Class 2 in our study of Colossians is here.

Paul's letter opens immediately with gratitude. Paul was a man of prayer, often opening his letters with similar thanks (Philippians 1:3). He calls God "the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." This belief will be mentioned again later when Paul addresses false teachings regarding the identity of Christ. Paul presents Jesus as equal with God the Father, yet distinguishes between Father and Son.

Paul focuses his prayer on all of the believers in Colosse. He rejoices at the knowledge of a vibrant group of believers thriving apart from his leadership. Though Paul had helped start several churches, there would have been many others, which began through the efforts of others. In this case, the church in Colosse started under the ministry of Epaphras (Colossians 1:7). The success of a church in Colosse would have encouraged Paul. This was a sign that the gospel spread among the Gentiles, beyond his direct influence, and into many other regions.

Paul begins with his name and title, "an apostle of Christ Jesus." This is the same title Paul uses for himself in the first verses of 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Ephesians, 1 Timothy, and 2 Timothy. Paul was an apostle through the work and plan of God, not his schemes. The idea of God's will over his life is one of Paul's common themes in his letters. This not only gives Paul the authority to make his claims but also gives him reasons to endure persecution and suffering.

Paul wrote this letter along with Timothy, his longtime helper. Timothy is also listed as co-author with Paul in 2 Corinthians, Philippians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, and Philemon. This makes Timothy a collaborator on six of Paul's 13 New Testament letters. Paul makes special mention of two other "brothers" in his letters. These are Apollos (1 Corinthians 16:12) and Titus (2 Corinthians 8:16).

Class 24 in our study of Philippians is the last in this Book. We hope you have enjoyed this journey through Paul's glorious words. “Now I urge you, believers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me, that I may be rescued from those who are disobedient [in another city], and that my service for [our city] may prove acceptable to the saints; so that I may come to you in joy by the will of God and find refreshing rest in your company. Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.” ~Romans 15:30-33 NASB