The Rebuild Project: Diving Deep into Colossians: The Supremacy of Christ

Introduction: Ever Feel Like You’re Drowning in Distractions?

Picture this: You wake up, grab your phone, and within seconds, you’re bombarded—news, social media, work emails, endless opinions, and a to-do list that never shrinks. It’s exhausting. Now imagine trying to keep your faith strong in the middle of all that noise.

That’s exactly what the church in Colossae was dealing with—just swap smartphones for ancient philosophy, pagan rituals, and pressure to fit in. While our modern distractions revolve around digital screens and instant connectivity, ancient distractions in Colossae came in the form of diverse philosophical teachings and societal norms that challenged their beliefs. Just like today, these external pressures made it difficult for the Colossians to maintain focus on their spiritual path. Both eras faced the challenge of staying true to their values amidst a whirlwind of competing influences.

And Paul’s response? A radical, game-changing letter that shouts one truth above all else: Jesus isn’t just part of the picture—He is the picture. Paul emphasizes that Jesus is the central figure around which everything else revolves. He reminds the Colossians that Jesus embodies the essence of their faith and serves as the foundation for their beliefs and actions. By placing Jesus at the forefront, Paul encourages them to find clarity and purpose amidst the chaos, urging them to build their lives around His teachings and example.

So if you’ve ever felt pulled in a million directions, if you’ve wondered “What really matters?”, or if you just need a faith-refresher, buckle up. We’re diving into Colossians—Paul’s mic-drop on why Christ is everything.

I. Setting the Historical Stage: Context is Key

1. The World of the Early Church: A Spiritual Smorgasbord

Colossae was a small but diverse city in modern-day Turkey, sitting at a cultural crossroads. Think of it like a first-century New York City—full of ideas, religions, and philosophies clashing daily. The city was a bustling hub of commerce, benefiting from its strategic location along major trade routes, which brought in a variety of goods and wealth. Its population was a mix of Greeks, Jews, and native Phrygians, each contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural and religious practices. This diversity fostered an environment in which different beliefs, including early Christianity, could be discussed and spread among the inhabitants. The Colossian Christians were surrounded by:

Jewish legalism (“Follow these rules to be holy!”) Jewish legalism presented a challenge to the Colossian Christians by insisting on strict adherence to traditional Jewish laws and customs as necessary for salvation. This emphasis on ritual and rule-keeping could create tension within the Christian community, which preached salvation through faith in Jesus rather than through works. The Colossians had to navigate these pressures while affirming their belief in the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice, which rendered the old legalistic practices obsolete in the new covenant.

Greek philosophy (“Secret knowledge will save you!”) Greek philosophy also left its mark on the Colossian Christians, offering a worldview that emphasized the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom as the path to enlightenment. Thinkers like Plato and Aristotle advocated for understanding the nature of reality through reason and intellect, which could sometimes conflict with the faith-based tenets of Christianity. The allure of possessing secret knowledge, often associated with Gnostic teachings, tempted some believers to stray from the simple gospel message, leading to debates within the community about the true source of salvation and wisdom.

Pagan mysticism (“Worship angels for spiritual power!”) Pagan mysticism exerted a significant influence on the Colossian Christians by promoting the idea that spiritual power and enlightenment could be attained through the worship of various deities and mystical rituals. This belief system encouraged the veneration of angels and other supernatural beings as intermediaries, promising heightened spiritual experiences and insights. Such practices posed a challenge to the Christian doctrine, which emphasized direct access to God through Jesus Christ, and encouraged believers to remain steadfast in their faith without seeking additional spiritual intermediaries.

Roman emperor worship (“Caesar is lord!”) Roman emperor worship presented a significant challenge to early Christians, as it demanded allegiance to the emperor as a divine figure, conflicting with the core Christian belief in Christ as the sole Lord. This form of worship often required public acts of homage to the emperor, putting Christians in a difficult position where refusal could lead to social ostracism, persecution, or even execution. The tension between the demands of Roman authority and the commitment to their faith forced many Christians to navigate a complex landscape of loyalty and resistance, ultimately strengthening their resolve to uphold the teachings of Jesus above all else.

