Paul's conflict for the Colossians

Paul opens a window on his heart so that the Colossians saints might understand his pastoral affection for them, the particular application of his labours on their behalf. We saw the apostle's warmth of heart (contending, striving, agonising on behalf of God's people), the concerns of his heart (those with whom he shares true spiritual unity and affinity, regardless of distance or intimate personal acquaintance), and the activity of that heart (manifesting its affection by every legitimate means, and particular through wrestling in prayer with God, against the devil, for the saints).

In Paul's example we find a vivid portrait of a true pastor's heart (love declared and demonstrated paving the way for exhortation and admonition), a suggestive portrait of a true Christian's heart (concern for the wider church manifested in earnest prayer and potent petition to God), and a faint portrait of Christ's heart, the great Pastor of the whole flock.