Page 88 - Advanced New Testament Survey Student Textbook

read in the church at Laodicea, indicating that he intended its message for more than just the Colossians
(4:16).
Structure

Colossians reflects a typical Paulin Epistle in its structure. It opens with a greeting, thanksgiving, and prayer
(1:1–14), a body (1:15–4:6), and closing remarks and a benediction (4:7–18). In his greeting, Paul touches
on the faith and love of the Colossians (1:4). The body begins with a hymn to Christ, emphasizing that
Jesus is the full expression of the image of God (1:15–23). Paul then speaks about his own sufferings (1:24–
2:5) and presents an argument against the false teachers (2:6–23). Nothing else is needed but Christ, who
reorganizes the way people live life (3:1–17). He then details how the people in a typical Graeco-Roman
household should treat one another (3:18–4:1). He ends the body of the letter with final advice on prayer
and wise living (4:2–6).

Outline
• Salutation and prayer (1:1–14)
• The Christ hymn and reconciliation (1:15–23)
• Paul, the Colossians, and empty philosophy (1:24–2:23)
• Living according to the cross (3:1–4:6)
• Final exhortations and greetings (4:7–18) 127

How does Colossians impact our lives?
Colossians 1:3, 9 – In these verses, Paul told the Colossians that he and his companions “always” prayed
for them because of their faith in Christ and love for others. In this age where selfish thinking is lifted
above everything, these verses provide a model of prayer and attitude which believers everywhere
should follow and live by. How do these verses affect your prayer life? How do you ensure that others
get impacted with these verses as well?
What element of the truth about Christ stands out to you in Col 1:15–23? How does this passage change
your view on life?

Paul examines some of the false teachings of his time in Colossians 2. What do you think are the most
dangerous false teachings today? Do you find any of them attractive or difficult to refute?

Colossians 2:6-7 – Here Paul urges the Colossian believers to continue to grow in their faith and walk in
Christ. Then he says “abounding in thanksgiving.” What fills up our prayer time? We seem to have more
time presenting requests to God, but I we should grow in this discipline of thanksgiving. It looks like
spiritual maturity is more in thanksgiving than presenting requests.

Colossians 3:1 – 4 – In this generation where the billboards and commercials force us to draw our
attention on ourselves and temporal things of this world, we really needed to be reminded to refocus on
Christ and the eternal things.

Are there any elements of the “old self” that you struggle to leave behind as you try to put on the new
self in Christ (see Col 3:5–10)? How can you work with other believers to overcome the “old self”? In
what ways can other believers hold you accountable?

127 Ibid

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