October 19, 2025 • 40 mins
Step into a rented Roman house where history pivots on paradox. A man in chains writes words of cosmic freedom that will outlast the empire holding him captive.
The Mediterranean afternoon sun streams through windows as Paul, chained to a rotating Praetorian guard, picks up his pen. The metallic whisper of links becomes percussion to words declaring Christ's supremacy. This isn't just correspondence—it's divine revelation flowing from human limitation.
The Colossian believers face a dangerous threat. Not persecution from without, but deception from within. False teachers blend mysticism, philosophy, and legalism into a seductive message: Christ is necessary but not sufficient. Paul's response? A thunderous declaration of Christ as "the image of the invisible God," "firstborn over all creation," the one in whom "all things hold together." Most profoundly, he reveals the "mystery hidden for ages"—Christ in you, the hope of glory.
What makes this letter extraordinary is that Paul writes with father-like tenderness to believers he's never met. Physical distance cannot diminish spiritual connection. Roman chains cannot contain apostolic authority. The words dictated under guard will travel dusty imperial roads to transform a church, then traverse centuries to strengthen believers facing trials Paul never imagined.
Experience this powerful dramatic recreation of Colossians' origin, followed by a reverent reading of the sacred text itself. Witness how God's word transcends imprisonment, distance, and time—speaking directly to your circumstances today. Every constraint in your life can become a channel for divine revelation when surrendered to the One who holds all things together.
What chains in your life might become instruments of God's greater purpose? Join us and discover how limitation becomes the birthplace of eternal truth.
Music credit: "For My Good" by AFTR
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
In the Field Audio Bible (06:18):
Today, heart onto papyrus for children
he has never embraced.
Close your eyes and join usonce more.
Join us in this rented Romanhouse where this chained apostle
will unveil the most tendermystery of all that the same
(06:40):
gospel which landed him in Romancustody now reveals its true
power through believers he hasnever seen.
The message that threatensempires first chose the distant
hearts of the Colossae to birthits greatest fruit.
Come, let us witness togetherhow divine supremacy emerges
(07:04):
from human chains, how theeternal word continues to be
spoken through the testimony ofunknown believers.
From the confines of housearrest comes the most personal
revelation ever shared.
The most personal revelationever shared A church whose faith
flourishes in a fading city,yet whose spiritual vitality
(07:28):
will outlast the empire thatseeks to silence their teacher.
The God, who displays hisstrength through weakness, has
chosen these Colossian believersto demonstrate Christ's
all-sufficiency against everyfalse teaching that would
diminish His glory.
The rented house on theoutskirts of Rome buzzes with
(07:52):
quiet activity as theMediterranean afternoon sun
streams through the open windows, casting long rectangles of
golden light across the mosaicfloor.
You sit beside the Apostle Paulat a simple wooden table,
acutely aware of the Praetorianguard chained to his right wrist
(08:16):
, a constant reminder that evenin this relatively comfortable
setting, Paul remains a prisonerof Rome.
The guard shifts slightly asPaul reaches for his writing
materials, the iron chaincreating a soft metallic whisper
with every movement Over themonths of this house arrest.
(08:40):
The rotating guards have grownaccustomed to the steady rhythm
of Paul's ministry Visitorsseeking counsel, letters from
distant churches, long hours inprayer and writing.
What began as routine guardduty has become something far
more complex as these Romansoldiers find themselves
(09:04):
unwilling but increasinglyinterested audiences to profound
theological discussions Forgivethe awkwardness.
Paul says with a gentle smiletoward the guard, who nods with
a professional courtesy we haveimportant work before us today,
(09:25):
and my friend here has becomequite accustomed to the demands
of apostolic correspondents.
You watch as Paul carefullyunfolds high-quality parchment
with his left hand, while hisright hand rests on the table.
Iron links creating smallshadows on the writing surface.
(09:47):
The physical awkwardness ofwriting while chained has forced
Paul to develop new techniques,often dictating to scribes.
But his determination remainsundiminished.
But his determination remainsundiminished, tell me.
Paul begins his voice carryingthat familiar blend of urgency
and patience, while the guardunconsciously leans forward, a
(10:15):
habit the rotating soldiers havedeveloped during these
discussions.
What do you know of Colossae?
The question hangs in the warmRoman air as the chain creates a
soft clinking sound.
With each movement Through thewindow you hear distant sounds
of the great city.
But here the reality of Paul'ssituation is inescapable.
(10:36):
Every word he writes, everyvisitor he receives, every
prayer he offers is witnessed byRome's representative.
This letter representssomething unique in our ministry
.
Paul continues adjusting hisposition to accommodate the
chain.
Unlike the churches we plantedpersonally, Colossae presents us
(11:01):
with a beautiful mystery.
Believers, we have neverembraced yet.
Children in the faith whom welove as our own.
The guard, despite his militarytraining to remain impassive,
cannot help but be struck by thetenderness in Paul's voice.
Explosive cannot help but bestruck by the tenderness in
(11:24):
Paul's voice.
Over these months, with variousrotating guards, each has
witnessed something thatchallenges everything they
thought they knew aboutprisoners and captivity.
This man, chained and confined,speaks with the authority of
one who is truly free.
Colossae, Paul, begins.
His chained hand, gesturing asmuch as the iron links allow,
(11:50):
lies nestled in the fertilevalley of the Lycus River, about
a hundred miles inland fromEphesus.
The chain creates a gentlerhythm against the wooden table,
a metallic percussion that hasbecome the soundtrack to his
house arrest ministry.
Paul dips his pen in theinkwell, the familiar motion
(12:12):
requiring careful coordinationwith the guard, who has learned
to anticipate these movements.