Sound chaotic? It was. And some well-meaning (but very wrong) teachers were telling the Colossians, “Jesus is great, but you need more to be truly spiritual.” These teachings caused confusion and division among the Colossians, as they struggled to discern the true path to spiritual fulfillment. Some believers were led away from the core tenets of their faith, adopting practices that contradicted the teachings of Christ. This internal conflict weakened the cohesion of the community, prompting leaders to reinforce the message of salvation through Christ alone and to warn against the seductive allure of alternative spiritual practices.

2. Meet the Recipients: A Church Paul Didn’t Even Plant

Here’s a fun fact: Paul had never visited Colossae. Unlike the churches in cities like Corinth and Ephesus, which Paul himself established and nurtured through personal visits and direct teachings, his relationship with the Colossians was more distant. Instead, he relied on his co-worker, Epaphras, who is believed to have founded the church (Col 1:7) and kept Paul informed about their spiritual growth and challenges. This indirect connection meant that Paul had to build trust and authority through his letters, offering guidance and addressing issues based on second-hand reports. But when Epaphras showed up in Rome (where Paul was under house arrest) with news that false teachings were creeping in, Paul had to respond.

The Colossians were new believers, still figuring out what it meant to follow Jesus in a culture that said:

“Mix your faith with other spiritual practices.” The surrounding cultures in Colossae presented a melting pot of religious influences, including pagan rituals, mystery religions, and philosophical ideas. These influences tempted the Colossians to incorporate elements from these beliefs into their Christian faith, leading to a diluted and potentially corrupted understanding of Jesus' teachings. This syncretism posed a significant challenge as Paul sought to reinforce the supremacy of Christ and ensure the Colossians' devotion remained pure and undivided.

“Jesus is important, but not supreme.” Syncretism threatened to undermine the foundational truths of the Christian faith by blending incompatible beliefs and practices. For the Colossians, this meant the risk of losing the distinctiveness of the gospel message and replacing the centrality of Christ with a patchwork of ideas that contradicted His teachings. Such a dilution could lead to confusion, weaken their spiritual resolve, and ultimately distance them from the transformative power of the gospel.

3. Paul’s Situation: Writing from Prison… Again

Paul wrote Colossians around AD 60-62 while chained to a Roman guard (Acts 28:16, 30). Being imprisoned in Rome presented numerous challenges, including harsh living conditions and limited freedom. Roman prisons were often overcrowded and unsanitary, making it difficult for inmates to maintain their health. Additionally, prisoners like Paul depended on friends and supporters to provide food and other necessities, as the Roman authorities did not supply these. But here’s the wild part: Prison didn’t slow him down. Instead of complaining, he wrote some of his most powerful letters (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon).

His circumstances actually sharpened his message. He couldn’t travel, so he wrote. He couldn’t preach publicly, so he poured his heart into these words. And what came out? A letter that cuts through confusion like a laser. Paul's imprisonment forced him to focus on clarity and precision in his writing, as he had to convey his messages without the benefit of personal interaction. His letters from prison are marked by a sense of urgency and directness, often addressing specific issues and questions faced by the early Christian communities. This situation allowed him to craft letters that were not only deeply personal but also universally applicable, offering guidance and encouragement to believers across diverse contexts.

II. Unpacking the Core Message: Christ Above All

1. The Central Theme: Jesus Isn’t Just #1—He’s in a League of His Own

Paul doesn’t ease into this. He opens with a theological atomic bomb (Col. 1:15-20):

“The Son is the image of the invisible God…

For in Him all things were created…

He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together…

For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him.”

Translation? Jesus isn’t just a good teacher, a prophet, or a moral guide. He’s:

God in flesh (v. 15) This means that Jesus embodies the divine nature and essence of God in human form, making Him the perfect mediator between God and humanity. His incarnation bridges the gap between the divine and the mortal, providing a tangible representation of God's love and power. This profound truth underscores the uniqueness of Jesus' role in salvation and the intimate relationship He offers to believers.

Creator of everything (v. 16) This role emphasizes that Jesus is not merely a part of creation but the very source of it. Everything in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, was crafted through His divine will and power. This foundational truth highlights His supreme authority over all aspects of existence, reinforcing His preeminence in the cosmos and His rightful position as the object of worship and reverence.

Sustainer of the universe (v. 17) As the Sustainer of the universe, Jesus ensures that all creation continues in harmony and order. His ongoing presence and power uphold every aspect of existence, maintaining the balance and stability of all things. This continuous act of sustaining the universe demonstrates His omnipotence and unwavering commitment to the well-being of creation, affirming His vital role in the ongoing narrative of life and the cosmos.

