Colossians 1:23
Verse
Context
The Supremacy of the Son
22But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy, unblemished, and blameless in His presence— 23if indeed you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope of the gospel you heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If ye continue in the faith - This will be the case if you, who have already believed in Christ Jesus, continue in that faith, grounded in the knowledge and love of God, and settled - made firm and perseveringly steadfast, in that state of salvation. And be not moved away - Not permitting yourselves to be seduced by false teachers. The hope of the Gospel - The resurrection of the body, and the glorification of it and the soul together, in the realms of blessedness. This is properly the Gospel Hope. To every creature which is under heaven - A Hebraism for the whole human race, and particularly referring to the two grand divisions of mankind, the Jews and Gentiles; to both of these the Gospel had been preached, and to each, salvation by Christ had been equally offered. And as none had been excluded from the offers of mercy, and Jesus Christ had tasted death for every man, and the Jews and Gentiles, in their great corporate capacity, had all been invited to believe the Gospel; therefore, the apostle concludes that the Gospel was preached to every creature under heaven, as being offered without restrictions or limitations to these two grand divisions of mankind, including the whole human race.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If--"Assuming that," &c.: not otherwise shall ye be so presented at His appearing (Col 1:22). grounded--Greek, "founded," "fixed on the foundation" (compare Note, see on Eph 3:17; Luk 6:48-49). settled--"steadfast." "Grounded" respects the foundation on which believers rest; "settled," their own steadfastness (Pe1 5:10). Co1 15:58 has the same Greek. not moved away--by the false teachers. the hope of the gospel-- (Eph 1:18). which ye have heard . . . which was preached to every creature . . . whereof I . . . am . . . a minister--Three arguments against their being "moved away from the Gospel": (1) Their having heard it; (2) The universality of the preaching of it; (3) Paul's ministry in it. For "to (Greek, 'in') every creature," the oldest manuscripts read, "in all creation." Compare "in all the world," Col 1:6; "all things . . . in earth," Col 1:20 (Mar 16:15): thus he implies that the Gospel from which he urges them not to be moved, has this mark of truth, namely, the universality of its announcement, which accords with the command and prophecy of Christ Himself (Mat 24:14). By "was preached," he means not merely "is being preached," but has been actually, as an accomplished fact, preached. PLINY, not many years subsequently, in his famous letter to the Emperor Trajan [Epistles, Book X., Epistle 97], writes, "Many of every age, rank, and sex, are being brought to trial. For the contagion of that superstition [Christianity] has spread over not only cities, but villages and the country." whereof I Paul am--rather as Greek, "was made a minister." Respect for me, the minister of this world-wide Gospel, should lead you not to be moved from it. Moreover (he implies), the Gospel which ye heard from Epaphras, your "minister" (Col 1:7), is the same of which "I was made a minister" (Col 1:25; Eph 3:7): if you be moved from it, ye will desert the teaching of the recognized ministers of the Gospel for unauthorized false teachers.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If ye continue in the faith,.... In the doctrine of faith which they had received and embraced; and in the grace of faith, and the exercise of it which was implanted in them; and in the profession of faith which they had made: not that the virtue and efficacy of Christ's blood, sufferings, and death, and reconciliation of their persons to God thereby, depended upon their faith, and abiding in it; but that faith and continuance in it were necessary means of their presentation in unblemished holiness and righteousness; for if they had not faith, or did not abide in it or if the good work of grace was not wrought upon their souls, and that performed until the day of Christ, they could not be presented holy and blameless: this shows the necessity of the saints' final perseverance in faith and holiness, and is mentioned with this view, to put them upon a concern about it, and to make use of all means, under divine grace, to enjoy it; and nothing could more strongly incline and move unto it, than the blessed effect of Christ's death, reconciliation and the end of it, to present the reconciled ones blameless; in order to which it is necessary they should hold on and out to the end: hence the Ethiopic version reads the words, not as a condition, but as an exhortation enforced by what goes before; "therefore be ye established in the faith": it follows, grounded and settled; not on the sandy foundation of man's own righteousness, and peace made by his own performances; but upon the foundation and rock, Christ, against which the