Paul wanted the Colossians to know how much was being done on their behalf by himself and his companions; they were cared for, deeply. Paul told them Christ is the key that opens all the hidden treasures of God's wisdom and knowledge. Paul said, "Keep your roots deep in him, build your lives on him, and become stronger in your faith, as you were taught." (2:7) Paul didn't want them to be fooled by false teachers. Paul explained that Christ made it possible for everyone to be saved. Let no one make rules about what is appropriate for you to eat or drink or of holy days. Especially don't let anyone who claims to be superior to you because of special visions condemn you. When Christ is in control of a person, they are nourished the way God wants them to be. Paul told them that if they believe in Christ refraining from tasting or touching, or severely treating the body has no value.
Set your hearts on the things in heaven. We put to death the things of the body, earthly desires and passions, and get rid of them. Rage, hateful feelings, insults, lying and filthy language must not be part of you. Paul said, "You are the people of God; he loved you and chose you for His own. So then, you must clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Be tolerant with one another and forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. You must forgive one another just as the Lord has forgiven you. And to all the qualities add love, which binds all things together in perfect unity." (Colos 3:12-14) Everything you do is done for Jesus.
Paul asked them to pray for him and his companions. He advised them to be wise in the way they behaved toward non-believers. To be friendly and not judgemental, and know how to answer their questions. Finally, Paul told them about the others with him and those who would be coming to visit them. He sent their greetings to give to others too. He asked them not to forget his chains and he bade them God's grace.
First Thessalonians
Paul sent greetings from himself, Silas and Timothy. They were happy to know that they had put their faith into practice, even though it wasn't always easy. They were so pleased with reports from others about the faith of the Thessalonians.
Paul talked about his work in Thessalonica; that even though there was opposition, they shared the Good News. They had tried to please God, not men. They tried to be gentle with them and not make demands that they could have made as apostles of Christ. They encouraged them, comforted them, and urged them to live the kind of life that pleases God.
Tomorrow read 1Thessalonians 2:13-5:28 & 2 Thessalonians
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