Grace And Peace To You From God Our Father!

“From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the saints, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ, at Colossae. Grace and peace to you from God our Father!” Colossians 1:1-2 NET

This passage of scripture serves as a thoughtful introduction to the book of Colossians, in which the first two verses encapsulate a familiar structure characteristic of letters in Paul’s time. In the first-century Greco-Roman culture, letter formatting adhered to a specific order, drawing on traditions that shaped communication:

**From:** [Author] 

**To:** [Recipient] 

**Greetings**

In stark contrast, our modern correspondence typically opens with “Dear [Name]” and concludes with “Yours truly,” followed by the sender’s signature. However, in Greek and Roman letters, the writer’s name appears prominently first, followed by the recipients’ names, drawing immediate attention to the author and emphasizing the relationship being established.

 

In this epistle, the author is none other than the Apostle Paul, addressing the burgeoning community of believers in the city of Colossae. Rather than simply extending a casual greeting—in line with the conventional “hello” or a common wish for good health and prosperity—Paul employs a more profound and spiritually infused approach. He “Christianizes” his greeting by infusing it with theological significance, opting for the rich blessings of “Grace to you” and “Peace to you.” This choice of words elevates the greeting far beyond the everyday, grounding it in fundamental Christian doctrines. It signifies not merely goodwill but a profound spiritual state that believers are encouraged to embrace, rooted in their relationship with God—the ultimate source of grace and peace. We will delve deeper into the meaning and implications of these terms later in subsequent sections of the text.

To further contextualize the message to the Colossian Church, it’s intriguing to note the connections between Colossians and two other New Testament letters, particularly in the names of the individuals mentioned. This relationship is quite remarkable, especially when we explore the epistle of Philemon. This letter is personally addressed to Philemon, who resides in Colossae, thereby establishing a direct and intimate link between the teachings in Colossians and the real-life situations faced by the individuals mentioned in the letter to Philemon.

Moreover, the structural composition of Colossians mirrors that of Ephesians, suggesting they are not only thematically related but can be viewed as sister epistles. They share a common thread of profound theological themes and stylistic elements that illuminate the early Christian experience. I maintain the belief that both letters were penned by Paul himself; most probably with the assistance of an amanuensis. However, it is essential to recognize that contemporary scholarship often questions the traditional attribution of many epistles to Paul, suggesting a potential divergence in authorship. This discourse on authorship adds a fascinating dimension to our study of these texts, highlighting the importance of context and perspective in understanding the rich messages they convey.

Nevertheless, if our Bible asserts that the Apostle Paul wrote this book, we can wholeheartedly place our trust in the Word of God. This conviction is beautifully encapsulated in the scripture that declares, “...Let God be proven true, and every human being shown to be a liar” (Romans 3:4a). Paul’s writings, which are imbued with profound theological insight and rooted in the rich historical context of the early Church, serve as a guiding light for believers. They invite us to delve deeper into the complexities of faith and the nature of divine truth, reinforcing the reliability of scripture as a steadfast foundation for our convictions and inspiration for our spiritual journey.

I would like to talk about Colossae. If you look at the map, Colossae is about 12 miles from Laodicea. All 7 Churches mentioned in the book of Revelation are identified on the map by location. Colossae was a major city for many years. Still, the Romans rerouted the road from Sardis and Pergamum, which initially ran directly through Colossae, to pass through the neighboring city of Laodicea. This change, combined with earthquakes (notably in 60-61 AD), led to Colossae’s decline from a major city to a minor market town in the Roman Empire by the first century AD. As a result of this bypass and the rise of Laodicea, Colossae was eventually abandoned and relocated to a new site called Chonae (modern-day Honaz). The map shows the modern country of Turkey, but in the days when Colossae was prominent, the entire area was part of the Roman province of Asia, and its capital was Ephesus.

There is compelling evidence—perhaps surprisingly—that the Apostle Paul never actually visited the city of Colossae, a point we will explore in greater detail later in this text. Despite his physical absence, his epistle is carefully addressed “to the saints, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ, at Colossae,” which highlights a meaningful connection that deserves our attention.