The One who reconciles all things to God (v. 20) Through His sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus made peace between God and humanity, mending the broken relationship caused by sin. His bloodshed served as the ultimate atonement, allowing for forgiveness and restoration. By reconciling all things to Himself, Jesus brings unity to creation, offering redemption and hope to a fractured world and establishing a new covenant of grace and love.

This wasn’t just theology—it was a defense against the false teachings trying to downplay Jesus. These teachings counter false narratives by affirming the divine nature and authority of Jesus, emphasizing that He is not merely a historical figure or spiritual leader. By highlighting His roles as Creator, Sustainer, and Reconciler, they refute claims that diminish His significance or equate Him with other prophets or teachers. These truths provide a robust defense against any attempts to undermine His unique position in the Christian faith, reinforcing the essential doctrines that affirm His deity and centrality in salvation.

2. Key Battles Paul Addresses

Paul takes aim at three big errors creeping into the church:

A. “You Need More Than Jesus” (Mysticism & Legalism)

Mysticism in this context refers to the pursuit of spiritual experiences and revelations beyond what is provided through a relationship with Christ, such as the worship of angels. Legalism, on the other hand, involves adhering strictly to religious laws and rituals, like the Jewish food and festival regulations, as a means of achieving righteousness or spiritual growth. Both of these approaches suggest that faith in Christ alone is insufficient for spiritual fulfillment.

Some were pushing:

“Follow Jewish laws about food and festivals!” (2:16) Paul firmly opposed the idea that following Jewish laws about food and festivals was necessary for salvation or spiritual growth. He argued that these practices were merely shadows of what was to come, with Christ being the substance and fulfillment of these rituals. By emphasizing that faith in Christ alone was sufficient, Paul sought to free believers from the constraints of legalism and redirect their focus to a relationship with Christ.

“Worship angels for deeper spiritual experiences!” (2:18) Paul firmly rejected the notion of worshipping angels as a means to attain deeper spiritual experiences. He emphasized that such practices detracted from the sufficiency of Christ and misled believers into seeking fulfillment outside of their relationship with Him. By focusing on Christ alone, Paul argued, believers could fully experience spiritual growth and maturity without resorting to extraneous rituals or intermediaries.

Paul’s response? “You’re already complete in Christ” (2:10). In Colossians 2:10, Paul emphasized the completeness that believers have in Christ, countering both legalism and mysticism. He argued that in Christ, they were already filled and lacked nothing, rendering additional rituals or spiritual experiences unnecessary. By highlighting their complete union with Christ, Paul assured the Colossians that their spiritual fulfillment and growth stemmed solely from their relationship with Him, without needing to adhere to external practices or seek mystical experiences.

B. “Human Wisdom is Just as Good” (Philosophy)

Some members of the church believed that incorporating human philosophy could enhance their spiritual journey, offering deeper insights beyond traditional teachings. They argued that philosophical reasoning could provide a broader understanding of life's complexities, complementing religious doctrine.

Greek thinkers loved gnosis (secret knowledge). The appeal of secret knowledge to Greek thinkers lay in the belief that it provided access to deeper truths and understanding that were not available to the general populace. This pursuit of gnosis was seen as a way to elevate one's status and intellect, distinguishing the enlightened from the ordinary. Such knowledge promised not only intellectual fulfillment but also a sense of power and exclusivity.

Paul says: “All wisdom is found in Christ” (2:3). Paul's assertion that "All wisdom is found in Christ" underscores the belief that true understanding and insight are rooted in the teachings and person of Jesus. According to Colossians 2:3, this means that Christ embodies the ultimate truth and knowledge, surpassing any human philosophy or secret wisdom. For believers, turning to Christ is seen as the path to genuine enlightenment and spiritual fulfillment, as it negates the need for external sources of wisdom.

C. “Your Body Doesn’t Matter” (Dualism)

Dualism often promotes the idea that the physical body is separate from and less important than the spiritual realm, leading some to neglect or dismiss the value of their physical existence. This perspective can lead to ascetic practices or extreme self-discipline in an attempt to elevate one's spiritual experiences.

