The Book of Colossians is a powerful letter in the New Testament that speaks directly about Jesus Christ’s supremacy, the dangers of false teachings, and how to live as a believer. Though it's only four chapters long, it’s full of deep truth and practical encouragement. Let’s take a look at 10 interesting facts about the Book of Colossians, supported by Scripture.
1. Paul Wrote It from Prison
Paul wrote Colossians while he was imprisoned in Rome. Even though he was behind bars, he remained focused on encouraging churches.
“I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.” — Colossians 4:18
2. Paul Had Never Visited Colossae
Unlike cities like Corinth or Ephesus, Paul did not plant the church in Colossae. It was likely started by Epaphras, a fellow believer.
“You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf.” — Colossians 1:7
Paul wrote to people he had never met face to face, yet his love for them is clear.
3. It Emphasizes Christ’s Supremacy
One of the most important teachings in Colossians is that Jesus is above all — in creation, in the church, and in all things.
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” — Colossians 1:17
Paul reminds the Colossians that Jesus isn’t just important — He’s everything.
4. It Was Written to Correct False Teaching
False teachings were creeping into the Colossian church. Some people were mixing the gospel with human traditions, philosophy, or legalism.
“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition…” — Colossians 2:8
Paul called the church to stay rooted in Christ and not be fooled.
5. Christ Lives in Believers
Paul teaches that Christ doesn’t just help us from afar — He lives within us.
“Christ in you, the hope of glory.” — Colossians 1:27
This truth gives believers strength and confidence in daily life.
6. It Teaches Believers to Set Their Minds on Heaven
The Book of Colossians urges us to focus on eternal things, not temporary things of the world.
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” — Colossians 3:2
Paul’s words help us keep our eyes on Christ in a distracting world.
7. It Speaks Against Legalism
Paul warns believers not to get caught up in religious rules that seem spiritual but aren’t from God.
“Do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival...” — Colossians 2:16
He teaches that our faith in Christ — not man-made rules — is what saves us.
8. Paul Encouraged Strong Family and Work Relationships
In chapter 3, Paul gives simple, clear teaching for how Christian families and workers should act.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” — Colossians 3:23
Paul connects daily life with serving God.
9. It Contains a Prayer for Spiritual Growth
Paul prayed deeply for the Colossians, asking God to help them grow in knowledge and strength.
“We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives...” — Colossians 1:9
This prayer still applies to believers today.
10. Tychicus and Onesimus Delivered the Letter
Paul didn’t just write the letter — he made sure it got there safely. He sent it with faithful men like Tychicus and Onesimus.
“Tychicus will tell you all the news about me... He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother…” — Colossians 4:7–9
This shows how important teamwork was in the early church.
Summary Table
Fact | Key Verse | Summary |
---|---|---|
Paul wrote it from prison | Col. 4:18 | He was in chains but still faithful. |
Paul hadn’t met the Colossians | Col. 1:7 | Epaphras started the church. |
Christ is supreme | Col. 1:17 | Jesus is above all things. |
Warning against false teaching | Col. 2:8 | Stay rooted in truth. |
Christ lives in believers | Col. 1:27 | Jesus dwells in us. |
Focus on heaven | Col. 3:2 | Eternal things matter most. |
Speaks against legalism | Col. 2:16 | Don’t follow man-made rules. |
Family and work teaching | Col. 3:23 | Work like you serve the Lord. |
Prayer for growth | Col. 1:9 | Paul wanted them to grow in faith. |
Letter carriers named | Col. 4:7–9 | Faithful men delivered the message. |