1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother,

2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,

5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;

6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:

7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;

8 Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;

20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled

22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Paul an Apostle.I have already, in repeated instances, explained the design of such inscriptions. As, however, the Colossians had never seen him, and on that account his authority was not as yet so firmly established among them as to make his private nameby itself sufficient, he premises that he is an Apostle of Christ set apart by the will of God. From this it followed, that he did not act rashly in writing to persons that were not known by him, inasmuch as he was discharging an embassy with which God had intrusted him. For he was not bound to one Church merely, but his Apostleship extended to all. The termsaintswhich he applies to them is more honorable, but in calling themfaithful brethren,he allures them more willingly to listen to him. As for other things, they may be found explained in the foregoing Epistles.
McArther Bible Commentary
Paul. For details on the apostle Paul, see Introduction to Romans: Author and Date; see note on Act 9:1. Timothy. Paul's colaborer and true child in the faith (see Introduction to 1 Timothy: Background and Setting; see note on Act 16:1) was able to be with him because, although Paul was a prisoner, he had personal living quarters (Act 28:16-31).
Bible Cross References
Acts 16:1 1 Corinthians 1:1 2 Corinthians 1:1 Philippians 1:1 1 Thessalonians 3:2 Philemon 1:1 Hebrews 13:23

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The saints - This word expresses their union with God. And brethren - This, their union with their fellow - Christians.
McArther Bible Commentary
saints. Those who have been separated from sin and set apart to God-the believers in Colosse (see note on 1Co 1:2). faithful. A word used in the NT exclusively for believers. Cf. verse Col 1:4. Colosse. One of three cities in the Lycus River valley in the region of Phyrgia, in the Roman province of Asia (part of modern Turkey), about 100 miles east of Ephesus (see Introduction: Background and Setting). Grace … and peace. Paul's greeting in all thirteen of his epistles (see note on Rom 1:7).
Bible Cross References
Acts 9:13 Romans 1:7 Ephesians 1:1 Philippians 1:1

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We give thanks - There is a near resemblance between this epistle, and those to the Ephesians and Philippians.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
We give thanks to God.He praises the faith and love of the Colossians, that it may encourage them the more to alacrity and constancy of perseverance. Farther, by shewing that he has a persuasion of this kind respecting them, he procures their friendly regards, that they may be the more favourably inclined and teachable for receiving his doctrine. We must always take notice that he makes use of thanksgiving in place of congratulation, by which he teaches us, that in all our joys we must readily call to remembrance the goodness of God, inasmuch as everything that is pleasant and agreeable to us is a kindness conferred by him. Besides, he admonishes us, by his example, to acknowledge with gratitude not merely those things which the Lord confers upon us, but also those things which he confers upon others.But for what things does he give thanks to the Lord? For the faithandloveof the Colossians. He acknowledges, therefore, that both are conferred by God: otherwise the gratitude were pretended. And what have we otherwise than through his liberality? If, however, even the smallest favors come to us from that source, how much more ought this same acknowledgment to be made in reference to those two gifts, in which the entire sum of our excellence consists?To the God and Father.Understand the expression thus —To God who is the Father of Christ. For it is not lawful for us to acknowledge any other God than him who has manifested himself to us in his Son. And this is the only key for opening the door to us, if we are desirous to have access to the true God. For on this account, also, is he a Father to us, because he has embraced us in his only begotten Son, and in him also sets forth his paternal favor for our contemplation.Always for you,Some explain it thus — Wegive thanks to God always for you, that is,continually. Others explain it to mean —Praying always for you. It may also be interpreted in this way, “Whenever we pray for you, we at the same time give thanks to God;” and this is the simple meaning, “We give thanks to God, and we at the same time pray.” By this he intimates, that the condition of believers is never in this world perfect, so as not to have, invariably, something wanting. For even the man who has begun admirably well, may fall short in a hundred instances every day; and we must ever be making progress while we are as yet on the way. Let us therefore bear in mind that we must rejoice in the favors that we have already received, and give thanks to God for them in such a manner, as to seek at the same time from him perseverance and advancement.
McArther Bible Commentary
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. This designation was often used to show that Jesus was one in nature with God, as any true son is with his father. It was an affirmation of Christ's deity (cf. Rom 15:6; 2Co 1:3; 2Co 11:13; Eph 1:3; Eph 3:14; 1Pe 1:3).
Bible Cross References
Romans 1:8 Romans 15:6 2 Corinthians 1:3 Ephesians 6:18

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
. Having heard of your faith.This was a means of stirring up his love towards them, and his concern for their welfare, when he heard it that they were distinguished byfaithandlove.And, unquestionably, gifts of God that are so excellent ought to have such an effect upon us as to stir us up to love them wherever they appear. He uses the expression,faith in Christ, that we may always bear in mind that Christ is the proper object of faith.He employs the expression, love towards the saints, not with the view of excluding others, but because, in proportion as any one is joined to us in God, we ought to embrace him the more closely with special affection. True love, therefore, will extend to mankind universally, because they all are our flesh, andcreated in the image of God, (Genesis 9:6;) but in respect of degrees, it will begin with those who are of thehousehold of faith. (Galatians 6:10.)
McArther Bible Commentary
faith in Christ Jesus. For discussion of saving faith, see notes on Rom 1:16; Rom 10:4-17; Jas 2:14-26. love for all the saints. Cf. verse Col 1:8. One of the visible fruits of true saving faith is love for fellow believers (Joh 13:34-35; Gal 5:22; 1Jn 2:10; 1Jn 3:14-16).
Bible Cross References
Galatians 3:26 Galatians 3:28 Galatians 5:6 Ephesians 1:15 Ephesians 6:18 Colossians 1:9 Philemon 1:5

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Ye heard before - I wrote to you. In the word of truth, of the gospel - The true gospel preached to you.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven.For thehopeof eternal life will never be inactive in us, so as not to producelovein us. For it is of necessity, that the man who is fully persuaded that a treasure of life is laid up for him in heaven will aspire thither, looking down upon this world. Meditation, however, upon the heavenly life stirs up our affections both to the worship of God, and to exercises of love. The Sophists pervert this passage for the purpose of extolling the merits of works, as if the hope of salvation depended on works. The reasoning, however, is futile. For it does not follow, that because hope stimulates us to aim at upright living, it is therefore founded upon works, inasmuch as nothing is more efficacious for this purpose than God’s unmerited goodness, which utterly overthrows all confidence in works.There is, however, an instance of metonymyin the use of the termhope,as it is taken for the thing hoped for. For the hope that is in our hearts is the glory which we hope for in heaven. At the same time, when he says, that there is ahopethat islaid up for us in heaven, he means, that believers ought to feel assured as to the promise of eternal felicity, equally as though they had already a treasure laid upin a particular place.Of which ye heard before. As eternal salvation is a thing that surpasses the comprehension of our understanding, he therefore adds, that the assurance of it had been brought to the Colossians by means of the gospel; and at the same time he says in the outset,that he is not to bring forward anything new, but that he has merely in view to confirm them in the doctrine which they had previously received. Erasmus has rendered —it the true word of the gospel. I am also well aware that, according to the Hebrew idiom, the genitive is often made use of by Paul in place of an epithet; but the words of Paul here are more emphatic.For he calls the gospel,καψ ἐξοχήν, (by way of eminence,)the word of truth, with the view of putting honor upon it, that they may more steadfastly and firmly adhere to the revelation which they have derived from that source. Thus the termgospelis introduced by way ofapposition
McArther Bible Commentary
the hope which is laid up. The believer's hope is inseparable from his faith. See notes on Rom 5:2; 1Pe 1:3-5. the gospel. See note on Rom 1:1. The Greek word literally means "good news," and was used in classical Greek to express the good news of victory in a battle. The gospel is the good news of Christ's victory over Satan, sin, and death.
Bible Cross References
Acts 23:6 Galatians 2:5 Galatians 2:14 Ephesians 1:13 Ephesians 4:21 Colossians 1:23 2 Timothy 4:8 2 Peter 1:12

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
It bringeth forth fruit in all the world - That is, in every place where it is preached. Ye knew the grace of God in truth - Truly experienced the gracious power of God.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
As also in all the world it brings forth fruit.This has a tendency both to confirm and to comfort the pious — to see the effect of the gospel far and wide in gathering many to Christ. The faith of it does not, it is true, depend on its success, as thoughweshould believe it on the ground thatmanybelieve it. Though the whole world should fail, though heaven itself should fall, the conscience of a pious man must not waver, because God, on whom it is founded, does nevertheless remain true. This, however, does not hinder our faith from being confirmed, whenever it perceives God’s excellence, which undoubtedly shews itself with more power in proportion to the number of persons that are gained over to Christ.In addition to this, in the multitude of the believers at that time there was beheld an accomplishment of the many predictions which extend the reign of Christ from the East to the West. Is it a trivial or common aid to faith, to see accomplished before our eyes what the Prophets long since predicted as to the extending of the kingdom of Christ through all countries of the world? What I speak of, there is no believer that does not experience in himself. Paul accordingly had it in view to encourage the Colossians the more by this statement, that, by seeing in various places the fruit and progress of the gospel, they might embrace it with more eager zeal. Αὐξανόμενον, which I have renderedpropagatur, (is propagated,) does not occur in some copies; but, from its suiting better with the context, I did not choose to omit it. It also appears front the commentaries of the ancients that this reading was always the more generally received.Since the day ye heard it, and knew the grace.Here he praises them on account of their docility, inasmuch as they immediately embraced sound doctrine; and he praises them on account of their constancy, inasmuch as they persevered in it. It is also with propriety that the faith of the gospel is called theknowledge of God’s grace; for no one has ever tasted of the gospel but the man that knew himself to be reconciled to God, and took hold of the salvation that is held forth in Christ.In truthmeanstrulyandwithout pretense; for as he had previously declared that the gospel is undoubted truth, so he now adds, that it had been purely administered by them, and thatby Epaphras. For while all boast that they preach the gospel, and yet at the same time there are manyevil workers, (Philippians 3:2,) through whose ignorance, or ambition, or avarice, its purity is adulterated, it is of great importance that faithful ministers should be distinguished from the less upright. For it is not enough to hold the term gospel, unless we know that this is the true gospel — what was preached by Paul and Epaphras. Hence Paul confirms the doctrine of Epaphras by giving it his approbation, that he may induce the Colossians to adhere to it, and may, by the same means, call them back from those profligates who endeavored to introduce strange doctrines. He at the same time dignifies Epaphras with a special distinction, that he may have more authority among them; and lastly, he presents him to the Colossians in an amiable aspect, by saying that he had borne testimony to him of their love. Paul everywhere makes it his particular aim, that he may, by his recommendation, render those who he knows serve Christ faithfully, very dear to the Churches; as, on the other hand, the ministers of Satan are wholly intent on alienating, by unfavourable representations,the minds of the simple from faithful pastors.
McArther Bible Commentary
in all the world. Cf. verse Col 1:23, "every creature under heaven." The gospel was never intended for an exclusive group of people; it is good news for the whole world (Mat 24:14; Mat 28:19-20; Mar 16:15; Rom 1:8, Rom 1:14, Rom 1:16; 1Th 1:8). It transcends all ethnic, geographic, cultural, and political boundaries. fruit. Refers to the saving effect of gospel preaching and to the growth of the church. See notes on Rom 1:13; Php 1:22; cf. Mat 13:3-8, Mat 13:31-32.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 24:14 John 17:19 Romans 1:13 Romans 10:18 Ephesians 4:21 Colossians 1:23

