TUESDAY February 15, 2022

Comparisons in the Book of Colossians

To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse.
Colossians 1:2

As we now begin our in-depth study in the book of Colossians, we shall read four chapters. In chapters 1-2, we cover biblical doctrine, and in chapters 3-4, practical Christianity––how we should live as Christians.

First we shall study the introduction to the Book in Colossians 1:1-8. Then we shall discuss Paul’s intercession for the believers in Colossians 1:9-14. As we continue onward, we shall see Christ’s deity and His preeminence (Colossians 1:15-29). Then in Colossians 2:1-23, we shall view Christ in His incarnation––in the flesh. As the letter develops, learn of the believers’ union with Christ, and the character of the new man, and Christian graces (Colossians 3-4:6). Then finally, in Colossians 4:7-18, conclude the book with Paul’s final greeting and exhortation.

The book of Colossians bears similarities to the books of Ephesians and Philippians. The book of Ephesians emphasizes the oneness of Jesus Christ; in comparison, Colossians’ emphasis is the completeness or maturity of a believer. Maturity comes through learning the knowledge and wisdom of Christ. As a Christian studies the Word of the God, they come to a place of completeness––maturity.

The theme of the book of Ephesians is the Church; and the theme of the book of Colossians is Jesus Christ––the head of the Church, not Peter. That is important. In the book of Philippians, Christ emptied Himself and became a Servant to mankind. In the book of Colossians, Jesus was restored to His rightful position––the fullness of God––in full deity.

The Apostle Paul reaffirmed the gospel to the Colossian believers; they were saved through faith in Jesus Christ. Again, he dealt with Judaism Mysticism, and Gnosticism, but continued to exhort the Colossians to godly living, and not to be hung up with the rudiments and traditions of the world.

Saving faith is confidence in Jesus; a direct confidential transaction with him.
~Richard Fuller~

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