Colossians

Why was the book written.

Scholars belive the book was written as a response to the spiritual emergency that the city was under. They were tied up in what history calls the Colossian Heresy. They were in the beginning stages of gnosticism. (the belief that human beings contain a piece of God within them selves) This was predicted by Paul in Acts 20:29-30

Acts 20:29–30 ESV

29 I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30 and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.

The letter was to guard against this cult like religion. Paul attempts to fortify the church against false teachers who might try to impose strict rules about eating, drinking, and religious festivals. Through the book he explains that the right way of living is to ficus on heavenly rather than earthly things. Stating God’s chosen people must leave their sinful lives behind and live in a godly way, looking to Christ as the head of the church.

Now as Paul opens up this book he does it by stating what made this church noteworthy to him.

Chapter 1

1-2

introduction of himself and Timothy, and a formal address to whom he is writting

3-8

What made this church stand out to Paul and Timothy

Faith in Jesus Christ

Love for the saints

hope of heaven

Hearing and understanding the gospel

Under standing the Grace of God in truth.

Consider this. It is possible to not truthfully understand Grace.