gates of hell cannot prevail; and so shall never finally and totally fall away, being rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith of him, in the doctrines of faith, respecting peace by his blood, justification by his righteousness, and life by his death; and so continue steadfast and immovable, always abounding in his work: and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel; the hope of eternal life and happiness, which as set before us in the Gospel; which that gives a good and solid ground and foundation of, in the person, blood, and righteousness of Christ; and is the instrumental means, in the hand of the Spirit, of begetting to it, and of encouraging and increasing it: the law gives no hopes of eternal life to a poor sinner; it works wrath, and ministers death; there is nothing but a fearful looking for of judgment by it; but the Gospel encourages to hope in the Lord, from the consideration of rich mercy and plenteous redemption in him; and this hope of the Gospel is an anchor of the soul, sure and steadfast, and not to be let go; this confidence and rejoicing of the hope is to be kept firm unto the end: which ye have heard; that is, which Gospel they had heard from Epaphras their faithful minister, and that not only externally, but internally; they had heard it and believed it, and it had brought forth fruit in them; for it came to them not in word only, but in power; which is said in commendation of it, and to engage them to continue in it, and abide by it; as is also what follows: and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; and therefore since it was the same which was everywhere preached, they might depend upon the truth of it, should have the greater value for it, and by no means relinquish it. This must be understood not of every individual creature, even human and rational, that was then, or had been in, the world; but that it had been, and was preached far and near, in all places all over the world, to the Gentiles as well as to the Jews; who are sometimes styled "every creature", "the creature", "the whole creation", "all men", &c. see Mar 16:15 Tit 2:11; and of this, the first preaching of the Gospel by Peter after our Lord's resurrection, was an emblem and pledge, Act 2:14; and some time after that, the sound of all the apostles went into all the earth, and their words to the end of the world: whereof I Paul am made a minister; by Jesus Christ, who appeared unto him, and called, qualified, and sent him forth as such; and this is mentioned to encourage the Colossians to abide by the truths of the Gospel, since what they had heard and received were what were everywhere preached by the faithful ministers of the word; and particularly by the apostle, who was ordained to be a teacher and preacher of it to the Gentiles. The Alexandrian copy reads, "a preacher and an apostle, and a minister"; see Ti1 2:7.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:23 preached all over the world (literally preached to every creature under heaven): The point of Paul’s hyperbole (exaggeration for emphasis) is that centers for preaching the Good News had been established in key cities throughout the Roman world (see also 1:6).
Colossians 1:23
The Supremacy of the Son
22But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy, unblemished, and blameless in His presence— 23if indeed you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope of the gospel you heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Pardon for the Greatest Sinners
By Jonathan Edwards5.0K28:57Audio BooksPSA 25:11PRO 8:4MAT 9:13MRK 16:15JHN 6:37ROM 5:20COL 1:231TI 1:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that pardon and forgiveness are offered to all sinners, regardless of the magnitude of their sins, if they come to God seeking mercy. The invitations of the gospel are universal, calling out to all who thirst and labor. Jesus promises that anyone who comes to Him will not be cast out. The preacher highlights that the purpose of Christ's coming into the world was to remedy the sinfulness of humanity, and therefore, the more sinful a person is, the greater their need for Christ. The sermon emphasizes the glory of God's grace in the redemption of Christ, which is sufficient to pardon even the greatest sinners.
Freedom of Spirit
By Norman Grubb2.5K1:06:34Holy SpiritMAT 4:4JHN 3:16ROM 1:5ROM 10:17ROM 16:26COL 1:231JN 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the nature of the liquid we consume. He compares bad liquid to rock, symbolizing negative influences, and good liquid to mercy and Jesus, representing positive influences. The preacher also discusses the significance of being a branch of the vine, highlighting that it is not about the branches themselves, but rather the tree that comes through them. He emphasizes that we are more than just a temple or a branch, but vessels through which God operates. Lastly, the preacher mentions the lesson Paul learned about the cross of Christ, recognizing that there are two operations in the cross - the shedding of blood and the sacrifice of the body.
