“I Can Do All Things through Christ Which Strengtheneth Me”

CFM: October 9–15

Philippians; Colossians

Videos and Podcasts

Video/ Podcast	​Lesson Extension	​Additional Materials
Scripture Central	Philippians; Colossians	Study Guide
Follow Him	Philippians; Colossians Part 1, Part 2	Transcripts
Line Upon Line	Philippians; Colossians	​FHE Lesson
Teaching with Power	Philippians; Colossians
Don't Miss This	Philippians; Colossians
​CFM New Testament	Philippians; Colossians
​Unshaken	Philippians; Colossians (Part 1, Part 2)
​The Interpreter Foundation	Philippians; Colossians	​Study helps by Jonn Claybaugh
​Teaching Helps with John Hilton	Philippians; Colossians
​Add On Education	​Philippians; Colossians
​Ponderfun	Philippians; Colossians
​Talking Scripture	Philippians; Colossians	Show Notes
​Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class, New Testament	The Epistles of Paul, Colossians & Ephesians: Notes, Slides, Handout arnt25_presentation .ppsx Download PPSX • 9.00MB	Galatians, Philippians & Philemon Notes, Slides, Handout arnt23_presentation (1) .ppsx Download PPSX • 3.70MB

Resources and Insights about this Week's Lesson

This week, Lori Denning knocked it out of the park with Hank and John on their Follow Him Podcast. I would highly suggest this week's episode! Among the highlights of this podcast, Lori goes into an excellent discussion pertaining to the Hymns that are included in both Philippians 2:5-11 and Colossians 1:15-20. In some of our earlier lessons, we discussed some of the poetic structures used in the Biblical texts, and Lori describes some of theses elements, including Chiasmus and parallelism, poetic forms that we have previously encountered and explored.

For those who are interested and want to dig deeper, here is an excerpt from some personal notes that I took last year relating to the Poetic structure of the Ketuvim (the Poetic Writings of the Old Testament), these go into more detail about about some of the different literary devices that were commonly used Hebraic music and literature and might be interesting to those who would like to learn more.

Excerpts from A Survey of the Ketuvim “Writings”

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Download PDF • 896KB

I especially loved that Lori points out that almost every time we see examples of the Lord speaking to his people, it is written in a poetic, musical form. This is powerful, and it highlights the profound and divine nature of music. Several months ago, I came across a Jewish parable, and it seems very appropriate for this lesson and this topic.

The Soul of Song By Simon Jacobson

The only way a soul can move about is through a song. Without song the soul remains stuck in one place.

In the Holy Temple in Jerusalem there were fifteen steps corresponding to the fifteen Shir HaMaalos ("songs of ascents") in the book of Psalms (120-134), which the Levites would sing as they stood on the 15 steps between the Women’s and the Men’s "courtyards." In order to climb from one step to the next a song had to be sung.

In our material world we can convince ourselves that we are mobile – movers and shakers – even if our souls never budge an inch. There are people who chalk up millions of frequent flyer miles, others who move around in all the high circles, and yet others who are climbing the corporate ladder. But are they truly moving? Their bodies may be traveling places, but are their souls in flight? Then there are people who perhaps sit in the same place, praying or meditating, but spiritually they are moving millions of miles.

But in the spiritually intact Holy Temple, where spirit met matter and the physical was seamlessly aligned with its inner purpose, you simply could not move from one step to the next unless your soul was lifted through song.

...melody is the language of the Divine.

Why do songs have this power? Because melody is the language of the Divine.

A parable:

When God created the universe, He consulted the angels: "Should I bestow upon the human race the gift of music?" The elitist angels unanimously replied with a resounding "no." "The human race will not appreciate the sublime power of melody. They will abuse and commercialize it. They won’t know how to appreciate the angelic, divine nature of song.

"Give us your gift of music," the angels said, "and we will sing Your praises, we will sing Your songs. We will know how to use the power of melody to reach great spiritual heights."

God considered their opinion, but then overruled them. "No. I will give the gift of music to humans. Because I want them to have something to remember Me with.

"Sometimes life will be difficult. In such times the pressures can be overbearing. Man can feel depressed and hopeless. I therefore want them to have song to remind them, that even when you’re stuck in the dire straits of material existence, even when you are experiencing existential loneliness and "quiet desperation," you can break out in song, which will lift your spirits.

