Video Introduction

Summary

This chapter offers a brief overview of the contents of Colossians, followed by discussion of historical background and major themes.

In terms of historical background, the book presents itself as a letter written from Paul in prison to believers in Colossae, who were presumably evangelized by Paul’s associate Epaphras. The letter has close connections to Philemon (as well as to Ephesians), and it might be assumed that Paul sent those two (or three) letters at the same time. Some scholars, however, think that Colossians is pseudepigraphical. In any case, it contends against a philosophy that seems to involve asceticism and an unhealthy interest in spiritual beings or experiences.

The letter of Colossians is notable in that it presents a cosmic image of Christ as Lord and Creator of the universe. This theme is especially developed in a poetic passage called “the Christ hymn.” Colossians also evinces what theologians call “realized eschatology,” maintaining that blessings usually associated with the end times are already available to believers through faith. Furthermore, Colossians contends that the secret to attaining knowledge and true spiritual maturity involves simply remaining in the community of faith and allowing God to give growth naturally.

Study Questions

1. Discuss the ways in which Colossians can be compared to (a) Ephesians; (b) Philemon; and (c) Paul’s undisputed letters. What possible scenarios do scholars envision regarding the letter’s composition on the basis of these comparisons?

2. What was “the Colossian heresy”? What tenets or features of this philosophy appear to be reflected in the warnings and affirmations that this letter offers its readers?

3. How are ideas expressed in Paul’s undisputed letters understood to be “developed” or taken to another level (by Paul or someone else) in Colossians? Give at least three examples.

4. Describe the distinctive image of Christ presented in Colossians 1:15–20 and indicate what the liturgical character of this material suggests regarding Christian doctrine at the time.

5. What is “realized eschatology” and why is Colossians often cited as an example of this theological perspective? Illustrate the point with reference to the claim that Christ has disarmed spiritual powers and made a public display of his triumph over them.

6. How does Colossians employ baptismal imagery in its discussion of spiritual growth? What does this letter suggest is the surest way for believers to grow to full maturity?

Explore Readings

These readings provide a chance for you to explore the New Testament in more depth. The boxes from the text are included here, as well as bibliographies and outlines for the books of the New Testament.

All the Explore readings can also be downloaded as PDFs here.

• 19.0. Colossians: Outline of Contents

• 19.1. Colossians in the Revised Common Lectionary

• 19.2. Bibliography: Colossians

• 19.3. Parallels between Ephesians and Colossians (Box 17.1)

• 19.4. Colossians and Philemon (Box 19.3)

• 19.5. Colossians 3:18–4:1 and Other Household Tables in the New Testament

• 19.6. Archippus the Procrastinator (Box 19.8)

• 19.7. Hymns in New Testament Letters (Box 18.2)

• 19.8. Colossians 3:20–21—Parenting Advice from Paul and Ben Sira

• 19.9. Justification for Haustafeln in the Ten Commandments (Philo)

• 19.10. Powerful Spiritual Beings (Box 17.3)

• 19.11. Authorship of Colossians

• 19.12. Literary Siblings: Relationship of Ephesians to Colossians

• 19.13. Distinctive Aspects of Colossians (Box 19.4)

• 19.14. Development of Pauline Ideas in Colossians (Box 19.5)

• 19.15. “Realized Eschatology”: What Would Paul Think?

• 19.16. What Was the Colossian Heresy? (Box 19.2)

• 19.17. Divine Wisdom and the “Colossian Hymn”

• 19.18. Worldwide Evangelism: Is Paul Exaggerating? (Box 19.6)

• 19.19. Nailed to the Cross (Box 19.1)

• 19.20. Slaves and Masters (Box 19.7)

• 19.21. The Letter from Laodicea

• 19.22. Colossians and the Nicene Creed

Realized Eschatology