colossians 3:13). Within the Lord’s body, the church, the “strong” should help the “weak,” (Romans 15:1-3). In humility, Christians should count others “more important” than oneself (Philippians 2:1-3), and each should be concerned about the “interests” of others (Philippians 2:4).
7. Disciples of Jesus MUST HAVE a FORGIVING SPIRIT! (Colossians 3:13).
a. Study Matthew 6:12; 18:23-35 and Luke 11:4.
b. God, the Father “FORGAVE” (“echarisato”) His disciples! Please read Ephesians 4:32. Please notice “charis” inside this word. “charis” is the Greek word for “GRACE!” God has been SO GRACIOUS in FORGIVING US! We MUST FORGIVE as He did! Disciples must take the “initiative,” lead the way, in FORGIVING OTHERS!
8. “LOVE” (“agape”) binds all these qualities together in PERFECT UNITY! (3:14). Ash, page 206, gives TWO POSSIBLE MEANINGS of this phrase:
43 a. Paul may be saying that LOVE is like a “BELT” that holds these other qualities and virtues together. If a disciple is LOVING, the other virtues will be a PART OF THAT LOVE.
b. OR, Love “binds” the CHURCH MEMBERS together in perfect unity. Both of these possible meanings would be true when love is the basic foundation of the actions of disciples.
THE SUPREMACY OF LOVE! (I Corinthians 13:1-3)
9. “Let the PEACE of CHRIST rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15).
a. This could include BOTH PEACE within the CHURCH at Colossee, as well as INNER PEACE with God through the sacrifice of Jesus. Please study John 14:27; Ephesians 2:14; Philippians 4:7; II Thessalonians 3:16.
b. Disciples are “called” to PEACE in “ONE BODY,” the church! Please note I Corinthians 12:13.
c. AN IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION: Observe that Paul stressed “THANKFULNESS” in THREE VERSES HERE, 3:15, 16, 17. Read also Colossians 1:12.
C. “Let the WORD OF CHRIST richly dwell within you” (Colossians 3:16).
1. This phrase possibly means the “WORD ABOUT CHRIST!” In Colossians, Paul has strongly emphasized the IDENTITY of Christ. Please read again (Colossians 1:15-20, etc.
2. Disciples, in THEIR SINGING, are “TEACHING” and “ADMONISHING” one another. This “teaching” and “admonishing” should come out of their LOVE for each other (Colossians 3:14).
3. The SINGING within the church should be done WITH WISDOM. WHY? Because of the “teaching” and “admonishing” that MUST BE DONE! Examine the word “WISDOM” in Colossians 1:9, 28; 2:3, 23; 4:5.
4. There are TWO essential PURPOSES for SINGING:
a. Praising God. See James 5:13; Hebrews 13:15, 16.
b. “Teaching” and “Admonishing” one another 44 5. Please consult the booklet on the book of Ephesians and comments concerning “Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual songs” in Ephesians 5:19.
6. Some of the early HYMNS sung by Christians were probably Scriptures such as Philippians 2:5-11; I Timothy 3:16; Ephesians 5:14, etc.
7. Singing should be done with THANKFULNESS or “GRATITUDE” in the hearts of the Colossians and all disciples -- thankfulness to GOD! (3:16). Note also Colossians 3:15 and 17.
PLEASE CONSIDER: The SIN of “UNTHANKFULNESS” is found in the middle of some very TERRIBLE SINS! (Romans 1:21; II Timothy 3:2).
D. Do ALL, whether “WORD or DEED, “IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS” (Colossians 3:17).
1. The phrase, “IN THE NAME” of Jesus can “indicate all Jesus was, all He taught, and the acknowledgement of His role as Savior” (Ash, page 208).
2. Examine this phrase, “in the name” as it is used in II Thessalonians 1:12; 3:6; I Corinthians 1:10. Jesus is SUPREME! He is LORD!
XII. HOW the Christian HOUSEHOLD SHOULD LIVE (Colossians 3:18-4:1). NOTE other “Household” Scriptures in Ephesians 5:22-6:9; Titus 2:1-10; I Peter 2:18-3:7, etc.