To unravel and understand the narrative of the Colossian Church’s inception, we must turn our focus to Paul’s dynamic ministry in Ephesus, located roughly 100 miles from Colossae. Ephesus was not just any city; it was the thriving capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor, bustling with commerce, culture, and a diverse population. Paul’s ministry here is renowned as the longest recorded, spanning three impactful years. In Acts 20:31, Paul poignantly reflects on his time with the Ephesian elders, stating, “Therefore be alert, remembering that night and day for three years I did not stop warning each one of you with tears.” His heartfelt plea underscores the emotional depth and fervent dedication he poured into his work, which bore significant fruit.

During these transformative years, countless individuals embraced the message of Jesus Christ. Among them were likely several visitors from Colossae, drawn to Ephesus’s vibrant atmosphere. Upon returning home after experiencing their spiritual awakening, these individuals became instrumental in sharing their newfound faith, thus nurturing the fledgling church in Colossae.

A pivotal figure in this unfolding story is Epaphras, who emerges as a beacon of spiritual commitment and leadership. It is widely believed that Epaphras was among those who encountered Paul during his time in Ephesus. Captivated by the Gospel, he felt an irresistible call to return to his hometown and cultivate the seeds of faith there. Paul later recognizes this man in his letter, referring to him in Colossians 4:12 as “Epaphras, who is one of you and a slave of Christ, greets you. He is always struggling in prayer on your behalf, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God.” This vivid portrayal highlights Epaphras’s unwavering dedication to the spiritual welfare of the Colossians, as he intercedes for them with deep sincerity and passion.

Interestingly, during the composition of this letter to the Colossians, Epaphras was by Paul’s side, reflecting a strong bond formed through mutual service in the Gospel and demonstrating their continued partnership in ministry to advance the Gospel, regardless of geographical distance.

In summary, while Paul may never have walked the streets of Colossae, the origins of its Church were deeply rooted in his transformative ministry in Ephesus, where the gospel message took flight through enthusiastic individuals who heard the message, like Epaphras, who returned home with an urgency to spread hope and faith in his community’s ability, To speak of the Colossians in today, there is no Colossae; the entire city lies in ruins, nothing but shambles, the people are gone, the Church and its is gone. Local Churches come and go. I have seen Church buildings for sale as a Church pulls up its roots from a community for various reasons and leaves, but the work of God abides forever; the glory of God is unchanging. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever!” (Hebrews 13:8).

**Verse 1** 

The name “Paul,” rendered as ‘Paulus’ in Greek, is a striking presence in the New Testament, appearing an impressive 164 times—solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in early Christianity. In Latin, ‘Paul’ means ‘little’ or ‘small,’ a seemingly humble designation that contrasts sharply with the monumental legacy he would leave in spiritual teaching and church formation. Originally named ‘Saul’—Saul of Tarsus—this name directly links him to the first king of Israel, a man whose life was characterized by grandiosity and authority.

Saul was born into the tribe of Benjamin, a detail articulated in the book of Philippians (Philippians 3:5) that underscores both his noble heritage and the profound significance of identity in biblical narratives. It is notable that King Saul, like the Apostle Paul, also hailed from Benjamin, creating thematic resonance between the two figures. The Scriptures vividly portray King Saul as a towering presence, “...he stood head and shoulders taller than anyone else in Israel” (1 Samuel 9:2b), symbolizing not only his physical might but also the weight of leadership he bore in turbulent times.

In a striking narrative of transformation, Saul of Tarsus’ dramatic conversion to Paul is a testament to the power of divine intervention. Once a vehement persecutor of early Christians, he experienced a profound rebirth through his encounter with Jesus, emerging as a fervent advocate for the faith. Adopting the name ‘Paulus,’ the ‘little one,’ serves as a profound symbol of his spiritual metamorphosis—a deliberate choice that reflects his deepening humility and awareness of his place within God’s grand design. As he drew nearer to Jesus, the grandiose persona associated with the ‘big one’ began to fade, revealing a heart surrendered to the greater purpose of glorifying God through His Son, Jesus.

