In this episode, we begin a new series walking through the letter of Colossians. Though short—just four chapters—this book is overflowing with Christ at every turn. Before diving into the heart of Paul’s message, we take time to set the stage: Who were the Colossians? Why did Paul write to them? And what challenges were they facing?
We explore the historical context of Colossae, a once-thriving cosmopolitan city later devastated by an earthquake, and we uncover the false teachings that threatened the young church—teachings that promised “more” of God through rules, rituals, or mystical experiences. Paul’s answer is both simple and profound: Christ is enough. Our lives are hidden with Him.
As Paul introduces himself as an apostle “by the will of God,” we consider what it means to speak with authority in Christ. We also notice the gentleness of his greeting—calling the believers in Colossae “faithful brothers and sisters in Christ”—and reflect on what it would mean for our own churches to be known in that way.
The challenge for us today is the same as it was for the Colossians: resisting the temptation to add to the gospel and remembering that our lives are completely hidden with Christ.