The Epistle is inscribed to the Colossians. Colossæ was a city of Phrygia Pacatiana in Asia Minor. It was sometimes called Χώνα/Chonæ. They were converted, not by Saint Paul, but by others. This Epistle was also intended for the Laodiceans, 1. The relation of Epaphras concerning the Colossians furnished the occasion, 2. The Argument of the Epistle, 3. It was written at Rome in his latter bonds: sent by Tychicus, with Onesimus as his companion, 4. There are three parts to the Epistle: I. Rejoicing concerning their faith received in Christ, and their charity toward the saints (Colossians 1:1-8). II. Exhortation to seek an increase of faith, and to beware of seduction from Christ (Colossians 1:9-2:23). III. Exhortation to the exercises of faith and piety (Colossians 3; 4). Interpreters of the Epistle, Ancient, Reformed, Lutheran, Roman Catholic; and also a Synoptic Table, 5.
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