Beginning an epistle of essential doctrines, objectives, conduct and spiritual joys in the converted life, Paul defines and extols five aspects of this new life: faith in Christ, love for the saints, anticipation of glory, assurance, and love in the Spirit.  Do we have these? Colossae was an ancient city…

In these verses Paul urges greater knowledge, not only of doctrine, but of God's ways, how He deals with us, and the lot of believers. Here we also learn about applying the Word, our aims in behaviour, and the power to obey and please God. Colossae was an ancient city…

Three verses that present four distinctive aspects of the eternal accomplishments of Christ on Calvary, 1) our personal crucifixion with Him, 2) our deliverance from Satan's power, 3) our redemption and transfer into the kingdom, and 4) our purifying.  So great was the price paid! Colossae was an ancient city…

In a simple verse Paul pictures the captivity of a materialistic, unbelieving life in which we are unaware of God and the need for rescue. Here are the limitations and the chains that bind us, and Christ's manner of deliverance and restoring to life. You May Be Also Interested in……

The Bible teaches that before conversion to God we are like prisoners, except that we do not know it. We need to experience the freedom, reality and fulfilment that comes with the pardon of God. Here is the biblical picture of our 'captivity' and the way out.

Related Resources Everyone’s Chief Idol What is universally worshiped and served by everyone in every age, and why? Our greatest need is to be turned from this chief idol to the forgiveness, new life and eternal home that comes only from Christ the Lord. Full chapter _____________ Colossians 1 Paul,…

Following aspects of the atonement, Paul turns to the magnificence of Christ, 1) His significance as image of the Father, 2). as forerunner and Creator of all, 3) as sovereign Head of the Church, and 4) as 'all fulness' - in which we may participate. Colossae was an ancient city…

In showing aspects of reconciliation the apostle extols the scope of Christ's redemptive work (including securing the external obedience of the angelic host), then the depth of our alienation, then the height of our elevation, and finally the sure sign of redemption. Colossae was an ancient city in Phrygia (part…

Five verses draw together essential elements of all witness. Here is how Paul came to rejoice in the troubles of a proclaimer. Here also is his deep sense of responsibility for the Gospel, his estimation of Christ's priceless value, and his manner of persuading souls. Colossae was an ancient city…

Paul gives a unique definition of conversion as the entry of Christ into a life, and here is the explanation of what this means, how Christ's work in us is carried out, and how we are changed and enriched for life and eternity.

Beginning with the ferocity of the forces of error surrounding believers (here are examples) Paul identifies first the need for deep appreciation of the doctrine of Christ, secondly church order and firmness, thirdly a sense of amazement at Calvary, as our key defences. Colossae was an ancient city in Phrygia…

The Judaisers have tried to persuade Colossians to adopt Jewish ordinances. Paul shows they have a vastly superior circumcision of heart. The old nature is dethroned and a new installed. But old sins may re-emerge without these named precautions. Here is Paul's imagery of conquest. Colossae was an ancient city…

After dismissing the fleshly rites that heretics had begun to introduce to the church, Paul points to the 'heavenly life' and growing the graces that will be perfected in glory - deep feeling, kindness, lowliness, a servant spirit, generous love and grateful contentment. Colossae was an ancient city in Phrygia…

Explaining how believers are dead, yet commanded to put to death sin. Here is the offensiveness of impurity, the apostle showing how it invades the mind (uncleanness), the heart (inordinate affection or passion) and the will (evil concupiscence or evil longing). Remedies for mortification. Colossae was an ancient city in…

Once saved, the Christian has the infallible help of the Spirit to lay aside the impulses of the old nature, including covetousness, the five distinct forms of anger, and lying.  Progressive renewal also brings rich shafts of knowledge which provide the believer's blessed assurance. Colossae was an ancient city in…

Full chapter _____________ Colossians 3 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ…

Paul presents four tremendous graces given to believers to exercise and keep in view constantly, lifelong - the doctrine of salvation, the gift of wisdom (here explained), the practice of melody in the heart through psalms and hymns, and a strong awareness of representing Christ. Colossae was an ancient city…

The perfect text for the new year, providing its own natural headings, challenging believers to live every moment of life under the direction of Christ, to do all for His glory and for Him, and to be thankful for everything day by day. Colossae was an ancient city in Phrygia…

The rule of doing all in the name of Christ appears in the context of worship and is a warrant for distinctively Christian hymns, but it goes beyond, embracing all our thoughts, words and deeds. Here is how His name influences every aspect of life.

A single practical study for developing good behaviour in children, including Paul's priority to avoid frustration and resentment; the goal of preparing for adult life; the place of punishments and restrictions; key texts of promise and warning; duties for children and good manners. Full chapter _____________ Colossians 3 If ye…

A call to the two continuous commitments of the Christian life - first to persistent prayer (the impediments, the helps, and the branches of prayer); secondly to pray specifically for preachers. Colossae was an ancient city in Phrygia (part of modern Turkey). It was pagan, and it was proud. But…

Two verses that commend walking in wisdom toward unbelievers, redeeming or buying up the time, and gracious speech. Here is what the apostle meant by these challenging terms, with counsel for daily conduct and witness to the dying souls to whom we are assigned. Colossae was an ancient city in…

Paul's commendations of his fellow-preachers and helpers in Rome show the standard for all believers, especially ministers. Here are the terms he uses, with their full meaning and challenges. Plus a glimpse of Archippus and his possible 'hindrance', with its common equivalents today. Colossae was an ancient city in Phrygia…