Canonical Reading Plan for Dec 12. Col 1-4

Today's readings are Col 1-4.

Paul wrote Colossians, Ephesians and Philemon around the same time, while he was in prison in Rome, around 60-61 AD. 

Paul wrote to address errant teaching in Colossae. While not being clear as to what the false teaching is, the text of the letter seems to indicate that the centrality of Christ was attacked while an emphasis was placed on lesser, non-essential issues. Apparently, there was an unbalanced focus on philosophical traditions, dietary restrictions, an encouragement to adhere to certain Jewish rites and the worship of angels, all with a lean toward asceticism. It seems a dangerous mixture of legalism and mysticism had entered the Colossian church.

Paul's counter to all this is to focus on three things, the supremacy of Christ in all things, the work of the ministry and the church. He ends the letter with a series of exhortations and encouragements designed to remind the church of its original calling and purpose.

Looking at the big picture, it's easy to see that the new church is trying to incorporate cultural issues and practices into its makeup, many of them antithetical to the gospel. It's trading its original mission for one that allows outside influences and unscriptural, mystical practices to permeate its meetings and teaching. Perhaps this was an effort to appeal to a broader audience and make itself more attractive to those who need the hear its message.

Regardless of the reasons, Paul wants to nip these things in the bud before they become a more significant problem. The solution he offers is universal for the church, "Go back to the basics, read your Bibles, share the gospel. Be the godly influence on the culture rather than becoming the influenced in it."