The black ink flows smoothlyonto parchment as Paul forms
elegant Greek letters, hiswriting slightly more labored
than in his days of freedom, butno less precise.
(12:34):
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesusby the will of God, and Timothy
, our brother the irony is notlost on anyone.
Here sits a man in chains, yetclaiming an authority that
transcends any earthly power.
The rotating guards have heardPaul dictate these apostolic
(12:55):
greetings dozens of times, andeach time they are struck by the
quiet confidence in which thisprisoner asserts his divine
calling.
The chain catches the light asPaul pauses and you notice how
he has learned to work withinits constraints rather than
against them.
What Rome intended ashumiliation has become, in God's
(13:20):
hands, a powerful testimony tothe gospel's advance.
Even the Praetorian Guardcannot escape exposure to the
transforming message of Christ.
Timothy Paul, says with warmth,the chain clinking softly.
Though he is not physicallypresent, his spirit permeates
(13:44):
every word we write.
The guard here has heard mespeak of Timothy so often that
he could probably recite hisvirtues from memory.
The guard allows himself asmall smile.
Indeed, through these months ofconstant proximity with the
rotating detail, they havebecome intimately familiar with
(14:06):
Paul's network of co-workers,his deep concern for the
churches and his unwaveringcommitment to the gospel,
despite his circumstances.
The church in Colossae was bornnot in grand public ceremonies
but in intimate home settings,perhaps in Philemon's villa,
(14:27):
that beloved brother whosehospitality has become legendary
, or in Nympha's house, whosecourage in opening her home for
worship has inspired believersthroughout the region.
But now Paul's voice growsheavy with pastoral concern.
Disturbing reports have reachedus here in Rome.
(14:48):
False teachers have infiltratedour beloved church, bringing a
dangerous mixture of Jewishlegalism and Greek philosophy
that threatens to obscure theall-sufficient glory of Christ.
They speak eloquently of angelsand visions of secret knowledge
(15:09):
available only to the initiated, of rigid dietary laws and
festival observances that arepractices designed to subdue the
flesh.
That are practices designed tosubdue the flesh.
They make the gospel soundincomplete, as if Christ's
finished work was merely thefirst step in a long journey
towards spiritual perfection.
(15:31):
Paul sets down his pen and turnsto face you directly, the chain
creating a metallic whisper,his eyes burning with the same
fire that has driven him acrossthree continents.
Do you grasp what is at stakehere?
This isn't merely an academicdebate.
This is spiritual warfare, abattle for the souls of
(15:53):
believers who are in danger ofbeing seduced away from the
simplicity and sufficiency ofChrist.
They have never seen my face inthe flesh, Paul says, his voice
dropping to an intense whisper.
Yet I labor and strive for themwith all the energy that God
powerfully works within me.
(16:14):
Physical distance cannotdiminish spiritual love and
Roman chains cannot contain thegospel's power.
Through these carefully chosenwords, I will walk among them,
teach them, warn them and, aboveall, exalt before them the
surpassing greatness of Christ.
(16:36):
Paul picks up his pen withrenewed determination, the chain
creating its familiar rhythm ashe continues writing with
focused intensity To the saintsand faithful brothers in Christ
at Colossae.
Grace to you and peace from God, our Father.
Even in this seemingly simplegreeting, you sense the profound
(17:00):
theology that will unfoldSaints, not because of moral
perfection, but because theyhave been set apart by God for
His holy purposes.
Faithful brothers, not merelyindividual believers, but
members of a spiritual familybound together by something
stronger than blood or culture.
(17:22):
We always thank God, the Fatherof our Lord Jesus Christ, when
we pray for you.
Paul continues his voicewarming with genuine affection,
because we have heard of yourfaith in Christ Jesus and of the
love you have for all thesaints, the faith and love that
(17:45):
spring from the hope that isstored up for you in heaven.
Paul continues writing and thatyou have already heard about the
word of truth.
The gospel that has come to youhere is the foundation of
Christian living.
Not fear of punishment, but thesolid confidence that our
(18:06):
future is secure in Christ.
This hope isn't wishfulthinking, but the settled
assurance that what God haspromised he will certainly
perform.
All over the world, this gospelis bearing fruit and growing.
Paul writes, his voice risingwith excitement despite the
(18:26):
chains' constraint, just as ithas been doing among you since
the day you heard it andunderstood God's grace and all
its truth.
The afternoon grows late, butPaul shows no signs of stopping.
His chains may restrict hisphysical movement, but his
(18:47):
spirit soars free.
As he prepares to address thechallenges facing the Colossian
church, this letter will be hisgift to them, a theological
treasure more valuable thanColossian purple and more
enduring than Roman architecture.
As Paul dips his pen once more,the chain creating its gentle
(19:09):
metallic whisper.
You settle beside him for whatyou know will be one of the most
profound theological journeysever undertaken.
In this unlikely setting, arented Roman house where a
chained prisoner dictateseternal truths under the
watchful eye of rotating guards,the supremacy of Christ is
(19:32):
about to be proclaimed with aclarity and power that will echo
through the ages.
The church at Colossae awaits,unaware that their letter is
being written by a man whoseevery movement is monitored,
whose every word is witnessed,yet whose spirit remains unbound
and whose message will outlastthe empire that seeks to contain
(19:56):
it.
Now let's take a moment to quietour hearts and listen to the
word itself.
Let these words sink deep intoyour spirit, bringing comfort,
conviction and encouragement.
Whether you're sitting in aquiet place or out in the world,
allow scripture to meet youright where you are.
(20:18):
I hope you have your favoritecup of tea or coffee.
Sit back, relax and let's stepinto the sacred text of the
epistle of Paul to theColossians, chapter one.
