Introduction to the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Colossians.
The Book of Colossians is one of the letters written by the Apostle Paul while
he was imprisoned in Rome.
Around AD 60, Paul wrote to the church in Colossae, which was located in Asia Minor,
or what we know as present-day Turkey.
Paul's concern in this letter seems to come from the fact that false teachers
were combining ideas from other philosophies and religions with Christian
truth.
This resulted in a heresy that emphasized special knowledge and diminished the
person and work of Christ.
To combat this error, Paul emphasized Jesus' deity, his connection to God the
Father, and his sacrificial death on the cross for sin.
As you listen, realize the importance of right thinking based on the Word of God,
in addition to the importance of the self-sacrificial work of Jesus Christ.
Notice how faith in Christ secures a person's salvation and provides power for
living.
Notice also how approaching life with faith in Christ contrasts with world views
that try to add to what Jesus has done.
Be aware that similar superfluous additions are still being introduced today.