¹Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother. Both chosen by God to be messengers of Jesus Christ.

 ²To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. To the faithful Christian brothers, the Colossians. (The set aside ones).

 ³We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you. Always giving thanks to God for the Colossians when when they prayed to Him.

 ⁴Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints. We know that you trust in the Lord and love his people. (Those who are believers).

 ⁵For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel. You have been looking forward to the joys of heaven ever since The God News was first preached to you.

 ⁶Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth. This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world and changing lives everywhere, for those who have eyes to see and ears to hear. (This is happening today more than ever before as teachers can now broadcast over the world wide web). This is our goal at the "Good News Ministry."

 ⁷As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ. Epaphras, a faithful servent of Jesus Christ, was the one who brought you this Good News. Epaphras was a fellow prisoner with Paul. (Philemon 1:23). He founded the church at Colosse, teaching the Christian faith.

 ⁸Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. He is the one who told you about the great love for others through the Holy Spirit. Love for those who produce the good fruit of the Spirit; spreading the truth of the word, leaving out all the traditions of men.

 ⁹For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Knowledge and wisdom to understand God's plan from the beginning till the very end. Remember that all wisdom comes from God. (Proverbs 1:7, Isaiah 28:29, James 3:17). What we do not learn and understand here on earth, will all be open to us at the return of Christ. "No truth will be undiscovered."

 ¹⁰That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. Honor the Lord in the way you live, always doing good and kind things for others. Learning from God the truth in the Word so that we can share it with others. (Those who will open their eyes and ears). "Many will listen, but most won't hear or see the truth." (They are caught up in old wives tales, traditions of men, ways of the world and false teachings).

 ¹¹Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. Praying for strength and patience that you will be filled with His glorious power. Our Heavenly Father has patience and longsuffering for us, that we all come to salvation. (II Peter 3:9).

 ¹²Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light. Always thanking the Lord for making us partakers in the learning and teaching of the Word. Thanking Him for leading us towards other believers who bring forth The Good News. God has many good teachers working on His side; when He guides you to someone with knowledge, don't reject him because your hung up on the teachings of one specific priest, pastor, or teacher. Their is a huge many member body of Christ in the world today, and we can learn something from all our brothers and sisters in Christ.

 ¹³Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son. The Lord has rescued us from the darkness of Satan's kingdom, and brought us into the Kingdom of His Son Jesus Christ; "The Light of the world."

 ¹⁴In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. He bought our freedom with His blood and forgave us of all our sins. Listen up people! He bought your freedom with His life; so don't get yourself back into bondage under some church who think they have all the answers about salvation as long as you follow their rules and doctrine. "You are a free agent in Christ, so start acting like one."

 ¹⁵Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature. Christ being in the exact likeness of God. Christ was before any other creature. "Emmanuel" God with us.

 ¹⁶For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him. Christ Himself is the creator of all things in heaven and earth. Even in the spirit world that is invisible to us, it was all made by Christ. Everything was made for His use and glory. (Romans 11:36).

 ¹⁷And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. He was before anything else; and by Him all things are held together. He is the binding force that keeps all things in order. (John 1:1, Hebrews 1:3).

 ¹⁸And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. The head of the body of the church which is made up of His people. This word "preeminence" in Greek is: ("proteuo" Strong's #G4409 meaning, to be first in rank or influence). There is no higher than Christ. "He was that first born." (Revelations 1:5).

 ¹⁹For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell. The full Godhead rest in Christ. (The Father, the Son, The Holy Spirit). All power was given to Him in heaven and earth. (Matthew 28:18).

 ²⁰And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. It was what Christ did that cleared the path for all things to come to him. "All things in heaven and earth." It was Christ's death on the cross that made us right with God through His blood. (2 Corinthians 5:21).

 ²¹And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled. This includes everyone who was once far from God. Enemies of God because of their wickedness, but now He has made them His friends. (He has forgiven you for your sins of the past).

 ²²In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight. He did this for you through His death on the cross. Because of this, He has brought you into the very presence of God. (No sin left in you, it is gone and blotted out of the book of life). The best part is that through repentance we can keep it that way. "It is God's will." (II Peter 3:9). When you screw up (and we all do at times), repent directly to the Heavenly Father; not some man or woman who think they are your mediator. "Go right to the source." God wants to hear from you, not some jaw flapper.