The Epistle of Paul to theColossians, chapter 1.
(20:53):
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesusby the will of God, and Timothy
, our brother to the saints andfaithful brothers and sisters in
Christ and Colossae, grace toyou and peace from God, our
Father.
In our prayers for you, wealways thank God, the Father of
(21:15):
our Lord Jesus Christ, for wehave heard of your faith in
Christ Jesus and of the lovethat you have for all the saints
because of the hope laid up foryou in heaven.
You have heard of this hopebefore in the word of the truth.
The gospel that has come to you, just as it is bearing fruit
(21:37):
and growing in the world, so ithas been bearing fruit among
yourselves from the day youheard it and truly comprehended
the grace of God.
This you learned from Epaphras,our beloved fellow servant.
He is a faithful minister ofChrist on your behalf, and he
(21:58):
has made known to us your lovein the Spirit.
For this reason, since the daywe heard it, we have not ceased
praying for you and asking thatyou may be filled with the
knowledge of God's will in allspiritual wisdom and
understanding, so that you maylead lives worthy of the Lord,
(22:20):
fully pleasing to Him.
As you bear fruit in every goodwork and as you grow in the
knowledge of God, may you bemade strong with all the
strength that comes from hisglorious power, and may you be
prepared to endure everythingwith patience, while joyfully
(22:41):
giving thanks to the Father, whohas enabled you to share in the
inheritance of the saints inthe light.
He has rescued us from thepower of darkness and
transferred us into the kingdomof his beloved Son, in whom we
have redemption, the forgivenessof sins.
He is the image of the invisibleGod, the firstborn of all
(23:05):
creation, for in him all thingsin heaven and on earth were
created, things visible andinvisible, whether thrones or
dominions, or rulers or powers.
All things have been createdthrough him and for him.
He himself is before all thingsand in him all things hold
(23:27):
together.
He is the head of the body, thechurch, he is the beginning,
the first born from the dead sothat he might come To have first
place in everything, for in himAll the fullness of God Was
pleased to dwell and throughfullness of God was pleased to
dwell, and through him God waspleased to reconcile to himself
(23:50):
all things, whether on earth orin heaven, by making peace
through the blood of his crossand you who were once estranged
and hostile in mind, doing evildeeds, he is now reconciled in
his fleshly body through death,so as to present you holy and
(24:10):
blameless and irreproachablebefore him, provided that you
continue securely establishedand steadfast in the faith,
without shifting from the hopepromised by the gospel that you
heard, which has been proclaimedto every creature under heaven.
I, paul, became a servant ofthis gospel.
(24:32):
I am now rejoicing in mysufferings for your sake, and in
my flesh I am completing whatis lacking in Christ's
afflictions.
For the sake of his body.
That is the church, I becameits servant according to God's
commission that was given to mefor you to make the word of God
(24:53):
fully known, the mystery thathas been hidden throughout the
ages and generations but has nowbeen revealed to his saints.
But has now been revealed tohis saints.
To them, God chose to makeknown how great among the
Gentiles are the riches of theglory, of this mystery, which is
Christ in you, the hope ofglory.
(25:14):
It is he whom we proclaim,warning everyone and teaching
everyone in all wisdom, so thatwe may present everyone mature
in Christ.
For this I toil and strugglewith all the energy that he
powerfully inspires within me.
(25:48):
The Roman oil lamp burns lowernow in Paul's rented house, its
flame casting dancing shadowsacross the completed letter as
the Mediterranean eveningsettles over the eternal city.
Evening settles over theeternal city.
(26:08):
The chain connecting Paul tothe guard creates a soft
metallic whisper as he carefullysets down his reed pen.
The final words of Colossians,chapter one, still glistening
with fresh ink on the preciouspapyrus.
You sit in the gathering duskoverwhelmed by what you have
just witnessed.
(26:28):
This isn't merely a letter.
It's a theological masterpieceborn in chains, a cosmic
declaration of Christ'ssupremacy, dictated under Roman
guard.
Supremacy dictated under Romanguard.
A pastoral heart poured out forbelievers that Paul had never
(26:50):
seen but loves as his ownchildren.
It is finished.
Paul whispers, but his voicecarries the weight of completion
that goes far beyond merecorrespondence.
The weight of completion thatgoes far beyond mere
correspondence.
The chain catches the lamplightas he gently rolls the papyrus,
(27:10):
each movement deliberate andreverent, as if he's handling
not just parchment and ink butthe very words of God himself.
Through the open window, thesounds of Rome settling into
evening drift, distant laughterof families gathering for meals,
(27:30):
the clip-clop of horses' hooveson the cobblestone streets, the
calls of night vendorsbeginning their rounds.
Yet here, in this rented house,something eternal has been
birthed, something that willoutlast the empire whose
representative sits chained toits author.
(27:51):
Do you understand what we haveaccomplished here?
Paul asked, turning to you withthose penetrating eyes that
have seen the risen Christ.
The chain creates its familiarrhythm as he gestures toward the
completed letter.
We have proclaimed thesupremacy of Christ to believers
(28:16):
facing the greatest threat thechurch has ever known Not
persecution from without, butdeception from within.
The lamplight flickers asevening breeze moves through the
room, carrying the scent ofolive groves and distant aroma
(28:37):
of bread baking in theneighborhood ovens, Paul's
weathered face reflects deepsatisfaction that comes from
faithful completion of divineassignment.
The Colossians will gather insomeone's home when this letter
arrives.
Paul continues his voicegrowing stronger with
(28:59):
anticipation.
Perhaps in Philemon's villa orNympha's more modest dwelling,
where simple clay lamps providelight for eager hearts hungry
for apostolic instruction.