(Through the Bible) Colossians 1
By Chuck Smith2.4K1:11:19MAT 24:14MRK 16:15JHN 15:16ACT 8:26EPH 4:1COL 1:10COL 1:23In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for Jesus Christ, who came to earth as the manifestation of God and dwells in the hearts of believers. The speaker emphasizes the importance of the power of the Holy Spirit in being effective witnesses for the gospel. They mention that the gospel has been preached throughout the world and bears fruit. The speaker also mentions the need to trust in God's guidance and take one step at a time, using the example of Philip being directed to go to Gaza. The sermon concludes with the speaker acknowledging the significance of chapters 2 and 3 in the New Testament and expressing the intention to delve into them in the next session.
Who Is Jesus?
By David Hocking1.8K54:43COL 1:16COL 1:19COL 1:23COL 1:27HEB 12:22In this sermon, Dr. David Hawking emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the gospel and sharing the good news of Jesus with others. He encourages believers to serve God by getting involved in the process of proclaiming the gospel to everyone they can reach. Dr. Hawking highlights that Jesus is a revelation of the invisible God, as he had a human body and lived among us. He explains that Jesus is the complete and final revelation of God to mankind, and through him, we can know and understand the invisible God. The sermon concludes with a prayer for those who are unsure of their relationship with God, inviting them to see that Jesus alone can save them.
At Ease in Zion
By David Legge1.5K40:08PRO 22:16ISA 58:6AMO 6:1MAT 7:21LUK 12:15COL 1:23JAS 5:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching about Christ and the gospel in churches. He urges Christians to be stirred and moved by the idolatry and sin in their land, and to be passionate about sharing the message of salvation. The preacher also highlights the decline in church membership and the desperate attempts to attract people through entertainment. He challenges believers to truly believe in the reality of hell and to actively warn others about it. He references Charles Finney's suggestion of studying Bible verses about hell and imagining loved ones in those verses as a way to grasp the urgency of the message.
(Colossians) Once Alienated-Now Reconciled
By Brian Brodersen97858:04MAT 6:33COL 1:12COL 1:21COL 1:23In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of redemption through Jesus Christ and the forgiveness of sins. He emphasizes that God chose to demonstrate his love by sending his son to die in the place of rebels, even though he could have wiped out humanity. The speaker compares this act of love to a parent offering up their beloved child in exchange for a criminal's release. He highlights that every person, regardless of their external appearance, is in a state of rebellion against God and in need of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Peacemakers
By Anton Bosch72849:09PeacemakersMAT 5:11MAT 6:33MAT 27:50EPH 2:14EPH 6:15COL 1:19COL 1:23In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of making peace, both with God and with others. He emphasizes the importance of preaching the Gospel and leading others to repentance and acceptance of salvation. The preacher also highlights the role of intercession in pleading for people to be saved and transformed by the Spirit of God. The sermon references Colossians 1:19, which speaks about the reconciliation of all things through the blood of Jesus' cross, and Luke 23, where Jesus is accused of being a troublemaker. The preacher concludes by addressing the apparent contradiction of Jesus bringing both peace and a sword, emphasizing the need for peace to be achieved through the cross of Calvary.
Faith, Hope, and Love
By Hans R. Waldvogel71325:05FaithJOS 1:8PRO 1:32MAT 25:32ROM 12:2COL 1:23COL 3:2JUD 1:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying on the "beam" and keeping our focus on Jesus. He compares this to a pilot flying through fog, who relies on a clock to stay on track. The speaker highlights the need to be directed by Jesus in every aspect of our lives and to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. He also emphasizes the importance of having a living hope in Christ's return and not being consumed by earthly things. The sermon concludes with a reminder to meditate on God's word day and night, using the example of Joshua as a faithful servant who relied on the word of God.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 124
By Don Courville31929:08Radio ShowROM 8:14COL 1:13COL 1:23HEB 9:27REV 20:12REV 21:27In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the lack of life and hope he sees in people's eyes, emphasizing that the only source of hope is Jesus Christ. He warns that missing Jesus means missing out on life and facing judgment. The speaker urges listeners to accept Jesus as their Savior and not to ignore the Holy Spirit's attempts to lead them to Him. He concludes by emphasizing that Jesus is the missing ingredient in their lives and encourages them to invite Him in.