Some taught that spiritual things were holy, but physical life (work, relationships, etc.) didn’t matter. Such a mindset can result in a lack of care for one's health and well-being, potentially leading to physical harm or neglect. Additionally, it can undermine the significance of human relationships and community, as these are often experienced and nurtured through physical interactions. Ultimately, dismissing the importance of the physical world can create an imbalance, where individuals miss out on the holistic experience of life that integrates both the spiritual and the physical.

Paul flips that: “Whatever you do, do it for Jesus” (3:17, 23). Paul’s teaching emphasizes that every aspect of daily life, including work, relationships, and personal health, holds significance when done with the intention of honoring Christ. This perspective encourages believers to engage fully in their physical existence, recognizing that their actions and interactions are opportunities to reflect their faith. By integrating the spiritual and physical, individuals can lead a more balanced and fulfilling life, where every moment is seen as a chance to serve and glorify God.

3. The Practical Punchline: How Then Should We Live?

Paul doesn’t stop with theology—he gets real practical:

Kill sin, not coddle it (3:5-9) Paul's exhortation to "kill sin, not coddle it" in Colossians 3:5-9 emphasizes the need for believers to actively and decisively put to death sinful behaviors and desires. This involves renouncing earthly ways, such as sexual immorality, impurity, and greed, which are contrary to the new life in Christ. By doing so, believers are encouraged to embrace a life that reflects their transformed identity in Christ, fostering spiritual growth and holiness.

Clothe yourself in love (3:12-14) Clothing ourselves in love, as stated in Colossians 3:12-14, signifies the importance of embodying virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Love is described as the binding force that brings all these qualities together in perfect unity. By prioritizing love in our interactions, we create harmonious relationships and reflect the character of Christ in our daily lives.

Let peace rule in your relationships (3:15) Letting peace rule in your relationships, as outlined in Colossians 3:15, involves allowing the peace of Christ to govern our interactions and decisions. This peace acts as an umpire in our hearts, guiding us toward unity and reconciliation rather than conflict and division. By fostering an environment where peace prevails, we not only strengthen our bonds with one another but also create a community that mirrors the tranquility and harmony found in Christ.

Work like you’re working for Jesus (3:22-24) Viewing work as a form of worship, as suggested in Colossians 3:22-24, elevates our daily tasks to acts of devotion and purpose. This perspective encourages us to perform our duties with integrity and diligence, knowing that our efforts are ultimately for the glory of God. By approaching work with this mindset, we find greater fulfillment and motivation, as each task becomes an opportunity to serve and honor Christ.

This isn’t just “be a good person”—it’s “because Christ is supreme, your whole life should reflect Him.”It’s about recognizing that every action, no matter how small, has eternal significance. By aligning our work with Christ’s teachings, we reflect His love and character, bringing light to our workplaces and demonstrating His supremacy in all aspects of life.

III. Bridging the Gap: Why This Matters Today

1. We Still Live in a “Jesus-Plus” Culture

The Colossian heresies didn’t disappear—they just got rebranded. Today, we hear:

“Jesus is great, but you also need this political ideology to be whole.” In a "Jesus-Plus" culture, the belief is that faith in Jesus alone is insufficient for personal fulfillment or salvation. Instead, individuals are encouraged to supplement their faith with additional ideologies, practices, or beliefs, such as political affiliations, self-help philosophies, or material success. This mindset can dilute the core tenets of Christianity by implying that external factors are necessary to achieve spiritual completeness.

“Faith is private—don’t let it affect your work, relationships, or politics.” Keeping faith private can lead to compartmentalization, where individuals separate their beliefs from their everyday actions, potentially resulting in a lack of authenticity and integrity. This separation can diminish the influence of faith in guiding moral and ethical decisions, leading to a disconnect between one's values and behaviors. Moreover, it may contribute to a society where spiritual and moral considerations are sidelined in public discourse, reducing the role of faith in fostering community and social cohesion.

“Spirituality is about self-discovery, not submission to Christ.” Prioritizing self-discovery over religious submission can lead individuals to focus more on personal growth and self-fulfillment, often at the expense of communal values and shared beliefs. This shift may encourage a more individualistic approach to spirituality, where personal truths and experiences take precedence over traditional teachings and doctrines. Consequently, this can result in fragmented communities, where the emphasis on personal enlightenment overshadows the collective pursuit of a unified spiritual purpose.