You can almost see it happeningthe house, church assembled in
the evening, coolness of theLycus Valley, oil lamps casting
(29:22):
warm circles of light on facesanxious for news from their
imprisoned apostle.
The leather-bound scroll willbe carefully unrolled and
someone will read aloud thefamiliar greeting.
Imagine their joy.
Paul reflects the chain,creating gentle percussion as he
(29:43):
speaks with increasinganimation.
When they hear that we givethanks for them always, that
their faith and love have becomeknown, even here in Rome, these
believers who have never seenour face will discover that
distance cannot diminishapostolic affection, that Roman
(30:03):
chains cannot contain pastoralcare.
The guard, despite his militarytraining, cannot help but be
moved by the tenderness inPaul's voice.
Over these months of constantcompanionship he has witnessed
something that challengeseverything he thought he knew
about power and authority.
(30:25):
This chained prisoner speakswith greater confidence than
Caesar himself.
Paul rises from his writingtable, the chain requiring
careful coordination with theguard as they both adjust.
He walks to the small windowoverlooking the city, his
(30:47):
sandals making soft soundsagainst the mosaic floor.
From here you can see thelights of Rome spread out like
earthbound stars, torchesmarking thoroughfares and oil
lamps flickering in.
But this letter carries morethan personal affection, Paul
(31:10):
says, gazing out at the greatcity that holds him captive yet
cannot contain his message.
It carries the very image ofthe invisible God, the firstborn
over all creation.
When the Colossians hear thesewords, they will understand that
Christ is not merely one optionamong many spiritual choices,
(31:35):
but the supreme Lord before whomevery knee must bow.
Paul turns from the window, thechain creating its metallic
whisper, and picks up thecompleted letter with the
reverence of a priest handling asacred offering.
The false teachers in Colossaespeak of secret knowledge, of
(32:00):
hidden mysteries available onlyto the initiated.
But we have proclaimed themystery that has been kept
hidden for ages and generationsChrist in you hope of glory, you
watch as Paul carefully placesthe sealed letter in a leather
pouch, protecting it frommoisture and damage during its
(32:23):
long journey northward.
This simple scroll, writtenunder Roman guard in a rented
house, carries within it thepower to demolish false
philosophies, to strengthenwavering faith and to exalt
Christ above every competingclaim for human allegiance.
(32:45):
The guard here has heard medictate letters to many churches
, Paul says with a gentle smiletoward his Roman companion.
But tonight he has been witnessto something extraordinary.
We have not merely writtenabout Christ, we have proclaimed
his cosmic supremacy, his rolein creation, his work of
(33:09):
reconciliation and hisindwelling presence in every
believer.
The lamp flame burns steadiernow, pushing back the gathering
darkness In its glow.
Paul's face shows the deeplines of apostolic concern, the
scars of persecution and theprofound joy that comes from
(33:32):
seeing God's kingdom advancedespite all opposition.
Tomorrow, Paul says his voicetaking on practical urgency.
We will find a trustedmessenger to carry this letter
northward, someone who knows theRoman roads, who can navigate
the dangers of travel, who willguard this precious cargo with
(33:56):
his life if necessary.
You can almost see themessenger's journey unfolding
dusty roads under theMediterranean sun.
Overnight stops in the roadside, inns where travelers share
news from across the empire, thecareful protection of the
leather satchel containing notjust this letter but the hopes
(34:18):
and prayers of a chained apostle.
But even when this letterreaches Colossae, Paul continues
the chain clinking softly as hegestures.
Our work is not finished.
Letters can instruct andencourage, but they cannot
replace the presence of God'sshepherds.
We must pray that God willraise up leaders in that church
(34:42):
who will guard the truth we haveproclaimed.
One day, Paul says his voicetaken on a prophetic quality,
believers in lands we have neverimagined, speaking languages we
have never heard, will readthese very words and find
strength for their own battlesagainst false teaching.
Strength for their own battlesagainst false teaching.
(35:05):
The Christ we have proclaimedas supreme over Colossae will be
acknowledged as Lord over everytribe and tongue and nation.
The Colossians face a choice.
Paul reflects his voice growingmore intense, and so does every
generation that will followthem.
Will they be satisfied With theall sufficient Christ we have
(35:28):
proclaimed, or will they beseduced by those who offer
something more, somethingadditional, something that
supposedly completes what Christhas left unfinished?
The chain catches the lamplightas Paul raises his hand In
blessing toward the letter thatwill soon begin its journey.
But we have confidence in thepower of truth.
(35:52):
We have proclaimed Christ asthe image of the invisible God,
the firstborn over all creation,the one in whom all things hold
together.
This is not philosophy orspeculation.
This is not philosophy orspeculation.
This is reality, thefundamental truth upon which the
universe itself is built.
(36:14):
Come, Paul says, rising andextending his chained hand
towards you.
Let us pray for those who willreceive this letter, for the
messenger who will carry it andfor all those who will hear its
words in the generations to come.
As you kneel together in theflickering lamplight, the chain
(36:35):
between Paul and the guardcreating a gentle whisper, you
realize that you have beenprivileged to witness something
extraordinary.
The words that Paul has writtenwill outlive the Roman Empire
will survive the fall ofkingdoms, will speak hope to
believers facing trials thathave not yet been imagined.
(36:56):
And at this moment, as Paul'svoice rises in prayer for the
Colossians and for all who willin their footsteps, you
understand that the supremacy ofChrist proclaimed in this
letter is not just ancienttheology but living reality, as
fresh and powerful today as itwas on that evening when it was
(37:19):
first committed to papyrus in arented house in Rome, was first
committed to papyrus in a rentedhouse in Rome.
