THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER.
Colossians 1:3-12.
After introducing themselves, and acknowledging that those to whom they are writing are true Christians [i.e. 'saints and faithful brethren in Christ' (Colossians 1:1-2)], Paul and Timothy next “give thanks… praying always for you” (COLOSSIANS 1:3).
The whole attitude and demeanour of Paul and Timothy was prayerful, in all that they did. They celebrated the “FAITH in Christ Jesus,” the “LOVE to all the saints” and the “HOPE laid up in heaven” of the Colossian believers (COLOSSIANS 1:4-5; cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 1 Corinthians 13:13).
Now the gospel which the Colossians first believed, says Paul, is the same “word of truth” which you received, which is constantly “bearing fruit.” The good seed of the Word, planted in good soil, takes root, grows, and proves fruitful (cf. Luke 8:15). Again, this is so because they KNOW the grace of God in truth (COLOSSIANS 1:5-6).
All this serves to emphasise the integrity of Epaphras’ teaching (COLOSSIANS 1:7). Furthermore, Epaphras had brought a good report of the Colossians to Paul, despite the insipient Gnosticism of some of their members (COLOSSIANS 1:8). This is perhaps why Paul is so gentle in his counsel, as opposed to his earlier outrage against the wayward church in Galatia (cf. Galatians 1:6; Galatians 3:1).
Again Paul and Timothy speak of their ceaseless prayer on behalf of the Colossians. The new teachers were offering superior ‘knowledge,’ but they prayed that the Colossians might rather experience the manifestation of what they already had: that they might be “filled with the Knowledge of His will” and “increasing in the Knowledge of God” (COLOSSIANS 1:9-10). We do not lack knowledge, but need rather to tap into that which we already have.
The fact of the matter is, that “all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (COLOSSIANS 1:9); and living worthy lives, and pleasing God, and bearing fruit (COLOSSIANS 1:10) is all already readily available to us in Christ Jesus. And it is the possession of ALL Christians, not just a few ‘in the know’!
As they continue describing the content of their prayers for the Colossians, Paul and Timothy next mention the subject of the Colossians being “with all power” strengthened, according to the might of His glory. This again is something which we already have: power for all patience, power for perseverance, the ability to remain joyful throughout (COLOSSIANS 1:11). ‘Miserable’ Christians is an oxymoron!
Furthermore, Paul and Timothy celebrate the fact that the Father has already qualified us to receive the inheritance which awaits His saints. We are delivered from the power of darkness and have been translated into the kingdom of His dear Son (Colossians 1:12-13). This is not just ‘pie in the sky when I die,’ but a present reality for all who trust in Jesus.
