Colossians 2:1-5
1 “For I want you to know how great a struggle I have in your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and that they would attain to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this so that no one will deceive you with persuasive arguments. 5 For even though I am absent in body, I am nevertheless with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your orderly manner and the stability of your faith in Christ.”
How great a struggle: Paul is not just promoting doctrine. He has a deep love for the church at Colossae. Paul’s words help us to understand the importance of relationship with fellow Christians.
All the wealth: Paul is not speaking of earthly wealth. He is speaking of the richness of spiritual blessings that we have in Jesus Christ. This is the end to which he is laboring and struggling. Paul longed for the Gospel to be taught and preserved amidst the myriad of false teachings that always surround the church. This full understanding of the Gospel brings assurance of what Christ has accomplished and who we are in light of His work. An understanding of the Gospel brings us to a greater mental and emotional stability.
God’s mystery: The mystery of God, the true message of the Gospel, is Jesus Himself. Paul is not promoting doctrines. Rather, He is presenting a person and embodying this person in his love for the church.
Wisdom and knowledge: Paul is speaking to Greeks who stress the importance of wisdom and knowledge. This is why He presents Jesus as the true knowledge and wisdom. We do not find meaning or salvation apart from Him.
