Learn more about Colossians

Introduction to Colossians

The term “Colossians” refers to the inhabitants of the ancient city of Colossae and is most notably associated with the New Testament Epistle to the Colossians, one of the letters written by the Apostle Paul. This epistle addresses theological and practical issues facing the Christian community in Colossae, offering profound insights into the supremacy of Christ and the Christian life. The letter is deeply Christocentric, emphasizing the preeminence of Jesus and warning against false teachings that threatened the church’s understanding of the gospel.

Colossians Pronunciation

“Colossians” is pronounced as kuh-LOSH-uhns, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Colossians in the Bible

The Epistle to the Colossians is one of the Pauline epistles, attributed to the Apostle Paul and addressed to the believers in Colossae. It is found in the New Testament and consists of four chapters. Key themes include the supremacy of Christ, the fullness of God in Christ, and the new life of believers.

• Colossians 1: Paul opens with greetings and thanksgiving, followed by one of the most exalted Christological passages in the New Testament (1:15-20), describing Christ as the image of the invisible God and the creator and sustainer of all things.
• Colossians 2: Paul warns against deceptive philosophies, human traditions, and legalistic practices. He emphasizes that in Christ “the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily” (2:9) and that believers are complete in Him.
• Colossians 3: A call to set minds on things above and to put off the old self while putting on the new self. Paul provides practical guidance on Christian virtues, family relationships, and communal harmony.
• Colossians 4: Final instructions and greetings. Paul encourages prayer, wise conduct toward outsiders, and shares news about fellow workers such as Tychicus, Onesimus, Aristarchus, Mark, and Luke.

Colossians in Biblical and Historical Context

Colossae was a city located in the Roman province of Asia (modern-day Turkey), near Laodicea and Hierapolis. Though it was once a significant city, by Paul’s time it had diminished in importance. The church at Colossae was likely founded by Epaphras, a disciple of Paul, rather than Paul himself. The letter was written while Paul was imprisoned—likely in Rome around A.D. 60–62.

The epistle addresses a theological issue known as the "Colossian heresy," which appears to have included elements of Jewish legalism, asceticism, and mystical experiences, possibly influenced by early Gnostic ideas. Paul’s response is a robust affirmation of Christ’s sufficiency and lordship over all creation, both physical and spiritual.

Related Themes and Meanings to Colossians

• Christ’s Supremacy: Central to Colossians is the theme that Christ is above all powers, rulers, and authorities, both seen and unseen.
• Union with Christ: Believers are spiritually united with Christ in His death, resurrection, and new life (Colossians 2:12-13; 3:1-4).
• Spiritual Maturity: Paul urges the Colossians to grow in knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of God’s will (Colossians 1:9-10).
• Warning Against False Teaching: A strong admonition against being taken captive by deceptive philosophy and empty deceit (Colossians 2:8).

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Colossians

• Colossians shares many similarities with the Epistle to the Ephesians, leading scholars to label them as “twin epistles.” Both were likely written around the same time and share themes of unity, maturity, and the cosmic scope of Christ’s reign.
• The city of Colossae was eventually destroyed by an earthquake in the 60s A.D., not long after the letter was written. It never regained its former prominence.
• Onesimus, mentioned in Colossians 4:9, is also the subject of the Epistle to Philemon. He was a runaway slave who became a Christian and a co-laborer with Paul.
• The exalted hymn to Christ in Colossians 1:15-20 is considered one of the earliest Christian confessions of faith and is a foundational text for the doctrine of Christ’s divinity.

Conclusion

The Epistle to the Colossians is a theological treasure that provides profound insights into who Christ is and what it means to live in Him. Written to a young church facing syncretistic influences, it remains highly relevant for Christians today who seek to understand the completeness found in Christ alone. Whether used for theological study, personal devotion, or pastoral teaching, Colossians continues to inspire and instruct believers in every generation.