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 I. Paul s GREETING (Colossians 1:1, 2). Colossians Chapter One 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 christo). 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