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The fellowservant - Of Paul and Timotheus.
McArther Bible Commentary
Epaphras. The likely founder of the church at Colosse (see Introduction: Background and Setting).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 18:29 Colossians 4:7 Colossians 4:9 Colossians 4:12 Philemon 1:23

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope.
All true Christians are brethren one to another. Faithfulness runs through every character and relation of the Christian life. Faith, hope, and love, are the three principal graces in the Christian life, and proper matter for prayer and thanksgiving. The more we fix our hopes on the reward in the other world, the more free shall we be in doing good with our earthly treasure. It was treasured up for them, no enemy could deprive them of it. The gospel is the word of truth, and we may safely venture our souls upon it. And all who hear the word of the gospel, ought to bring forth the fruit of the gospel, obey it, and have their principles and lives formed according to it. Worldly love arises, either from views of interest or from likeness in manners; carnal love, from the appetite for pleasure. To these, something corrupt, selfish, and base always cleaves. But Christian love arises from the Holy Spirit, and is full of holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Your love in the Spirit - Your love wrought in you by the Spirit.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Love in the SpiritI take to mean,spiritual love, according to the view of Chrysostom, with whom, however, I do not agree in the interpretation of the preceding words. Now,spiritual loveis of such a nature as has no view to the world, but is consecrated to the service of piety,and has, as it were, an internal root, while carnal friendships depend on external causes.
Bible Cross References
Mark 4:22 Romans 15:30

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Prays for their fruitfulness in spiritual knowledge.
The apostle was constant in prayer, that the believers might be filled with the knowledge of God's will, in all wisdom. Good words will not do without good works. He who undertakes to give strength to his people, is a God of power, and of glorious power. The blessed Spirit is the author of this. In praying for spiritual strength, we are not straitened, or confined in the promises, and should not be so in our hopes and desires. The grace of God in the hearts of believers is the power of God; and there is glory in this power. The special use of this strength was for sufferings. There is work to be done, even when we are suffering. Amidst all their trials they gave thanks to the Father of our Lord Jesus, whose special grace fitted them to partake of the inheritance provided for the saints. To bring about this change, those were made willing subjects of Christ, who were slaves of Satan. All who are designed for heaven hereafter, are prepared for heaven now. Those who have the inheritance of sons, have the education of sons, and the disposition of sons. By faith in Christ they enjoyed this redemption, as the purchase of his atoning blood, whereby forgiveness of sins, and all other spiritual blessings were bestowed. Surely then we shall deem it a favour to be delivered from Satan's kingdom and brought into that of Christ, knowing that all trials will soon end, and that every believer will be found among those who come out of great tribulation.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Instruction of Highest Value
—The manifestation of real goodness is the bearing of fruit in good works. This bears the endorsement of heaven. Read the first chapter of Paul's Epistle to the Colossians. The instruction it contains is of the highest value. The religion of Christ makes all who possess it truly benevolent. It countenances no littleness, no mean transactions. True Christians have a nobility which allows none of the cheap, covetous actions that are a disgrace to the doer of them (Letter 58, 1900).What Our Churches Should Be—The first and second chapters of Colossians have been presented to me as an expression of what our churches in every part of the world should be (Letter 161, 1903).. God's Will May Be Known—[Colossians 1:9-11 quoted.] How complete this prayer is! There is no limit to the blessings that it is our privilege to receive. We may be “filled with the knowledge of his will.” The Holy Ghost would never have inspired Paul to offer this prayer in behalf of his brethren, if it had not been possible for them to receive an answer from God in accordance with the request. Since this is so, we know that God's will is manifested to His people as they need a clearer understanding of His will (Letter 179, 1902).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We pray for you - This was mentioned in general, (Colossians 1:3) , but now more particularly. That ye may be filled with the knowledge of his will - Of his revealed will. In all wisdom - With all the wisdom from above. And spiritual understanding - To discern by that light whatever agrees with, or differs from, his will.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For this cause we also.As he has previously shewn his affection for them in his thanksgivings, so he now shews it still farther in the earnestness of his prayers in their behalf.And, assuredly, the more that the grace of God is conspicuous in any, we ought in that proportion specially to love and esteem them, and to be concerned as to their welfare. But what does he pray for in their behalf? That they may know God more fully; by which he indirectly intimates, that something is still wanting in them, that he may prepare the way for imparting instruction to them, and may secure their attention to a fuller statement of doctrine. For those who think that they have already attained everything that is worthy of being known, despise and disdain everything farther that is presented to them. Hence he removes from the Colossians an impression of this nature, lest it should be a hinderance in the way of their cheerfully making progress, and allowing what had been begun in them to receive an additional polish. But what knowledge does he desire in their behalf? The knowledge ofthe divine will, by which expression he sets aside all inventions of men, and all speculations that are at variance with the word of God. For his will is not to be sought anywhere else than in his word.He adds — in all wisdom;by which he intimates that the will of God, of which he had made mention, was the only rule of right knowledge. For if any one is desirous simply to know those things which it has pleased God to reveal, that is the man who accurately knows what it is to be truly wise. If we desire anything beyond that, this will be nothing else than to be foolish, by not keeping within due bounds. By the wordσυνέσεωςwhich we renderprudentiam, (prudence,) I understand — that discrimination which proceeds from intelligence. Both are calledspiritualby Paul, because they are not attained in any other way than by the guidance of the Spirit.For the animal man does not perceive the things that are of God. (1 Corinthians 2:14.)So long as men are regulated by their own carnal perceptions, they have also their own wisdom, but it is of such a nature as is mere vanity, however much they may delight themselves in it. We see what sort of theology there is under the Papacy, what is contained in the books of philosophers, and what wisdom profane men hold in estimation. Let us, however, bear in mind, that the wisdom which is alone commended by Paul is comprehended in the will of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
the knowledge of His will. The Greek word for knowledge is the usual one, with an added preposition that intensifies its meaning. This is not an inner impression or feeling, but a deep and thorough knowledge of the will of God that is finally and completely revealed in the Word of God (Col 3:16; Eph 5:17; 1Th 4:3; 1Th 5:18; 1Ti 2:4; 1Pe 2:13, 1Pe 2:15; 1Pe 4:19). wisdom and spiritual understanding. Spiritual modifies both wisdom (the ability to accumulate and organize principles from Scripture) and understanding (the application of those principles to daily living).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 12:23 Romans 12:2 Ephesians 1:16 Ephesians 1:17 Ephesians 5:17 Philippians 1:9 Colossians 1:4 2 Thessalonians 1:11 Philemon 1:6

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Prays for their fruitfulness in spiritual knowledge.
The apostle was constant in prayer, that the believers might be filled with the knowledge of God's will, in all wisdom. Good words will not do without good works. He who undertakes to give strength to his people, is a God of power, and of glorious power. The blessed Spirit is the author of this. In praying for spiritual strength, we are not straitened, or confined in the promises, and should not be so in our hopes and desires. The grace of God in the hearts of believers is the power of God; and there is glory in this power. The special use of this strength was for sufferings. There is work to be done, even when we are suffering. Amidst all their trials they gave thanks to the Father of our Lord Jesus, whose special grace fitted them to partake of the inheritance provided for the saints. To bring about this change, those were made willing subjects of Christ, who were slaves of Satan. All who are designed for heaven hereafter, are prepared for heaven now. Those who have the inheritance of sons, have the education of sons, and the disposition of sons. By faith in Christ they enjoyed this redemption, as the purchase of his atoning blood, whereby forgiveness of sins, and all other spiritual blessings were bestowed. Surely then we shall deem it a favour to be delivered from Satan's kingdom and brought into that of Christ, knowing that all trials will soon end, and that every believer will be found among those who come out of great tribulation.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Instruction of Highest Value
—The manifestation of real goodness is the bearing of fruit in good works. This bears the endorsement of heaven. Read the first chapter of Paul's Epistle to the Colossians. The instruction it contains is of the highest value. The religion of Christ makes all who possess it truly benevolent. It countenances no littleness, no mean transactions. True Christians have a nobility which allows none of the cheap, covetous actions that are a disgrace to the doer of them (Letter 58, 1900).What Our Churches Should Be—The first and second chapters of Colossians have been presented to me as an expression of what our churches in every part of the world should be (Letter 161, 1903).. God's Will May Be Known—[Colossians 1:9-11 quoted.] How complete this prayer is! There is no limit to the blessings that it is our privilege to receive. We may be “filled with the knowledge of his will.” The Holy Ghost would never have inspired Paul to offer this prayer in behalf of his brethren, if it had not been possible for them to receive an answer from God in accordance with the request. Since this is so, we know that God's will is manifested to His people as they need a clearer understanding of His will (Letter 179, 1902).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
That, knowing his whole will, ye may walk worthy of the Lord, unto all pleasing - So as actually to please him in all things; daily increasing in the living, experimental knowledge of God, our Father, Saviour, Sanctifier.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
That ye may walk worthy of God. In thefirstplace he teaches, what is the end ofspiritual understanding, and for what purpose we ought to make proficiency in God’s school — that we maywalk worthy of God, that is, that it may be manifest in our life, that we have not in vain been taught by God. Whoever they may be that do not direct their endeavors towards this object, may possibly toil and labor much, but they do nothing better than wander about in endless windings, without making any progress.Farther, he admonishes us, that if we wouldwalk worthy of God, we must above all things take heed that we regulate our whole course of life according to the will of God, renouncing our own understanding, and bidding farewell to all the inclinations of our flesh.This also he again confirms by saying — unto all obedience, or, as they commonly say,well-pleasing. Hence if it is asked, what kind of life isworthy of God, let us always keep in view this definition of Paul — that it is such a life as, leaving the opinions of men, and leaving, in short, all carnal inclination, is regulated so as to be in subjection to God alone. From this follow good works, which are the fruits that God requires from us.Increasing, in the knowledge of God.He again repeats, that they have not arrived at such perfection as not to stand in need of farther increase; by which admonition he prepares them, and as it were leads them by the hand, to an eagerness for proficiency, that they may shew themselves ready to listen, and teachable. What is here said to the Colossians, let all believers take as said to themselves, and draw from this a common exhortation that we must always make progress in the doctrine of piety until death.
McArther Bible Commentary
walk worthy. This is a key NT concept which calls the believer to live in a way that is consistent with his identification with the Lord who saved him. See notes on Eph 4:1; Php 1:27. being fruitful in every good work. See notes on Rom 1:13; Php 4:17. Spiritual fruit is the by-product of a righteous life. The Bible identifies spiritual fruit as leading people to Christ (1Co 16:15), praising God (Heb 13:15), giving money (Rom 15:26-28), living a godly life (Heb 12:11), and displaying holy attitudes (Gal 5:22-23). increasing in the knowledge of God. Spiritual growth cannot occur apart from this knowledge (1Pe 2:2; 2Pe 3:18). The evidences of spiritual growth include a deeper love for God's Word (Psa 119:97), a more perfect obedience (1Jn 2:3-5), a strong doctrinal foundation (1Jn 2:12-14), an expanding faith (2Th 1:3; cf. 2Co 10:5), and a greater love for others (Php 1:9).
Bible Cross References
Romans 1:13 2 Corinthians 5:9 Ephesians 4:1 Ephesians 5:10 Colossians 2:6 Titus 3:14 2 Peter 1:8 3 John 1:6

