INTRODUCTION

Paul wrote to the believers in Colossi refuting the wrong teachings of syncretism that God was either too distant, translucent or imminent and too familiar. He was cautious and gentler as it was not a church he started or visited but care to honour the Lords body. since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints;... as you also learned from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf, who also declared to us your love in the Spirit. (Colossians 1:4, 7-8)

Chapter 1- Personal: Paul starts with his usual form of greetings and begins with thanksgiving (1:9-12) for their faith (:4) in their exercise of grace (:6) wisdom and understanding. He prays they walk worthy, be fruitful, growing and be strengthened with patience. Paul reminded of the Pre-eminence and Supremacy of Christ as the Beginning, the Creator, the Firstborn and the Head of the church and above all principalities, rulers. and power (1:15-24),

Chapter 2 Doctrinal: Paul refutes the philosophy and legalism from false teachers of his days. It is not philosophy but Fullness of Christ (2:6-15) How we experience it? By living, rooted, built, strengthened and thankful (:6-7) It is not legalism but freedom in Christ. It is neither food, drink, festivities or rites (:11-23) On the other hand he admonished the carnal believers that one should not live under bondage but live in liberty in Christ because we are new creations.

Chapter 3 Practical: Paul spells out in how they should live as they set their affection on things in heaven (Colossians 3:2), because they belong with Christ (Colossians 3:3-4). They should not do evil deeds (Colossians 3:5-11). Instead, they should love other people (Colossians 3:12-14). And they should serve God (Colossians 3:15-17).

Chapter 4 Relational: Paul closes with exhortations and final greetings

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