The echo of Christ's supremacythat began in Colossae continues
to reverberate across time andyou have been witness to its
eternal song.
Thank you for joining me todayas we journeyed through the
(37:40):
epistle of Paul to theColossians, chapter one.
I pray that you carry thesereflections with you into your
day, into your week, and thatyou find strength in knowing God
is with you in every trial,every temptation and every step
of obedience.
If this time in God's word hasencouraged you, take a moment to
(38:04):
share it with someone who mightneed it.
And be sure to join me nexttime as we continue walking
through the scriptures, learning, growing, and staying faithful
in the field of life.
Until next time, may you findpeace in the quiet, trust in
God's call, and rest in Hisunchanging love.
(38:27):
This is In the Field Audio Bible, where we Listen to the Bible
One Chapter at a Time.
Today, heart onto papyrus for children
he has never embraced.
Close your eyes and join usonce more.
Join us in this rented Romanhouse where this chained apostle
will unveil the most tendermystery of all that the same
(06:40):
gospel which landed him in Romancustody now reveals its true
power through believers he hasnever seen.
The message that threatensempires first chose the distant
hearts of the Colossae to birthits greatest fruit.
Come, let us witness togetherhow divine supremacy emerges
(07:04):
from human chains, how theeternal word continues to be
spoken through the testimony ofunknown believers.
From the confines of housearrest comes the most personal
revelation ever shared.
The most personal revelationever shared A church whose faith
flourishes in a fading city,yet whose spiritual vitality
(07:28):
will outlast the empire thatseeks to silence their teacher.
The God, who displays hisstrength through weakness, has
chosen these Colossian believersto demonstrate Christ's
all-sufficiency against everyfalse teaching that would
diminish His glory.
The rented house on theoutskirts of Rome buzzes with
(07:52):
quiet activity as theMediterranean afternoon sun
streams through the open windows, casting long rectangles of
golden light across the mosaicfloor.
You sit beside the Apostle Paulat a simple wooden table,
acutely aware of the Praetorianguard chained to his right wrist
(08:16):
, a constant reminder that evenin this relatively comfortable
setting, Paul remains a prisonerof Rome.
The guard shifts slightly asPaul reaches for his writing
materials, the iron chaincreating a soft metallic whisper
with every movement Over themonths of this house arrest.
(08:40):
The rotating guards have grownaccustomed to the steady rhythm
of Paul's ministry Visitorsseeking counsel, letters from
distant churches, long hours inprayer and writing.
What began as routine guardduty has become something far
more complex as these Romansoldiers find themselves
(09:04):
unwilling but increasinglyinterested audiences to profound
theological discussions Forgivethe awkwardness.
Paul says with a gentle smiletoward the guard, who nods with
a professional courtesy we haveimportant work before us today,
(09:25):
and my friend here has becomequite accustomed to the demands
of apostolic correspondents.
You watch as Paul carefullyunfolds high-quality parchment
with his left hand, while hisright hand rests on the table.
Iron links creating smallshadows on the writing surface.
(09:47):
The physical awkwardness ofwriting while chained has forced
Paul to develop new techniques,often dictating to scribes.
But his determination remainsundiminished.
But his determination remainsundiminished, tell me.
Paul begins his voice carryingthat familiar blend of urgency
and patience, while the guardunconsciously leans forward, a
(10:15):
habit the rotating soldiers havedeveloped during these
discussions.
What do you know of Colossae?
The question hangs in the warmRoman air as the chain creates a
soft clinking sound.
With each movement Through thewindow you hear distant sounds
of the great city.
But here the reality of Paul'ssituation is inescapable.
(10:36):
Every word he writes, everyvisitor he receives, every
prayer he offers is witnessed byRome's representative.
This letter representssomething unique in our ministry
.
Paul continues adjusting hisposition to accommodate the
chain.
Unlike the churches we plantedpersonally, Colossae presents us
(11:01):
with a beautiful mystery.
Believers, we have neverembraced yet.
Children in the faith whom welove as our own.
The guard, despite his militarytraining to remain impassive,
cannot help but be struck by thetenderness in Paul's voice.
Explosive cannot help but bestruck by the tenderness in
(11:24):
Paul's voice.
Over these months, with variousrotating guards, each has
witnessed something thatchallenges everything they
thought they knew aboutprisoners and captivity.
This man, chained and confined,speaks with the authority of
one who is truly free.
Colossae, Paul, begins.
His chained hand, gesturing asmuch as the iron links allow,
(11:50):
lies nestled in the fertilevalley of the Lycus River, about
a hundred miles inland fromEphesus.
The chain creates a gentlerhythm against the wooden table,
a metallic percussion that hasbecome the soundtrack to his
house arrest ministry.
Paul dips his pen in theinkwell, the familiar motion
(12:12):
requiring careful coordinationwith the guard, who has learned
to anticipate these movements.
The black ink flows smoothlyonto parchment as Paul forms
elegant Greek letters, hiswriting slightly more labored
than in his days of freedom, butno less precise.
(12:34):
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesusby the will of God, and Timothy
, our brother the irony is notlost on anyone.
Here sits a man in chains, yetclaiming an authority that
transcends any earthly power.
The rotating guards have heardPaul dictate these apostolic
(12:55):
greetings dozens of times, andeach time they are struck by the
quiet confidence in which thisprisoner asserts his divine
calling.
The chain catches the light asPaul pauses and you notice how
he has learned to work withinits constraints rather than
against them.
What Rome intended ashumiliation has become, in God's
(13:20):
hands, a powerful testimony tothe gospel's advance.
Even the Praetorian Guardcannot escape exposure to the
transforming message of Christ.