A. HUSBANDS and WIVES (Colossians 3:18, 19).
1. PLEASE NOTE BEFORE EXAMINATION OF THE PASSAGE: Note how OFTEN the LORD IS MENTIONED in this Scripture (3:18, 20, 22, 23, 24). All these verses would amplify Colossians 3:17 concerning “word or deed” being done “IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS.”
2. WIVES are to be “SUBJECT” (“hupotassesthe”) to their husbands (3:18).
3. Being “in submission” is always “tempered” by the LOVE and RESPECT that husbands and wives have FOR EACH OTHER and for the LORD! Examine the next verse, 3:19, and Ephesians 5:22-33; Titus 2:4, 5; I Peter 3:7, 8.
4. PLEASE OBSERVE that the “subjection” of the wife to her husband DOES NOT INDICATE that the wife is “INFERIOR” to her husband!
5. Consider this essential thought: The command of “SUBMISSION” is 45 “FITTING” “IN THE LORD!” The Christian’s relationship “in the Lord” DEMANDS IT!
6. HUSBANDS are to “LOVE” (“agapate”) their WIVES (Colossians 3:19). Note carefully Ephesians 5:25, 28, 33.
7. Husbands MUST NOT BE “HARSH” in their relationship with their wives This word means, “EMBITTERED” (Bauer, page 657). In both Jewish and pagan cultures, husbands had all the RIGHTS and wives had all the DUTIES (Weed, page 94). BUT, see also I Corinthians 7:3, 4.
B. CHILDREN and PARENTS (Colossians 3:20, 21).
1. CHILDREN are to OBEY THEIR PARENTS! (3:20). We note that this is “WELL-PLEASING” to the Lord! Note also the expression “in the Lord” (“en kurio”) in Ephesians 6:1.
2. FATHERS must treat children in a way that WILL NOT DISCOURAGE (“me athumosin”) THEM (3:21). This word actually means, “THAT THEY MAY NOT LOSE HEART” (Bauer, page 21).
C. SLAVES and MASTERS (Colossians 3:22-4:1).
1. SLAVES (“douloi”) MUST OBEY their earthly “MASTERS” (“kuriois”). (3:22). Note that the word, “MASTERS” is the SAME WORD as “LORDS.” Thus, the “OWNER” of a SLAVE was called a “Lord!” This is also seen in Ephesians 6:5.
2. The word, “EVESERVICE” (“óphthalmodouliais”) is quite interesting (3:22). It is used only here in the New Testament, and it means, “service that is performed only to attract attention…. not for its own sake to please God” Bauer, page 599, A. and G., page 604).
QUESTION: Can we separate our “business life” from our “Christian life?” Can we do WRONG in our “business life,” BUT, consider ourselves faithful to God in our “Christian life?” Please discuss.
3. The OBEDIENCE of SLAVES must NOT BE JUST “EXTERNAL” as “MEN-PLEASERS” (“anthropareskoi”). This word is defined as “One who tries to please men at the sacrifice of principle.” “Time servers” (Bauer, page 67).
46 4. PHYSICAL WORK that is done for “MASTERS” (In our culture, employers), must be done with “sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord” (3:22).
a. QUESTION: When Paul wrote this, was he thinking of ONESIUMS, the SLAVE of Philemon? What do you think? Read Colossians 4:9 and the book of Philemon.
b. The word, “SINCERITY” (“aploteti”) in this verse means “Uprightness, frankness” (A. and G., page 85). It is the characteristic of a truly “genuine” person. In II Corinthians 11:3, it is used for “SINCERE devotion to Christ.”
c. In order to see the use of the phrase, “FEAR” or “REVERENCE,” examine Ephesians 5:21; Acts 9:31; I Peter 2:17.
5. Paul expanded his teaching concerning SLAVES in 3:23 by stating that they must work “HEARTILY” (“ek psuches”) as if they were working FOR THE LORD (For they were!). This phrase, “ek psuches” literally means “Out of the soul!” This SINCERE WORK must come from WITHIN THE PERSON!
QUESTION: Does our DAILY WORK in our PHYSICAL JOBS reflect either for good or bad, on the CHURCH and on the LORD?
