The Bible Douay-Rheims Book 58: Colossians

The letter opens with a greeting and a prayer of thanksgiving where Paul expresses gratitude for the faith and love of the Colossians spurred by their hope in Christ. He highlights the transformative power of the Gospel which has been bearing fruit in their lives. Paul then emphasizes the preeminence of Christ stating that all things were created through Him and for Him and that He holds all things together. This theological foundation serves to counteract any false teachings that diminish Christ''s divine nature or authority. In the latter part of the epistle Paul addresses practical Christian living urging the Colossians to set their minds on things above and to live according to their new identity in Christ. He encourages them to put off their old selves characterized by sin and to embrace their new selves which are being renewed in knowledge and righteousness. Paul provides specific instructions for household relationships including those between husbands and wives parents and children and masters and servants emphasizing mutual respect and love grounded in their faith. The letter concludes with personal greetings and exhortations to prayer reminding the Colossians to be watchful and thankful. Paul encourages them to be wise in their interactions with outsiders and to seize every opportunity to share the Gospel.