As we read Col. 1:3-12, we will know that
this passage does not only talk about Christian growth, but also other important
things that believers must understand. However, for the purpose of answering your
question, I would limit our discussion on Christian growth only.
A. In v. 3, the Apostle Paul and Timothy (“we”) give thanks to
God upon hearing about the progress of the gospel in Colossae, but the main purpose
of Paul in writing this epistle is to warn Colossian believers about false
teaching that has crawled into this church, now known as the “Colossian
Heresy.” Note that this church in Colossae was not directly founded by Paul.
B. Paul clarifies the procedures of Christian growth in the following
order (vv. 4-5):
1. The power of the gospel is the foundation: (a) in becoming
a Christian and (b) in growing as a Christian.
2. The Colossians—after they heard and understood the message
of the gospel (i.e., believed in the gospel of the grace of God)—are to grow in
faith, love, and hope (Cf. 1 Cor. 13:13, faith, hope, and love).
C. Paul describes Christian growth to the Colossian Church
in the following 11 points:
To know what are the 11 point are, click here.