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Prays for their fruitfulness in spiritual knowledge.
The apostle was constant in prayer, that the believers might be filled with the knowledge of God's will, in all wisdom. Good words will not do without good works. He who undertakes to give strength to his people, is a God of power, and of glorious power. The blessed Spirit is the author of this. In praying for spiritual strength, we are not straitened, or confined in the promises, and should not be so in our hopes and desires. The grace of God in the hearts of believers is the power of God; and there is glory in this power. The special use of this strength was for sufferings. There is work to be done, even when we are suffering. Amidst all their trials they gave thanks to the Father of our Lord Jesus, whose special grace fitted them to partake of the inheritance provided for the saints. To bring about this change, those were made willing subjects of Christ, who were slaves of Satan. All who are designed for heaven hereafter, are prepared for heaven now. Those who have the inheritance of sons, have the education of sons, and the disposition of sons. By faith in Christ they enjoyed this redemption, as the purchase of his atoning blood, whereby forgiveness of sins, and all other spiritual blessings were bestowed. Surely then we shall deem it a favour to be delivered from Satan's kingdom and brought into that of Christ, knowing that all trials will soon end, and that every believer will be found among those who come out of great tribulation.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Instruction of Highest Value
—The manifestation of real goodness is the bearing of fruit in good works. This bears the endorsement of heaven. Read the first chapter of Paul's Epistle to the Colossians. The instruction it contains is of the highest value. The religion of Christ makes all who possess it truly benevolent. It countenances no littleness, no mean transactions. True Christians have a nobility which allows none of the cheap, covetous actions that are a disgrace to the doer of them (Letter 58, 1900).What Our Churches Should Be—The first and second chapters of Colossians have been presented to me as an expression of what our churches in every part of the world should be (Letter 161, 1903).. God's Will May Be Known—[Colossians 1:9-11 quoted.] How complete this prayer is! There is no limit to the blessings that it is our privilege to receive. We may be “filled with the knowledge of his will.” The Holy Ghost would never have inspired Paul to offer this prayer in behalf of his brethren, if it had not been possible for them to receive an answer from God in accordance with the request. Since this is so, we know that God's will is manifested to His people as they need a clearer understanding of His will (Letter 179, 1902).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Strengthened unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness - This is the highest point: not only to know, to do, to suffer, the whole will of God; but to suffer it to the end, not barely with patience, but with thankful joy.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
In hope and in silence shall be your strength. (Isaiah 30:15.)It is preferable to connect with this sentence the clause, with joy. For although the other reading is more commonly to be met with in the Latin versions,thisis more in accordance with the Greek manuscripts, and, unquestionably, patience is not sustained otherwise than by alacrity of mind, and will never be maintained with fortitude by any one that is not satisfied with his condition.
McArther Bible Commentary
strengthened with all might. See notes on Eph 3:16-20. patience and longsuffering. These terms are closely related and refer to the attitude one has during trials. Patience looks more at enduring difficult circumstances while longsuffering looks at enduring difficult people.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 16:13 Ephesians 3:16 Ephesians 4:2 Philippians 4:13

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Prays for their fruitfulness in spiritual knowledge.
The apostle was constant in prayer, that the believers might be filled with the knowledge of God's will, in all wisdom. Good words will not do without good works. He who undertakes to give strength to his people, is a God of power, and of glorious power. The blessed Spirit is the author of this. In praying for spiritual strength, we are not straitened, or confined in the promises, and should not be so in our hopes and desires. The grace of God in the hearts of believers is the power of God; and there is glory in this power. The special use of this strength was for sufferings. There is work to be done, even when we are suffering. Amidst all their trials they gave thanks to the Father of our Lord Jesus, whose special grace fitted them to partake of the inheritance provided for the saints. To bring about this change, those were made willing subjects of Christ, who were slaves of Satan. All who are designed for heaven hereafter, are prepared for heaven now. Those who have the inheritance of sons, have the education of sons, and the disposition of sons. By faith in Christ they enjoyed this redemption, as the purchase of his atoning blood, whereby forgiveness of sins, and all other spiritual blessings were bestowed. Surely then we shall deem it a favour to be delivered from Satan's kingdom and brought into that of Christ, knowing that all trials will soon end, and that every believer will be found among those who come out of great tribulation.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Who, by justifying and sanctifying us, hath made us meet for glory.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Giving thanks.Again he returns to thanksgiving, that he may take this opportunity of enumerating the blessings which had been conferred upon them through Christ, and thus he enters upon a full delineation of Christ. For this was the only remedy for fortifying the Colossians against all the snares, by which the false Apostles endeavored to entrap them — to understand accurately what Christ was. For how comes it that we arecarried about with so many strange doctrines, (Hebrews 13:9) but because the excellence of Christ is not perceived by us? For Christ alone makes all other things suddenly vanish. Hence there is nothing that Satan so much endeavors to accomplish as to bring on mists with the view of obscuring Christ, because he knows, that by this means the way is opened up for every kind of falsehood. This, therefore, is the only means of retaining, as well as restoring pure doctrine — to place Christ before the view such as he is with all his blessings, that his excellence may be truly perceived.The question here is not as to the name. Papists in common with us acknowledge one and the same Christ; yet in the mean time how great a difference there is between us and them, inasmuch as they, after confessing Christ to be the Son of God, transfer his excellence to others, and scatter it hither and thither, and thus leave him next to empty, or at least rob him of a great part of his glory, so that he is called, it is true, by them the Son of God, but, nevertheless, he is not such as the Father designed he should be towards us. If, however, Papists would cordially embrace what is contained in this chapter, we would soon be perfectly agreed, but the whole of Popery would fall to the ground, for it cannot stand otherwise than through ignorance of Christ. This will undoubtedly be acknowledged by every one that will but consider the main articleof this first chapter; for his grand object here is that we may know that Christ is the beginning, middle, and end — that it is from him that all things must be sought — that nothing is, or can be found, apart from him. Now, therefore, let the readers carefully and attentively observe in what colors Paul depicts Christ to us.Who hath made us meet.He is still speaking of theFather, because he is the beginning, and efficient cause (as they speak) of our salvation. As the termGodis more distinctly expressive of majesty, so the termFatherconveys the idea of clemency and benevolent disposition. It becomes us to contemplate both as existing in God, that his majesty may inspire us with fear and reverence, and that his fatherly love may secure our full confidence. Hence it is not without good reason that Paul has conjoined these two things, if, after all, you prefer the rendering which the old interpreter has followed, and which accords with some very ancient Greek manuscripts.At the same time there will be no inconsistency in saying, that he contents himself with the single term,Father.Farther, as it is necessary that his incomparable grace should be expressed by the termFather, so it is also not less necessary that we should, by the termGod, be roused up to admiration of so great goodness, that he, who is God, has condescended thus far.But for what kindness does he give thanks to God? For his having madehim, and others, meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints.For we are born children of wrath, exiles from God’s kingdom. It is God’s adoption that alonemakes us meet. Now, adoption depends on an unmerited election. The Spirit of regeneration is the seal of adoption. He adds,in light,that there might be a contrast — as opposed to the darkness of Satan’s kingdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
qualified us. The Greek word means "to make sufficient," "to empower," or "to authorize." God qualifies us only through the finished work of the Savior. Apart from God's grace through Jesus Christ, all people would be qualified only to receive His wrath. inheritance. Lit. "for the portion of the lot." Each believer will receive his own individual portion of the total divine inheritance (see note on Rom 8:17), an allusion to the partitioning of Israel's inheritance in Canaan (cf. Num 26:52-56; Num 33:51-54; Jos 14:1-2). See notes on 1Pe 1:3-5. in the light. Scripture represents light intellectually as divine truth (Psa 119:130) and morally as divine purity (Eph 5:8-14; 1Jn 1:5). The saints' inheritance exists in the spiritual realm of truth and purity where God Himself dwells (1Ti 6:16). Light, then, is a synonym for God's kingdom. Cf. Joh 8:12; 2Co 4:6; Rev 21:23; Rev 22:5.
Bible Cross References
Acts 20:32 Acts 26:18 2 Corinthians 11:14 Ephesians 1:18 Ephesians 2:18 Ephesians 5:8 Ephesians 5:11