"Sometimes life will be comfortable, too comfortable. Let man then sing to remember that there is more to life than instant gratification.

"Yes indeed," the Lord concluded, "I will give the human being My unique tongue – the language of music and song, so that he can use it to discover transcendence."

The reason song has the ability to transport the soul is because its true nature and the source of its power is its Divine language: Song is a dialect from another plane. If the conventional word is the language of man, music is the language of the Divine.

Songs, therefore, are the wings of the soul. They have the ability to lift our spirits to unprecedented heights. They allow us to fly; to soar away to far-away places – places that are beyond pedestrian life and mundane monotony.

Song is spiritual transportation. As one Rebbe put it: The spoken and written word is the "quill of the mind;" Music is the "quill of the heart." If a soul looks like a flame, it sounds like a song.

Ah, who hasn’t been drawn by the wish to just go out and sing, unrestrained, to the open heavens. To get away from it all and sing away, with your hands waving free, like there is no tomorrow. To close your eyes, and allow the music to take you to unknown places beyond the anguish and pain of life’s tribulations?

...music has become the "hymns" of today’s souls...

This may explain the compelling power of music... Being a language of the soul, music fills the deep spiritual void.... For good or for bad, music has become the "hymns" of today’s souls." The soul finds its expression in song – to free itself from the materialistic bondage of the body; a way for us to dialogue with God (whether we know it or not).

Unfortunately, like any powerful force, music too, untamed and unfocused, can be hijacked and turned into another hedonistic vehicle of indulgence rather than transcendence, narcissism rather than selflessness, and entertainment instead of inspiration. Nevertheless, at its heart, song has a hold on our souls because it is ultimately Divine language – the natural language of the soul.

Our challenge is to recognize the true nature of song’s power and the reason this gift was given to us: To allow us to touch the Divine and integrate it into our lives. Now just to listen to the pleasant harmonies and dance to its beat, but to allow the soulful language of music to refine our personalities, strengthen our commitments, connect with our higher calling, help us build healthy homes and families, and illuminate each of our respective corners of the world with our unique light.

We live in a dichotomous, fragmented world. Matter and spirit compartmentalized make it terribly difficult to hear the music of our souls. Instead, we fabricate a superficial language to maneuver in our mundane lives. Music then becomes an exotic escape to an island. In search of some relief from the quotidian, you plug in your headphones, and block out the world around you – and you soar on music’s wings. But then you have to return, and then the music dies….

In truth, however, an inner hum fills all of existence. Every creature, every molecule, every atom emits its own unique sound. Every soul pulsates and purrs. Even when the "rush hour" of our lives with all its extraneous noise drowns out the "gentle, subtle voice" within, the music continues to play (even if you’re not plugged in).

In a seamless world all our experiences would sound like a song, all our movements would look like a dance. If our insides and outsides would be aligned, we would be singing all the time, and we wouldn’t be able to move unless we had a song to sing us along (as it was in the Temple).

Imagine: What would it be like to hear the music of the cosmos? How would it feel, the song of your soul? Of other souls? How would life be different if you could generate a song at will?

Every time we experience a moment of truth – an experience that resonates – we are hearing the inner music of existence.

How do we access the music within at all times? By getting in touch with your life’s purpose, and recognizing that every moment of your day, every activity, every interaction is a spiritual opportunity. You are charged with the mission to realize each of these opportunities by ensuring that all the material gain is simply a means to express higher spiritual truths and bring more virtue into this world.

This attitude taps into the very fabric of the harmonic chords of existence, which allow us to hear the music within.

In every life experience you have two options to choose from: To serve your own needs, or to serve a higher cause. When you touch the surface of the experience it usually will result in narcissistic results. But when you tap into the inner meaning of the experience, its music will play.

In every experience we can either just ride through the experience, or we can learn to play the inner chords that release a song.

There are people in this world that turn everything they touch into music, everything they come into contact with into a dance. They are alive, brimming with energy. They are electric, and everything that they touch becomes electrified.

Imagine a world in which music is playing all the time. Imagine hearing a song in every breath you take, in every step you make. Imagine a life in which every move you feel the inner rhythm.

High time to start singing.

Philippians:

The Epistle of Philippians was written by the Apostle Paul while he was in prison. The exact location and time of its writing can be somewhat challenging to pinpoint with absolute certainty, as Paul was imprisoned multiple times during his ministry. However, the traditional belief, accepted by many scholars, is that Philippians was likely written during one of Paul's imprisonments in Rome. However, there are many good arguments for other potential locations.

