Colossians: Paul's Letter to Life
An exploration of Paul's letter to the Colossians Year 13 Religious Studies Understanding faith in everyday life
Who was Paul?
Originally named Saul of Tarsus Persecutor of early Christians Dramatic conversion on road to Damascus Became apostle to the Gentiles Wrote 13 books of the New Testament
What is the Letter to the Colossians?
Prison epistle written around 60-62 AD Letter to church in Colossae (modern-day Turkey) Addresses false teachings and heresies Emphasizes Christ's supremacy Practical instructions for Christian living
Why was Colossians Written?
Combat false teachings (Colossian heresy) Syncretism - mixing Christianity with other beliefs Angel worship and mysticism Legalistic practices Affirm Christ's complete sufficiency
When and Where was it Written?
Written during Paul's first Roman imprisonment Approximately 60-62 AD From Rome while under house arrest Delivered by Tychicus and Onesimus Part of the 'Prison Epistles'
How Should We Read Colossians?
Understand the historical context Identify Paul's main themes Look for practical applications Consider the original audience Apply timeless principles to modern life
Chapter 1: The Supremacy of Christ
'He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.' - Colossians 1:15
Chapter 1 Summary: Key Themes
Paul's thanksgiving and prayer (1:1-14) Christ's supremacy over creation (1:15-20) Reconciliation through Christ (1:21-23) Paul's ministry and suffering (1:24-29)
Chapter 1: Exam Key Points
Christ as 'image of invisible God' - nature of Christ Firstborn = preeminence, not created being All things created through and for Christ Christ as head of the church Reconciliation through Christ's blood
Chapter 1 Quiz
1. What does 'firstborn over all creation' mean? 2. How does Christ reconcile us to God? 3. What was Paul's specific ministry calling? 4. Why does Paul emphasize Christ's role in creation?
Chapter 2: Freedom from False Teaching
'See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy.' - Colossians 2:8
Chapter 2 Summary: Key Themes
Warning against false philosophy (2:1-8) Fullness of life in Christ (2:9-15) Freedom from legalistic rules (2:16-19) Dying to worldly principles (2:20-23)
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