Paul’s Greetings

The opening greeting in this epistle is typical of the way in which Paul has addressed other churches to whom he has written (1 Cor. 1:1–3; 2 Cor. 1:1–2; Phil. 1:1–2; 1 Thess. 1:1–2; 2 Thess. 1:1–2; cf. Eph. 1:1–2). Although the form of these salutations is quite similar to contemporary Greek models, the content is distinctly Christian and, in the case of Colossians, sets forth statements that are important to the body of the letter.

1:1 Paul links Timothy with the writing of this letter (and Timothy our brother). This beloved co-worker had won a respected place in Paul’s heart and had become a vital cog in all that Paul was attempting to do for Christ (1 Cor. 4:17; 2 Cor. 1:1; Phil. 1:1; 2:19–24; 1 Thess. 1:1; 3:1ff.; Philem. 1). By including Timothy in this greeting, P…