 ²³If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister. "There is a condition here." Keep the faith and stand strong in the Word of God. Convinced of the Good News that Jesus died for you and always trusting in Him. Remember that Paul wanted to destroy the church before his conversion, but He listened to God and became one of His best disciples. After all, Paul wrote most of the new testament.

 ²⁴Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church. Paul was in prison in Rome as part of his suffering, but was happy because he was continuing the work of the Lord.

 ²⁵Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God. God sent Paul to help the church and to reveal His plan to the Gentiles. Without much of Paul's teachings of the word, we would have never had the reformation and freedom for Christians.

 ²⁶Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints. This mystery kept secret for centuries and generations past (hidden for ages), would now be opened to those who love Him. (Romans 16:25, I Corinthians 2:7, Ephesians 3:9).

 ²⁷To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. The mystery that Christ in your hearts is your only hope of glory. But, there is a deeper meaning of the mystery here, and it would be opened to everyone who believes. The mystery would be explained by Christ in Matthew 13:35-39 and John 8:44 about the tares and children of the devil. The two churches, Smyrna and Philadelphia knew the mystery. (Revelations 2:10, 3:7), both also having the "Key of David." Read our newsletter study topic titled "The Key of David," and Sons of Cain," for a better understanding.

 ²⁸Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Spreading the Good News and staying true to the Word and Jesus Christ.

 ²⁹Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. Bringing forth the truth in the Word boldly and with vigor because of Christ being at work within. "When you teach truth in Gods Word, it is the Holy Spirit talking within you."

 ¹For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh. Many of you never known me personally, but I have prayed for you and the church at Laodicea. "Paul loved all who would strive for the truth."

 ²That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ. I asked God for you that you would be encouraged and strong in love and that you have the full understanding about God's secret plan. It is made known in Christ Himself. Understand Christ and His word and all secrets will be opened to you.

 ³In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Christ is all wisdom and knowledge.

 ⁴And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. Don't let smooth talkers to pull you from the truth of the Word. (Watch for those who think they have all the answers).

 ⁵For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. Even when I am far away from you, I am with you in spirit and happy for you because of your strong faith in Christ.

 ⁶As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him. Now that you trust in Christ, keep Him in your daily lives. (Everyday in Christ will help you through all trials and tribulations of this world).

 ⁷Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Let your roots grow deep into Him and in faith, always thanking God for this. (The more you learn about the word, the more you will become rooted and stronger in your faith).

 ⁸Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. Forget about the philosophy and traditions of men who follow the wickedness of this world instead of Christ. You know, we all need to live in this world, but we do not need to take part in it's wickedness. When you do, it hurts our Heavenly Father, just as it would hurt any parent who cares for their child. Do what you need to do each day to get by, but always lean towards the spirit in your decisions.

 ⁹For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. The full Godhead rests in Christ. That's why we pray in Christ's name.

 ¹⁰And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. You have everything when you have Christ, filled with God through your union with Christ. There is no higher authority or power. I am sure you have all heard the term "He or she is the real deal." Stick with the main source, "Only Christ is the real deal." Man will always let you down.

 ¹¹In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ. Not a physical circumcision, but a spiritual circumcision of the mind and heart for both male and female.

 ¹²Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. Through baptism you spiritually died and were buried with Christ; and then you came up out of death with Him. "Now you have a new life in Christ." Now you need to work hard to keep it in control and away from your old sinful self.

 ¹³And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses. Dead in your sins, then He gave you the very life of Christ because He forgave all your sins. You will still mess up at times; but Just do your best, repent when necessary, and that will be acceptable to the Heavenly Father.

 ¹⁴Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross. Taking away all the ordinances and nailing them to the cross. No ceremonial laws; However, we still have the law of the commandments of God. Remember, Christ came to fulfill the law, not destroy it. (Matthew 5:17). (The ten commandments are a good guide line to righteous living).

 ¹⁵And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. God took Satan's power to accuse you of sin. Christ's triumph at the cross took away your sins. "Christ has the victory, you get the reward." What reward? Christ has set you free from sin and bondage under any religion.

