As we read Col. 1:3-12, we will know that this passage does not only talk about Christian growth, but also other important things that believers must understand. However, for the purpose of answering your question, I would limit our discussion on Christian growth only.
- In v. 3, the Apostle Paul and Timothy (“we”) give thanks to God upon hearing about the progress of the gospel in Colossae, but the main purpose of Paul in writing this epistle is to warn Colossian believers about false teaching that has crawled into this church, now known as the “Colossian Heresy.” Note that this church in Colossae was not directly founded by Paul.
- Paul clarifies the procedures of Christian growth in the following order (vv. 4-5):
- The power of the gospel is the foundation: (a) in becoming a Christian and (b) in growing as a Christian.
- The Colossians—after they heard and understood the message of the gospel (i.e., believed in the gospel of the grace of God)—are to grow in faith, love, and hope (Cf. 1 Cor. 13:13, faith, hope, and love).
- Paul describes Christian growth to the Colossian Church in the following 11 points:
To know what are the 11 point are, click here.