Timothy Paul, says with warmth,the chain clinking softly.
Though he is not physicallypresent, his spirit permeates
(13:44):
every word we write.
The guard here has heard mespeak of Timothy so often that
he could probably recite hisvirtues from memory.
The guard allows himself asmall smile.
Indeed, through these months ofconstant proximity with the
rotating detail, they havebecome intimately familiar with
(14:06):
Paul's network of co-workers,his deep concern for the
churches and his unwaveringcommitment to the gospel,
despite his circumstances.
The church in Colossae was bornnot in grand public ceremonies
but in intimate home settings,perhaps in Philemon's villa,
(14:27):
that beloved brother whosehospitality has become legendary
, or in Nympha's house, whosecourage in opening her home for
worship has inspired believersthroughout the region.
But now Paul's voice growsheavy with pastoral concern.
Disturbing reports have reachedus here in Rome.
(14:48):
False teachers have infiltratedour beloved church, bringing a
dangerous mixture of Jewishlegalism and Greek philosophy
that threatens to obscure theall-sufficient glory of Christ.
They speak eloquently of angelsand visions of secret knowledge
(15:09):
available only to the initiated, of rigid dietary laws and
festival observances that arepractices designed to subdue the
flesh.
That are practices designed tosubdue the flesh.
They make the gospel soundincomplete, as if Christ's
finished work was merely thefirst step in a long journey
towards spiritual perfection.
(15:31):
Paul sets down his pen and turnsto face you directly, the chain
creating a metallic whisper,his eyes burning with the same
fire that has driven him acrossthree continents.
Do you grasp what is at stakehere?
This isn't merely an academicdebate.
This is spiritual warfare, abattle for the souls of
(15:53):
believers who are in danger ofbeing seduced away from the
simplicity and sufficiency ofChrist.
They have never seen my face inthe flesh, Paul says, his voice
dropping to an intense whisper.
Yet I labor and strive for themwith all the energy that God
powerfully works within me.
(16:14):
Physical distance cannotdiminish spiritual love and
Roman chains cannot contain thegospel's power.
Through these carefully chosenwords, I will walk among them,
teach them, warn them and, aboveall, exalt before them the
surpassing greatness of Christ.
(16:36):
Paul picks up his pen withrenewed determination, the chain
creating its familiar rhythm ashe continues writing with
focused intensity To the saintsand faithful brothers in Christ
at Colossae.
Grace to you and peace from God, our Father.
Even in this seemingly simplegreeting, you sense the profound
(17:00):
theology that will unfoldSaints, not because of moral
perfection, but because theyhave been set apart by God for
His holy purposes.
Faithful brothers, not merelyindividual believers, but
members of a spiritual familybound together by something
stronger than blood or culture.
(17:22):
We always thank God, the Fatherof our Lord Jesus Christ, when
we pray for you.
Paul continues his voicewarming with genuine affection,
because we have heard of yourfaith in Christ Jesus and of the
love you have for all thesaints, the faith and love that
(17:45):
spring from the hope that isstored up for you in heaven.
Paul continues writing and thatyou have already heard about the
word of truth.
The gospel that has come to youhere is the foundation of
Christian living.
Not fear of punishment, but thesolid confidence that our
(18:06):
future is secure in Christ.
This hope isn't wishfulthinking, but the settled
assurance that what God haspromised he will certainly
perform.
All over the world, this gospelis bearing fruit and growing.
Paul writes, his voice risingwith excitement despite the
(18:26):
chains' constraint, just as ithas been doing among you since
the day you heard it andunderstood God's grace and all
its truth.
The afternoon grows late, butPaul shows no signs of stopping.
His chains may restrict hisphysical movement, but his
(18:47):
spirit soars free.
As he prepares to address thechallenges facing the Colossian
church, this letter will be hisgift to them, a theological
treasure more valuable thanColossian purple and more
enduring than Roman architecture.
As Paul dips his pen once more,the chain creating its gentle
(19:09):
metallic whisper.
You settle beside him for whatyou know will be one of the most
profound theological journeysever undertaken.
In this unlikely setting, arented Roman house where a
chained prisoner dictateseternal truths under the
watchful eye of rotating guards,the supremacy of Christ is
(19:32):
about to be proclaimed with aclarity and power that will echo
through the ages.
The church at Colossae awaits,unaware that their letter is
being written by a man whoseevery movement is monitored,
whose every word is witnessed,yet whose spirit remains unbound
and whose message will outlastthe empire that seeks to contain
(19:56):
it.
Now let's take a moment to quietour hearts and listen to the
word itself.
Let these words sink deep intoyour spirit, bringing comfort,
conviction and encouragement.
Whether you're sitting in aquiet place or out in the world,
allow scripture to meet youright where you are.
(20:18):
I hope you have your favoritecup of tea or coffee.
Sit back, relax and let's stepinto the sacred text of the
epistle of Paul to theColossians, chapter one.
The Epistle of Paul to theColossians, chapter 1.
(20:53):
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesusby the will of God, and Timothy
, our brother to the saints andfaithful brothers and sisters in
Christ and Colossae, grace toyou and peace from God, our
Father.
In our prayers for you, wealways thank God, the Father of
(21:15):
our Lord Jesus Christ, for wehave heard of your faith in
Christ Jesus and of the lovethat you have for all the saints
because of the hope laid up foryou in heaven.
You have heard of this hopebefore in the word of the truth.
The gospel that has come to you, just as it is bearing fruit
(21:37):
and growing in the world, so ithas been bearing fruit among
yourselves from the day youheard it and truly comprehended
the grace of God.
This you learned from Epaphras,our beloved fellow servant.