QUESTION: When we work for other people, is it really the LORD WHOM WE “SERVE” Please note Colossians 3:24, the next verse.
6. Note that “FEARING THE LORD” is so very necessary, for, we realize that He is the one who provides OUR INHERITANCE! (Colossians 3:24).
a. The Christian SLAVE had an INHERITANCE in HEAVEN! Review Colossians 1:5, 12, 27; 3:1-4. In Paul’s day, a SLAVE had NO PROMISE of an INHERITANCE from a MASTER.
b. Observe that Paul said that it is “the Lord Christ whom you serve!” The Christian needs to be “fervent in spirit, SERVING THE Lord” (Romans 12:11).
7. Slaves who would DO WRONG would receive the consequences of their wrong deeds (Colossians 3:25).
a. When Christians “DEFRAUD” another, God will punish (I Thessalonians 4:6).
47 b. Disciples must ANSWER TO GOD for the “DEEDS” done “in the body” (II Corinthians 5:10).
c. Observe that this verse teaches that GOD SHOWS NO “PARTIALITY” He treats the “mighty” and the “lowly” in the same way. Consult Galatians 2:6; Romans 2:11.
QUESTION: Do you believe that ONESIMUS “WRONGED” Philemon by what he did? Please discuss. See Philemon 17, 18.
8. MASTERS must treat their SLAVES with “JUSTICE” and “FAIRNESS” (Colossians 4:1).
a. Again, the word, “MASTERS” in this Scripture is “kurioi,” the word for “lords.” Read again Ephesians 6:5 where the same word is found. The word, LORD” was used for the OWNER OF A SLAVE!
b. NOTE: Christian “MASTERS” also had a “MASTER” in HEAVEN! They must treat their slaves as the LORD had treated them.
QUESTION: Would Paul’s teaching in these verses, in Ephesians 6:5-9 and in Philemon DESTROY SLAVERY? Please discuss this.
REVIEW QUESTIONS ON COLOSSIANS CHAPTER THREE
1. Please show the relationship between what Paul said in Colossians 2:11, 12 and 3:1-4. How do they “fit together?”
2. What is the meaning of “Set your mind….? (Colossians 3:2).
3. What beautiful thought is suggested in the phrase, “Hidden with Christ in God?” (Colossians 3:3).
4. Please LIST and explain the meaning of the “earthly” things which Christians must “PUT TO DEATH” (Colossians 3:5-11).
5. In that LIST, what is the possible difference between “ANGER” and “WRATH?”
6. Explain the “GOOD” and “BAD” meaning of the word, “DESIRE” (Colossians 3:5).
7. In what way is “GREED” or “COVETOUSNESS” considered as “IDOLATRY?”
8. According to Colossians 3:9, 10, WHY should Christians NOT LIE?
48 9. Please discuss the SIN of discrimination, and give EXAMPLES of this sin today (Colossians 3:11; Galatians 3:26-29).
10. LIST and give meanings of the BEAUTIFUL QUALITIES that Christians must “PUT ON” (Colossians 3:12-17).
11. Does “MEEKNESS” infer “WEAKNESS?” Please discuss the meaning.
12. What is really, truly involved in the word, “FORGIVENESS?” (Colossians 3:13). What is included in the meaning of this word?
13. From Colossians 3:16, what is ONE of the beautiful PURPOSES of congregational SINGING?
14. Explain the meaning of the phrase, “In the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17).
15. State the RESPONSIBILITIES of BOTH HUSBAND and WIFE in living the “NEW LIFE” in Christ which Paul gave in Colossians 3:18, 19.
16. Please give the teaching of Paul concerning CHILDREN and PARENTS (Colossians 3:20, 21).
17. Finally, what did Paul urge concerning SLAVES and MASTERS? (Colossians 3:22-4:1). What does “EYE-SERVICE” and “MEN-PLEASERS” mean?
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NOTES ON COLOSSIANS CHAPTER FOUR
XIII. Paul’s ENCOURAGEMENT concerning PRAYER and RIGHT BEHAVIOR (Colossians 4:2-6).
A. Concerning PRAYER (Colossians 4:2-4).
1. The Colossians were encouraged to DEVOTE THEMSELVES, continue Steadfastly, in prayer. Study Acts 2:42; Ephesians 6:18-20; Romans 12:12.
