Good Morning Friends!

I pray that the Lord has blessed each of us in our deeper dive into the book of Philippians! I am excited about our journey next month!

2025 June Scripture Writing plan and Journal:

Colossians – All we need is Christ!

The book of Colossians is a heartfelt letter. It was penned by the apostle Paul to a vibrant, young church. This church was thriving in the bustling city of Colossae. During a time of trial, Paul was confined within the walls of prison. He was most likely enduring the house arrest depicted in the closing chapters of Acts. Paul poured his soul into this epistle. He infused it with fervor and inspiration for the believers he deeply cherished.

The city of Colossae is a gem nestled about 100 miles east of Ephesus. It lies on the western side of what is now vibrant Turkey. This city holds a rich historical narrative. In Paul’s times, it was a significant part of Asia Minor, flourishing with life and culture. During the fourth and fifth centuries B.C., this remarkable city boasted a thriving Jewish community. Approximately 2000 Jewish families bravely chose to settle in the area in the second century B.C. They weaved their heritage into the very fabric of Colossae’s existence.

Paul had never set foot in Colossae, yet the vibrant church there ignited under the powerful influence of his ministry! During his groundbreaking third missionary journey, Paul dedicated three transformative years in Ephesus. It was during this electrifying time that his devoted coworkers and fervent disciples shared the life-changing news about Jesus. They spread it fervently to the surrounding cities. This led to the exhilarating proclamation that “all Asia heard the word” (Acts 19:10). Epaphras was among these passionate co-workers. He was a proud native of Colossae. Epaphras played a pivotal role in founding the church there around A.D. 54!

While Paul found himself in chains around A.D. 61, Epaphras journeyed to Rome. He was burning with urgency to share the exhilarating news of the gospel’s advancement in the Colossae region. However, he also revealed the alarming troubles that were shaking the very foundation of the church there. Deceptive teachings threatened their steadfastness in Jesus. Epaphras’s heart ached for their spiritual welfare.

As we immerse ourselves in Paul’s words from the letter, we can vividly uncover the troubling false teachings. These teachings gripped the church at Colossae. He fervently highlights the significance of circumcision. He emphasizes the strict observance of Jewish holy days. He points out the burdensome dietary laws. This reveals a striking Jewish influence behind these teachings. Additionally, he boldly critiques the foolishness of self-abasement. He also criticizes the harsh treatment of the body in Colossians 2:23. He exposes the absurdity of such ascetic practices. Furthermore, he passionately addresses a mystical aspect. He urges us to beware of alluring visions. He also warns against the worship of angels mentioned in 2:18.

The deceptive teachings threatening the church revolved around enticing spiritual visions and angelic encounters. They also included following the Jewish calendar and adhering to food laws. These actions were a misguided attempt to unlock a deeper experience of God’s fullness. In response, Paul pens the letter to the Colossians, fervently affirming that Jesus embodies the very fullness of God! He passionately conveys that anyone who places their faith in Jesus already possesses that transformative fullness within them (2:9-10). Paul’s heartfelt mission is to awaken both the original readers. He also wants to awaken us to the profound truth that Christ is entirely sufficient. We do not need Christ plus mystical experiences. We do not need anything else to truly know God in all His magnificent fullness. All we truly need is Christ!

You can find the journal and scripture only graphic for free on the website. Included in the journal is something new. There are three extra sections. These sections are:

Vision Statement Worksheet. Its a worksheet designed to help us take a moment and think about the Lord’s vision for our lives.

Hold Tight to the Word of God. This is a little activity geared towards encouraging us to keep getting into the Word of God.

Spiritual Worksheet Check. This encourages us to get deep with ourselves on where we are with the Lord. To be challenged and encouraged to seeking Him deeper.

There are link is below to download these extra worksheets if you have your own journaling style. I look forward to closing up our journey in Philippians and stepping into a new Book with the Lord.

© Kimberlee Smith 2026 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.