Colossians 2:1-5 English Standard Version
1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.
This is the context within which our closing verse was referenced yesterday. In this section Paul reveals his intentions. His desire to encourage others, even those he has never met. His desire is to build unity in fellowship. Jesus said they would know us by the love we have for one another.
Do the words “riches of full assurance” remind us of the definition of faith?
Hebrews 10:19-20 English Standard Version
The Full Assurance of Faith
19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh,
Hebrews 11:1 English Standard Version (ESV) Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Faith is the key to unlocking the mystery, the hidden treasure of wisdom and knowledge. Faith is how we come to know Christ in us.
Galatians 4:19 English Standard Version (ESV) my little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you!
Being born again by faith in Christ is Paul’s desire for all of us, those he has met and we whom he has not seen face to face.