2. Christians are to be spiritually “ALERT” in their life, waiting for the Lord to return. Read Matthew 24:42-44; 25:13; I Corinthians 16:13; I Thessalonians 5:6.
49 3. In their life of PRAYER and WATCHFULNESS, they must always be THANKFUL (4:2). Consider how often Paul has mentioned in Colossians the need to be thankful (Colossians 1:5; 3:15-17, etc.).
4. Paul also ASKED THEM TO PRAY FOR HIM (Colossians 4:3, 4).
a. He wanted them to PRAY for an “OPEN DOOR” for the Word of God.
b. It is interesting to observe that in this Scripture, Paul did NOT ASK them to PRAY for HIS RELEASE from prison!
c. Consider also Paul’s REQUESTS for PRAYERS found in Ephesians 6:19, 20; II Thessalonians 3:1; Romans 15:30.
d. EVEN AS HE SAT IN PRISON, Paul wanted to have MORE CHANCES AND OPPORTUNITIES to PREACH THE GOSPEL!
e. NOTICE the expression, “OPEN DOORS,” or similar words, in Acts 14:27; I Corinthians 16:9; II Corinthians 2:12; Philippians 1:12-14; Revelation 3:8.
f. Paul’s earnest desire was to proclaim the “MYSTERY” of Christ, for which he was a PRISONER! (Colossians 4:3). This “mystery” is NOW “an open secret” (Weed, page 98). Paul had discussed the “mystery” in Colossians 1:26, 27. Read also Ephesians 3:4-6 and I Peter 1:10-12.
g. The apostle Paul wanted to speak in a very CLEAR manner (4:4). Study also Ephesians 6:19, 20. Perhaps, Paul was NOT ONLY speaking about his preaching of the gospel, but ALSO HIS DEFENSE before the ROMAN OFFICIALS. He wanted to speak CLEARLY!
B. The apostle also spoke concerning CORRECT BEHAVIOR (Colossians 4:5, 6).
1. God’s people must SET A GOOD EXAMPLE in the presence of “OUTSIDERS” (Colossians 4:5).
a. They must WALK in “WISDOM.” Observe the use of the word, “WISDOM” in Colossians 1:10; 2:6; and Ephesians 5:2, 8, 15.
b. Please examine other Scriptures on the Christian’s attitude toward those OUTSIDE THE LORD’S BODY, the church (I Thessalonians 3:12; 4:12; I Peter 2:12; I Timothy 3:7; I Peter 3:1).
50 c. Review also the NEED to use OUR OPPORTUNITIES and TIME WISELY as it is seen in Ephesians 5:15, 16.
2. The SPEECH of the Christian should always be “GRACIOUS” (Colossians 4:6).
a. The phrase, “WITH GRACE” may mean that SPEECH should always be ATTRACTIVE to those who hear. Paul would say also that we must “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15).
b. The phrase, “seasoned as it were with SALT” suggests that SPEECH should have a good “FLAVOR!”
c. Disciples themselves must be “SALT,” that is, they should have a PRESERVING INFLUENCE on the earth. They should HELP to preserve the world from EVIL (Matthew 5:13; Mark 9:50; Luke 14:34, 35).
d. Disciples must also KNOW how they should RESPOND to other people. Read also I Peter 3:15.
XIV. Paul’s final ENCOURAGEMENT and GREETINGS from his companions (Colossians 4:7-18).
A. Information concerning TYCHICUS and ONESIMUS (Colossians 4:7-9).
1. TYCHICUS would inform the COLOSSIANS of Paul’s condition (4:7).
a. It is remembered that TYCHICUS had assisted in carrying the contribution for NEEDY SAINTS to JUDEA (Acts 20:4, etc.).
b. Examine these THREE TERMS that describe TYCHICUS:
(1) He was a “BELOVED” (“agapetos”) BROTHER. Please note this word in I Corinthians 10:14, etc.
(2) He was a “FAITHFUL” (“pistos”) “MINISTER” (“diakonos”), that is, a “trustworthy” “servant.” Read I Timothy 4:6 to see Timothy as a “good” “diakonos,” a “good minister.”
