Since we've been looking at the book of Colossians, I wanted to share some more about the history and circumstances around the writing of this letter by Paul. I always enjoying knowing more of the background and what was going on during the time when an event took place. So, here's hoping that you do, too! :) Have a great weekend!
The city of Colossae was about 12 miles nort of Laodicea and near the road from Ephesus to the Euphrates River. Being this close to the Euphrates made it of some mercantile importance. Today, this site is where we find Anatolia, a region in Western Asia. It makes up the majority of the Republic of Turkey. It is surrounded by the Black Sea to the north, the Caucasus (the region between Europe, Asia. and the Middle East) to the northeast, the Iranian plateau to the southeast, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Aegean Sea to the west.
It was hit by an earthquake sometime around when Paul wrote to the Colossians (it is thought in the same year) and the city declined from there. Today the city lies buried under an unexcavated hill.
Colossians was written during Paul's first imprisonment in Rome; probably around the spring of A.D. 57. It wasn't too long after he had written the letter to the Ephesians.
Paul wrote this letter to the Colossians in an effort to counteract false teachings that were being taught. There were persons that attempted to combine the doctrines of Oriental mysticism and asceticism with Christianity. This promised a higher spiritual life and deeper insight into the world of spirits. In Paul's letter to the Colossians, he argues against these teachings and shows them that Jesus brings them ALL these things.
There are two parts to Colossians -- a doctrinal part and a practical part.
The doctrinal part is made up of the first two chpaters with the main theme being a warning against being drawn from Christ. He asked if they were truly united in Christ, why did they need more?
The practical part of Colossians (chapters 3-4) reminds them to focus on things above and to remove from themselves all things of which are evil.
The letter was taken to the Colossians by a man named Tychicus. This man accompanied Paul on part of his journey from Macedonia to Jerusalem, as well as spending some time with Paul in Rome. Tychicus also delivered the letters Paul wrote to the Ephesians and to Philemon.
1 Thoughts Shared:
I do love the history behind the books. My son and I have been studying ancient history for a while now. It is very fascinating. Thanks for sharing! Hope you've had a great weekend!
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