Colossians 1:21-23
21 “And although you were previously alienated and hostile in attitude, engaged in evil deeds, 22 yet He has now reconciled you in His body of flesh through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— 23 if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.”
Verse 21: Paul reminds the believers in Colossae of their previous state before coming to faith in Christ. They were once alienated from God and enemies in their minds because of their evil behavior. This highlights the reality of the separation and enmity that existed between humanity and God due to sin. However, they are no longer in this status and should not live as if they are.
Verse 22: Paul shifts the focus to the transformative work of Christ. Through His physical body and death on the cross, God has reconciled believers to himself. As a result, they are now presented as holy, without blemish, and free from accusation in His sight. This emphasizes the complete forgiveness and righteousness that believers have received through Christ.
Verse 23: Paul encourages the believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to hold on to the hope that is found in the gospel. He emphasizes the importance of staying rooted in the truth of the good news they have received. This aligns with the New Covenant perspective, which emphasizes the finished work of Christ and the assurance of salvation that comes through faith in him. Paul is not speaking of losing salvation but rather is speaking of how true faith endures.