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Prays for their fruitfulness in spiritual knowledge.
The apostle was constant in prayer, that the believers might be filled with the knowledge of God's will, in all wisdom. Good words will not do without good works. He who undertakes to give strength to his people, is a God of power, and of glorious power. The blessed Spirit is the author of this. In praying for spiritual strength, we are not straitened, or confined in the promises, and should not be so in our hopes and desires. The grace of God in the hearts of believers is the power of God; and there is glory in this power. The special use of this strength was for sufferings. There is work to be done, even when we are suffering. Amidst all their trials they gave thanks to the Father of our Lord Jesus, whose special grace fitted them to partake of the inheritance provided for the saints. To bring about this change, those were made willing subjects of Christ, who were slaves of Satan. All who are designed for heaven hereafter, are prepared for heaven now. Those who have the inheritance of sons, have the education of sons, and the disposition of sons. By faith in Christ they enjoyed this redemption, as the purchase of his atoning blood, whereby forgiveness of sins, and all other spiritual blessings were bestowed. Surely then we shall deem it a favour to be delivered from Satan's kingdom and brought into that of Christ, knowing that all trials will soon end, and that every believer will be found among those who come out of great tribulation.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Power detains reluctant captives, a kingdom cherishes willing subjects. His beloved Son - This is treated of in (Colossians 1:15) and following verses.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Who hath delivered us.Mark, here is the beginning of our salvation — when God delivers us from the depth of ruin into which we were plunged. For wherever his grace is not,thereis darkness,as it is said inIsaiah 60:2Behold darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the nations; but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. In the first place, we ourselves are called darkness, and afterwards the whole world, and Satan, the Prince of darkness, under whose tyranny we are held captive, until we are set free by Christ’s hand.From this you may gather that the whole world, with all its pretended wisdom and righteousness, is regarded as nothing but darkness in the sight of God, because, apart from the kingdom of Christ, there is no light.Hath translated us into the kingdom.These form already the beginnings of our blessedness — when we aretranslated into the kingdomof Christ, because wepass from death into life. (1 John 3:14.) This, also, Paul ascribes to the grace of God, that no one may imagine that he can attain so great a blessing by his own efforts. As, then, our deliverance from the slavery of sin and death is the work of God, so also our passing into the kingdom of Christ. He calls Christ the Son of his love, or the Son that is beloved by God the Father, because it is in him alone that his soul takes pleasure, as we read inMatthew 17:5, and in whom all others are beloved. For we must hold it as a settled point, that we are not acceptable to God otherwise than through Christ. Nor can it be doubted, that Paul had it in view to censure indirectly the mortal enmity that exists between men and God, until love shines forth in the Mediator.
McArther Bible Commentary
delivered us. The Greek term means "to draw to oneself" or "to rescue," and refers to the believer's spiritual liberation by God from Satan's kingdom, which, in contrast to the realm of light with truth and purity, is the realm of darkness (cf. Luk 22:53) with deception and wickedness (1Jn 2:9, 1Jn 2:11). See note on Act 26:18. kingdom. In its basic sense, a group of people ruled by a king. More than just the future, earthly millennial kingdom, this everlasting kingdom (2Pe 1:11) speaks of the realm of salvation in which all believers live in current and eternal spiritual relationship with God under the care and authority of Jesus Christ (see note on Mat 3:2). the Son of His love. Cf. Mat 3:17; Mat 12:18; Mat 17:5; Mar 1:11; Mar 9:7; Luk 3:22; Luk 9:35; Eph 1:6; 2Pe 1:17; see notes on Joh 17:23-26. The Father gave this kingdom to the Son He loves, as an expression of eternal love. This means that every person the Father calls and justifies is a love gift from Him to the Son. See notes on Joh 6:37, Joh 6:44.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 60:2 Acts 26:18 2 Corinthians 11:14 Ephesians 1:6 Ephesians 5:5 Ephesians 6:12

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Prays for their fruitfulness in spiritual knowledge.
The apostle was constant in prayer, that the believers might be filled with the knowledge of God's will, in all wisdom. Good words will not do without good works. He who undertakes to give strength to his people, is a God of power, and of glorious power. The blessed Spirit is the author of this. In praying for spiritual strength, we are not straitened, or confined in the promises, and should not be so in our hopes and desires. The grace of God in the hearts of believers is the power of God; and there is glory in this power. The special use of this strength was for sufferings. There is work to be done, even when we are suffering. Amidst all their trials they gave thanks to the Father of our Lord Jesus, whose special grace fitted them to partake of the inheritance provided for the saints. To bring about this change, those were made willing subjects of Christ, who were slaves of Satan. All who are designed for heaven hereafter, are prepared for heaven now. Those who have the inheritance of sons, have the education of sons, and the disposition of sons. By faith in Christ they enjoyed this redemption, as the purchase of his atoning blood, whereby forgiveness of sins, and all other spiritual blessings were bestowed. Surely then we shall deem it a favour to be delivered from Satan's kingdom and brought into that of Christ, knowing that all trials will soon end, and that every believer will be found among those who come out of great tribulation.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In whom we have redemption - This is treated of from the middle of (Colossians 1:18) . The voluntary passion of our Lord appeased the Father's wrath, obtained pardon and acceptance for us, and, consequently, dissolved the dominion and power which Satan had over us through our sins. So that forgiveness is the beginning of redemption, as the resurrection is the completion of it.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
In whom we have redemption. He now proceeds to set forth in order, that all parts of our salvation are contained in Christ, and that he alone ought to shine forth, and to be seen conspicuous above all creatures, inasmuch as he is the beginning and end of all things. In thefirstplace, he says that we haveredemptionand immediately explains it as meaning theremission of sins; for these two things agree together byappositionFor, unquestionably, when God remits our transgressions, he exempts us from condemnation to eternal death. This is our liberty, this our glorying in the face of death — that our sins are not imputed to us. He says that this redemption was procured through theblood of Christ, for by the sacrifice of his death all the sins of the world have been expiated. Let us, therefore, bear in mind, that this is the sole price of reconciliation, and that all the trifling of Papists as to satisfactions is blasphemy.
McArther Bible Commentary
redemption. The Greek word means "to deliver by payment of a ransom," and was used of freeing slaves from bondage. Here it refers to Christ freeing believing sinners from slavery to sin (cf. Eph 1:7; 1Co 1:30; see note on Rom 3:24). through His blood. Cf. verse Col 1:20. A reference, not limited to the fluid as if the blood had saving properties in its chemistry, but an expression pointing to the totality of Christ's atoning work as a sacrifice for sin. This is a frequently used metonym in the NT (see Eph 1:7; Eph 2:13; Heb 9:14; 1Pe 1:19). The word cross (as in Col 1:20) is used similarly to refer to the whole atoning work (see 1Co 1:18; Gal 6:12, Gal 6:14; Eph 2:16). See note on Rom 5:9. the forgiveness of sins. The Greek word is a composite of two words that mean "to pardon" or "to grant remission of a penalty." Cf. Psa 103:12; Mic 7:19; Eph 1:7; see notes on 2Co 5:19-21.
Bible Cross References
Romans 3:24 1 Corinthians 1:30 Ephesians 1:7

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(Hebrews 1:3; see EGW on Acts 1:11). The Perfect Photograph of God
—We have only one perfect photograph of God, and this is Jesus Christ (Manuscript 70, 1899).
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on John 1:1-3.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Who is - By describing the glory of Christ, and his pre - eminence over the highest angels, the apostle here lays a foundation for the reproof of all worshippers of angels. The image of the invisible God - Whom none can represent, but his only begotten Son; in his divine nature the invisible image, in his human the visible image, of the Father. The first begotten of every creature - That is, begotten before every creature; subsisting before all worlds, before all time, from all eternity.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
— No man hath ever seen God: the only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, hath himself manifested him to us.I am well aware in what manner the ancients were accustomed to explain this; for having a contest to maintain with Arians, they insist upon the equality of the Son with the Father, and his (ὁμοουσίαν)identity of essence,while in the mean time they make no mention of what is the chief point — in what manner the Father makes himself known to us in Christ. As to Chrysostom’s laying the whole stress of his defense on the term image,by contending that the creature cannot be said to be theimageof the Creator, it is excessively weak; nay more, it is set aside by Paul in1 Corinthians 11:7, whose words are —The man is theIMAGEand glory of GodThat, therefore, we may not receive anything but what is solid, let us take notice, that the term imageis not made use of in reference to essence, but has a reference to us; for Christ is called theimage of Godon this ground — that he makes God in a manner visible to us. At the same time, we gather also from this his (ὁμοουσία) identity of essence, for Christ would not truly represent God, if he were not the essential Word of God, inasmuch as the question here is not as to those things which by communication are suitable also to creatures, but the question is as to the perfect wisdom, goodness, righteousness, and power of God, for the representing of which no creature were competent. We shall have, therefore, in this term, a powerful weapon in opposition to the Arians, but, notwithstanding, we must begin with that referencethat I have mentioned; we must not insist upon the essence alone. The sum is this — that God in himself, that is, in his naked majesty, is invisible, and that not to the eyes of the body merely, but also to the understandings of men, and that he is revealed to us in Christ alone, that we may behold him as in a mirror. For in Christ he shews us his righteousness, goodness, wisdom, power, in short, his entire self. We must, therefore, beware of seeking him elsewhere, for everything that would set itself off as a representation of God, apart from Christ, will be an idol.The first-born of every creature.The reason of this appellation is immediately added —For in him all things are created, as he is, three verses afterwards, called thefirst-begotten from the dead, because by him we all rise again. Hence, he is not called thefirst-born, simply on the ground of his having preceded all creatures in point of time, but because he was begotten by the Father, that they might be created by him, and that he might be, as it were, the substance or foundation of all things. It was then a foolish part that the Arians acted, who argued from this that he was, consequently, a creature. For what is here treated of is, not what he is in himself, but what he accomplishes in others.
McArther Bible Commentary
One component in the heresy threatening the Colossian church was the denial of the deity of Christ. Paul combats that damning element of heresy with an emphatic defense of Christ's deity.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 89:27 John 1:1 John 1:18 John 14:9 Romans 8:29 2 Corinthians 4:4 1 Timothy 1:17 Hebrews 11:27