He is a faithful minister ofChrist on your behalf, and he
(21:58):
has made known to us your lovein the Spirit.
For this reason, since the daywe heard it, we have not ceased
praying for you and asking thatyou may be filled with the
knowledge of God's will in allspiritual wisdom and
understanding, so that you maylead lives worthy of the Lord,
(22:20):
fully pleasing to Him.
As you bear fruit in every goodwork and as you grow in the
knowledge of God, may you bemade strong with all the
strength that comes from hisglorious power, and may you be
prepared to endure everythingwith patience, while joyfully
(22:41):
giving thanks to the Father, whohas enabled you to share in the
inheritance of the saints inthe light.
He has rescued us from thepower of darkness and
transferred us into the kingdomof his beloved Son, in whom we
have redemption, the forgivenessof sins.
He is the image of the invisibleGod, the firstborn of all
(23:05):
creation, for in him all thingsin heaven and on earth were
created, things visible andinvisible, whether thrones or
dominions, or rulers or powers.
All things have been createdthrough him and for him.
He himself is before all thingsand in him all things hold
(23:27):
together.
He is the head of the body, thechurch, he is the beginning,
the first born from the dead sothat he might come To have first
place in everything, for in himAll the fullness of God Was
pleased to dwell and throughfullness of God was pleased to
dwell, and through him God waspleased to reconcile to himself
(23:50):
all things, whether on earth orin heaven, by making peace
through the blood of his crossand you who were once estranged
and hostile in mind, doing evildeeds, he is now reconciled in
his fleshly body through death,so as to present you holy and
(24:10):
blameless and irreproachablebefore him, provided that you
continue securely establishedand steadfast in the faith,
without shifting from the hopepromised by the gospel that you
heard, which has been proclaimedto every creature under heaven.
I, paul, became a servant ofthis gospel.
(24:32):
I am now rejoicing in mysufferings for your sake, and in
my flesh I am completing whatis lacking in Christ's
afflictions.
For the sake of his body.
That is the church, I becameits servant according to God's
commission that was given to mefor you to make the word of God
(24:53):
fully known, the mystery thathas been hidden throughout the
ages and generations but has nowbeen revealed to his saints.
But has now been revealed tohis saints.
To them, God chose to makeknown how great among the
Gentiles are the riches of theglory, of this mystery, which is
Christ in you, the hope ofglory.
(25:14):
It is he whom we proclaim,warning everyone and teaching
everyone in all wisdom, so thatwe may present everyone mature
in Christ.
For this I toil and strugglewith all the energy that he
powerfully inspires within me.
(25:48):
The Roman oil lamp burns lowernow in Paul's rented house, its
flame casting dancing shadowsacross the completed letter as
the Mediterranean eveningsettles over the eternal city.
Evening settles over theeternal city.
(26:08):
The chain connecting Paul tothe guard creates a soft
metallic whisper as he carefullysets down his reed pen.
The final words of Colossians,chapter one, still glistening
with fresh ink on the preciouspapyrus.
You sit in the gathering duskoverwhelmed by what you have
just witnessed.
(26:28):
This isn't merely a letter.
It's a theological masterpieceborn in chains, a cosmic
declaration of Christ'ssupremacy, dictated under Roman
guard.
Supremacy dictated under Romanguard.
A pastoral heart poured out forbelievers that Paul had never
(26:50):
seen but loves as his ownchildren.
It is finished.
Paul whispers, but his voicecarries the weight of completion
that goes far beyond merecorrespondence.
The weight of completion thatgoes far beyond mere
correspondence.
The chain catches the lamplightas he gently rolls the papyrus,
(27:10):
each movement deliberate andreverent, as if he's handling
not just parchment and ink butthe very words of God himself.
Through the open window, thesounds of Rome settling into
evening drift, distant laughterof families gathering for meals,
(27:30):
the clip-clop of horses' hooveson the cobblestone streets, the
calls of night vendorsbeginning their rounds.
Yet here, in this rented house,something eternal has been
birthed, something that willoutlast the empire whose
representative sits chained toits author.
(27:51):
Do you understand what we haveaccomplished here?
Paul asked, turning to you withthose penetrating eyes that
have seen the risen Christ.
The chain creates its familiarrhythm as he gestures toward the
completed letter.
We have proclaimed thesupremacy of Christ to believers
(28:16):
facing the greatest threat thechurch has ever known Not
persecution from without, butdeception from within.
The lamplight flickers asevening breeze moves through the
room, carrying the scent ofolive groves and distant aroma
(28:37):
of bread baking in theneighborhood ovens, Paul's
weathered face reflects deepsatisfaction that comes from
faithful completion of divineassignment.
The Colossians will gather insomeone's home when this letter
arrives.
Paul continues his voicegrowing stronger with
(28:59):
anticipation.
Perhaps in Philemon's villa orNympha's more modest dwelling,
where simple clay lamps providelight for eager hearts hungry
for apostolic instruction.
You can almost see it happeningthe house, church assembled in
the evening, coolness of theLycus Valley, oil lamps casting
(29:22):
warm circles of light on facesanxious for news from their
imprisoned apostle.
The leather-bound scroll willbe carefully unrolled and
someone will read aloud thefamiliar greeting.
Imagine their joy.
Paul reflects the chain,creating gentle percussion as he
(29:43):
speaks with increasinganimation.
When they hear that we givethanks for them always, that
their faith and love have becomeknown, even here in Rome, these
believers who have never seenour face will discover that
distance cannot diminishapostolic affection, that Roman
(30:03):
chains cannot contain pastoralcare.
The guard, despite his militarytraining, cannot help but be
moved by the tenderness inPaul's voice.