The God of All Grace
By Thomas Bradbury0PSA 68:28ISA 40:292CO 12:9EPH 6:10PHP 4:13COL 1:11COL 1:231PE 5:10Thomas Bradbury preaches on the importance of enduring suffering as part of the Christian journey, emphasizing the need to trust in God's grace and strength to make us perfect, establish us in faith, strengthen us in trials, and settle us on the firm foundation of Christ. He highlights the contrast between the sufferings of Christ and the glory that awaits believers, urging them to seek comfort and relief in God's Fatherly goodness during times of affliction. Bradbury encourages believers to find strength in weakness, to be steadfast in faith, and to rejoice in the assurance of eternal glory, offering a doxology of praise to God for His everlasting glory and dominion.
Ointment Poured Forth
By Miles J. Stanford02CO 4:12GAL 6:2PHP 2:3COL 1:231JN 4:11Miles J. Stanford preaches about the personal journey of maturity in the Lord Jesus, emphasizing the transition from personal growth to sacrificially serving His Body. He highlights the importance of selflessness in leadership, drawing parallels to Moses' wilderness experience before leading the people. The sermon challenges listeners to choose the path of self-sacrifice for the benefit of others, emphasizing the need to pour out oneself for the progress and well-being of the Body of Christ. Stanford underscores the significance of embodying God's patient grace and love in relationships within the Church, mirroring the Father's care and leading towards spiritual unity.
Take Your Share
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 108:1PSA 112:61CO 15:58COL 1:23HEB 6:19Greek Word Studies preaches on the concept of being steadfast, emphasizing the importance of being firmly established in faith and moral fixity. The term 'steadfast' describes one who is constant, resolute, and unwavering in their beliefs, especially in the face of challenges or temptations. The Bible highlights the connection between trust in God, belief in His promises, and maintaining a steadfast heart and mind. It warns against being moved away from the hope of the gospel, stressing the need for perseverance and unwavering faith in the face of spiritual battles.
Epistle 366
By George Fox0JOL 2:28MAT 18:20JHN 1:9ROM 1:16ROM 8:28EPH 6:11COL 1:23TIT 2:11HEB 2:91JN 1:7George Fox preaches to a group of captives in Algiers, encouraging them to live lives that preach righteousness, holiness, and godliness, shining the light of Christ to all around them. He emphasizes the importance of believing in the light of Christ, receiving salvation through faith, and walking in the grace of God. Fox urges them to stand firm in their faith, even in captivity, trusting in God's power to sustain them through hardships and to sanctify their sufferings for good.
Epistle 114
By George Fox0MAT 11:5MAT 28:19MRK 16:15JHN 1:51CO 9:102CO 5:11COL 1:231PE 3:19JUD 1:6REV 14:6George Fox preaches about the importance of dwelling in the mighty power of God, being sent by God to minister to all spirits and testify against deceivers. He emphasizes preaching the gospel to every creature, disciplining them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and proclaiming the mighty day of the Lord to those in darkness. Fox urges believers to plant in hope, thresh in hope, and preach the everlasting gospel in the power of the Lord Jesus Christ, performing miracles by His power.