The Roman imprisonment most commonly associated with the writing of Philippians is his first Roman imprisonment, which is traditionally dated to around AD 60-62. During this period, Paul was under house arrest in Rome, awaiting trial before the Roman authorities. It's during this time of confinement that he wrote several of his Epistles, including Philippians, Colossians, Philemon, and Ephesians.

The letter to the Philippians is notable for its themes of joy and thanksgiving, despite Paul's unfortunate circumstances, and its warm and affectionate tone toward the Philippians, who had been tremendously supportive of Paul throughout his ministry.

• Philippi was a prominent Roman colony in Macedonia, with a diverse population and cultural influences.

• The following videos provide some helpful context regarding the histories and culture in relation to Paul's ministry: Philippians Historical Background | Why was Philippians written?, Where is Ancient Philippi?

• The Philippians had a close relationship with Paul, as the Church in Philippi was one of his earliest established Christian communities, and the first established Christian community in Europe. Paul refers to the Philippians several times throughout several of his letters. In previous lessons, we have discussed the visionary events that led to Paul's voyage to Phillipi and notable individuals from the community: Lydia, the Seller of Purple and a foundational member of the European ministry, The Pythian Priestess whom Paul rescued from human traffickers, and the prison guard that converted to Christianity after the walls of the prisons fell and Paul convinced him to not kill himself (Acts 16:11-34, 1 Corinthians 16:1-4, 2 Corinthians 8:1-5; 9:2). This context helps to provide the framework for the affectionate nature of Paul's letter to this community of saints.

• The Philippian community was filled with some of Paul's closest friends. Some have even suggested that Paul may have referred to his wife in Philippians 4:3 INT, who was living in Philippi at the time Paul wrote his letter. This is an interesting topic and debate that has puzzled scholars for almost two millennia, but regardless of the outcome, the nature of this phrase demonstrates the intimate affection that Paul felt for this community. Did Paul Address His Wife in Philippi?

Colossians

The unexcavated ancient site of Colossae lies in close proximity to the modern city of Honaz, located in Turkey, situated in the southwestern part of Asia Minor, not far from the Lycus River. At the time of Paul, this city was in the province of Phrygia,about 125 miles east of Ephesus. Colossae is a city briefly mentioned in the Bible, specifically in Colossians 1:2, as the destination of a letter traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. However, it is worth noting that scholarly discussions have arisen regarding the authorship of this letter, with some suggesting that it was likely compiled and recorded on Paul's behalf by someone else, as is the case with several other letters in the Pauline corpus.

The records indicate that Paul never visited Colossae, as he mentions in Colossians 2:1, saying that he had not been seen "face to face" by the Colossians. However he had deep concern for their faith and well-being. Epaphras, a fellow believer and possibly a convert of Paul, played a significant role in bringing the Gospel to Colossae. In Colossians 1:7, Paul refers to Epaphras as "our dear fellow servant" and mentions that Epaphras had informed him about the faith and love of the Colossian believers. As such, Paul felt compelled to address the new community of saints, to teach them about many of the primary principles and themes of the Gospel, in addition to providing them with some practical applications pertaining to how to apply these principles to their lives.

Overview:

Phillipians:

