Colossians 1–4; Philemon 1
Common Theme
Christ is supreme over all creation and sufficient for salvation, reconciliation, and transformed living. This supremacy reshapes relationships, community life, and even social bonds through grace and redemption.
Questions
- How does Paul’s presentation of Christ’s supremacy confront incomplete or distorted views of Jesus?
- What does reconciliation in Christ look like when applied to broken or unequal relationships, as seen in Philemon?
God Shot
God reveals Himself as the sovereign reconciler who, through Christ, brings all things into right relationship with Himself. He delights in restoring what is broken, uniting people to Himself and to one another through the power and authority of His Son.
Deeper
Colossians 1
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, addresses the saints in Colossae, expressing gratitude for their faith and love, which stem from their hope in heaven. He emphasizes the importance of the gospel, which has spread globally and is bearing fruit. Paul prays for the Colossians to gain spiritual wisdom and understanding, enabling them to live in a way that pleases God and strengthens them with His power. He highlights Christ’s preeminence, stating that all creation exists through Him and for Him, and that He reconciles all things to Himself. Paul acknowledges his role in the church, rejoicing in his sufferings for their sake and revealing the mystery of Christ, which brings hope to the Gentiles. He is committed to teaching and warning everyone to present them mature in Christ, relying on God’s energy working within him.
Colossians 2
The text expresses the Apostle Paul’s struggle for the believers in Colossae and Laodicea, emphasizing the importance of unity, love, and understanding of God’s mystery, which is Christ. Paul encourages them to remain steadfast in their faith and warns against being misled by deceptive philosophies and human traditions. He highlights that in Christ, the fullness of deity resides, and believers are made alive through Him, having their sins forgiven. Paul advises against allowing others to judge them based on dietary laws or religious observances, stating these are merely shadows of what is to come, with true substance found in Christ. He cautions that self-imposed regulations lack value in combating sinful desires.
Colossians 3
The text emphasizes the importance of spiritual renewal and living a life aligned with Christ. Believers are encouraged to focus on heavenly things, putting to death earthly behaviors such as immorality and anger. They are called to embrace virtues like compassion, kindness, humility, and patience, and to forgive others as God has forgiven them. Love is highlighted as the unifying force among these qualities. The passage also provides guidance for Christian households, urging wives to submit to their husbands, husbands to love their wives, children to obey their parents, and servants to work sincerely for their masters. Ultimately, all actions should be done in the name of the Lord, with gratitude.
Colossians 4
Masters should treat their bondservants justly, knowing they have a Master in heaven. Believers are encouraged to pray steadfastly with thanksgiving and to pray for opportunities to share the message of Christ. They should act wisely towards outsiders and speak graciously. Tychicus and Onesimus will provide updates on Paul’s situation, while other fellow workers, including Aristarchus, Mark, and Epaphras, send greetings. Paul emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one’s ministry and instructs that his letter be shared with the Laodicean church. He concludes with a personal greeting and a reminder of his chains.
Philemon 1
Paul, a prisoner for Christ, addresses Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, and the church in Philemon’s home, wishing them grace and peace. He expresses gratitude for Philemon’s love and faith, noting the joy and comfort derived from his actions. Paul appeals to Philemon regarding Onesimus, a former servant who has become useful during Paul’s imprisonment. He requests Philemon to receive Onesimus not just as a servant but as a beloved brother. Paul offers to repay any debts Onesimus may have and expresses confidence in Philemon’s obedience. He concludes with greetings from fellow workers and a blessing of grace.