The Fight of Faith
By H.J. Vine01CO 16:13EPH 4:13COL 1:232TH 2:101TI 1:191TI 6:101TI 6:12JUD 1:3JUD 1:20H.J. Vine preaches about the importance of standing firm in the faith amidst the challenges of modern theology and the rise of new ideologies, emphasizing the need to hold on to the timeless truths revealed by God and expressed in the Scriptures. He highlights the significance of abiding in the faith once given, rooted in God's perfect revelation, and warns against the subtle workings of unbelief and apostasy. Vine encourages believers to be vigilant, strong, and considerate towards one another, focusing on being established in the faith and walking in the truth according to piety. He concludes by urging believers to earnestly contend for the faith, maintaining its purity and awaiting the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
The Hope of the Gospel (Choose Your Overcomer: Christ or the flesh.)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Hope of the GospelOvercoming the FleshISA 55:7MAT 26:41JHN 13:1ROM 8:372CO 5:17GAL 5:16EPH 6:12PHP 3:14COL 1:231JN 5:4Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the necessity of remaining steadfast in the hope of the gospel, warning against the dangers of allowing the flesh to dominate our lives. He illustrates how even those who have walked closely with Christ, like Judas Iscariot, can fall prey to the flesh if they do not continually choose to let Jesus reign in their hearts. Waldvogel calls Christians to forsake their own ways and thoughts, urging them to seek a deeper relationship with God and to be vigilant against the subtle temptations of the devil. He challenges believers to reflect on who truly overcomes in their lives—Christ or the flesh—and to strive for a life that reflects the love and light of Jesus. The sermon serves as a wake-up call for Christians to prepare for the coming of the Lord by living in the Spirit and not in the flesh.
The Appearance of Christ in Human Nature - Part 1
By John Gill0Salvation and RedemptionThe Light of ChristGEN 3:152SA 23:4ISA 27:4MAL 4:2MAT 1:23LUK 1:78JHN 8:12ACT 8:8COL 1:23REV 22:16John Gill preaches about the appearance of Christ in human nature, comparing it to the light of the morning when the sun rises, emphasizing that His coming dispels darkness and brings joy and hope to humanity. He explains that Christ's arrival was foretold and serves as a beacon of salvation, illuminating the path for lost sinners and fulfilling prophecies that reveal His nature and mission. Gill highlights that this light is not only for the Jewish people but also for the Gentiles, signifying the universal reach of Christ's gospel. The sermon underscores the righteousness of Christ's rule and the peace that comes with His presence, marking the end of the stormy dispensation of the law. Ultimately, Gill points to the transformative power of Christ as the Sun of righteousness, bringing healing and light to all who believe.
1 Peter 5:12
By John Gill0FaithfulnessTrue Grace of GodACT 15:22ROM 1:16EPH 6:10PHP 1:6COL 1:231TH 5:242TI 1:12HEB 10:231PE 5:122PE 3:17John Gill emphasizes the role of Silvanus as a faithful brother and minister in delivering Peter's message, highlighting the importance of integrity in preaching the Gospel. He asserts that the brevity of the epistle does not diminish its significance, as it conveys the true grace of God that the recipients have embraced and continue to stand firm in. Gill encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, recognizing the assurance and truth of the Gospel they have received.
Faith" and "The Faith"
By H.J. Vine0PSA 16:1ISA 26:10HAB 2:4ROM 10:17GAL 3:23COL 1:231TI 6:10HEB 11:11JN 5:4H.J. Vine preaches about the significance of faith from the days of Abel to the present, emphasizing that true faith was delivered to the saints through Christ. He urges believers to contend for this faith, as many are departing from it in the last days, revealing their lack of true faith. The Old Testament illustrates the consequences of lacking faith and the shining of faith in times of trial. The New Testament emphasizes that faith is a gift from God, received through hearing His Word, leading to justification. The faith is centered on Jesus Christ, the Leader and Completer of faith, enabling believers to stand firm, grow, and overcome the world.
Prove All Things
By J.C. Ryle0JOB 38:5PSA 8:3MAT 7:25JHN 10:28ROM 5:3EPH 3:17COL 1:23HEB 1:101PE 5:10Doug Goins and Barclay emphasize the importance of being firmly established on a secure foundation, especially in times of suffering, which drives believers to the bedrock of their faith, Jesus Christ. The radical notion of themelióō is to ground securely, providing a stable base for belief and practice. Peter assures that God will place suffering saints on a firm foundation, symbolizing a solid spiritual base that withstands the storms of life.