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on John 1:1-3.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For - This explains the latter part of the preceding verse. Through implies something prior to the particles by and for; so denoting the beginning, the progress, and the end. Him - This word, frequently repeated, signifies his supreme majesty, and excludes every creature. Were created all things that are in heaven - And heaven itself. But the inhabitants are named, because more noble than the house. Invisible - The several species of which are subjoined. Thrones are superior to dominions; principalities, to powers. Perhaps the two latter may express their office with regard to other creatures: the two former may refer to God, who maketh them his chariots, and, as it were, rideth upon their wings.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Visible and invisible. Both of these kinds were included in the foregoing distinction ofheavenlyandearthlythings; but as Paul meant chiefly to make that affirmation in reference to Angels, he now makes mention of things invisible. Not only, therefore, have those heavenly creatures which are visible to our eyes, but spiritual creatures also, been created by the Son of God. What immediately follows,whether thrones,etc., is as though he had said — “by whatever name they are called.”By thrones some understandAngels. I am rather, however, of opinion, that the heavenly palace of God’s majesty is meant by the term, which we are not to imagine to be such as our mind can conceive of, but such as is suitable to God himself. We see the sun and moon, and the whole adorning of heaven, but the glory of God’s kingdom is hid from our perception, because it is spiritual, and above the heavens. In fine, let us understand by the termthronesthat seat of blessed immortality which is exempted from all change.By the other terms he undoubtedly describes the angels. He calls them powers, principalities,anddominions,not, as if they swayed any separate kingdom, or were endowed with peculiar power,but because they are the ministers of Divine power and dominion.It is customary, however, that, in so far as God manifests his power in creatures, his names are, in that proportion, transferred to them. Thus he is himself aloneLordandFather, but those are also calledlordsandfatherswhom he dignifies with this honor. Hence it comes that angels, as well as judges, are calledgodsHence, in this passage also, angels are signalized by magnificent titles, which intimate, not what they can do of themselves, or apart from God, but what God does by them, and what functions he has assigned to them. These things it becomes us to understand in such a manner as to detract nothing from the glory of God alone; for he does not communicate his power to angels as to lessen his own; he does not work by them in such a manner as to resign his power to them; he does not desire that his glory should shine forth in them, so as to be obscured in himself. Paul, however, designedly extols the dignity of angels in terms thus magnificent, that no one may think that it stands in the way of Christ alone having the pre-eminence over them. He makes use, therefore, of these terms, as it were by way of concession, as though he had said, that all their excellence detracts nothing from Christ,however honorable the titles with which they are adorned. As for those who philosophize on these terms with excessive subtlety, that they may draw from them the different orders of angels, let them regale themselves with their dainties, but they are assuredly very remote from Paul’s design.
McArther Bible Commentary
thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. Cf. Col 2:15; Rom 8:38; Eph 1:21; Eph 3:10; Eph 6:12; 1Pe 3:22; Jud 1:6. These are various categories of angels whom Christ created and rules over. There is no comment regarding whether they are holy or fallen, since He is Lord of both groups. The false teachers had incorporated into their heresy the worship of angels (see note on Col 2:18), including the lie that Jesus was one of them, merely a spirit created by God and inferior to Him. Paul rejected that and made it clear that angels, whatever their rank, whether holy or fallen, are mere creatures, and their Creator is none other than the preeminent One, the Lord Savior, Jesus Christ. The purpose of his catalog of angelic ranks is to show the immeasurable superiority of Christ over any being the false teachers might suggest. All things were created through Him and for Him. Cf. Rom 11:33-36. See notes on Joh 1:3; Heb 1:2. As God, Jesus created the material and spiritual universe for His pleasure and glory.
Bible Cross References
Nehemiah 9:6 John 1:3 John 1:10 Romans 9:5 Romans 11:36 1 Corinthians 8:6 Ephesians 1:10 Ephesians 1:20 Ephesians 1:21 Colossians 1:20 Colossians 2:15 Hebrews 1:2

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on John 1:1-3.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Acts 17:28.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And he is before all things - It is not said, he was: he is from everlasting to everlasting. And by him all things consist - The original expression not only implies, that he sustains all things in being, but more directly, All things were and are compacted in him into one system. He is the cement, as well as support, of the universe. And is he less than the supreme God?
John Calvin Bible Commentary
All things were created by him, and for him.He places angels in subjection to Christ, that they may not obscure his glory, forfourreasons: In thefirstplace, because they werecreated by him;secondly, because their creation ought to be viewed as having a relationtohim, as their legitimate end;thirdly, because he himself existed always, prior to their creation;fourthly, because he sustains them by his power, and upholds them in their condition. At the same time, he does not affirm this merely as to angels, but also as to the whole world. Thus he places the Son of God in the Highest seat of honor, that he may have thepre-eminenceover angels as well as men, and may bring under control all creatures in heaven and in earth.
McArther Bible Commentary
He is before all things. When the universe had its beginning, Christ already existed, thus by definition He must be eternal (Mic 5:2; Joh 1:1-2; Joh 8:58; 1Jn 1:1; Rev 22:13). consist. Lit. "to hold together." Christ sustains the universe, maintaining the power and balance necessary to life's existence and continuity (cf. Heb 1:3).
Bible Cross References
John 1:1 John 8:58 Hebrews 1:3

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And - From the whole he now descends to the most eminent part, the church. He is the head of the church - Universal; the supreme and only head both of influence and of government to the whole body of believers. Who is - The repetition of the expression { (Colossians 1:15) } points out the entrance on a new paragraph. The beginning - Absolutely, the Eternal. The first begotten from the dead - From whose resurrection flows all the life, spiritual and eternal, of all his brethren. That in all things - Whether of nature or grace. He might have the pre - eminence - Who can sound this depth?
John Calvin Bible Commentary
The head of the body.Having discoursed in a general way of Christ’s excellence, and of his sovereign dominion over all creatures, he again returns to those things which relate peculiarly to the Church. Under the termheadsome consider many things to be included. And, unquestionably, he makes use afterwards, as we shall find, of the same metaphor in this sense — that as in the human body it serves as a root, from which vital energy is diffused through all the members, so the life of the Church flows out from Christ, etc. (Colossians 2:19.) Here, however, in my opinion, he speaks chiefly of government. He shews, therefore, that it is Christ that alone has authority to govern the Church, that it is he to whom alone believers ought to have an eye, and on whom alone the unity of the body depends.Papists, with the view of supporting the tyranny of their idol, allege that the Church would be (ἀκέφαλον)without a head,if the Pope did not, as a head, exercise rule in it. Paul, however, does not allow this honor even to angels, and yet he does not maim the Church, by depriving her of her head; for as Christ claims for himself this title, so he truly exercises the office. I am also well aware of the cavil by which they attempt to escape — that the Pope is a ministerial head. The name, however, ofheadis too august to be rightfully transferred to any mortal man,under any pretext, especially without the command of Christ. Gregory shews greater modesty, who says (in his 92nd Epistle, 4th Book) that Peter was indeed one of the chief members of the Church, but that he and the other Apostles were members under one head.He is the beginning.Asἀρχὴis sometimes made use of among the Greeks to denote the end, to which all things bear a relation, we might understand it as meaning, that Christ is in this sense (ἀρχὴ)the end. I prefer, however, to explain Paul’s words thus — that he is thebeginning, because he is thefirst-born from the dead; for in the resurrection there is a restoration of all things, and in this manner the commencement of the second and new creation, for the former had fallen to pieces in the ruin of the first man. As, then, Christ in rising again had made a commencement of the kingdom of God, he is on good grounds called thebeginning; forthendo we truly begin to have a being in the sight of God, when we are renewed, so as to be new creatures. He is called thefirst-begotten from the dead, not merely because he was the first that rose again, but because he has also restored life to others, as he is elsewhere called thefirst-fruits of those that rise again. (1 Corinthians 15:20.)That he may in all things. From this he concludes, that supremacy belongs to him in all things. For if he is the Author and Restorer of all things, it is manifest that this honor is justly due to him. At the same time the phrasein omnibus(in all things) may be taken in two ways — eitherover allcreatures, or,in everything. This, however, is of no great importance, for the simple meaning is, that all things are subjected to his sway.
McArther Bible Commentary
head of the body. Cf. Col 2:19. Paul uses the human body as a metaphor for the church, of which Christ serves as the head. Just as a body is controlled from the brain, so Christ controls every part of the church and gives it life and direction. Cf. Eph 4:15; Eph 5:23. For a detailed discussion of the church as a body, see notes on 1Co 12:4-27. the beginning. This refers to both source and preeminence. The church had its origins in the Lord Jesus (Eph 1:4), and He gave life to the church through His sacrificial death and resurrection to become its Sovereign. the firstborn from the dead. See note on verse Col 1:15. Jesus was the first chronologically to be resurrected, never to die again. Of all who have been or ever will be raised from the dead-and that includes all people (Joh 5:28-29)-Christ is supreme (see notes on Col 1:15; Php 2:8-11).
Bible Cross References
Psalm 89:27 Acts 26:23 Romans 8:29 1 Corinthians 11:3 1 Corinthians 12:27 Ephesians 1:22 Ephesians 1:23 Colossians 1:24 Colossians 2:19 Revelation 1:5 Revelation 3:14

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Philippians 3:8.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For it pleased the Father that all fulness - All the fulness of God. Should dwell in him - Constantly, as in a temple; and always ready for our approach to him.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Because it hath pleased the Father that in him.With the view of confirming what he has declared respecting Christ, he now adds, that it was so arranged in the providence of God. And, unquestionably, in order that we may with reverence adore this mystery, it is necessary that we should be led back to that fountain. “This,” says he, “has been in accordance with the counsel of God, thatall fullness may dwell in him.” Now, he means a fullness of righteousness, wisdom, power, and every blessing. For whatever God has he has conferred upon his Son, that he may be glorified in him, as is said inJohn 5:20. He shews us, however, at the same time, that we must draw from the fullness of Christ everything good that we desire for our salvation, because such is the determination of God — not to communicate himself, or his gifts to men, otherwise than by his Son. “Christ is all things to us: apart from him we have nothing.” Hence it follows, that all that detract from Christ, or that impair his excellence, or rob him of his offices, or, in fine, take away a drop from his fullness, overturn, so far as is in their power, God’s eternal counsel.
McArther Bible Commentary
all the fullness. A term likely used by those in the Colossian heresy to refer to divine powers and attributes they believed were divided among various emanations (see Introduction: Background and Setting). Paul countered that by asserting that the fullness of deity-all the divine powers and attributes-was not spread out among created beings, but completely dwelt in Christ alone (cf. Col 2:9).
Bible Cross References
John 1:16 1 Corinthians 1:21 Ephesians 1:5 Colossians 2:9

