Paul revealed the mystery about salvation made possible to the Gentile nations through faith in Jesus Christ, the savior of man and only begotten son of almighty God, the creator of all things.
In his letter to the church on Colosse, the apostle previously glorified the deity of Jesus. Paul now addresses ongoing attacks by the enemy seemingly disguised under philosophical cloaks
“1 For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father an of Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:1-3)
Paul shares his concern which he describes as “anxiety” not only for the believers in Colosse, the Roman city located approximately 125 miles east of Ephesus, but also felt conflicted over the nearby city of Laodicea where believers were also under attack.
Only 10 miles north west of Colosse, Laodicea had been growing in population and wealth after the region’s main trade route was moved north from Colosse, leaving the once thriving city to slowly fade to a small village. Paul’s wish for the believers in Laodicea was in tune with that of the Colossians as such this letter was meant for both churches, as was the apostle’s suffering for them.
“4 Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words.” (Colossians 2:4)
Paul now addresses false teachers in Colosse and Laodicea, gnostics who offered salvation for a price thereby reverting back to salvation by works based on the Law of Moses. Such hypocritical teaching is not only blasphemous but this type philosophical salvation goes against the gospel of Jesus Christ all together.
“5 For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.” (Colossians 2:5)
Once again Paul reminds all believers to hold steadfast, empowered by our faith in the savior of mankind, the lion and the lamb of God, the prophesied messiah, Jesus Christ. In this faith rather than in person Paul, the Colossians and Logicians were united.
“6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 2:6-7)
Paul calls on believers to obediently continue walking in Jesus’ footsteps, surrendering ourselves to God’s perfect plan for our lives which involve both sacrifice and rewards. This sanctification process is used by God to refine believers as we continue to walk the narrow path that leads to eternal life.
“8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)
The apostle warns believers of false teachers, Judaizers or Gnostics preaching a watered down gospel based on works or self-serving philosophy, none of which are in Christ. The law of Moses was replaced by the law of christ which is based on love, not of works.
“9 For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; 10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” (Colossians 2:9-10)
Putting Christ first where He first was placed by God Himself, the apostle declares Jesus Lord of all and King of Kings. Those who believe and continually place Christ first will themselves be first upon judgment day when the spiritually lame are cast out to burn in hell, as the spiritually faithful are ascended to heaven where their place awaits with the almighty creator.
Behold! The second coming is the Lord is near and all believers must hold steadfast as we await His return. The word calls us to grow and connect as we continue to walk in Christ’ footsteps. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