Standing Firm in the Lord
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Importance of Personal FaithStanding Firm in FaithEXO 36:20JDG 7:211KI 18:151KI 19:10PSA 134:1MAT 7:24EPH 6:13PHP 4:1COL 1:232TI 4:7T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the Lord, using the imagery of the Tabernacle's boards made of acacia wood that remained standing even when stripped of their outward supports. He illustrates that each board represents individual believers who, despite being cut from their natural roots and shaped by God's hand, are upheld by the redemptive power of Christ. The sermon challenges believers to examine their personal faith and resilience, especially in times of testing, and to recognize that true stability comes from being rooted in Christ. Sparks encourages the congregation to stand firm, even when alone, and to appreciate the vital role of personal faith alongside communal support. Ultimately, he reminds them that their standing is not based on their own strength but on the glory and nature of Christ that covers them.
Epistle 388
By George Fox0GEN 3:15PSA 25:9LUK 1:78JHN 1:9ROM 1:16COL 1:231TH 5:191TI 1:162TI 3:8TIT 2:11HEB 4:16George Fox preaches to captives in Algiers, urging them to know and do God's will in humility and fear, living lives that preach godliness and righteousness to all, including Turks, Moors, and Jews. He emphasizes the universal enlightenment by Christ's light and grace, calling all to come to the grace of God in their hearts for salvation and to worship Him in spirit and truth. Fox warns against resisting the truth and rebelling against the spirit, highlighting the need to endure in God's grace and truth for salvation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If ye continue in the faith - This will be the case if you, who have already believed in Christ Jesus, continue in that faith, grounded in the knowledge and love of God, and settled - made firm and perseveringly steadfast, in that state of salvation. And be not moved away - Not permitting yourselves to be seduced by false teachers. The hope of the Gospel - The resurrection of the body, and the glorification of it and the soul together, in the realms of blessedness. This is properly the Gospel Hope. To every creature which is under heaven - A Hebraism for the whole human race, and particularly referring to the two grand divisions of mankind, the Jews and Gentiles; to both of these the Gospel had been preached, and to each, salvation by Christ had been equally offered. And as none had been excluded from the offers of mercy, and Jesus Christ had tasted death for every man, and the Jews and Gentiles, in their great corporate capacity, had all been invited to believe the Gospel; therefore, the apostle concludes that the Gospel was preached to every creature under heaven, as being offered without restrictions or limitations to these two grand divisions of mankind, including the whole human race.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If--"Assuming that," &c.: not otherwise shall ye be so presented at His appearing (Col 1:22). grounded--Greek, "founded," "fixed on the foundation" (compare Note, see on Eph 3:17; Luk 6:48-49). settled--"steadfast." "Grounded" respects the foundation on which believers rest; "settled," their own steadfastness (Pe1 5:10). Co1 15:58 has the same Greek. not moved away--by the false teachers. the hope of the gospel-- (Eph 1:18). which ye have heard . . . which was preached to every creature . . . whereof I . . . am . . . a minister--Three arguments against their being "moved away from the Gospel": (1) Their having heard it; (2) The universality of the preaching of it; (3) Paul's ministry in it. For "to (Greek, 'in') every creature," the oldest manuscripts read, "in all creation." Compare "in all the world," Col 1:6; "all things . . . in earth," Col 1:20 (Mar 16:15): thus he implies that the Gospel from which he urges them not to be moved, has this mark of truth, namely, the universality of its announcement, which accords with the command and prophecy of Christ Himself (Mat 24:14). By "was preached," he means not merely "is being preached," but has been actually, as an accomplished fact, preached. PLINY, not many years subsequently, in his famous letter to the Emperor Trajan [Epistles, Book X., Epistle 97], writes, "Many of every age, rank, and sex, are being brought to trial. For the contagion of that superstition [Christianity] has spread over not only cities, but villages and the country." whereof I Paul am--rather as Greek, "was made a minister." Respect for me, the minister of this world-wide Gospel, should lead you not to be moved from it. Moreover (he implies), the Gospel which ye heard from Epaphras, your "minister" (Col 1:7), is the same of which "I was made a minister" (Col 1:25; Eph 3:7): if you be moved from it, ye will desert the teaching of the recognized ministers of the Gospel for unauthorized false teachers.