(3) He was a “FELLOW BOND-SERVANT” (“sundoulos”) of the Lord. Paul, Timothy and Epaphras were also “SLAVES” of Jesus (Philippians 1:1; II Timothy 2:24; Colossians 1:7).
51 Paul was ALSO the “SLAVE” of his brethren (II Corinthians 4:5).
QUESTION: Should these characteristics of TYCHICUS be found in the life of EVERY GOSPEL PREACHER?
c. TYCHICUS was a TRUSTED HELPER of the apostle Paul (Titus 3:12), even at the END of Paul’s life (II Timothy 4:12).
d. TYCHICUS was also the messenger to deliver the EPHESIAN LETTER to the brethren (Ephesians 6:21).
e. AN INTERESTING NOTE: Paul stated THREE TIMES that TYCHICUS would inform the Colossians of conditions in Rome where PAUL WAS A PRISONER! Read Colossians 4:7, 8, 9.
2. BUT, TYCHICUS had ANOTHER TASK to complete. Paul wanted him to ENCOURAGE (“parakalese”) the Colossian brothers (Colossians 4:8). One of the GREATEST MINISTRIES of any gospel preacher is to be an “ENCOURAGER” (I Timothy 4:13; 5:1, 2; II Timothy 4:2, etc.). Study also Ephesians 6:21, 22.
3. BUT, TYCHICUS had STILL ANOTHER “DELICATE” TASK when he arrived at Colossee (Colossians 4:9). ONESIMUS would be his companion in going to Colossee. Onesimus was returning to Colossee and to his “master,” Philemon. This could be a “sensitive” time!
a. Onesimus had RUN AWAY, and Paul, the prisoner, had converted him to the Lord Jesus. Study Philemon 10, 11.
b. Paul was sending ONESIMUS back to Philemon, and encouraging him to receive his former SLAVE, no longer as a slave, but as a BELOVED BROTHER in the Lord (Philemon 15, 16).
c. Our text says that Onesimus is now a “FAITHFUL” and “BELOVED BROTHER” (Colossians 4:9). We add here that the NAME, “ONESIUMS” means “USEFUL!”
d. Paul stated to the COLOSSIANS that, ONESIMUS was “one of your number” (Colossians 4:9).
B. GREETINGS from PAUL and his COMPANIONS (Colossians 4:10-15).
52 1. GREETINGS from ARISTARCHUS and JOHN MARK (Colossians 4:10).
a. Consider that, in this text, we learn that ARISTARCHUS was a fellow PRISONER with Paul.
b. Aristarchus was of Jewish background from the city of Thessalonica (Colossians 4:11; Acts 20:4).
c. Aristarchus had helped Paul, on the third missionary journey, to deliver the benevolent help to NEEDY Christians in Judea. Note Scripture about this contribution:
(1) Aristarchus was with Paul during the RIOT in the theatre in Ephesus (Acts 19:29).
(2) He was with Paul and others on the WAY TO JERUSALEM (Acts 20:4).
(3) Study these Scriptures about the CONTRIBUTION taken to JUDEA (Acts 24:17; Romans 15:25-27; I Corinthians 16:1-3; II Corinthians 8, 9).
(4) Aristarchus was with PAUL and LUKE in the journey to ROME (Acts 27:2).
d. GREETINGS from JOHN MARK, the COUSIN of BARNABAS (Colossians 4:10).
(1) The family relationship of Mark and Barnabas helps us to understand the disagreement between PAUL and BARNABAS (Acts 15:36-41).
(2) JOHN MARK had MATURED in the Lord and had become a “USEFUL” minister. See also II Timothy 4:11; I Peter 5:13.
2. GREETINGS from JUSTUS (Colossians 4:11).
a. Nothing more is known about him except what is said in this verse.
b. ARISTARCHUS, MARK, and JUSTUS were “fellow-workers” with Paul who had a Jewish background, for they were “from the circumcision.”
53 c. These brothers in Christ had been an ENCOURAGEMENT to Paul!
