4 - Only the Gospel Changes Everything

In Colossians 1:3-8 Paul expresses his thanks to God for the Colossian believers. Notice that he does this in a very purposeful way. He wants to build them up in the truth in the face of the triple challenges to their faith: paganism, legalism, and worldly philsophies. He wants to remind them of the preeminence of Christ – the theme of his entire letter. He wants to remind them that it is the Gospel of Christ, and the Gospel alone, that has changed everything for them.

Paul is laying a foundation. He is reminding the Colossian believers of the doctrine that they already know, and the fruits it has already born, so that he can teach them more – establish them even more deeply and securely in sound doctrine. And then, building on that doctrinal foundation, in chapters 3 and 4 he will address vital matters of Christian living and conduct.