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If ye continue in the faith,.... In the doctrine of faith which they had received and embraced; and in the grace of faith, and the exercise of it which was implanted in them; and in the profession of faith which they had made: not that the virtue and efficacy of Christ's blood, sufferings, and death, and reconciliation of their persons to God thereby, depended upon their faith, and abiding in it; but that faith and continuance in it were necessary means of their presentation in unblemished holiness and righteousness; for if they had not faith, or did not abide in it or if the good work of grace was not wrought upon their souls, and that performed until the day of Christ, they could not be presented holy and blameless: this shows the necessity of the saints' final perseverance in faith and holiness, and is mentioned with this view, to put them upon a concern about it, and to make use of all means, under divine grace, to enjoy it; and nothing could more strongly incline and move unto it, than the blessed effect of Christ's death, reconciliation and the end of it, to present the reconciled ones blameless; in order to which it is necessary they should hold on and out to the end: hence the Ethiopic version reads the words, not as a condition, but as an exhortation enforced by what goes before; "therefore be ye established in the faith": it follows, grounded and settled; not on the sandy foundation of man's own righteousness, and peace made by his own performances; but upon the foundation and rock, Christ, against which the gates of hell cannot prevail; and so shall never finally and totally fall away, being rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith of him, in the doctrines of faith, respecting peace by his blood, justification by his righteousness, and life by his death; and so continue steadfast and immovable, always abounding in his work: and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel; the hope of eternal life and happiness, which as set before us in the Gospel; which that gives a good and solid ground and foundation of, in the person, blood, and righteousness of Christ; and is the instrumental means, in the hand of the Spirit, of begetting to it, and of encouraging and increasing it: the law gives no hopes of eternal life to a poor sinner; it works wrath, and ministers death; there is nothing but a fearful looking for of judgment by it; but the Gospel encourages to hope in the Lord, from the consideration of rich mercy and plenteous redemption in him; and this hope of the Gospel is an anchor of the soul, sure and steadfast, and not to be let go; this confidence and rejoicing of the hope is to be kept firm unto the end: which ye have heard; that is, which Gospel they had heard from Epaphras their faithful minister, and that not only externally, but internally; they had heard it and believed it, and it had brought forth fruit in them; for it came to them not in word only, but in power; which is said in commendation of it, and to engage them to continue in it, and abide by it; as is also what follows: and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; and therefore since it was the same which was everywhere preached, they might depend upon the truth of it, should have the greater value for it, and by no means relinquish it. This must be understood not of every individual creature, even human and rational, that was then, or had been in, the world; but that it had been, and was preached far and near, in all places all over the world, to the Gentiles as well as to the Jews; who are sometimes styled "every creature", "the creature", "the whole creation", "all men", &c. see Mar 16:15 Tit 2:11; and of this, the first preaching of the Gospel by Peter after our Lord's resurrection, was an emblem and pledge, Act 2:14; and some time after that, the sound of all the apostles went into all the earth, and their words to the end of the world: whereof I Paul am made a minister; by Jesus Christ, who appeared unto him, and called, qualified, and sent him forth as such; and this is mentioned to encourage the Colossians to abide by the truths of the Gospel, since what they had heard and received were what were everywhere preached by the faithful ministers of the word; and particularly by the apostle, who was ordained to be a teacher and preacher of it to the Gentiles. The Alexandrian copy reads, "a preacher and an apostle, and a minister"; see Ti1 2:7.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:23 preached all over the world (literally preached to every creature under heaven): The point of Paul’s hyperbole (exaggeration for emphasis) is that centers for preaching the Good News had been established in key cities throughout the Roman world (see also 1:6).