ANALYSIS
Salutation, thanksgiving, the apostle's prayer for the readers (i. 1-13).
Christ, who redeemed us, is pre-eminent in Person, being the Head of the natural creation, and of the spiritual creation, because the sum of divine attributes dwells in Him (i. 14-19). He is pre-eminent in work, having reconciled us to God (i. 20-23).
St. Paul's own commission and his anxiety (i. 24-ii. 7). Warning against the delusion of a false philosophy. The "fulness" is in Christ, therefore the Colossians must avoid semi-Jewish practices and also avoid the worship of angels (ii. 8-19). The converts have died with Christ to their old life and earthly ordinances (ii. 20-25).
The converts have risen with Christ to a new life and heavenly principles, vices must be made dead, virtues must be put on (iii. 1-17).
Obligations of wives and husbands, children and parents, slaves and masters (iii. 18-iv. 1).
The duty of prayer and thanksgiving, and right behaviour towards the unconverted (iv. 2-6).
Personal conclusion, and a message relating to an Epistle from Laodicea (iv. 7-18).
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