Colossians 1:4

Thanksgiving and Prayer · Colossians 1:3–14
Read Colossians 1

Translations

Modern
…because we have heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all the saints—
Traditional
Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,
Literal
…having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for all the saints,
Latin
…audientes fidem vestram in Christo Jesu, et dilectionem quam habetis in sanctos omnes

Original

Greek
English
…because we have heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all the saints—

Notes

All the saints (meaning holy ones): The New Testament calls all Christians saints. They are set apart by God as his holy people (3:12).

This section starts with a thanksgiving, common in New Testament letters. Paul thanks God for the growth of the faith of the Colossians. He prays they will understand it even more. Through this prayer, Paul shows his concern about the influence of false teachers.

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul)

Parallels

1 Corinthians 1:4–9 Philippians 1:3–11

People

Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Gratitude Letter to the Colossians

Topics

Character of Saints: Loving Faith: Colossians Faith: Faith in Christ: Colossians Intercession: Exemplified Love to Man: Colossians Love: Exemplification of the Love of Man for Man Thankfulness: should be offered for the Grace Bestowed on Others Thanksgiving: should be offered for the Grace Bestowed on Others