3. EPAPHRAS also sent his GREETINGS (Colossians 4:12, 13).
a. EPAPHRAS had evidently BEGUN THE LORD’S WORK in Colossee, Laodicea, and Hierapolis. NOTE Colossians 1:7; 4:13; Philemon 23. Only a FEW KILOMETERS separated these towns.
b. Paul used the term, “SLAVE (“doulos”) of Christ Jesus” to refer to Epaphras (Colossians 1:7; 4:12). Paul and Timothy were also “SLAVES’ (“bond-servants”) of Jesus (Philippians 1:1).
c. Paul stated that Epaphras was “one of your number” referring to Colossee.
d. This good man, Epaphras, was “AGONIZING” (“agonizomenos”) in PRAYER concerning these converts (Colossians 4:12).
(1) This Greek word for “agonize” is translated “STRIVE” in Luke 13:24 and “FIGHT” in I Timothy 6:12; 4:7, etc.
(2) It is remembered that, in Gethsemane, before His betrayal, JESUS was in “AN AGONY” as He prayed that the “cup” of suffering would be removed (Luke 22:44).
(3) Epaphras prayed that the Colossians would be MATURE (“teleioi”). This word is translated “perfect” here, and in other Scriptures “full-grown” or “mature” (Hebrews 5:14; I Corinthians 14:20) (A. and G., page 817).
(4) Epaphras also PRAYED that the Colossians would be “FULLY ASSURED” or “CONVINCED” in the Will of God. For this same phrase, read Romans 4:21.
e. Epaphras had a “DEEP CONCERN” for Colossee, Laodicea, and Hierapolis (Colossians 4:13). The Greek words, “polun ponon” literally mean, “MUCH TOIL.” Sometimes, a feeling of “PAIN” is also felt. Epaphras had these Colossian disciples “in his heart!”
QUESTION: Should EVERY GOSPEL PREACHER feel this way concerning the congregation where he works?
4. LUKE, the “BELOVED DOCTOR,” and DEMAS sent GREETINGS (Colossians 4:14).
54 a. LUKE was with Paul beginning at TROAS on the second missionary journey and evidently stayed for a period of time in PHILIPPI. We observe this by reading the pronouns, “WE” at Troas, and “WE” at Philippi, but when Paul’s company left Philippi, the pronoun “THEY” Is used (Acts 16:11; 16:13; 17:1, etc.).
b. NOTE: Luke was WITH PAUL, when Paul was a prisoner on the ship to ROME. This is also seen in the use of the word, “WE” (Acts 27:1-8, etc.).
c. Luke is also mentioned in Philemon 24.
d. When PAUL was NEAR DEATH, LUKE was WITH HIM (II Timothy 4:11).
e. DEMAS also sent GREETINGS. He is mentioned also in Philemon 24.
f. LATER, he would LEAVE PAUL, “having loved this present world.” (II Timothy 4:10).
5. PAUL sent his own GREETINGS (Colossians 4:15).
a. He also requested that they PASS ON HIS GREETINGS to Laodicea.
b. Paul sent HIS GREETINGS to NYMPHA and to the “church that is in her house.” Some variants of the Greek text have a masculine name, NYMPHOS, and the pronoun used is “HIS HOUSE” or “THEIR HOUSE” It is difficult to determine which is correct.
c. Consider the fact that, in the first century, many congregations of the church met in PRIVATE HOMES (Acts 12:12; Romans 16:3-5; I Corinthians 16:19; Philemon 2, etc.). There were NO “church buildings” at that time. They met wherever it was POSSIBLE!
C. Paul’s CONCLUDING COMMENTS (Colossians 4:16-18).
1. The “EPISTLE” to the Colossians was to be READ PUBLICLY to that church. This was also true in LAODICEA (Colossians 4:16).
a. The root word, “anaginosko” meant to READ ORALLY. This is noted in Scriptures such as I Thessalonians 5:27; I Timothy 4:13; Revelation 1:3. It means to “read aloud in public” (A. and G., page 51).
55 b. It is also remembered that PUBLIC READING of the Old Testament, both the LAW and the PROPHETS was done in the Jewish synagogue. We remember Jesus reading from Isaiah 61 in the synagogue (Luke 4:15-21).
c. It is not possible to know with certainty the letter of Paul that was “coming from Laodicea” (4:16).