This metamorphosis powerfully illustrates the biblical principle articulated by John the Baptist: “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). This profound declaration encapsulates the essence of Christian humility, calling believers to set aside their egos to elevate Christ’s significance in their lives. John the Baptist’s words resonate deeply, crystallizing the aspirational journey of every follower of Christ: to make room for Jesus to occupy the throne of their hearts. As Colossians 1:18b conveys, “...so that he himself may become first in all things,” this pursuit is not merely a personal shift; it is a divine calling that invites believers to embrace servanthood and a life of lesser significance in light of God’s immeasurable glory.

We also learn that Paul is an esteemed Apostle of Jesus Christ, a title that embodies a powerful and sacred mission within the early Christian community. The Greek word for Apostle, ἀπόστολος (transliterated as apóstolos), communicates the idea of “one who is sent off,” “a messenger,” or “an envoy.” This term derives from the verb apostéllō, meaning “to send forth,” implying a divine commission. In the New Testament context, this designation is specifically associated with the individuals chosen by Jesus to carry His teachings and establish the foundations of the Church across the ancient world.

These early disciples—also known as Apostles—were unique in that they had intimately lived alongside Jesus during His earthly ministry. They had witnessed His miraculous works, heard His profound teachings, and were charged with the critical task of spreading His message of salvation far and wide. When Paul claims this title for himself, he asserts that he has been uniquely chosen by God for this vital role, underscoring that this calling is “by the will of God.” In Greek, the term for ‘will’ (θέλημα, thelēma) conveys not just a desire or wish but a deliberate, divine plan. This indicates that Paul possesses a weighty authority and a significant divine mandate in his mission.

Paul’s apostolic journey is especially noteworthy; unlike the original disciples, who walked with Jesus during His lifetime, Paul’s transformative spiritual encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus marked a crucial turning point in his life. This supernatural experience profoundly altered his identity, transforming him from a fervent persecutor of Christians into a passionate proponent of the Gospel.

The Greek term Apostéllō is richly layered, combining two essential ideas: ‘apo,’ which suggests a sense of ‘out there’ or ‘away from,’ and ‘stello’ or ‘stella,’ which means ‘to set something straight.’ Together, they evoke the imagery of taking something disordered or corrupt and restoring it to an intended harmony. Paul’s role as God’s appointed envoy was to establish new churches and intervene decisively in times of conflict, ensuring that issues arising within these communities were addressed in a way that aligned with the teachings of Christ. This aspect is particularly significant concerning the Colossian Church, where troubling doctrinal trends were beginning to take shape, as we will explore in the chapters to come. Paul is ready to confront these challenges with wisdom and authority.

He introduces himself with the phrase, “From Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God,” underscoring the gravity and divine authority behind his words. The name Jesus, meaning ‘Savior,’ was given to Jesus during His earthly life. In contrast, the title Christ (from the Greek Χριστός, Christos) translates to ‘the Anointed One,’ reflecting a profound spiritual office that corresponds to the Hebrew term ‘Messiah.’ This title encapsulates Jesus’ fulfillment of the key prophetic roles of Prophet, Priest, and King—each of which was singly anointed in the Old Testament narrative. Jesus stands as the apex of all of these roles, far surpassing any who preceded Him. The grammatical structure in Greek places ‘Jesus Christ’ in the genitive case, indicating ownership—Jesus governs Paul’s apostleship; He indeed possesses Paul entirely. For believers today, this notion is deeply significant: if we are reborn in faith, we belong to Jesus; our lives have been redeemed at the ultimate price—the blood of Christ.

As Paul continues, he introduces Timothy, a young man whose journey of faith began under Paul’s mentorship during his early missionary exploits in Lystra. Timothy, known for his deep commitment to the faith, may have helped Paul write this letter to the Colossians. Paul, as a seasoned Apostle, mentors Timothy, much like the relationship between the prophet Elijah and his successor, Elisha. By addressing Timothy as “our brother,” Paul emphasizes the familial bond they share in Christ. The Greek word ‘Adelphos’ signifies a close relationship, one formed through their shared spiritual rebirth; together, they are united by the grace that transcends earthly connections, much like what Jesus spoke in John 3:5: “I tell you the solemn truth, unless a person is born of water and spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

In reaching out to the Colossian believers—whom he has not yet met—Paul lays a profound foundation for fellowship that transcends mere acquaintance. He invites them into a deeply meaningful communion centered around the Lord Jesus Christ and His righteousness, reiterating that they, too, are members of the same family of faith. Through this connection, he establishes a powerful sense of unity among believers in the body of Christ, fostering the intimate bonds that define the Church.

