Colossians: Background and contexts

Abstract

This article explores various facets of the historical background that assist in illuminating passages within Colossians, including the hymn to Christ (Col 1:15–20), the conflict that seems to have prompted the letter (Col 2:8–19), and the household code (Col 3:18–25). This exploration relies on archaeological evidence as well as texts from extra-biblical sources to project what the original recipients of this letter might have heard and understood when they received it.