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on John 3:14-17.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Through the blood of the cross - The blood shed thereon. Whether things on earth - Here the enmity began: therefore this is mentioned first. Or things in heaven - Those who are now in paradise; the saints who died before Christ came.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And by him to reconcile all things to himself.This, also, is a magnificent commendation of Christ, that we cannot be joined to God otherwise than through him. In the first place, let us consider that our happiness consists in our cleaving to God, and that, on the other hand, there is nothing more miserable than to be alienated from him. He declares, accordingly, that we are blessed through Christ alone, inasmuch as he is the bond of our connection with God, and, on the other hand, that, apart from him, we are most miserable, because we are shut out from God.Let us, however, bear in mind, that what he ascribes to Christ belongs peculiarly to him, that no portion of this praise may be transferred to any other.Hence we must consider the contrasts to these things to be understood — that if this is Christ’s prerogative, it does not belong to others. For of set purpose he disputes against those who imagined that the angels were pacificators, through whom access to God might be opened up.Making peace through the blood of his cross.He speaks of the Father, — that he has been made propitious to his creatures by the blood of Christ. Now he calls it theblood of the cross, inasmuch as it was the pledge and price of the making up of our peace with God, because it was poured out upon the cross. For it was necessary that the Son of God should be an expiatory victim, and endure the punishment of sin, that we might bethe righteousness of God in him. (2 Corinthians 5:21.) Theblood of the cross,therefore, means the blood of the sacrifice which was offered upon the cross for appeasing the anger of God.In adding by him,he did not mean to express anything new, but to express more distinctly what he had previously stated, and to impress it still more deeply on their minds — that Christ alone is the author of reconciliation, as to exclude all other means. For there is no other that has been crucified for us. Hence it is he alone, by whom and for whose sake we have God propitious to us.Both upon earth and in heaven.If you are inclined to understand this as referring merely to rational creatures, it will mean, men and angels. There were, it is true, no absurdity in extending it to all without exception; but that I may not be under the necessity of philosophizing with too much subtlety, I prefer to understand it as referring to angels and men; and as to the latter, there is no difficulty as to their having need of a peace maker in the sight of God. As to angels, however, there is a question not easy of solution. For what occasion is there for reconciliation, where there is no discord or hatred? Many, influenced by this consideration, have explained the passage before us in this manner — that angels have been brought into agreement with men, and that by this means heavenly creatures have been restored to favor with earthly creatures. Another meaning, however, is conveyed by Paul’s words,that God hath reconciled to himself. That explanation, therefore, is forced.It remains, that we see what is the reconciliation of angels and men. I say that men have been reconciled to God, because they were previously alienated from him by sin, and because they would have had him as a Judge to their ruin, had not the grace of the Mediator interposed for appeasing his anger. Hence the nature of the peace making between God and men was this, that enmities have been abolished through Christ, and thus God becomes a Father instead of a Judge.Between God and angels the state of matters is very different, for there was thereno revolt, no sin, and consequently no separation. It was, however, necessary that angels, also, should be made to be at peace with God, for, being creatures, they were not beyond the risk of falling, had they not been confirmed by the grace of Christ. This, however, is of no small importance for the perpetuity of peace with God, to have a fixed standing in righteousness, so as to have no longer any fear of fall or revolt. Farther, in that very obedience which they render to God, there is not such absolute perfection as to give satisfaction to God in every respect, and without the need of pardon. And this beyond all doubt is what is meant by that statement inJob 4:18, Hewill find iniquity in his angels. For if it is explained as referring to the devil, what mighty thing were it? But the Spirit declares there, that the greatest purity is vile,if it is brought into comparison with the righteousness of God. We must, therefore, conclude, that there is not on the part of angels so much of righteousness as would suffice for their being fully joined with God. They have, therefore, need of a peace maker, through whose grace they may wholly cleave to God. Hence it is with propriety that Paul declares, that the grace of Christ does not reside among mankind alone, and on the other hand makes it common also to angels. Nor is there any injustice done to angels, in sending them to a Mediator, that they may, through his kindness, have a well grounded peace with God.Should any one, on the pretext of the universality of the expression, move a question in reference to devils, whether Christ be their peace maker also? I answer, No, not even of wicked men: though I confess that there is a difference, inasmuch as the benefit of redemption is offered to the latter, but not to the former.This, however, has nothing to do with Paul’s words, which include nothing else than this, that it is through Christ alone, that, all creatures, who have any connection at all with God, cleave to him.
McArther Bible Commentary
reconcile all things to Himself. The Greek word for reconcile means "to change" or "exchange." Its NT usage refers to a change in the sinner's relationship to God. See notes on Rom 5:10; 2Co 5:18-21. Man is reconciled to God when God restores man to a right relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. An intensified form for reconcile is used in this verse to refer to the total and complete reconciliation of believers and ultimately "all things" in the created universe (cf. Rom 8:21; 2Pe 3:10-13; Rev 21:1). This text does not teach that, as a result, all will believe; rather, it teaches that all will ultimately submit (cf. Php 2:9-11). having made peace. See note on Rom 5:1. God and those He saved are no longer at enmity with each other. the blood of His cross. See note on verse Col 1:14. The Firstborn Over All Creation (Col 1:15-20) This passage includes a powerful defense of Christ's deity. Apparently, a central component of the heresy that threatened the Colossian church was the denial of the deity of Christ. Ironically, throughout the centuries some cults have used the phrase "firstborn over all creation" (Col 1:15) to undermine Christ's deity. The assumption is that if Jesus was born at creation, then He is more like us than He is like God. The Greek word for firstborn, however, can refer to one who was born first chronologically, but it most often refers to preeminence in position or rank (Heb 1:6; Rom 8:9). Firstborn in this context clearly means highest in rank, not first created (Psa 89:27; Rev 1:5) for several reasons: Christ cannot be both "first begotten" and "only begotten" (see Joh 1:14, Joh 1:18; Joh 3:16, Joh 3:18; 1Jn 4:9); and, when the firstborn is one of a class, the class is in the plural form (Col 1:18; Rom 8:29), but "creation," the class here, is in a singular form. If Paul were teaching that Christ was a created being, he would be agreeing with the heresy that he was writing to refute. It is impossible for Christ to be both created and the Creator of everything (Col 1:16). Thus, Jesus is the firstborn in the sense that He has the preeminence (Col 1:18) and that he possesses the right of inheritance "over all creation" (Heb 1:2; Rev 5:1-7, Rev 5:13).
Bible Cross References
Numbers 7:65 Micah 5:5 Matthew 1:21 Romans 5:1 2 Corinthians 5:18 2 Corinthians 5:20 Ephesians 1:10 Ephesians 2:13 Ephesians 2:14 Ephesians 2:16 Colossians 1:16

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And you that were alienated, and enemies - Actual alienation of affection makes habitual enmity. In your mind - Both your understanding and your affections. By wicked works - Which continually feed and increase inward alienation from, and enmity to, God. He hath now reconciled - From the moment ye believed.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And whereas ye were formerly.The general doctrine which he had set forth he now applies particularly to them, that they may feel that they are guilty of very great ingratitude, if they allow themselves to be drawn away from Christ to new inventions. And this arrangement must be carefully observed, because the particular application of a doctrine, so to speak, affects the mind more powerfully. Farther, he leads their views to experience, that they may recognize in themselves the benefit of that redemption of which he had made mention. “You are yourselves a sampleof that grace which I declare to have been offered to mankind through Christ. For ye werealienated, that is, from God. Ye wereenemies; now ye are received into favor: whence comes this? It is because God, being appeased by the death of Christ, has become reconciled to you.” At the same time, there is in this statement a change of person, for what he has previously declared as to the Father, he now affirms respecting Christ; for we must necessarily explain it thus, inthe body ofHISfleshThe term διανοίας(thought) I explain, as employed by way of amplification, as though he had said, that they were altogether, and in the whole of their mental system,alienated from God, that no one may imagine, after the manner of philosophers, that the alienation is merely in a particular part, as Popish theologians restrict it to the lower appetites. “Nay,” says Paul, “what made you odious to God, had taken possession of your whole mind.” In fine, he meant to intimate, that man, whatever he may be, is wholly at variance with God, and is an enemy to him. The old interpreter renders it (sensum)sense. Erasmus renders itmentem, (mind.) I have made use of the termcogitationis, to denote what the French call intention. For such is the force of the Greek word, and Paul’s meaning requires that it should be rendered so.Farther, while the term enemieshas a passive as well as active signification, it is well suited to us in both respects, so long as we are apart from Christ. For we are born children of wrath, and every thought of the flesh is enmity against God. (Romans 8:7.)In wicked works.He shews from its effects the inward hatred which lies hid in the heart. For as mankind endeavor to free themselves from all blame, until they have been openly convicted, God shews them their impiety by outward works, as is more amply treated of inRomans 1:19. Farther, what is told us here as to the Colossians, is applicable to us also, for we differ nothing in respect of nature. There is only this difference, that some are called from their mother’s womb, whose malice God anticipates, so as to prevent them from breaking forth into open fruits, while others, after having wandered during a great part of their life, are brought back to the fold. We all, however, stand in need of Christ as our peace maker, because we are the slaves of sin, and where sin is, there is enmity between God and men.
McArther Bible Commentary
alienated … enemies. The Greek term for alienated means "estranged," "cut off," or "separated." Before they were reconciled, all people were completely estranged from God (cf. Eph 2:12-13). The Greek word for enemies can also be translated "hateful." Unbelievers hate God and resent His holy standard because they love "wicked works" (cf. Joh 3:19-20; Joh 15:18, Joh 15:24-25). Actually, there is alienation from both sides, since God "hates all workers of iniquity" (Psa 5:5). reconciled. See note on verse Col 1:20.
Bible Cross References
2 Samuel 22:24 Romans 5:10 Ephesians 2:3 Ephesians 2:12 Ephesians 2:15

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
By the body of his flesh - So distinguished from his body, the church. The body here denotes his entire manhood. Through death - Whereby he purchased the reconciliation which we receive by faith. To present you - The very end of that reconciliation. Holy - Toward God. Spotless - In yourselves. Unreprovable - As to your neighbour.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Christ is made to us righteousness and sanctification. (1 Corinthians. 1:30.)The formerwe obtain by a gratuitous acceptance;and thelatterby the gift of the Holy Spirit, when we are made new creatures. There is however an inseparable connection between these two blessings of grace.Let us, however, take notice, that this holiness is nothing more than begun in us, and is indeed every day making progress, but will not be perfected until Christ shall appear for the restoration of all things. For the Cœlestinians and the Pelagians in ancient times mistakingly perverted this passage, so as to shut out the gracious benefit of the remission of sins. For they conceived of a perfection in this world which could satisfy the judgment of God, so that mercy was not needed. Paul, however, does not by any means shew us here what is accomplished in this world, but what is the end of our calling, and what blessings are brought to us by Christ.
McArther Bible Commentary
holy … in His sight. Holy refers to the believer's positional relationship to God; he is separated from sin and set apart to God by imputed righteousness. This is justification (see notes on Rom 3:24-26; Php 3:8-9). As a result of the believer's union with Christ in His death and resurrection, God considers Christians as holy as His Son (Eph 1:4; 2Co 5:21). Christians are also "blameless" (without blemish) and "above reproach" (no one can bring a charge against them; Rom 8:33; cf. Php 2:15). We are to be presented to Christ, when we meet Him, as a chaste bride (Eph 5:25-27; 2Co 11:2).
Bible Cross References
2 Samuel 22:24 Romans 7:4 2 Corinthians 4:14 2 Corinthians 5:18 Ephesians 1:4 Ephesians 2:16 Ephesians 5:27 Colossians 1:28 1 Peter 3:18

