It Starts Small

1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

² To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ:

Grace and peace to you from God our Father.

Colossians 1:1-2

The ancient city of Colossae was nestled in the heart of Asia Minor, which is present-day Turkey. It was a vibrant hub of trade and culture. The city flourished along a vital trade route. It was renowned for its exquisite rich dark cloth, a testament to the artistry and industrious spirit of its people. However, the city faced devastating earthquakes in AD 17 and AD 60. The latter earthquake struck perilously close to the time this letter was penned. These cataclysmic events occurred along with fierce business rivalries. These factors gradually dimmed Colossae’s once-brilliant light. This led to its tragic disappearance by 400 AD. Even in Paul’s era, this remarkable city stood in the shadows of its neighboring giants. These neighboring giants were in the Lycus Valley, Laodicea and Hierapolis. The city was a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of greatness.

The church of the Colossians may be the smallest in number among Paul’s letters to churches. However, it is a treasure trove of divine wisdom. It reveals the heart of our Savior. The world is spiraling into relativism and embracing new age philosophies. It also adopts a liberal “everything goes” mentality. Yet, the book of Colossians shines like a beacon in the darkness. It presents an awe-inspiring and beautifully articulated Christology that stands unrivaled in the New Testament. Here, the might, power, supremacy, and sufficiency of Christ—the Creator and Sustainer—are illustrated with breathtaking clarity. New believers can delve into Colossians to grasp the true essence of who Christ is. Seasoned believers are beckoned back to this vibrant text. They rediscover the roots of our faith in Christ, our head. The theme is cosmic and grand. Yet, it speaks intimately to each of us. It connected just as deeply with that humble, out-of-the-way church.

We never read in Acts that Paul visited this church. Yet, it is extraordinary that even in Colossians (1:4, 9, 2:1) we find Paul hearing about their struggles and triumphs! The church thrived as a direct result of Paul’s transformative ministry. In Acts 19, we witness Paul fervently ministering in Ephesus. During those powerful two years, every single person in all of Asia encountered the gospel (20:31). Paul’s ministry was revolutionary. It reached far beyond his personal touch. He impacted lands he had never stepped foot in. This essence of outreach should ignite a fire in the heart of every Christian worker! The church in Colossae represents the vibrant principle of reproduction in action. It is a testament to the kind of multiplication we should aspire to in the ministry. God has passionately called us to this ministry.

Epaphras (1:7, 4:12) was trained by Paul. He was dispatched to Colossae with the noble mission of planting the church there. This vibrant congregation was predominantly composed of Gentiles. Notably absent are the typical discussions of Jewish legalism. These discussions frequently populate letters addressed to churches with a Jewish majority. However, as Paul reached out to them, he quickly realized that false teachings had infiltrated the church. This realization ignited a passionate resolve within Paul. He was determined to eradicate these misleading doctrines. Additionally, he sought to protect their faith.

Paul boldly proclaims his identity as an apostle of Jesus Christ. This title empowers him with the divine authority to teach, lead, and guide the beloved Colossian church. This sacred authority was not seized by his own ambition but lovingly bestowed upon him by Christ Himself. In this powerful moment, Paul highlights Timothy’s presence. Timothy is his steadfast companion. He had fervently ministered alongside Paul in Ephesus. Many in the Colossian community likely recognized him.

The book of Colossians was written to believers. Some New Testament epistles are written to people in general or perhaps Jews. This was written to the saints. It addresses many issues that believers who have already placed their faith in Christ will face.

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Discussion Questions

• Who was this letter written to?
• Where was Colossae?
• When did Paul go there?
• How was the church formed?
• Where was Paul when he wrote this?
• What are some of the main themes of this letter?
• Why does Paul begin most of his letters by stating his apostleship?

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