In this session, the teaching highlights Paul’s remarkable pastoral heart toward a church he had never met. Instead of beginning with correction, he starts with thanksgiving—anchoring the Colossians in the reality of God’s work already evident among them. From there, Paul lifts their eyes to the nature of true apostolic ministry, contrasting the grounded, servant-hearted model he embodies with the extremes and suspicions often attached to the term. He then turns toward the power of the gospel in their midst—its fruit, its growth, its grace, its effect on community love—and prays that they would continue to walk worthily, shaped by wisdom from above rather than the counterfeit wisdom pressing in from their culture. The session closes by centering on the breathtaking reality of redemption: believers transferred from darkness into Christ’s kingdom, called to remember where they’ve come from and what now belongs to them in Him.

Colossians closes with what looks like a simple list of greetings, but beneath it is a glimpse into how the kingdom advances—through ordinary people faithfully doing life and ministry together. Paul reminds us that the gospel is always expanding, and we each have a part in that, whether we’re praying, speaking with wisdom, or watching for openings that God creates. He also shows us the beauty of team: unlikely people, restored people, new leaders, seasoned leaders—all knit together for God’s purposes. And tucked inside his final words is a personal charge we all need to hear: see to it that you fulfill the ministry Jesus has given you. Not someone else’s calling—yours. Paul signs off with one last reminder of grace, and it’s the right place to end: everything God asks of us can only be lived by His grace at work in us.