Encountering Christ in Colossians

Gnosticism pervaded the early Christian church. Gnostics claimed a special wisdom and knowledge that superseded that of the Christians. The early church father Irenaeus said of the Gnostics, “They say they are not only wiser than the elders but also the apostles.” (A.H. III:2:2). Paul wastes no time refuting their heresies by hammering out the truths of who Christ is, what He’s accomplished, and what the blessings of the saints are in Him. Seventy times in four short chapters Paul brings attention to Jesus Christ. Philosophical speculations, traditions of men, and Gnostic heresies don’t stand a chance when they’re confronted with the person and work of Jesus Christ.