 ¹⁶Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days. Don't let anyone criticize you for what you eat or drink, or for not celebrating Jewish holiday's and feasts. Christ became these things and all things are in Christ. (Keeping certain holidays and celebrating traditions of men will have nothing to do with your salvation).

 ¹⁷Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. These things were only temporary rules that ended when Christ came. Only shadows of the real thing which is Christ Himself. This is part of that mystery in the prior chapter. (Colossians 1:26-27).

 ¹⁸Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind. Don't let man deceive you with a bunch of their vain ideas and traditions. (It will only lead you to bondage, more rules and false doctrine).

 ¹⁹And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. People like this are not connected to Christ, they are held by false doctrine and traditions. Remember that Christ is the head and we are the body of Christ. "Joined and growing in strength and faith from God."

 ²⁰Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances. Why follow the worlds ideas of how to be saved by obeying a bunch of rules and ordinances. In Christ you are not bound by those things. Once again, your a free agent, Enjoy your freedom in Christ Jesus.

 ²¹Touch not; taste not; handle not. Not eating, tasting, or touching certain foods. "This will get you nowhere."

 ²²Which all are to perish with the using; after the commandments and doctrines of men? Food was made to be eaten, these rules were just traditions of men. 

 ²³Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body: not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh. These rules seem good because they require devotion and some foods may be hard on the body, but they have no effect on your salvation. Keeping these rules only makes one proud. "Pride was Satan's downfall."

 ¹If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Sets your sights on the things of God, not the things of this world.

 ²Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Put your mind on the things of God and forget worrying about things down here on earth. The world has nothing to offer you when it comes to salvation and eternal life.

 ³For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. Your desires of this world should be as a dead person. Your real life is eternal with God in heaven. Forget the old self; when you become a Christian, you become a new person and should think like one.

 ⁴When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. We will all share the glory with Christ when He returns. (All knowledge in the word will be open to us).

 ⁵Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Get away from the evil things and earthly desires lurking within you. Don't worship the good things of life, which is idolatry. Never worship anything but God. If you get to caught up in this world, its hard to get away from under its pleasures of the flesh.

 ⁶For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience. God's wrath will be upon people who do such things. If you stick with the ways of the world, you will go down with it. "Its coming soon my friend."

 ⁷In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. When you were not in Christ, you did the same earthly things and they were part of your life. "Do your best not to keep it that way." Change is good, so always try to change for the better.

 ⁸But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Now is the time to put away all these rotten things such as anger, hatred, cursing, and dirty language. (Don't let these things take you over). Don't follow your friends or co-workers who always cause chaos and confusion. "Be a leader, not a follower."

 ⁹Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds. Stop telling lies to each other, this should be no longer part of you. Tell it like it is and stick to the truth. "Remember, the truth will set your free."

 ¹⁰And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him. You are living a new life now; one that searches and learns more of what is right rather than what is wrong. "Trying to be more like Christ." The new man means "rejuvenated or regenerated." Fill your mind with knowledge of the good spirit; not the dark side that Satan has control of.

 ¹¹Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. This new life has nothing to do with nationality, race, education, or social position. It is whether you have Christ within you that counts. Believe in Him and you become a Christian. "Christ is the only way to salvation."

 ¹²Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering. You were chosen by God who has given you this new life, and you should be kind and merciful to others. (This shows them the compassionate side of  Christian). Most important is to be "patient" and wait on the Heavenly Father. Our Heavenly Father is longsuffering that we all come to repentance. (II Peter 3:9).

 ¹³Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. Try to never hold grudges against another. God forgave you, so you should be able to forgive others. If you hold on to grudges, you will only hurt yourself in the long run. It takes away from the goodness within you.

 ¹⁴And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. This word "charity" is ("agape" Strong's Greek #G26 love, that is, affection or benevolence). Love is above all other things when it comes to Christianity.

 ¹⁵And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Have peace of mind with Christ always present in heart and always thank the Heavenly Father for things that improve the many member body of Christ. (We are all in this together till the end).

 ¹⁶Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. The Words of Christ will make you wise if you study them and teach them to others. Sing spiritual songs and hymns to the Lord with thankful hearts.

 ¹⁷And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Always pray to the Heavenly Father and ask for things in Jesus name. (Things to better yourself spiritually as well as the body of Christ).

