“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the holy and faithful brothers in Christ at Colosse: Grace and peace to you from God our Father” (Colossians 1:1-2)

One of the things that impresses me about the apostle Paul is that he was focused on his mission and this continually fueled passion his entire life. In just about every one of his letters to the church, Paul opens with this idea of being sent as an apostle by God’s will...

“Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God” (Romans 1:1).

“Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God...” (I Corinthians 1:1a).

“Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father...” (Galatians 1:1a).

(For a full list: Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:1; 2 Corinthians 1:1; Galatians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; I Timothy 1:1; 2 Timothy 1:1; Titus 1:1).

Sent By the Will of God

For the past few years, every time I read through the book of Colossians I come away with a deeper appreciation and understanding of Jesus. This letter stirs something inside me. I believe this is because it starts out with a beautiful, magnificent picture of the our Savior. It tells the story of Jesus, How He created everything, how He holds it together, how He was the fullness of God sent to reconciled the entirety of creation back to the Father. 

This short book, written by the Apostle Paul to the Church in Colosse reveals important truths for the believer. Paul writes about the mystery of God hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to the Church. This mystery is Christ in you, the hope of glory (vs. 1:27).  Paul explains throughout the rest of the letter what this means and how this revelation of Christ in us changes the way live.

Here are the topics that will be covered: