Bible Study: Colossians Chapter 1

Introduction

• New Series: Bible study with me, focusing on the book of Colossians.
• Context: Understanding the context is crucial for interpreting the book.
• Resources: Recommends Bible Project videos, commentaries, and sermons.

Background on Colossians

• Author: Apostle Paul, written during imprisonment.
• Audience: Church at Colossae, not directly founded by Paul.
• Founder: Epaphras, a co-worker of Paul.
• Purpose: Address cultural pressures tempting the Colossians away from Jesus.

Structure of Colossians

• Chapter Breakdown:
  • Chapters 1-2: Jesus as the exalted Messiah.
  • Chapter 2: Addressing pressures to turn away from Jesus.
  • Chapters 3-4: New way of life through Jesus's resurrection.

Theme

• Main Theme: "No part of human existence remains untouched by the loving and liberating rule of the risen Jesus."

Chapter 1 Structure

1. Greeting (Verses 1-2)
2. Thanksgiving and Prayer (Verses 3-14)
3. Preeminence of Christ (Verses 15-23)
4. Paul's Ministry to the Church (Verses 24-29)

Key Points

Greeting

• Introduction: Paul introduces himself as an apostle of Jesus, emphasizing authority from Jesus.

Thanksgiving and Prayer

• Faith and Love: Colossians' faith and love are fueled by hope in heaven.
• Continuous Prayer: Importance of praying for believers consistently.
• Spiritual Wisdom: Knowledge and understanding transform lives.
• Bearing Fruit: Encourages fruitfulness in every good work, not just specialized gifts.
• Spiritual Power: Prayer for strength not for selfish aims, but to live worthily.

Preeminence of Christ

• Image of God: Jesus as the image (icon) and full revelation of God.
• Firstborn: Supremacy and priority over creation.
• Creator and Sustainer: Jesus holds the universe together.
• Reconciliation: Jesus's role in reconciling creation.
• Mystery Revealed: Christ in believers, hope of glory.

Paul's Ministry

• Sufferings: Paul's sufferings continue Jesus's ministry.
• Mystery Unfolded: Unveiling of God's redemption plan through Jesus.
• Spiritual Maturity: Aim for maturity in Christ, beyond initial faith.

Reflections and Notes

• Domain of Darkness vs. Kingdom of Son: Imagery of being rescued from darkness to belonging in God's family.
• Delivered: Means to save or set free.
• Change of Status: Believers move from alienation to being part of God's family through Christ.

Conclusion

• Meditation: Focus on Colossians 1:13-14, understanding deliverance and transfer to God's kingdom.
• Encouragement: Reflect on being forgiven and free in Christ.

Next Steps

• Further Study: Meditate on chosen verses.
• Engagement: Share insights and continue through the series.