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Gives a glorious view of Christ.
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus. He was born or begotten before all the creation, before any creature was made; which is the Scripture way of representing eternity, and by which the eternity of God is represented to us. All things being created by Him, were created for him; being made by his power, they were made according to his pleasure, and for his praise and glory. He not only created them all at first, but it is by the word of his power that they are upheld. Christ as Mediator is the Head of the body, the church; all grace and strength are from him; and the church is his body. All fulness dwells in him; a fulness of merit and righteousness, of strength and grace for us. God showed his justice in requiring full satisfaction. This mode of redeeming mankind by the death of Christ was most suitable. Here is presented to our view the method of being reconciled. And that, notwithstanding the hatred of sin on God's part, it pleased God to reconcile fallen man to himself. If convinced that we were enemies in our minds by wicked works, and that we are now reconciled to God by the sacrifice and death of Christ in our nature, we shall not attempt to explain away, nor yet think fully to comprehend these mysteries; but we shall see the glory of this plan of redemption, and rejoice in the hope set before us. If this be so, that God's love is so great to us, what shall we do now for God? Be frequent in prayer, and abound in holy duties; and live no more to yourselves, but to Christ. Christ died for us. But wherefore? That we should still live in sin? No; but that we should die to sin, and live henceforth not to ourselves, but to Him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
If ye continue in the faith - Otherwise, ye will lose all the blessings which ye have already begun to enjoy. And be not removed from the hope of the gospel - The glorious hope of perfect love. Which is preached - Is already begun to be preached to every creature under heaven.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Go, preach the gospel to every creature; (Mark 16:15;)which commandment depends on so many predictions of the Prophets, foretelling that the kingdom of Christ would be spread over the whole world. What else then does Paul mean by these words than that the Colossians had also been watered by those living streams, which,springing forth from Jerusalem, were to flow out through the whole world? (Zechariah 14:8.)We also do not glory in vain, or without remarkable fruit and consolation, that we have the same gospel, which is preached among all nations by the commandment of the Lord, which is received by all the Churches, and in the profession of which all pious persons have lived and died. It is also no common help for fortifying us against so many assaults, that we have the consent of the whole Church — such, I mean, as is worthy of so distinguished a title. We also cordially subscribe to the views of Augustine, who refutes the Donatistsby this argument particularly, that they bring forward a gospel that is in all the Churches unheard of and unknown. This truly is said on good grounds, for if it is a true gospel that is brought forward, while not ratified by any approbation on the part of the Church, it follows, that vain and false are the many promises in which it is predicted that the preaching of the gospel will be carried through the whole world, and which declare that thesons of God shall be gathered from all nations and countries, etc.(Hosea 1:10-11.) But what do Papists do? Having bid farewell to Prophets and Apostles, and passing by the ancient Church, they would have their revolt from the gospel be looked upon as the consent of the universal Church. Where is the resemblance? Hence, when there is a dispute as to the consent of the Church, let us return to the Apostles and their preaching, as Paul does here. Farther, lest any one should explain too rigidly the term denoting universality,Paul means simply, that it had been preached everywhere far and wide.Of which I am made.He speaks also of himself personally, and this was very necessary, for we must always take care, that we do not rashly intrude ourselves into the office of teaching.He accordingly declares, that this office was appointed him, that he may secure for himself right and authority. And, indeed, he so connects his apostleship with their faith, that they may not have it in their power to reject his doctrine otherwise than by abandoning the gospel which they had embraced.
McArther Bible Commentary
continue in the faith. Cf. Act 11:23; Act 14:22. Those who have been reconciled will persevere in faith and obedience because, in addition to being declared righteous, they are actually made new creatures (2Co 5:17) with a new disposition that loves God, hates sin, desires obedience, and is energized by the indwelling Holy Spirit (cf. Joh 8:30-32; 1Jn 2:19). Rather than defect from the gospel they heard, true believers will remain solid on Christ who is the only foundation (1Co 3:11), and faithful by the enabling grace of God (Php 1:6; Php 2:11-13). For discussion on perseverance of the saints, see note on Mat 24:13. preached to every creature. Cf. Mar 16:15. The gospel has no racial boundaries. Having reached Rome, where Paul was when he wrote Colossians, it had reached the center of the known world.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 24:14 Mark 16:15 Acts 1:8 Acts 2:5 Romans 10:18 1 Corinthians 3:5 2 Corinthians 10:1 Ephesians 3:7 Ephesians 3:17 Colossians 1:5 Colossians 1:6 Colossians 1:25 Colossians 2:7 1 Timothy 3:16

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And sets out his own character, as the apostle of the Gentiles.
Both the sufferings of the Head and of the members are called the sufferings of Christ, and make up, as it were, one body of sufferings. But He suffered for the redemption of the church; we suffer on other accounts; for we do but slightly taste that cup of afflictions of which Christ first drank deeply. A Christian may be said to fill up that which remains of the sufferings of Christ, when he takes up his cross, and after the pattern of Christ, bears patiently the afflictions God allots to him. Let us be thankful that God has made known to us mysteries hidden from ages and generations, and has showed the riches of his glory among us. As Christ is preached among us, let us seriously inquire, whether he dwells and reigns in us; for this alone can warrant our assured hope of his glory. We must be faithful to death, through all trials, that we may receive the crown of life, and obtain the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up - That is, whereby I fill up. That which is behind of the sufferings of Christ - That which remains to be suffered by his members. These are termed the sufferings of Christ, Because the suffering of any member is the suffering of the whole; and of the head especially, which supplies strength, spirits, sense, and motion to all. Because they are for his sake, for the testimony of his truth. And these also are necessary for the church; not to reconcile it to God, or satisfy for sin, (for that Christ did perfectly,) but for example to others, perfecting of the saints, and increasing their reward.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
he willingly endures all things for their consolation and salvation.Let, therefore, pious readers learn to hate and detest those profane sophists, who thus deliberately corrupt and adulterate the Scriptures, in order that they may give some color to their delusions.
McArther Bible Commentary
my sufferings. Paul's present imprisonment (Act 28:16, Act 28:30; see Introduction to Ephesians: Background and Setting). fill up … what is lacking. Paul was experiencing the persecution intended for Christ. In spite of His death on the cross, Christ's enemies had not gotten their fill of inflicting injury on Him. So they turned their hatred on those who preached the gospel (cf. Joh 15:18, Joh 15:24; Joh 16:1-3). It was in that sense that Paul filled up what was lacking in Christ's afflictions (see notes on 2Co 1:5; Gal 6:17). the sake of His body. Paul's motivation for enduring suffering was to benefit and build Christ's church. Cf. Php 1:13, Php 1:29-30; see notes on 2Co 4:8-15; 2Co 6:4-10; 2Co 11:23-29; 2Co 12:9-10.
Bible Cross References
Romans 8:17 1 Corinthians 12:27 2 Corinthians 1:5 2 Corinthians 6:10 2 Corinthians 12:15 Ephesians 1:23 Philippians 2:17 Colossians 1:18 2 Timothy 1:8 2 Timothy 2:10

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And sets out his own character, as the apostle of the Gentiles.
Both the sufferings of the Head and of the members are called the sufferings of Christ, and make up, as it were, one body of sufferings. But He suffered for the redemption of the church; we suffer on other accounts; for we do but slightly taste that cup of afflictions of which Christ first drank deeply. A Christian may be said to fill up that which remains of the sufferings of Christ, when he takes up his cross, and after the pattern of Christ, bears patiently the afflictions God allots to him. Let us be thankful that God has made known to us mysteries hidden from ages and generations, and has showed the riches of his glory among us. As Christ is preached among us, let us seriously inquire, whether he dwells and reigns in us; for this alone can warrant our assured hope of his glory. We must be faithful to death, through all trials, that we may receive the crown of life, and obtain the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
According to the dispensation of God which is given me - Or, the stewardship with which I am intrusted.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth. (Romans 1:16.)God, therefore, gives efficacy and influence to his word through means of the Apostles. For although preaching itself, whatever may be its issue, is the fulfilling of the word, yet it is the fruit that shews at length that the seed has not been sown in vain.
McArther Bible Commentary
stewardship. Cf. 1Co 4:1-2; 1Co 9:17. A steward was a slave who managed his master's household, supervising the other servants, dispensing resources, and handling business and financial affairs. Paul viewed his ministry as a stewardship from the Lord. The church is God's household (1Ti 3:16), and Paul was given the task of caring for, feeding, and leading the churches, for which he was accountable to God (cf. Heb 13:17). All believers are responsible for managing the abilities and resources God gives them (see note on 1Pe 4:10). to fulfill the word of God. This refers to Paul's single-minded devotion to completely fulfill the ministry God gave him to preach the whole counsel of God to those to whom God sent him (Act 20:27; 2Ti 4:7).
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 3:5 1 Corinthians 9:17 Ephesians 3:2 Ephesians 3:7 Colossians 1:23