In Philippians 1, Paul sets a tone of joy, thanksgiving, and a commitment to the advancement of the Gospel. His prayers for the Philippians, his endurance in imprisonment, and his exhortations to live worthy of the Gospel serve as timeless lessons for believers facing challenges in their faith journey.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​Philippians 1			​INT
​Verses 1-11	​Thanksgiving and Prayer	Verses 1-2: Paul opens with greetings and addresses the letter to the saints in Philippi, expressing his thankfulness for their partnership in the Gospel. Verses 3-8: Paul affectionately expresses his joy and gratitude for the fellowship of the Philippians, mentioning that he continues to remember them in his prayers. He expresses his confidence in their faith and the good works they have begun and continue to perform in anticipation of the day of Jesus Christ. Verses 9-11: Paul prays that their love may abound more and more in knowledge and discernment, enabling them to approve what is excellent in sincerity and without offense until the day of Christ, being filled with the fruit of righteousness through Jesus Christ to God's glory and praise.
​Verses 12-26	​Advancement of the Gospel	Verses 12-14: Paul wants the Philippians to understand that his imprisonment has actually served to advance the Gospel, as his bonds/chains have become manifest to the whole palace and others, leading to increased confidence in sharing the message in boldness and without fear. Verses 15-18: Paul acknowledges that some preach about Christ out of envy and contention, others have goodwill/ good intentions. Those who preach from a place of envy and contention afflict Paul more, adding to his bonds, while those who preach in love strengthen his defense. Regardless of the outcome, Paul's heart is set on defending the Gospel. Paul rejoices that no matter what happens, either way, whether in pretense or in truth, the message of Christ is being proclaimed. Verses 19-26: Paul expresses his knowledge that his adversity shall turn to salvation through the prayers of the Philippians and the supply of the Holy Ghost. He eagerly expects and hopes that he will be exonerated, but whether he lives or dies, he will continue to boldly magnify Christ because either way, he will gain. Living will allow him to continue his ministry, and dying will allow him to be with Christ. Paul considers either choice desirable but expresses that he will do his best to abide in the flesh for the sake of his friends so that he can help them and see them again.	​More than a Hero
​Verses 27-30	​Living Worthy of the Gospel	Verses 27-28: Paul urges the Philippians to continue to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel, standing firm in one spirit and striving side by side for the faith of the Gospel, not being frightened by adversaries. Paul expresses that this unified faith will be perceived by their enemies as an evident token of perdition, but unto God, it will be a token of salvation. Verses 29-30: Paul reminds them that it has been granted to them to suffer for Christ's sake and encourages them through his example.	​Remember Thy Suffering Saints, O Our God

In Philippians 2, Paul emphasizes humility, unity, and Christlike attitudes as essential qualities for the Christian community. These teachings provided guidance and encouragement to the Philippians in their cultural context, challenging them to imitate Christ's humility and shine as lights in a society with distinct values and expectations.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​​Philippians 2			​INT
​Verses 1-11	​Humility and Unity in Christ	Verses 1-2: Paul encourages the Philippians to seek consolation in Christ, explaining that a fullness of joy can come through living a life centered on Christ, one patterned around His example. This choice embodies comfort, love, mercy, fellowship of the Spirit, and unity in heart and mind. Verses 3-5: Paul underscores the importance of not being motivated by politics, selfish ambition, or conceit but rather by humility, modesty, and a heightened esteem for others. He explains that this was the mindset of Christ, and this is the mindset we should emulate and create within.
​Verses 5-11	​The Song of Christ's Glory	Verses 5-11: Paul expresses his thoughts in a beautiful hymn or poem known as the "Christ Hymn." Paul highlights the humility of Christ and admonishes the saints to "Let this mind be in you." He sings of Jesus Christ, who understood that it was not robbery to become like God. Yet in humility, he abased Himself, taking on the form of a servant of no reputation, created in the likeness of men. And being found, fashioned in this humbled state, he continued to humble himself, as he demonstrated obedience to the Father, even to the point of death on the cross. Because of this, God (the Father) exalted Christ on High, giving him a name, which is above every name. That at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, things in heaven, earth, and below the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.	Philippians 2 || The Hymn of Christ ​Adapted modern interpretations: The Song of Christ’s Glory Philippians 2:5-11 Koine Greek: Τοῦτο φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν Christ ​Original Song "Philippians 2:5-11" by Mercedes
​Verses 12-18	​Shining as Lights in the World	Verses 12-13: Paul encourages the Philippians to continue to obey, not only in his presence, but much more importantly, in his absence. He admonishes them to work out their salvation with fear (awe, reverence) and trembling (excitement), for God works in them, prompting them according to His will and good purposes. (those things that he knows will do the most good) Verses 14-16: Paul urges them to do everything without murmuring or arguing so that they may shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life. Verses 17-18: Paul speaks of his own potential martyrdom, stating that even if he is, he rejoices.
​Verses 19-24	​Genuine Friendship and Selflessness	Verses 19-21: Paul intends to send Timothy to the Philippians soon. He expresses his anticipation to hear how the Philippians are doing. Verses 22-24: Paul speaks of Timothy's proven character and his close partnership in ministry, contrasting Timothy's genuine care with the majority of people who seek after their own self-interests.	​On Being Genuine
​Verses 25-30	​The Example of Epaphroditus	Verses 25-30: Paul informs the Philippians that he is also sending Epaphroditus back to them. Epaphroditus had been ill and nearly died while serving Paul, but he had a strong desire to return to the Philippians and put their minds at ease about his condition.

