outline of Colossians

1.  Introduction (1:1-14)

1. Salutation (1:1, 2)
2. Thanksgiving for the Colossians (1:3-8)
3. Intercession for the Colossians (1:9-14)

2.  In Praise of the Son (1:15-23)

1. Head Over Creation and the Cosmic Powers (1:15-17)
2. Head Over Re-creation and Reconciliation (1:18-20)
3. The Purpose and Effect of Reconciliation (1:21-23)

3.  The Purpose of Paul's Ministry and His Interest in the Colossians (1:24-2:7)

4.  The Sufficiency of Christ (2:8-23)

1. Not the Emptiness of Human Tradition but Fullness in Christ (2:8-10)
2. Renewal and Victory in Christ (2:11-15)
3. Freedom from the Law and Asceticism (2:16-23)

5.  Life in Christ (3:1-4:6)

1. Putting off the Old Humanity, Putting on the New (3:1-17)

   1.  The Basis for Obedience:  Union with Christ in His Death and Life (3:1-4)
   2.  Death to the Old Humanity (3:5-8)
   3.  New Life in Christ (3:9-14)
   4.  The Peace, the Word, and the Worship of Christ (3:15-17)

2. Instructions for Christian Living (3:18-4:6)

   1.  In Social Relationships (3:18-4:1)
   2.  In Prayer (4:2-4)
   3.  Among Outsiders to the Faith (4:5, 6)

6.  Final Greetings (4:7-18)