Colossians Introduction

Welcome to our first study ... the book of Colossians!  

Let's start with an overview of this book (which is a letter)...

First, take a few moments to read the book (four chapters).  Before starting to read, take time to ask God to speak to you through His Word. As you’re reading, look for clues about the "who(s)" of this letter.  When you are finished, share your observations about the following:

1)  Who wrote this letter?  What does the letter tell us about the author(s)?  (Consider identity, location, personal qualities, behaviors, or anything else you observe.)

2)  Who was/were the intended recipient(s) of the letter?  What does the letter tell us about him/her/them?  (Again, consider identity, location, personal qualities, behaviors, etc.)

3)  What do you think is/are the author(s) goal(s) in writing this letter?

I will be posting my observations/thoughts in the next day or so...I am so looking forward to what God shows each of us!

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My observations:

1)  Paul, who is in prison wrote this letter, possibly it was scribed by Timothy, who is with Paul in some way.  

Paul is an apostle, a minister of the gospel, and though he is absent in body he is present in spirit.  He acknowledges the supremacy of Christ (reflecting humility) and encourages the faithful at Colossae to holiness (reflecting confidence, in who he is in Christ and in his calling).  He is a teacher and exhorter (giving to the saints) and asks for prayer, especially to communicate clearly (asking for something in return).  He is desiring to hear more reports of growth about the Colossian saints (whom it looks like he has not met).  

2)  The church (saints/faithful brothers) at Colossae are the recipients of the letter.

The people in the church at Colossae were once aliented/hostile in mind but now reconciled to Christ through what He did in his death and resurrection.  Apparently the Colossians are Gentiles, since they have not been physically circumcised.  The Colossian church, while having been “buried in baptism” and “raised with Him,” are also reminded by Paul that they are forgiven.  They are also, however, submitting to legalistic rules and human expectations.  I am wondering if they are also being led astray by false teachings?

3)  I think Paul’s goal is to encourage the saints at Colossae to walk in spiritual wholeness, freedom, and true holiness, which are available to them based not on their achievements but on what Christ did for them (and us!) so that the saints at Colossae will fulfill God’s purpose for each of them.