Last week we read Rachel’s creative imagining of Nympha’s church in Laodicea hearing Paul’s Letter to the Colossians being read aloud. This week we’re starting to read the actual letter (Colossians).
Reading:
- Read Colossians, chapters 1 and 2.
- Chapter 1 is a effusive greeting; the style will be familiar to us at this point! Paul lays his praise on thick. He is also praying that they might become even better, too.
- Verse 10 encourages the people to do good works so that their knowledge and faith might grow.
- Verse 15–20: Paul explains the importance of Jesus; Jesus is a mediator.
- Colossians 1:26 provides insight into how Paul sees the gospel message. To him, Christ helps solve “the mystery that has been hidden throughout the ages and generations but has now been revealed to his saints.”
- Chapter 2 is where Paul expressed care/concern for the people ( including the people of Laodicea).
- Verse 8–15: Paul cautions agains false teachings and deceivers.
- From 16 onward, Paul gives a pep talk of sorts, urging the people to have confidence in themselves!
- “Do not let anyone condemn you…”
- “Do not let anyone disqualify you…”
- Chapter 1 is a effusive greeting; the style will be familiar to us at this point! Paul lays his praise on thick. He is also praying that they might become even better, too.
Things to Consider:
- Is there anything here that you think about differently as you consider Nympha’s community of Christians hearing this text through the lens of their particular concerns?