Paul refers to two churches, one in Colosse an another in Laodicea.  He encourages them to read each other’s letters from him (Although the letter to the Laodiceans was not inspired and is lost). Paul’s comment in 4:16 helps us understand how the churches shared scripture.

Throughout the letter, Paul is warning of false teaching and advocating for holy living among believers, in marriage, family, and work. He challenges this church to be prayerful, watchful, thankful, and fruitful.

Paul’s short letter to Philemon consists mainly of a plea for this godly man to graciously receive his runaway slave Onesimus. He had become a Christian, and Paul is now sending back to his master.

Read Colossians 1:1 – 4:18 and Philemon