Walk in Christ
Colossians 2:6-7
In our study of Colossians, we have seen that the apostle Paul is writing from prison in Rome to a young church in the city of Colossae. The gospel had been preached there by a servant of Christ named Epaphras (Col. 1:7; 4:12). Sinners were led to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and a growing and fruitful church was planted there. Epaphras traveled to Rome and gave a report to Paul of their faith in Christ, their love for the all the saints, and their hope in heaven (Col. 1:4-5).
Paul had never met the Colossians (Col. 2:1), but the report he received stirred up his pastoral concern for them. There was trouble on the horizon for this young church. They were in danger from deceptive errors that minimized the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul warned them in Colossians 2:4 about those who would try to “deceive you with persuasive words.” And right after our passage today, Paul warns: “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Col. 2:8).
Colossians 2:6-7 concisely encapsulate the message of Colossians, summarizing Paul’s teaching in the first part of the letter and pointing to Paul’s instructions in the later part of the letter. In these verses, Paul gives one imperative that drives his instructions: “walk in Him” (Col. 2:6).
