COLOSSIANS. Nothing is known of the foundation of the Church at Colosse, a chief city of Phrygia; but the Christians there were in danger of relapse, from a tendency to asceticism, Judaism, and angel-worship. Paul sets before them the majesty and all-sufficiency of Christ, as the source of all spiritual blessings. Christian perfection is attained by the practical realisation of this truth influencing the daily life. The attention is fixed upon the Person of Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice completes the typical offerings of Judaism, crucifies the old man with his affections and lusts, while the Resurrection unfolds a new life in Him, elevating the soul above earthly objects more effectually than mere mortification of the flesh to quench out the emotions of the heart, according to a Stoic philosophy. The Epistle was probably written about A.D. 62, during Paul's imprisonment at Rome.

Summary. I. Thanksgiving for their faith, hope, and charity, with a prayer for their spiritual progress (i. 1–15). II. The supremacy and glorious pre-existence of Christ through all eternity, and His reconciliation of humanity to God the Father by His own Resurrection and Ascension to the right hand of power (i. 16–29). III. A stimulus to advance in the knowledge of Christ by the apostle's own example and eager desire for their perfection, and by reference to the privileges of membership with Christ; and a warning against false teaching which endangered them (ii.). IV. Moral and spiritual effects of their participation in Christ's resurrection, both generally and in various social relations (iii.). V. Concluding address to the whole Church, and special salutation and messages from individuals (iv.).