Paul

Pondering Colossians 1

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Note: This is the beginning of a series of ponderings through Paul’s letter to the Colossians. Expect to see this show up three times per week (M, W, F). Thanks for reading.

This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy.—Colossians 1:1 (NLT)

As we begin a devotional journey through the letter to the Colossian Christians, let us spend a moment with the first sentence. Since it is not a long letter, I assume every word is important.

Paul. New Testament readers will recall Saul of Tarsus, holding the coats of those who were stoning Stephen for his faith in Jesus. A Pharisee of Pharisees, filled with what he perceived to be righteous indignation over this new cult that was deceiving Jewish people and bringing them into the arms of a cult. We read about the way he threatened Christians and even had permission to carry them to jail.

Paul. On his way to Damascus, halted by a light so bright he could not see. He heard the voice of the Messiah he hated. Blinded, he began to rethink his previous path and went where he was told by this voice. There, Ananias fearfully approached him and gave him a message from the Lord. His sight was restored. He was baptized in the name of the One he had fought so ferociously.

Paul. One who was sent, an Apostle. He was not seeking a relationship with Jesus, but Jesus sought him. He thought he could see, but Jesus showed him how blind he really was. He was self-assured, successful, passionate, and educated. Then Jesus took all of those qualities and helped him open his eyes to his need for a Savior.

Paul. In his many adventures spreading the message of Jesus, he faced death, beatings, shipwrecks, and opposition. Still, he was able to associate with some of the most powerful Christian people and multiply the Gospel over and over. His influence on a young man named Timothy’s life is well known.

Paul. Writing from prison, he has a powerful message for the Colossian church. He knows they are facing some difficult forces at work there. He is confident in the power of Christ and in his assignment and position. He wants them to know that this is not just a casual letter of greetings. No, it is a Holy Spirit inspired message that will direct their actions and help them walk in the ways of the One who gave sight to blind Saul of Tarsus.

Paul. Now we are ready to listen.