Now we know the author and the divine authority that underpins the writing, which is inspired by God’s will and intent. This letter is not a casual missive dispatched to the Colossians; rather, it embodies profound theological insights and spiritual truths. Let’s carefully examine verse two to identify the recipients of Paul’s message: “to the saints, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ.” The Greek word for ‘saints’ is ‘hagios,’ which conveys a profound sense of being set apart by God for His holy purpose. This noun appears in the dative plural case, often functioning as the indirect object of a sentence, thereby depicting those who receive or benefit from this declaration. To be a ‘saint’ means to be a ‘sanctified one’ or ‘holy one,’ highlighting the majestic calling and divine identity bestowed upon them through their union with Christ.

In our lost and rebellious state, Jesus lovingly offered Himself as the sacrifice for our sins, an act of unparalleled grace and compassion. The Holy Spirit, with His relentless pursuit, found us in our brokenness and gently led us to the foot of the cross—a pivotal moment when we experienced rebirth. This transformation marks a decisive separation from our former lives, a liberation from the chains of sin, and an ushering into a flourishing life in Christ Jesus, distinct from the turmoil of our past.

We became ‘saints’ not through our own efforts or righteousness but through the gracious act of Jesus, who atoned for our sins on our behalf. Paul insists that sainthood is not a status granted posthumously by a select group of church officials; rather, it is an instantaneous metamorphosis that occurs the moment one sincerely welcomes Jesus as one’s Savior. Immediately upon believing, the Holy Spirit begins an extraordinary work within us, reshaping us into the likeness of Christ and branding us as ‘saints.’ When Paul addressed the believers in Colossae as saints, he acknowledged their struggles and affirmed their sacred identities as they faced various challenges. His reference to “the saints, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ” reinforces the profound sense of spiritual kinship—of a loving brotherhood and sisterhood bound together by faith. If you have received Jesus into your heart and experienced the transformation of being born again, that faith instantly grants you the esteemed status of a saint.

Let me elaborate on our relationship with Jesus: we have died to our former desires, renounced the alluring distractions of a world that once captivated us, and led us only to sin and spiritual death. Conversely, the Holy Spirit revitalizes our lives with the abundant life of Christ and the empowering anointing of God. This divine energization instills in us the very faith of Jesus, captivating our hearts and drawing us irresistibly toward Him. It is this transformative faith that makes us dependable, resilient, steadfast, and unwavering as we continue to grow in the rich grace and knowledge of God. Paul addresses the letter “to the saints, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ at Colossae.”

It is also essential to recognize that, while Paul may not have had a personal relationship with most people in Colossae, he was familiar with a few individuals he had met during his missionary travels. For example, Onesimus was a runaway slave from Colossae who belonged to a Christian named Philemon. After fleeing, Onesimus encountered the Apostle Paul in Rome, where he experienced a profound conversion and embraced Christianity, ultimately becoming a valued collaborator in the ministry. Paul sent him back to Colossae, accompanied by Tychicus, describing Onesimus as a “faithful and beloved brother.” This description highlights the critical nature of trust and faithfulness in our relationships with fellow believers. We will delve further into Onesimus’s journey in Chapter 4. Furthermore, Epaphras, a prominent preacher and leader within the Colossian Church, relayed vital information to Paul regarding the challenges and spiritual condition of the saints in Colossae. Thus, Paul, having received reports from this and other faithful brothers, affirms that the saints in Colossae are indeed genuine and steadfast in their faith, bound in love and resilience amidst their trials and in the growth in Christ.