 ¹⁸Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, for it is what the Lord has planned for you. What did I just say? First off, I didn't say it; it is written in God's Word. But ladies, lets not get all bent out of shape over this scripture. The word "submit" (Strong's #G5293 is "hupotasso" meaning subordinate; to be under). Paul is simply talking about the order of running a successful loving Christian family. Just as there is rank or positions of authority in the office place or in the military, there should also be in the family. Someone has to make the final decisions. "The problem in most families now days is that the children rule the parents and the wives rule the husbands." Everything is backwards. But, this is not what Paul was talking about. Men need to step up and take the responsibility to guide, provide for, and protect their families in a loving Christian environment. Why? "Because that is the way the Lord planned it." Does that mean that men should rule over their wives? Not at all... That is why in marriage they become one flesh. (Matthew 19:5-6). They should work out and discuss their family matters together and come up with a mutual decision. (What pleases one should please the other). "Simply put, "men should be men and women should be women."

 ¹⁹Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. A husband should be loving and kind to their wives. Treat her like a lady and she will be good to you.

 ²⁰Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. Obey your parents because this is what God wants you to do. Remember that your parents have much more experience in life and are usually looking out for your benefit.

 ²¹Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. Don't over do it when you correct your child, and never tell a child he is worthless or no good. If you do, you may discourage them and they will quit trying.

 ²²Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God. Now days this would apply to the work place. Earn your money and give them a days work for a days pay. Don't only work hard when your employer is watching, but try to do your work better than anyone else at all times. This will get you promotions much faster than if your a slacker.

 ²³And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. Do it as if you were working for the Lord, or for yourself.

 ²⁴Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. Your inheritance is eternal life in the end. There is no greater reward.

 ²⁵But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. You reap what you sow; the Lord has no favorites that He lets slack off.

 ¹Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven. This would also apply to the work place today. Treat your employees just and fair as if it were you doing the work. Remember that God is watching you closely also.

 ²Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. Be persistent in prayer and watch for the answers from the Lord. Always be thankful when God answers your prayers. You know, God is your Father, so talk to Him like a one. He only wants the best for you.

 ³Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds. That same mystery we talked about in Colossians 1:27 (the key of David), was why Paul was in prison.

 ⁴That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Paul told it like it was, he didn't pull any punches when it came to teaching about the Lord.

 ⁵Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Use wisdom when planting seed and make the most of it when you get the chance.

 ⁶Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. Grace means love, so be gentle. But, also be a little salty when you teach others about the Good News. (It makes the Word more exciting and keeps away the boredom). Teach the world like your telling a story and it will become more interesting to those who listen to you. (If your a dry as dust teacher, the word won't come across and people will lose interest).

 ⁷All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord. A faithful friend Tychicus will let you know how I am getting along. He serves the Lord with me.

 ⁸Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts. I sent him to see how you are and to comfort and encourage you.

 ⁹With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here. I am also sending Onesimus (meaning profitable), along with Tychicus (meaning fortunate), to give you all the latest news. (Messengers for Paul).

 ¹⁰Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him). Aristarchus (a Macedonian) who is in prison with me sends his love, and so does Marcus, a relative of Barnabas. Marcus (Mark), wrote the book of Mark.

 ¹¹And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me. Jesus Justus also sends his love. These are the only Jewish Christians working with me here, and they have been a comfort to me here.

 ¹²Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Epaphras, one of your own, is also a servant of Christ. He prays that you grow strong in the Lord and to help you know His will in everything you do. (You always want God's will to guide you).

 ¹³For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis. He worked hard for you and the Christians in Laodicea and Hierapolis. (Hierapolis is know as the Holy City).

 ¹⁴Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. Luke was a medical doctor and was the scribe for Paul. (Luke was also the author of the book of Luke).

 ¹⁵Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. Give my greetings to the Christians at Laodicea and to Nymphas.

 ¹⁶And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. After you read this letter, pass it on to the church at Laodicea.

 ¹⁷And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. Tell Archippus (meaning the horse ruler), to do all that the Lord has told him. "To bring the Good News to those without Christ."

 ¹⁸The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen. Paul ends his letter to the Colossians and sings it. Reminding them to remember him in prison with their prayers.