Over these months of constantcompanionship he has witnessed
something that challengeseverything he thought he knew
about power and authority.
(30:25):
This chained prisoner speakswith greater confidence than
Caesar himself.
Paul rises from his writingtable, the chain requiring
careful coordination with theguard as they both adjust.
He walks to the small windowoverlooking the city, his
(30:47):
sandals making soft soundsagainst the mosaic floor.
From here you can see thelights of Rome spread out like
earthbound stars, torchesmarking thoroughfares and oil
lamps flickering in.
But this letter carries morethan personal affection, Paul
(31:10):
says, gazing out at the greatcity that holds him captive yet
cannot contain his message.
It carries the very image ofthe invisible God, the firstborn
over all creation.
When the Colossians hear thesewords, they will understand that
Christ is not merely one optionamong many spiritual choices,
(31:35):
but the supreme Lord before whomevery knee must bow.
Paul turns from the window, thechain creating its metallic
whisper, and picks up thecompleted letter with the
reverence of a priest handling asacred offering.
The false teachers in Colossaespeak of secret knowledge, of
(32:00):
hidden mysteries available onlyto the initiated.
But we have proclaimed themystery that has been kept
hidden for ages and generationsChrist in you hope of glory, you
watch as Paul carefully placesthe sealed letter in a leather
pouch, protecting it frommoisture and damage during its
(32:23):
long journey northward.
This simple scroll, writtenunder Roman guard in a rented
house, carries within it thepower to demolish false
philosophies, to strengthenwavering faith and to exalt
Christ above every competingclaim for human allegiance.
(32:45):
The guard here has heard medictate letters to many churches
, Paul says with a gentle smiletoward his Roman companion.
But tonight he has been witnessto something extraordinary.
We have not merely writtenabout Christ, we have proclaimed
his cosmic supremacy, his rolein creation, his work of
(33:09):
reconciliation and hisindwelling presence in every
believer.
The lamp flame burns steadiernow, pushing back the gathering
darkness In its glow.
Paul's face shows the deeplines of apostolic concern, the
scars of persecution and theprofound joy that comes from
(33:32):
seeing God's kingdom advancedespite all opposition.
Tomorrow, Paul says his voicetaking on practical urgency.
We will find a trustedmessenger to carry this letter
northward, someone who knows theRoman roads, who can navigate
the dangers of travel, who willguard this precious cargo with
(33:56):
his life if necessary.
You can almost see themessenger's journey unfolding
dusty roads under theMediterranean sun.
Overnight stops in the roadside, inns where travelers share
news from across the empire, thecareful protection of the
leather satchel containing notjust this letter but the hopes
(34:18):
and prayers of a chained apostle.
But even when this letterreaches Colossae, Paul continues
the chain clinking softly as hegestures.
Our work is not finished.
Letters can instruct andencourage, but they cannot
replace the presence of God'sshepherds.
We must pray that God willraise up leaders in that church
(34:42):
who will guard the truth we haveproclaimed.
One day, Paul says his voicetaken on a prophetic quality,
believers in lands we have neverimagined, speaking languages we
have never heard, will readthese very words and find
strength for their own battlesagainst false teaching.
Strength for their own battlesagainst false teaching.
(35:05):
The Christ we have proclaimedas supreme over Colossae will be
acknowledged as Lord over everytribe and tongue and nation.
The Colossians face a choice.
Paul reflects his voice growingmore intense, and so does every
generation that will followthem.
Will they be satisfied With theall sufficient Christ we have
(35:28):
proclaimed, or will they beseduced by those who offer
something more, somethingadditional, something that
supposedly completes what Christhas left unfinished?
The chain catches the lamplightas Paul raises his hand In
blessing toward the letter thatwill soon begin its journey.
But we have confidence in thepower of truth.
(35:52):
We have proclaimed Christ asthe image of the invisible God,
the firstborn over all creation,the one in whom all things hold
together.
This is not philosophy orspeculation.
This is not philosophy orspeculation.
This is reality, thefundamental truth upon which the
universe itself is built.
(36:14):
Come, Paul says, rising andextending his chained hand
towards you.
Let us pray for those who willreceive this letter, for the
messenger who will carry it andfor all those who will hear its
words in the generations to come.
As you kneel together in theflickering lamplight, the chain
(36:35):
between Paul and the guardcreating a gentle whisper, you
realize that you have beenprivileged to witness something
extraordinary.
The words that Paul has writtenwill outlive the Roman Empire
will survive the fall ofkingdoms, will speak hope to
believers facing trials thathave not yet been imagined.
(36:56):
And at this moment, as Paul'svoice rises in prayer for the
Colossians and for all who willin their footsteps, you
understand that the supremacy ofChrist proclaimed in this
letter is not just ancienttheology but living reality, as
fresh and powerful today as itwas on that evening when it was
(37:19):
first committed to papyrus in arented house in Rome, was first
committed to papyrus in a rentedhouse in Rome.
The echo of Christ's supremacythat began in Colossae continues
to reverberate across time andyou have been witness to its
eternal song.
Thank you for joining me todayas we journeyed through the
(37:40):
epistle of Paul to theColossians, chapter one.
I pray that you carry thesereflections with you into your
day, into your week, and thatyou find strength in knowing God
is with you in every trial,every temptation and every step
of obedience.
If this time in God's word hasencouraged you, take a moment to
(38:04):
share it with someone who mightneed it.
And be sure to join me nexttime as we continue walking
through the scriptures, learning, growing, and staying faithful
in the field of life.
Until next time, may you findpeace in the quiet, trust in
God's call, and rest in Hisunchanging love.
(38:27):
This is In the Field Audio Bible, where we Listen to the Bible
One Chapter at a Time.
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