Intro to Colossians

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. 

Colossians 2:8 

The letter of Colossians is one of four letters written by Paul that comprise the Prison Epistles (The four letters being Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon). Although this is a church that Paul is had not visited (2:1), in this letter we see that he has a very large heart for them and he rejoices over them for their steadfastness in the faith. Although this is a very short letter, Paul emphasizes three major themes in it: the supremacy of Christ, an active guard against false teaching, and instructions on Christian living.

Firstly, Paul reminds them of the supremacy and primacy of Christ. He seems to even exhaust the entirety of Greek vocabulary to express the fact that Christ created all things, “in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him” (Col 1:16). In case it was unclear to anyone the priority of Christ, Paul makes it abundantly clear that Christ is the creator and reconciler of all things. And for any who were being persuaded to add to Christ anything this letter would settle the debate.

Secondly, Paul uses this letter to address false teachings that were creeping into the church. We are not entirely sure what specific movements were in the area, but we can piece together that they challenged the centrality of Christ (1:15-19; 2:9-10), was based on human philosophy or tradition (2:8), elevated angels (2:18), placed prohibitions on the people (2:16,21), and promoted asceticism (2:18). In order to counter these false teachings, Paul would bring them back to the centrality and supremacy of Christ. We would do well to remind ourselves even today of Christ’s central and complete work on the cross and the fullness that we find in Him.

Lastly, Paul provides some helpful ways in which we can live in community with one another and as individuals (3:1-4:6). They seem to cover a wide variety of topics; however, they could be best summarized in verses 5 and 10 where we read we are to put to death all forms of wickedness and to put on a new self which is being renewed into the image of its creator; the creator being Jesus. This sort of Christian living is not possible if we are seeking after the things of this world (3:1-2), but only when we have the word of Christ dwelling richly within us (3:16).

During Christmas, we may also slip into the religion of good works and legalism like the Colossians and this letter is a very good word for us. Christ is not only central to the holiday, but he is central to our lives. My prayer is that as you read, or have read, this letter that you will grow more in love with the person of Christ and that you will continue to be renewed into his image, not being taken captive by philosophies or human traditions. But that as Christ is living richly in your hearts, you will grow in grace and gratitude and that in all that you do, God will be glorified (3:16-17).

Grace and Peace,
Alex Galvez

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