(1) Could it be the epistle called “Ephesians?” This is uncertain.
(2) Paul’s inspired letters were circulated among congregations very quickly in the early church. (3) In addition, Paul’s epistles were considered to be “SCRIPTURE” at an early time. NOTE II Peter 3:15, 16.
2. ARCHIPPUS should “FULFILL” his “ministry” (“diakonian”) (Colossians 4:17).
a. Archippus is called Paul’s “FELLOW-SOLDIER” in Philemon 2.
b. Some believe that he might be the SON of Philemon and Apphia. This is very uncertain.
c. Was Archippus a preacher at Colossee? Was he doing the work that Epaphras was doing before joining Paul? All of this is uncertain.
d. It is NOT NECESSARY to believe that Paul is criticizing Archippus in 4:17. It may be ENCOURAGEMENT in his ministry.
3. Paul’s “SIGNATURE” (Writing with his own hand) (Colossians 4:18).
a. A “secretary” often penned the letters of Paul. See Romans 16:22; I Corinthians 16:21; Galatians 6:11; II Thessalonians 3:17; Philemon 19. Then, Paul would write a small amount with his own hand.
b. Is it possible that false teachers were writing wrong teaching and claiming that it came from Paul? Is this the reason he would write in his own handwriting at the end of his genuine letters? Or, is he seeking to be very personal by writing with his own hand? Read II Thessalonians 2:2.
56 c. In this last verse, Paul asked the Colossian disciples to remember his IMPRISONMENT. Earlier, he had asked for their prayers that an “OPEN DOOR” be granted to him for evangelism (Colossians 4:3, 4),
d. “GRACE be with you all!” (See also Ephesians 6:24; I Timothy 6:21; II Timothy 4:22; Titus 3:15, etc.). ______
REVIEW QUESTIONS ON COLOSSIANS CHAPTER FOUR
1. For what were the Colossians asked to PRAY in Colossians 4:2-4?
2. What did Paul teach concerning the Christian’s attitude toward “OUTSIDERS?” (Colossians 4:5, 6).
3. What kind of SPEECH did Paul want Christians to use at all times?
4. Who was the companion of TYCHICUS on the journey to COLOSSAE?
5. HOW did Paul DESCRIBE his co-worker, TYCHICUS in Colossians 4:7-9?
6. Discuss what we know about TYCHICUS from the Scripture.
7. When he arrived in Colossae, what “TASKS” or “MINISTRIES” did Tychicus have?
8. What does Scripture reveal to us about the brother named ARISTARCHUS?
9. What encouraging thing do we learn in Scripture about the LATER LIFE of JOHN MARK?
10. What do we know about the LIFE of EPAPHRAS from Colossians 4:12, 13?
11. From Scripture, what do we know about the LIFE of LUKE, his journeys, etc.?
12. LIST some Christians in the first century church in WHOSE PRIVATE HOUSES congregations met for their assemblies.
13. Was PUBLIC READING of the Scriptures an important part of the assembly of the church of the first century? If so, please give examples of this being done.
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57 PARTIAL BIBLIOGRAPHY
Arndt, William F., and Gingrich, F. Wilbur. A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament And Other Early Christian Literature. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1963.
NOTE: The Arndt and Gingrich Lexicon is abbreviated in the text of this booklet as “A. and G.”
Ash, Anthony L.. Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Joplin, Missouri: College Press, 1994.
Bauer, Walter, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature. Chicago and London: University of Chicago Press, 1979.
Carson, Herbert M.. The Epistles of Paul to the Colossians and Philemon. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1960.
Jerusalem Bible. London: Darton, Longman, & Todd. 1966.
Nestle, Eberhard, Novum Testamentum Graece . (Nestle’s Greek Text of the New Testament). Printed in Germany, 1964.
McDonald, H. Dermot. Commentary on Colossians and Philemon. Waco, Texas: Word Books, 1980.
New American Standard Bible, The Lockman Foundation. La Habra, California: 1977.
Weed, Michael R.. The Letters of Paul To The Ephesians, The Colossians And Philemon. Austin, Texas: R. B. Sweet Co. Inc., 1971.
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