In Philippians 3, Paul passionately emphasizes the surpassing worth of knowing Christ and the importance of heavenly citizenship over earthly accomplishments and legalistic practices. These teachings offered guidance and encouragement to the Philippians in their cultural context, challenging them to prioritize their loyalty to Christ above all else.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​​Philippians 3			​INT
​Verses 1-6	​Rejoicing in the Lord and the Danger of Legalism	Verses 1-3: Paul urges the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord and warns them to beware of those who advocate circumcision and legalistic practices as a means of righteousness. He uses very strong language against them, calling them dogs and evil workers who were essentially mutilating people as well as the message of Jesus Christ. Verses 4-6: Paul provides his credentials under Jewish law. He was circumcised at 8 days old, a descendant of Benjamin, trained in the law as a zealous Pharisaical priest, a Hebrew of Hebrews, blameless pertaining to the things of the law, but none of that mattered. Paul persecuted Christ and His church. He chose the wrong side and the wrong things to put his trust in. Paul demonstrated that if anyone could boast about their accomplishments and accolades, it would be him. However, he counts all such things as loss, a waste of time and effort, because they could not compare to Christ.
​Verses 7-11	​Knowing Christ and the Resurrection	Verses 7-9: Paul emphasizes that everything he once valued, he now considers as dung in comparison to the surpassing excellency of knowing Christ. In losing everything, Paul's focus shifted, and his only desire was to win Christ, to be found in Him, not by having a righteousness of his own, but that which comes through faith in Him. Verses 10-11: Paul expresses his desire to know Christ, the power of His resurrection, the fellowship of His sufferings, and being conformed to His death, all in the hope of attaining resurrection from the dead.
Verses 12-21​	​Citizenship in Heaven	Verses 12-16: Paul acknowledges that he has not yet attained perfection but presses on toward the goal of the upward call of God in Christ, that he might understand and apprehend the things of Christ. This is the prize, the high calling, the mark to align our minds to, so we can learn to walk with Christ in perfect unity. Paul urges the Philippians to follow him in following Christ as our example. Verses 17-19: Paul passionately warns against those who are enemies of the cross of Christ, explaining that their minds are set on earthly things, their bellies, their lusts, and that their glory is in their shame. These individuals are on a path of destruction, and Paul contrasts them with those who are citizens of heaven, who eagerly await the return of Christ. Verses 20-21: Paul reminds the Philippians that their citizenship is in heaven with the Savior, and they eagerly look for the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform their lowly bodies into glorious ones like His own.

In Philippians 4, Paul concludes the letter with practical exhortations on rejoicing, prayer, contentment, and generosity. These teachings provided guidance and encouragement to the Philippians in their social, political, and cultural climate, challenging them to live out their faith joyfully, contentedly, and generously.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​​Philippians 4			​INT
​Verses 1-7	​Rejoice in the Lord and Be Anxious for Nothing	Verse 1: Paul affectionately refers to the people of Philippi as his longed-for beloved joy and crown. He encourages them to stand fast. Verses 2-3: Paul addresses Euodia and Syntyche, two women in the Philippian church, encouraging them to be of the same mind in the Lord. He also addresses someone as his true "yokefellow," encouraging this person to help the other women in Philippi with their labors in the gospel, those whose names are in the Book of Life. The Greek word translated as yokefellow is the Greek word σύζυγε, and this term is frequently used to refer to one's spouse. It refers to two people yoked together through the covenantal bond of marriage. Verses 4-7: Paul emphasizes the need for rejoicing in the Lord always, along with an exhortation not to be anxious but to present requests to God through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. The peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.	​Did Paul Address His Wife in Philippi?,
​Verses 8-13	​The Secret of Contentment	Verses 8-9: Paul urges the Philippians to think about whatever is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good repute, virtuous, and praiseworthy. They should practice these things that they have learned, received, seen, and heard, and the God of peace will be with them. Verses 10-13: Paul expresses gratitude for the Philippians' partnership in his ministry. He assures them that he has learned the secret of being content in any circumstance, stating, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."	​Article of Faith 13 Strengthened by the Atonement of Jesus Christ Overcome the World and Find Rest
​Verses 14-23	​Generosity and God's Provision	Verses 14-16: Paul acknowledges the Philippians' financial support, noting that they were the only church that partnered with him in giving and receiving. Verses 17-18: Paul explains he did not seek the gift itself, but he desired the fruit that it might abound to the Philippians' account. He describes their generosity as a sweet and fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. Verses 19-20: Paul reassures the Philippians that God will supply all their needs according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus and gives glory to God. Verses 21-23: Paul bids goodbye to the Philippians with a farewell salute.

