After this letter has been read among you, make sure that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea. After this letter has been read among you,The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of communal reading of his letters, which were often addressed to entire congregations. This practice highlights the early church's reliance on oral tradition and public reading due to limited access to written texts. The letter to the Colossians was intended to be read aloud to ensure that all members, regardless of literacy, could hear and understand the teachings. This reflects the communal nature of early Christian worship and the importance of shared doctrine. Act 15:30-31 So the men were sent off and went down to Antioch… make sure that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans, Laodicea was a neighboring city to Colossae, located in the Lycus Valley in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). The instruction to share the letter with the Laodiceans underscores the interconnectedness of early Christian communities and the universal applicability of Paul's teachings. It also suggests that the issues addressed in the letter were relevant to multiple congregations. This practice of circulating letters helped to maintain doctrinal unity and encouraged mutual support among the early churches. Rev 3:14-22 To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:… and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea. The reference to a letter from Laodicea, which is not extant, indicates that Paul wrote other letters that were not preserved in the New Testament canon. This highlights the broader scope of Paul's ministry and the possibility of other teachings and instructions that were shared among the early churches. The exchange of letters between congregations suggests a network of communication and collaboration, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. This practice also points to the early church's recognition of the authority of apostolic writings, which were considered vital for instruction and edification. 2Pe 3:15-16 Consider also that our Lord’s patience brings salvation… Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe apostle who authored the letter to the Colossians, providing guidance and instruction to the early church. 2. Colossians The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in the city of Colossae. 3. Laodiceans Another Christian community in the nearby city of Laodicea, also recipients of a letter from Paul. 4. Church of Laodicea A neighboring church to Colossae, mentioned in the context of sharing Paul's letters. 5. Letter from Laodicea A letter written by Paul to the Laodiceans, which is not part of the current biblical canon but was intended to be shared with the Colossians. Teaching Points The Importance of Scripture SharingThe early church valued the sharing of apostolic letters, recognizing their authority and the need for communal edification. Interconnectedness of the Church The instruction to share letters between churches highlights the unity and interconnectedness of the body of Christ, transcending local congregations. The Role of Scripture in Spiritual Growth Regular reading and sharing of Scripture are vital for spiritual growth, correction, and encouragement within the church community. The Authority of Apostolic Teaching Paul's letters were considered authoritative and essential for guiding the early church, a principle that remains relevant for contemporary believers. Encouragement to Seek Wisdom Engaging with Scripture from different perspectives and communities can provide a broader understanding and deeper wisdom. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the practice of sharing letters between churches in the early church inform our understanding of the importance of Scripture today?2. In what ways can we foster a sense of interconnectedness and unity within our own church community, similar to the relationship between the Colossians and Laodiceans? 3. How can we ensure that the reading and sharing of Scripture remain central to our church gatherings and personal spiritual practices? 4. What steps can we take to recognize and submit to the authority of Scripture in our daily lives? 5. How can we encourage one another to seek wisdom and understanding through the study of Scripture, both individually and collectively? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Thessalonians 5:27Paul instructs the Thessalonians to have his letter read to all the brothers, emphasizing the importance of sharing apostolic teachings. Revelation 3:14-22 The message to the church in Laodicea, highlighting the spiritual condition of the Laodiceans and the need for repentance and renewal. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 The role of Scripture in teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, underscoring the importance of reading and sharing biblical texts.
People Archippus, Aristarchus, Barnabas, Christians, Colossians, Demas, Epaphras, Justus, Luke, Marcus, Mark, Onesimus, Paul, TychicusPlaces Colossae, Hierapolis, LaodiceaTopics Assembly, Cause, Church, Epistle, Laodicea, La-odice'a, Laodiceans, La-odice'ans, Letter, Likewise, Public, Sending, TurnDictionary of Bible Themes Colossians 4:16 5175 reading Library Without and Within'Them that are without.'--COL. iv. 5. That is, of course, an expression for the non-Christian world; the outsiders who are beyond the pale of the Church. There was a very broad line of distinction between it and the surrounding world in the early Christian days, and the handful of Christians in a heathen country felt a great gulf between them and the society in which they lived. That distinction varies in form, and varies somewhat in apparent magnitude according as Christianity has been rooted in … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Thirtieth Day for the Holy Spirit with the Word of God Marcus, My Son The Name Above Every Name Conflict and Comfort. Prayer and Fervency Twenty-Eighth Day that all God's People May Know the Holy Spirit Author's Introduction, We Shall not be Curious in the Ranking of the Duties in which Christian Love... From John Yeardley's Conversion to the Commencement of his Public Ministry. "And Watch unto Prayer. " Epistle xxxii. To Anastasius, Presbyter . Exhortations to Christians as they are Children of God Mental Prayer. Meditations of the True Manner of Practising Piety on the Sabbath-Day. How the Gospels came to be Written Of the Words Themselves in General. Gen. xxxi. 11 "Be Ye Therefore Sober, and Watch unto Prayer. " The Parables Exemplified in the Early History of the Church. Links Colossians 4:16 NIVColossians 4:16 NLT Colossians 4:16 ESV Colossians 4:16 NASB Colossians 4:16 KJV Colossians 4:16 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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