The Book of Colossians is
Paul's letter to the Christians at Colosse. Paul had not visited Colosse. But
he often prayed for the Christians there (Colossians 1:3-14).
Paul reminded the
Christians about the importance of Jesus. Jesus is God, and he created
everything. Then, Jesus became a man, so that he could die for us. Because
Jesus died, God will forgive us. If we invite Jesus into our lives, we will
become friends of God (Colossians 1:15-23).
Then, Paul warned the
Christians about some people (Colossians 2). These people wanted the Christians
to obey the ancient rules of the Hebrew nation. And these people said that real
Christians must obey all such rules. Paul did not agree. He wrote that these
rules were human traditions (Colossians 2:8). Christians ought to obey Christ,
instead of tradition. Traditions might seem wise, but they cannot help us to
live good lives (Colossians 2:23).
Paul reminded the
Christians how they should live. They should think about the things in heaven
(Colossians 3:2), because they belong with Christ (Colossians 3:3-4). They
should not do evil deeds (Colossians 3:5-11). Instead, they should love other
people (Colossians 3:12-14). And they should serve God (Colossians 3:15-17).