Colossians

In Colossians 1, Paul lays the foundation for the letter by emphasizing the preeminence of Christ and the sufficiency of the Gospel. These teachings provided guidance and assurance to the Colossian believers in their cultural environment, challenging them to place their faith solely in Christ and His redemptive work.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​Colossians 1			​INT
​Verses 1-6	​The Opening and Thanksgiving	Verses 1-2: Paul addresses the saints in Colosse. Verses 2-4: Paul exchanges expressions of gratitude, commending the saints for their love and faith. Verses 5-6: Paul highlights the impact of the Gospel, emphasizing the universality of the message in bringing peace, hope, and grace as it brings forth the fruits of heaven
​Verses 7	​Epaphras and His Ministry:	Verses 7-9: Paul recognizes Epaphras as a fellow servant who played a pivotal role in introducing the Gospel to the Colossians. He characterizes Epaphras as a devout individual who maintained ceaseless prayers on behalf of the Colossian community.
​Verse 9-13	​Strengthened in Faith:	Verses 9-12: Paul prays that the Colossians may be filled with the knowledge of God's will, leading to wisdom and understanding by the Spirit. He exhorts them to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, bearing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God. Verses 13-14: Paul gives thanks to the Father for qualifying them to share in the inheritance of the saints in light and for delivering them from the domain of darkness, translating them into the kingdom of His beloved Son. He emphasizes the redemption and forgiveness of sins through the blood of Christ.	​Walking in Covenant Relationship with Christ
​Verses 15-20	​The Preeminence of Christ	Verses 15-17: Paul exalts Christ as the image (צֶלֶם) of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, and the One in whom all things were created. He emphasizes Christ's role as the sustainer of all things. Verses 18-20: Paul highlights Christ's preeminence in the Church as its head and the reconciler of all things to God through His blood, making peace through his cross.
​Verses 21-29	​The Work of the Gospel	Verses 21-23: Paul describes the Colossians' former alienation and hostility due to sin but now reconciled through Christ's death, presented innocent and blameless before God, provided they continue grounded and steadfast in the faith. Verses 24-29: Paul speaks of his own role in proclaiming the mystery of Christ. He describes the Gospel as the message of "the hope of glory," he labors, struggling with afflictions, to make it known to all. Paul strives to teach, preach, and warn everyone in all wisdom - that the body of the church might present everyone as mature (perfect) in Christ.

In Colossians 2, Paul addresses the theological challenges faced by the Colossian believers, emphasizing the sufficiency of Christ and warning against deceptive philosophies and legalism. These teachings provided guidance and correction to the Colossians in their cultural context, directing them to place their faith and full assurance in Christ alone.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​Colossians 2			​INT
​Verses 1-15	​Fullness in Christ and Warning Against Deceptive Philosophies	Verses 1-5: Paul expresses his deep concern for the Colossians and Laodiceans, desiring that they may be comforted in heart and knit together in love, attaining to all the riches of full assurance and understanding. He teaches that all the treasures (thesauros) of wisdom and knowledge are found in Christ and the Father. Paul warns against anyone who tries to beguile them, those who teach otherwise with enticing words. Verses 6-7: Paul encourages the saints to walk in Christ, to build up their faith, established and rooted in Him, and to abound in thanksgiving. Verses 8-10: Paul warns against being taken captive by hollow and deceptive philosophies that are not according to Christ. In Christ, the fullness of deity dwells in Him, in His body, and believers are complete in Him, who is the head of all principalities and power. Verses 11-15: Paul speaks of the circumcision of the heart, the putting off of the body of flesh, and being buried and raised with Christ through faith in the working ordinances (operations) of God, including baptism. He discusses the process of repentance and forgiveness, and being quickened together with him, blessings made possible through the power of His Atonement. Paul reminds the listeners of Christ's triumph over all principalities, powers, and authorities, as he triumphed over all through the cross and resurrection. As such, Christ has the power to blot out any and all contracts, and dogmas that are contrary to us, (according to His will). Paul uses the analogy that these contracts and dogmas were nailed to the cross along with Christ.	​Jesus Christ Is the Treasure
​Verses 16-23	​Freedom from Legalism and Rituals	Verses 16-17: Paul addresses the Colossians regarding their observance of kosher laws, religious festivals, new moons (Fast Sunday), and Sabbaths, emphasizing that these were types and shadows of things to come, through Christ (His life, Mission, Ministry, etc.) Christ substantiated the fulfillment of these observances in the body, and they belong to Him. Verses 18-19: Paul warns against those who try to defraud the saints, describing them as trying to "beguile of your eternal reward." He emphasizes the importance of voluntary humility as we serve in ceremonial worship with angels and warns against puffed-up and vain intrusions that lead one's mind to distraction and the exaltation of self rather than Christ, who is the head. Paul reminds us that when we serve Christ through nourishing and ministering to others, the health of the entire body is knit together, and as a united body, we increase in God. Verses 20-23: Paul underscores that believers have died with Christ to the rudimental (stoicheion) principles of the world, and saints are no longer bound or subjected to the worldly ordinances and regulations, such as "Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch." Many of these principles demonstrate elements of wisdom, but without Christ, these commandments neglect the key factor, and these doctrines of men will ultimately perish, as they do not have the value to satisfy the soul or nourish the body (or mind).	​It Works Wonderfully! Hearts Knit Together

