Book introduction
The book of Colossians
Colossians says that Christ is enough. To a church tempted by rules and spiritual extras, Paul shows Christ as the image of God, creator and head of all things, and calls them to set their minds on him.
Who wrote Colossians?
The letter names Paul. Scholars are divided: many accept Paul, others think a close follower wrote it.
When was it written?
About AD 60–62 if by Paul.
Main themes
- Christ over all
- All things were made through him and hold together in him.
- Complete in Christ
- No extra rules or experiences are needed.
- New clothes
- Put off the old self; put on compassion, kindness, and love.
Outline of Colossians
Key verses
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For in him everything was created, in the heavens and on the earth, what is seen and what is unseen, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. Everything has been created through him and for him. He is before everything, and everything holds together in him.
Keep your thoughts on what is above, not on what is on the earth.
Whatever you do, put your whole self into the work, as for the Lord and not for people,
Quoted from the Lumin Translation.
Where to start
Read 1:15–20, then chapter 3.
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