Bible Overview Colossians
Mike Ervin
Overview of the Book of Colossians
The Book of Colossians is one of Paul’s epistles in the New Testament. It is a theologically rich letter addressing false teachings and emphasizing Christ’s supremacy. Written to the church in Colossae, the letter encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and live in accordance with the gospel.
Authorship of Colossians
Traditional View
The traditional view holds that the Apostle Paul wrote Colossians. The letter begins with Paul explicitly identifying himself as the author:
• Colossians 1:1 – “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother.”
• Colossians 4:18 – “I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand.”
Paul’s close companion, Timothy, is mentioned as a co-author, though Paul is seen as the primary writer.
Modern Scholarly View
Some modern scholars question Paul’s authorship for the following reasons:
1. Different Style and Vocabulary – Colossians contains words and phrases not found in Paul’s undisputed letters (e.g., Romans, Galatians, 1 Corinthians).
2. Theological Differences – Some argue that Colossians presents a more developed Christology (e.g., Christ as the cosmic ruler of creation, Colossians 1:15-20), which seems more advanced than Paul’s earlier letters.
3. Similarities to Ephesians – Colossians and Ephesians share many themes and phrases, leading some to suggest they were written by a later follower of Paul.
Despite these arguments, many scholars still accept Pauline authorship, noting that differences in style and theology can be explained by the letter’s unique audience and purpose.
Date of Authorship
Traditional View
If Paul wrote Colossians, it was likely written during his first Roman imprisonment (circa 60–62 CE). This is supported by references to his imprisonment (Colossians 4:3, 4:10, 4:18).
Modern Scholarly View
Those who reject Pauline authorship suggest a later date, possibly 70–90 CE, written by a disciple of Paul to address evolving theological concerns in the early church. However, no definitive evidence exists to disprove Paul as the author.
Main Themes in Colossians
1. The Supremacy of Christ – Jesus is the image of the invisible God, the creator and sustainer of all things (Colossians 1:15-20).
2. Warnings Against False Teachings – Paul warns against deceptive philosophies, legalism, and mystical practices that detract from Christ (Colossians 2:8-23).
3. Christian Living – Believers are called to put off the old self and live in accordance with their new identity in Christ (Colossians 3:1-17).
4. The Church as Christ’s Body – Christ is the head of the church, and believers are united in Him (Colossians 1:18).
5. Spiritual Maturity – Paul prays that the Colossians grow in wisdom, understanding, and fruitfulness in their faith (Colossians 1:9-12).
Sequential Summary of Colossians
1. Introduction and Thanksgiving (Colossians 1:1-14)
• Paul greets the Colossians and expresses gratitude for their faith and love.
• He prays for their spiritual growth and knowledge of God’s will.
2. The Supremacy of Christ (Colossians 1:15-23)
• Christ is described as the “image of the invisible God” and the sustainer of all things.
• Through Christ’s death and resurrection, believers are reconciled to God.
3. Paul’s Ministry and Purpose (Colossians 1:24–2:5)
• Paul explains his mission to preach Christ and bring people to maturity in faith.
• He warns against persuasive but deceptive arguments.
4. Warnings Against False Teachings (Colossians 2:6-23)
• Believers should remain rooted in Christ and not be swayed by human traditions or philosophy.
• Paul warns against legalistic practices regarding food, festivals, and asceticism.
5. New Life in Christ (Colossians 3:1-17)
• Christians are called to seek things above and put off sinful behaviors.
• Virtues like compassion, kindness, humility, and love should define Christian living.
6. Instructions for Households and Work (Colossians 3:18–4:1)
• Paul gives instructions for relationships between husbands and wives, parents and children, and masters and slaves.
7. Final Greetings and Encouragement (Colossians 4:2-18)
• Paul urges the Colossians to devote themselves to prayer.
• He mentions several co-workers, including Tychicus, Onesimus, Aristarchus, and Mark.
• He closes with a personal note and blessing.
Conclusion: The Importance of Colossians
Colossians remains a crucial book for Christian theology and practice because it:
1. Affirms Christ’s Supremacy – One of the clearest declarations of Jesus’ divine nature and authority.
2. Warns Against False Teaching – Provides guidance on how to stay faithful to Christ amidst cultural and philosophical pressures.
3. Encourages Practical Christian Living – Offers a framework for living out the faith in personal relationships and daily life.
4. Emphasizes Spiritual Growth – Calls believers to grow in knowledge, wisdom, and holiness.
Colossians teaches that Christ is sufficient for salvation and that believers are called to live in a way that reflects His lordship.