As Paul engages with the errorists of Colosse, dismantling their heresies with the hammer of truth and crowbar of warning, he launches into them from the platform of a joyful endorsement and vigorous encouragement to the saints in Colosse.
We observe here the fact of Paul's bodily absence - he is in a Roman prison, and evidently aware of the potential dangers and disadvantages of prolonged absence. Fellowship may not be severed by the distance, but it is in danger of being compromised.
The apostle therefore assures the church of his spiritual presence. This is not some weird and wacky notion, but the reality the flows from their union with Christ, the relationship between them which God has ordained, accuracy of knowledge and depth of feeling. If this is true of Paul, how much more true of the Lord Jesus himself?!
Finally and most significantly, there is the joy of Paul's spiritual survey. As he casts a mental eye across the Colossian congregation, he sees an unbroken line and intact discipline: the army of the Lamb is in good order, with steadfast faith in Christ. This is the great concern and great joy of any gospel minister: while this is true, a church can withstand whatever comes against them.
Paul no longer casts a distant eye over the church, but Christ is always present: what is his assessment? Does our good order and steadfast faith bring a smile to his face?
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