In Colossians 3, Paul provides practical instructions for living a life in Christ, emphasizing the renewal of the Christian's mind and the virtues of a transformed life. These teachings guided the Colossian believers in their cultural context, encouraging them to prioritize heavenly things, live out their faith, and cultivate Christlike virtues in their relationships and daily lives.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​Colossians 3			​INT
​Verses 1-4	​Setting the Mind on Things Above	Verses 1-2: Paul exhorts those who rise with Christ to earnestly seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. They are to set their minds and affections on higher, heavenly things, not earthly things. Verses 3-4: Paul reminds them that they have died to their old life and that their life is now hidden (buried) with Christ in God. When Christ appears, they will also appear with Him in glory.	​Think Celestial
​Verses 5-17	​Putting Off the Old Self and Putting On the New Self	Verses 5-9: Paul instructs the Colossians to mortify (put to death) the carnal parts and deeds of our old selves, including sexual immorality, impurity, evil desires, concupiscence (lust), wickedness, and greed, explaining that these are all aspects of idolatry. Paul explains that these are the deeds that provoked the wrath of God as a means to punish the disobedient. He counsels the saints to put off the old habits of anger, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication, and dishonesty. Those are the deeds of the old self. Verses 10-11: Paul emphasizes that they have put on a new self, being renewed in knowledge after the image of the Creator. In Christ, there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian (Russian), slave, or free, but Christ is all, and in all. Verses 12-17: Paul urges the elect of God to put on mercy, compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forbearance, forgiveness, and above all, charity (the perfect bond). The elect let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts and are thankful, letting the word of Christ dwell in them. Through the richness of the word, they teach and admonish one another in wisdom, through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in their hearts to the Lord.	Put Off the Natural Man, and Come Off Conqueror Converted unto the Lord Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives
​Verses 18-25	​Christian Relationships and Households	Verses 18-21: Paul addresses various relationships within households, instructing wives to submit to their husbands, husbands to love their wives without bitterness, children to obey their parents, and fathers not to provoke their children to discouragement. Verses 22-25: Paul speaks to bondservants (employees) and masters (managers, employers), urging bondservants to obey their earthly masters sincerely, not just as people-pleasers, doing what makes them look good. Their mentality should be to perform their work with a singleness of heart, out of respect for God. Masters should do likewise, and treat their bondservants justly and fairly, remembering that they also have a Master in heaven. Paul reminds all that God is not a respecter of persons, both servants and masters ultimately serve one God. Christ, as the ultimate judge, will evaluate each person's motives and deeds, determining the rewards or consequences they will receive in their eternal inheritance. (his them continues into Colossians 4:1