Paul’s answer? Jesus is sufficient. Paul’s answer, that Jesus is sufficient, addresses each of these points by emphasizing the completeness found in faith alone. In a "Jesus-Plus" culture, where additional ideologies are deemed necessary, recognizing Jesus as fully sufficient refocuses believers on the core of their faith, allowing it to permeate all aspects of life without the need for external validation. By acknowledging that faith in Jesus can guide moral and ethical decisions, individuals can integrate their beliefs into their daily actions, fostering authenticity and integrity. Furthermore, prioritizing submission to Christ over self-discovery unites believers in a shared pursuit of spiritual growth, strengthening community ties and underscoring the collective values inherent in the Christian faith.

2. Practical Takeaways for Right Now

When you feel incomplete:

Remind yourself—“I am complete in Christ” (2:10). To remind ourselves that we're complete in Christ when feelings of incompleteness arise, we can turn to prayer and meditation on scripture, allowing the words to reaffirm our identity in Him. Engaging in fellowship with other believers can also provide encouragement and support, reinforcing the truth of our faith. Additionally, keeping a gratitude journal focused on God's blessings can help shift our perspective towards recognizing the fullness we have in Christ.

When culture says ‘truth is relative’:

Stand on “All wisdom is in Him” (2:3). We can apply this wisdom in daily life by seeking guidance from scripture when faced with moral dilemmas, ensuring our decisions align with biblical principles. Engaging in regular study and discussion with fellow believers can help us deepen our understanding and application of God's wisdom. Additionally, by practicing discernment and relying on prayer, we can navigate cultural pressures with confidence, grounded in the steadfast truth of Christ.

When work feels meaningless:

Work “as for the Lord” (3:23). Working with a higher purpose gives a sense of fulfillment and motivation, transforming even mundane tasks into meaningful contributions to a greater cause. It fosters a resilient mindset, helping individuals persevere through challenges by focusing on the impact their work has on others and their faith. Additionally, aligning work with spiritual values can enhance job satisfaction and promote a sense of peace and contentment, knowing that one's efforts serve a divine purpose.

When relationships are messy:

“Forgive as Christ forgave you” (3:13). Forgiveness is crucial in maintaining healthy relationships, as it allows individuals to move past grievances and build stronger connections. By forgiving others, we emulate Christ's example and create an environment of grace and understanding, which fosters trust and reconciliation. Moreover, practicing forgiveness can lead to personal healing and emotional freedom, helping individuals let go of resentment and embrace a future of peace and harmony within their relationships.

3. Reflective Questions

Where have I been tempted to add to the Gospel (rules, trends, ideologies)?

What area of my life have I not fully surrendered to Christ’s lordship?

How can I remind myself daily of who Jesus is?

IV. Paul’s Heart in Action: More Than Just Theology

1. His Personal Touch

Even though Paul hadn’t met the Colossians, he prayed for them constantly (1:3, 9). He wasn’t just a theologian—he was a pastor. He expressed his deep concern for their spiritual growth and well-being by writing letters filled with encouragement and guidance. Paul also sent trusted companions like Tychicus and Onesimus to provide support and deliver his teachings in person. His actions showed a genuine commitment to nurturing their faith and strengthening their community.

2. His Leadership Style

Firm on truth, gentle with people (He corrects false teaching but calls them “holy and faithful” (1:2).) Paul's leadership had a profound impact on the Colossians, as it fostered a strong sense of community and spiritual resilience among them. His ability to balance firmness in upholding truth with gentleness in personal interactions allowed the Colossians to feel both guided and valued. This approach not only helped correct any misconceptions but also inspired them to remain faithful and united in their beliefs.

Team-oriented (He names eight coworkers in 4:7-14—no lone ranger here.) By emphasizing teamwork, Paul demonstrated the importance of collaboration in building a thriving community. His recognition of his coworkers' contributions fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose among the Colossians. This collaborative spirit encouraged mutual support and accountability, which were crucial for their spiritual growth and collective strength.

3. His Unshakable Priorities

Even in chains, Paul’s focus was:

Christ’s supremacy (1:15-20) Paul emphasized Christ's supremacy as central to the Colossians' faith, underscoring that Christ is the head of the church and the source of all creation. By highlighting Christ's preeminence, Paul reinforced the importance of staying rooted in the true teachings of the Gospel, resisting any false doctrines that might arise. This focus not only solidified the Colossians' understanding of their faith but also provided them with a strong foundation for spiritual growth and resilience.