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And sets out his own character, as the apostle of the Gentiles.
Both the sufferings of the Head and of the members are called the sufferings of Christ, and make up, as it were, one body of sufferings. But He suffered for the redemption of the church; we suffer on other accounts; for we do but slightly taste that cup of afflictions of which Christ first drank deeply. A Christian may be said to fill up that which remains of the sufferings of Christ, when he takes up his cross, and after the pattern of Christ, bears patiently the afflictions God allots to him. Let us be thankful that God has made known to us mysteries hidden from ages and generations, and has showed the riches of his glory among us. As Christ is preached among us, let us seriously inquire, whether he dwells and reigns in us; for this alone can warrant our assured hope of his glory. We must be faithful to death, through all trials, that we may receive the crown of life, and obtain the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on 2 Corinthians 12:1-4.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on John 1:1-3, 14; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:3-6; Philippians 2:5-8; 1 Timothy 3:16; Revelation 22:14.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The mystery - Namely, Christ both justifying and sanctifying gentiles, as well as Jews. Which hath been comparatively hid from former ages and past generations of men.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
a stumblingblock to the Jews, and foolishness to the Greeks. (1 Corinthians 1:23.)We see also at this day, in what hatred it is held by hypocrites, and how haughtily it is contemned by the world. Paul, accordingly, with the view of setting aside judgments so unfair and perverse, extols in magnificent terms the dignity of the gospel as often as an opportunity presents itself, and for that purpose he makes use of various arguments, according to the connection of the passage. Here he calls it a sublimesecret, which washid from ages and generations, that is, from the beginning of the world, through so many revolutions of ages.Now, that it is of the gospel that he speaks, is evident fromRomans 16:25,Ephesians 3:9, and other similar passages.The reason, however, why it is so called, is demanded. Some, in consequence of Paul’s making express mention of the calling of the Gentiles, are of opinion, that the sole reason why it is so called is, that the Lord had, in a manner, contrary to all expectation, poured out his grace upon the Gentiles, whom he had appeared to have shut out for ever from participation in eternal life. Any one, however, that will examine the whole passage more narrowly, will perceive that this is the thirdreason, not theonlyone, in so far, I mean, as relates to the passage before us, and that other in the Romans, to which I have referred. For thefirstis — that whereas God had, previously to the advent of Christ, governed his Church under dark coverings, both of words and of ceremonies, he has suddenly shone forth in full brightness by means of the doctrine of the gospel. Thesecondis — that whereas nothing was previously seen but external figures, Christ has been exhibited, bringing with him the full truth, which had lain concealed. Thethird is, what I have mentioned — that the whole world, which had up to this time been estranged from God, is called to the hope of salvation, and the same inheritance of eternal life is offered to all. An attentive consideration of these things constrains us to reverence and adore thismystery which Paul proclaims, however it may be held in contempt by the world, or even in derision.Which is now revealed. Lest any one should turn aside to another meaning the termmystery,as though he were speaking of a thing that was still secret and unknown, he adds, that it has now at length been published,that it might be known by mankind. What, therefore, was in its own nature secret, has been made manifest by the will of God. Hence, there is no reason why its obscurity should alarm us, after the revelation that God has made of it. He adds, however,to the saints, forGod’s armhas not beenrevealed toall, (Isaiah 53:1,) that they might understand his counsel.
McArther Bible Commentary
mystery. Cf. Col 2:2; Col 4:3. See notes on Mat 13:11; 1Co 2:7; Eph 3:4-5. This refers to truth, hidden until now, but revealed for the first time to the saints in the NT. Such truth includes the mystery of the incarnate God (Col 2:2-3, Col 2:9), Israel's unbelief (Rom 11:25), lawlessness (2Th 2:7), the unity of Jew and Gentile made one in the church (Eph 3:3-6), and the rapture of the church (1Co 15:51). In this passage, the mystery is specifically identified in verse Col 1:27.
Bible Cross References
Romans 16:25 Ephesians 3:3 Ephesians 3:4 Ephesians 3:9 Colossians 2:2 Colossians 4:3

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And sets out his own character, as the apostle of the Gentiles.
Both the sufferings of the Head and of the members are called the sufferings of Christ, and make up, as it were, one body of sufferings. But He suffered for the redemption of the church; we suffer on other accounts; for we do but slightly taste that cup of afflictions of which Christ first drank deeply. A Christian may be said to fill up that which remains of the sufferings of Christ, when he takes up his cross, and after the pattern of Christ, bears patiently the afflictions God allots to him. Let us be thankful that God has made known to us mysteries hidden from ages and generations, and has showed the riches of his glory among us. As Christ is preached among us, let us seriously inquire, whether he dwells and reigns in us; for this alone can warrant our assured hope of his glory. We must be faithful to death, through all trials, that we may receive the crown of life, and obtain the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on John 1:1-3, 14; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:3-6; Philippians 2:5-8; 1 Timothy 3:16; Revelation 22:14.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Christ dwelling and reigning in you, The hope of glory - The ground of your hope.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
To whom God was pleased to make known.Here he puts a bridle upon the presumption of men, that they may not allow themselves to be wise, or to inquire beyond what they ought, but may learn to rest satisfied with this one thing that it has so pleased God. For the good pleasure of God ought to be perfectly sufficient for us as a reason. This, however, is said principally for the purpose of commending the grace of God; for Paul intimates, that mankind did by no means furnish occasion for God’s making them participants of this secret, when he teaches that he was led to this of his own accord, and because hewas pleasedto do so. For it is customary for Paul to place the good pleasure of God in opposition to all human merits and external causes.What are the riches.We must always take notice, in what magnificent terms he speaks in extolling the dignity of the gospel. For he was well aware that the ingratitude of men is so great, that notwithstanding that this treasure is inestimable, and the grace of God in it is so distinguished, they, nevertheless, carelessly despise it, or at least think lightly of it. Hence, not resting satisfied with the termmystery, he addsglory,and that, too, not trivial or common. Forriches, according to Paul, denote, as is well known, amplitude.He states particularly, that thosericheshave been manifested among the Gentiles; for what is more wonderful than that the Gentiles, who had during so many ages been sunk in death, so as to appear to be utterly ruined, are all on a sudden reckoned among the sons of God, and receive the inheritance of salvation?Which is Christ in you.What he had said as to the Gentiles generally he applies to the Colossians themselves, that they may more effectually recognize in themselves the grace of God, and may embrace it with greater reverence. He says, therefore,which is Christ,meaning by this, that all that secret is contained in Christ, and that all the riches of heavenly wisdom are obtained by them when they have Christ, as we shall find him stating more openly a little afterwards. He adds,in you, because they now possess Christ, from whom they were lately so much estranged, that nothing could exceed it. Lastly, he calls Christ thehope of glory, that they may know that nothing is wanting to them for complete blessedness when they have obtained Christ. This, however, is a wonderful work of God, that inearthenand frailvessels(2 Corinthians 4:7) the hope of heavenly glory resides.
McArther Bible Commentary
Gentiles … Christ in you. The OT predicted the coming of the Messiah and that the Gentiles would partake of salvation (cf. Isa 42:6; Isa 45:21-22; Isa 49:6; Isa 52:10; Isa 60:1-3; Psa 22:27; Psa 65:5; Psa 98:2-3), but it did not reveal that the Messiah would actually live in each member of His redeemed church, made up mostly of Gentiles. That believers, both Jew and Gentile, now possess the surpassing riches of the indwelling Christ is the glorious revealed mystery (Joh 14:23; Rom 8:9-10; Gal 2:20; Eph 1:7, Eph 1:17-18; Eph 3:8-10, Eph 3:16-19). the hope of glory. The indwelling Spirit of Christ is the guarantee to each believer of future glory (Rom 8:11; Eph 1:13-14; 1Pe 1:3-4).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 13:11 Romans 2:4 Romans 8:10 Ephesians 1:7 Ephesians 1:18 Ephesians 3:16 1 Timothy 1:1 Hebrews 6:19

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And sets out his own character, as the apostle of the Gentiles.
Both the sufferings of the Head and of the members are called the sufferings of Christ, and make up, as it were, one body of sufferings. But He suffered for the redemption of the church; we suffer on other accounts; for we do but slightly taste that cup of afflictions of which Christ first drank deeply. A Christian may be said to fill up that which remains of the sufferings of Christ, when he takes up his cross, and after the pattern of Christ, bears patiently the afflictions God allots to him. Let us be thankful that God has made known to us mysteries hidden from ages and generations, and has showed the riches of his glory among us. As Christ is preached among us, let us seriously inquire, whether he dwells and reigns in us; for this alone can warrant our assured hope of his glory. We must be faithful to death, through all trials, that we may receive the crown of life, and obtain the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We teach the ignorant, and admonish them that are already taught.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Whom we preach.Here he applies to his own preaching everything that he has previously declared as to the wonderful and adorable secret of God; and thus he explains what he had already touched upon as to thedispensation which had been committed to him; for he has it in view to adorn his apostleship, and to claim authority for his doctrine: for after having extolled the gospel in the highest terms, he now adds, that it is that divine secret which he preaches. It was not, however, without good reason that he had taken notice a little before, that Christ is the sum of that secret, that they might know that nothing can be taught that has more of perfection than Christ.The expressions that follow have also great weight. He represents himself as the teacher of all men; meaning by this, that no one is so eminent in respect of wisdom as to be entitled to exempt himself from tuition. “God has placed me in a lofty position, as a public herald of his secret, that the whole world, without exception, may learn from me.” In all wisdom.This expression is equivalent to his affirming that his doctrine is such as to conduct a man to a wisdom that is perfect, and has nothing wanting; and this is what he immediately adds, that all that shew themselves to be true disciples will becomeperfect. See the second chapter of First Corinthians. (1 Corinthians 2:6.) Now, what better thing can be desired than what confers upon us the highest perfection? He again repeats,in Christ, that they may not desire to know anything but Christ alone. From this passage, also, we may gather a definition of true wisdom — that by which we are presented perfect in the sight of God, and thatin Christ, and nowhere else.
McArther Bible Commentary
perfect. To be complete or mature-to be like Christ. See notes on Rom 8:29; Php 3:12-14, Php 3:19-20; 1Jn 2:6; 1Jn 3:2. This spiritual maturity is defined in Col 2:2.
Bible Cross References
Ezra 7:25 Matthew 5:48 Acts 20:31 1 Corinthians 2:6 Ephesians 4:13 Colossians 1:22 Colossians 2:3 Colossians 3:16 Colossians 4:12

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And sets out his own character, as the apostle of the Gentiles.
Both the sufferings of the Head and of the members are called the sufferings of Christ, and make up, as it were, one body of sufferings. But He suffered for the redemption of the church; we suffer on other accounts; for we do but slightly taste that cup of afflictions of which Christ first drank deeply. A Christian may be said to fill up that which remains of the sufferings of Christ, when he takes up his cross, and after the pattern of Christ, bears patiently the afflictions God allots to him. Let us be thankful that God has made known to us mysteries hidden from ages and generations, and has showed the riches of his glory among us. As Christ is preached among us, let us seriously inquire, whether he dwells and reigns in us; for this alone can warrant our assured hope of his glory. We must be faithful to death, through all trials, that we may receive the crown of life, and obtain the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For which thing.He enhances, by two circumstances, the glory of his apostleship and of his doctrine. In thefirstplace, he makes mention of his aim,which is a token of the difficulty that he felt; for those things are for the most part the most excellent that are the most difficult. Thesecondhas more strength, inasmuch as he mentions that the power of God shines forth in his ministry. He does not speak, however, merely of the success of his preaching, (though in that too the blessing of God appears,) but also of the efficacy of the Spirit, in which God manifestly shewed himself; for on good grounds he ascribes his endeavors, inasmuch as they exceeded human limits, to the power of God, which, he declares, is seenworking powerfullyin this matter.
McArther Bible Commentary
I … labor, striving according to His working. Here is the balance of Christian living. Paul gave the effort to serve and honor God with all his might. Labor refers to working to the point of exhaustion. The Greek word for striving gives us the English word agonize and refers to the effort required to compete in an athletic event. At the same time, he knew the effective "striving" or work, with spiritual and eternal results was being done by God through him (see notes on Php 2:11-13; cf. 1Co 15:10, 1Co 15:58).
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 15:10 Ephesians 1:19 Philippians 1:30 Colossians 2:1 Colossians 2:12 Colossians 4:12