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
​Colossians 4			​INT
​Verses 2-6	​Practical application through Prayer and Proclaiming the Gospel	Verses 2-4: Paul encourages the Colossians to continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful and thankful. He requests prayers for those who are part of the ministry that a door of utterance will open to help them articulate the mystery of Christ in ways that they will plainly manifest the message as it ought to be. Verses 5-6: Paul advises the Colossians to walk in wisdom toward those who do not have the gospel, making the best use of their time. He counsels them to let their speech be gracious and seasoned with salt so that they might know how to best answer (עָנָה) each person.
​Verses 7-18	​Personal Connections and Salutations	Verses 7-9: Paul mentions Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister, who will inform the Colossians of Paul's circumstances. He also sends greetings from Onesimus, and Aristarchus. Verses 10-11: Paul mentions Mark (Barnabas' nephew) and Jesus, who is called Justus, as fellow workers for the kingdom of God, extending their greetings. Verses 12-18: Paul instructs the Colossians to greet Epaphras, who is always laboring fervently in prayer for them. He conveys greetings from those in Laodicea and Nympha, as well as from the brethren who are with him. Paul closes with a reminder to read the letter in the Colossian church and sends his own greeting in his own hand, closing with "Grace be with you."

Church Related Videos & Resources

• Spiritual Whirlwinds

• Trial of Adversity

Scripture Central

• Study Guide

Reading Guide

Philippians; Colossians

Lynne Hilton Wilson, "Philippians; Colossians," Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Background to the Pauline Epistles:

• Frank F. Judd Jr., “The Epistles of the Apostle Paul: An Overview,” in New Testament History, Culture, and Society: A Background to the Texts of the New Testament, ed. Lincoln H. Blumell (Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2019), 419-445.

• Eric D. Huntsman, “The Occasional Nature, Composition, and Structure of Paul’s Letters,” in How the New Testament Came to Be: The Thirty-fifth Annual Sidney B. Sperry Symposium, ed. Kent P. Jackson and Frank F. Judd Jr. (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006), 190–207.

The Divinity of Jesus Christ:

• Nicholas J. Frederick and Frank F. Judd Jr., “The Revelation of Jesus Christ to Paul: Presenting a Deeper, Full Christology” in Thou Art the Christ: The Son of the Living God, The Person and Work of Jesus in the New Testament, ed. Eric D. Huntsman, Lincoln H. Blumell, and Tyler J. Griffin (Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2018), 192–215.

Philippians:

• Thomas A. Wayment, “‘Each Person Has a Hymn’: The Creator-Savior Hymns,” in Thou Art the Christ: The Son of the Living God, The Person and Work of Jesus in the New Testament, ed. Eric D. Huntsman, Lincoln H. Blumell, and Tyler J. Griffin (Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2018), 192–215.

• David W. Smith, “Obedient to the Death of the Cross: The Christological Hymn in Philippians,” in BYU Religious Education 2010 Student Symposium (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2010), 127–137.

• Aaron Snyder, "Suffering for the Savior's Sake," Religious Educator 11, no. 3 (2010): 145–155.

• Thomas A. Wayment and John Gee, "Did Paul Address His Wife in Philippi?," Studies in the Bible and Antiquity, vol. 4 , 2012.

• Jeffrey R. Holland, “’Remember Lot’s Wife’: Faith is For the Future,” BYU Speeches January 2009.

• Frank F. Judd Jr., “The Condescension of God according to Paul,” Shedding Light on the New Testament: Acts–Revelation, ed. Ray L. Huntington, Frank F. Judd Jr., and David M. Whitchurch (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2009), 171–92.

Colossians:

• Donald W. Parry, “Ancient Sacred Vestments: Scriptural Symbols and Meanings,” Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship 48 (2021): 11–32.

• Dallin H. Oaks, “Push Back Against the World,” Prophets and Apostles, February 2017.

• Fair Mormon, “Question: Does Colossians 1:16 teach that Jesus created all things out of nothing?” Fairlatterdaysaints.org.

The Bible Project

• Book of Colossians Summary: A Complete Animated Overview

• Book of Philippians Summary: A Complete Animated Overview

The Bible Effect

• Philippians Historical Background | Why was Philippians written?

• Colossians Historical Background | Why was Colossians written?

BYU’s RSC

• Suffering for the Savior’s Sake

• The Condescension of God according to Paul

• The Revelation of Jesus Christ to Paul: Presenting a Deeper, Full Christology

• "Each Person Has a Hymn": The Creator-Savior Hymns

Additional Videos & Insights

• Where is Ancient Philippi?

• New Testament History, Culture, and Society

• Early Church History Timeline 0 to 500 AD (PDF version, download)