Colossians

Colossians is a letter written by Paul to combat a philosophical and religious heresy that was threatening the church in Colossae. This heresy involved a mix of Jewish rituals, Gnosticism (secret knowledge), and nature worship, all of which diminished the importance of Jesus Christ. Paul's powerful response emphasizes the supreme, preeminent, and sufficient identity of Jesus Christ. He declares that Christ is the image of the invisible God, the creator of all things, the head of the church, and the one in whom the fullness of God dwells. Since believers are complete in Christ, Paul urges them to reject false teachings, live a life set apart from the world, and focus their energies on practicing Christian virtues like kindness, patience, and forgiveness.