The Church’s growth (2:2) Paul's emphasis on the Church's growth was pivotal in ensuring that the Colossians matured in their faith, both individually and as a community. By encouraging them to be knit together in love and to attain the full riches of complete understanding, he highlighted the importance of spiritual maturity and unity. This focus on growth not only strengthened their commitment to the Gospel but also equipped them to face challenges and spread their faith to others, thereby expanding the reach and influence of the early Christian church.

Living worthy of the Gospel (1:10) To live worthy of the Gospel means to embody the teachings and values of Christ in everyday life. It involves striving to lead a life of integrity, compassion, and humility, reflecting the love and grace that Jesus exemplified. By doing so, believers not only honor their faith but also become a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, inspiring others to explore and embrace the Christian way of life.

4. Emulating Paul’s Example

Be bold about truth (but do it with love). Living with boldness and love allows individuals to stand firmly in their beliefs while maintaining compassion and empathy towards others. This approach fosters genuine connections and open dialogue, creating an environment where people feel respected and valued. By boldly upholding the truth with love, individuals can inspire positive change and encourage others to explore deeper truths in a supportive manner.

Stay rooted in Christ (especially when life gets chaotic). Practices such as regular prayer and meditation can help maintain spiritual grounding during chaotic times. Engaging in scripture study provides guidance and reassurance, while participating in a faith community offers support and encouragement. Additionally, practicing gratitude and serving others can keep one's focus on Christ's teachings, fostering resilience and peace amidst turmoil.

Invest in people (Paul didn’t just write—he lived community). Investing in people involves dedicating time and effort to building meaningful relationships and supporting their growth. This can be done by actively listening to others, offering guidance and mentorship, and celebrating their achievements. Additionally, being present in times of need and encouraging individuals to pursue their passions and develop their skills can foster strong, supportive communities where everyone feels valued and empowered.

V. Conclusion: Christ Above All, In All, and Through All

Recap of Key Learnings

Jesus isn’t just "a" way—He’s "the" way (1:15-20). He serves as the ultimate path to spiritual fulfillment and reconciliation with God. This emphasizes His role as the foundation of Christian faith, guiding believers through His teachings and sacrifice. By following Him, individuals find purpose, direction, and eternal hope.

You don’t need more—you have everything in Him (2:10). In Christ, believers discover a sense of completeness and contentment that transcends worldly desires and ambitions. His teachings provide a framework for living a life of peace and joy, rooted in the assurance of His love and grace. By embracing faith in Him, individuals can let go of the pursuit of material gain, finding true satisfaction in a spiritual relationship that fulfills their deepest needs.

Because He’s Lord, every part of your life matters (3:17). This understanding encourages believers to approach daily decisions with a sense of purpose and intention, knowing that their actions are meaningful in the larger context of their faith. It inspires them to align their choices with Christ's teachings, fostering a lifestyle that reflects His values of love, compassion, and integrity. By prioritizing spiritual growth and moral responsibility, individuals can navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.

The Enduring Power of Colossians

This letter wasn’t just for Colossae. It’s for us—for anyone drowning in distractions, half-truths, or the pressure to fit in. Christ is enough. Today, the teachings of Colossians continue to offer a powerful reminder of Christ's sufficiency in a world overwhelmed by noise and complexity. Its message empowers individuals to rise above societal pressures and false narratives, anchoring their lives in enduring truth and unwavering faith. By embracing the wisdom of Colossians, believers find renewed strength and clarity, enabling them to lead lives of purpose and resilience despite the ever-changing landscapes of modern life.

A Challenge for You

This week, read Colossians (it’s short!). Underline every truth about who Jesus is. Then ask: “How does this change how I live today?”

Looking Ahead

Next up: 1 Thessalonians—the letter of faithfulness in the face of persecution. (Spoiler: Paul’s happiness was in the church's resilience.)

Final Thought:
In a world that tries to shrink Jesus down to a concept, a moral teacher, or a side dish to our real lives, Colossians roars: HE IS EVERYTHING. And that changes everything.

What part of Colossians hit you hardest? Drop a comment—let’s talk about it!