I can confidently declare that your brothers and sisters in Christ, alongside your neighbors, are remarkably aware of your steadfast commitment to your Church and your Christian testimony. They observe the nuances of your everyday life—how you respond patiently when your dog misbehaves in your sunlit backyard or when your child has a tantrum at the park —drawing curious glances from others. They listen to your exasperation when your lawnmower sputters and fails to start. They can hear your voices as you trim back the overhanging limbs of a tree that intrudes upon your neighbor’s yard, ensuring both safety and harmony. They take note of your reactions when you accidentally burn your hand on the sizzling grill while preparing mouthwatering hamburgers, a moment filled with both frustration and the heady aroma of summer barbecue.

These seemingly mundane details paint a vivid picture of your character, showcasing how your faith expresses itself in the fabric of daily life. They observe how often your car starts and how often you go to Church, keenly gauging your dedication to your faith through these ordinary yet telling moments.

Similarly, the reputation of the Church in Colossae has spread far and wide; they are heralded for their unwavering steadfastness in the Lord Jesus, serving as a beacon of faith for the saints in the city. It is crucial to recognize that many Jews in these areas were once part of the Jewish Dispersion, a historical phenomenon often marked by hardship and separation. The term “Diaspora” derives from the Greek word meaning “scattering,” signifying the forced exodus of Jewish people from their ancestral lands in Israel. This scattering began with the Assyrian exile in 722 B.C. It continued with the Babylonian exile in 586 B.C., resulting in vibrant yet displaced Jewish communities that emerged across the Mediterranean, Mesopotamia, and Europe, where they carefully preserved their religious, cultural, and communal identities through the establishment of synagogues.

Although there was a Jewish population in Colossae, the Church itself was predominantly composed of Gentiles, a noteworthy detail as we delve deeper into Paul’s teachings in Colossians. Paul’s greeting, “Grace and peace to you,” is particularly significant in this context. If you consult the King James Version, you will find it expressed as “Grace be to you,” which conveys a sense of blessing being conferred upon the recipients. However, Paul’s intention is both simple and profound: he is extending a warm, inclusive “Grace—hello, everyone! Grace!” His use of plural pronouns emphasizes a spirit of unity, with “Grace” derived from the Greek word (charis), embodying God’s boundless goodness, favor, and abundant blessings.

Envision this concept as a radiant smile from God, bestowing His grace upon all who trust in Him. Following this warm greeting is the inclusion of “peace,” rooted in the Greek word (eirēnē). This term conveys a deeply significant message: it symbolizes the harmonious reconciliation of two parties that were once distant, or even in conflict, who have now joined together in unity. This reconciliation mirrors the moment of our spiritual rebirth: when a Holy God intersects with a sinner, once steeped in condemnation, and, through the redemptive power of the cross, we find unity with Him. It resonates with Adam’s profound declaration upon seeing Eve: “This one at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh” (Genesis 2:23a). This declaration expresses deep kinship, intimate connection, and shared essence.

Thus, we, too, experience this sacred relationship with the “second Adam,” who is Jesus. By infusing his greeting with the word “grace,” Paul transforms the introduction from a mere casual salutation to a rich, Christianized expression of faith. In essence, “Grace” typically serves as a greeting among Gentiles, whereas “peace” (or shalom) is traditionally a Jewish greeting. Paul’s dual declaration effectively bridges these cultural divides, acknowledging the diversity within the Colossian Church, which primarily consists of Gentile believers but also encompasses Jewish followers.

“Grace and peace to you from God our Father!” This pronouncement highlights that Paul issues these blessings not from his own authority but rather as a vessel through which they flow “from God our Father” and the Lord Jesus Christ. When Paul refers to “the Father” in his epistle letters, he consistently includes Christ, affirming his belief in Jesus’ divine nature—His equality and oneness with God the Father. By mentioning “from God our Father,” he emphasizes our shared identity as brothers and sisters in faith, united through Christ’s sacrifice. The term “Lord” signifies His sovereign authority over all, “Jesus” embodies His role as our Redeemer, and “Christ” heralds His promised return as our Prophet, Priest, and King. This magnificent introduction to the book of Colossians encapsulates the very essence of the Christian faith, highlighting themes of grace, reconciliation, and unity that form its foundational pillars.

Stephen Barnett