Our previous blog posts delved into Paul's letter to the Colossian church, focusing on the first chapter. Today, we move forward to the core of Paul's message, which begins in chapter 2. Here, we witness the genuine heart of an apostle of Jesus Christ. Paul expresses his care for the brethren at the Colossian and Laodicean churches, as they were located near each other. Paul urged the leaders of the Colossian church to convey his concerns to the brethren in Laodicea.
What a great conflict I have for you
An apostle is not just a church administrator, nor is he simply the CEO of a religious organization. He is more than a visionary or a gifted preacher or teacher. As we can see from the examples in this text and other passages in Paul's writings, an apostle is a loving father who cares deeply for his children. He does not act out of personal ego or seek to become a legend or superstar in the kingdom of Jesus Christ. Rather, he is convinced that the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ have had an unparalleled impact on the world and humanity. For this reason, Paul wanted to ensure that those under his care were firmly rooted and grounded in the truth, especially given the tumultuous times in which they lived and the many philosophical ideas that were contrary to the elementary teachings of Christ. Paul aimed for the Colossians to be established a deep understanding of who Jesus is.
Paul saw himself as a spiritual father to those he ministered to
The apostle Paul carried a genuine burden for the people he ministered to. He did not view them to collect offerings or gain monetary benefits. Instead, he recognized them as a responsibility, not a revenue source. Despite being gifted with the privilege of seeing the resurrected Christ, being caught up to the third heaven, and receiving clarity and revelation, Paul did not boast in his accomplishments. In fact, he humbly referred to himself as the least of the apostles.
Paul was fully aware that his apostolic privilege also came with great responsibility. He understood that he would be held accountable for his teachings and the spiritual well-being of those who looked to him for guidance. This understanding of his commissioning and burden led Paul to express his deep concern for the brethren in the Colossian church in this passage. The subsequent verses illustrate Paul's self-perception as a spiritual father rather than a religious organization executive.
As previously stated, we witness an organic community rather than a structured organization when we observe the early church in the New Testament. The early church leaders did not regard themselves as bosses or executives but rather as slaves to Jesus Christ, the ultimate authority. Despite being anointed and supernaturally commissioned to spread the Gospel, each apostle saw themselves as humble servants. They served on behalf of Jesus Christ, the greatest servant of all, and the people they ministered to as His sheep, His flock.
Aware that he would be held accountable for each soul in Colossae and Laodicea, Paul expresses a paternal concern by reminding the brethren to remain steadfast in what he taught them and not to be enticed by the popular philosophies of his time.
Acts 17:11
Become a Berean
“They received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day.”
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