Colossians 2:6-7 reads: “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”
The Apostle Paul is traditionally regarded as the author of the Epistle to the Colossians. From an evangelical Christian perspective, Paul is viewed as a key figure in the early Church, known for his extensive missionary work and his foundational role in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles.
### Key Points about Paul and the Letter to the Colossians:
1. **Background**:
– Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, was a Pharisee who initially persecuted Christians before having a transformative encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). This pivotal moment led to his conversion and dedication to spreading the message of Christ.
2. **Authorship of Colossians**:
– Paul is believed to have written the letter while in prison, possibly during his first Roman imprisonment (around AD 60-62). The letter addresses the Colossian church, which had been established by Epaphras, a colleague of Paul.
3. **Purpose of the Letter**:
– The primary focus of Colossians is to combat false teachings that threatened the church, including elements of Gnosticism and legalism. Paul emphasizes the supremacy of Christ and encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith.
4. **Themes in Colossians 2:6-7**:
– **Walking in Christ**: The passage underscores the importance of living in accordance with the teachings and example of Jesus. This reflects the evangelical emphasis on a personal relationship with Christ and living out one’s faith.
– **Rooted and Built Up**: Paul uses agricultural and architectural metaphors to illustrate spiritual growth and stability in faith. This indicates a continual process of strengthening one’s relationship with God.
– **Abounding in Thanksgiving**: Gratitude is a key theme in Pauline letters, reflecting a heart posture that recognizes the grace and generosity of God.
5. **Overall Contribution**:
– Paul’s letters, including Colossians, are integral to Christian theology and ethics. They provide insight into the early church’s challenges and the foundational beliefs that continue to influence evangelical thought today.
In summary, from an evangelical perspective, Paul is seen as not just the author of Colossians, but as an apostolic authority whose teachings are vital for understanding the Christian faith and practice.
