that their hearts may be comforted, they being knit together in love, and gaining all riches of the full assurance of understanding, that they may know the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden.
Show the surrounding paragraph
Colossians 2:2-3 sits inside this longer paragraph.
For I desire to have you know how greatly I struggle for you, and for those at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts may be comforted, they being knit together in love, and gaining all riches of the full assurance of understanding, that they may know the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. Now I say this that no one may delude you with persuasiveness of speech. For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in the spirit, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
Parallel Translations
-
that their hearts may be comforted, they being knit together in love, and gaining all riches of the full assurance of understanding, that they may know the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ,
in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden.
-
that their hertes myght be conforted and knet togedder in love and in all ryches of full vnderstondynge for to knowe the mistery of God the father and of Christ
in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Show all 3 translations
-
That their heartes might be comforted, and they knit together in loue, and in all riches of the full assurance of vnderstanding, to know the mysterie of God, euen the Father, and of Christ:
In whom are hid all the treasures of wisedome and knowledge.
Examined in Scripture Analysis
Contradictions (1)
Questions where the Bible appears to say two different things, with the passages on each side set together.
Cross-references (63)
- 1 Corinthians 1:24 (v3) but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God;
- 1 Corinthians 1:30 (v3) Because of him, you are in Christ Jesus, who was made to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption:
- Colossians 1:27 (v2) to whom God was pleased to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope…
- Romans 11:33 (v3) Oh the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past tracing out!
- Colossians 4:8 (v2) I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts,
Show all 61 cross-references
- 1 Corinthians 2:6-8 (v3) We speak wisdom, however, among those who are full grown, yet a wisdom not of this world nor of the rulers of this world who are coming to…
- Romans 16:25 (v2)
- Ephesians 6:22 (v2) I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know our state and that he may comfort your hearts.
- 2 Timothy 3:15-17 (v3) From infancy, you have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus.…
- Ephesians 3:9-10 (vv2–3) and to make all men see what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things through…
- Colossians 1:9 (vv2–3) For this cause, we also, since the day we heard this, don’t cease praying and making requests for you, that you may be filled with the…
- Colossians 3:14 (v2) Above all these things, walk in love, which is the bond of perfection.
- Matthew 10:26 (v3) Therefore don’t be afraid of them, for there is nothing covered that will not be revealed; and hidden that will not be known.
- Ephesians 1:8 (v3) which he made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence,
- Colossians 1:15-17 (v2) He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created in the heavens and on the earth,…
- Proverbs 2:4 (v3) if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures:
- Isaiah 53:11 (v2) After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light and be satisfied. My righteous servant will justify many by the knowledge of…
- Philippians 2:1 (v2) If therefore there is any exhortation in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any tender mercies and…
- Philippians 3:8 (v2) Yes most certainly, and I count all things to be a loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, my Lord, for whom I suffered…
- Colossians 3:16 (v3) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs,…
- Job 28:21 (v3) Seeing it is hidden from the eyes of all living, and kept close from the birds of the sky.
- John 6:69 (v2) We have come to believe and know that you are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
- John 10:30 (v2) I and the Father are one.”
- Romans 15:13 (v2) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
- 2 Peter 1:3 (v2) seeing that his divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by…
- Revelation 2:17 (v3) He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. To him who overcomes, to him I will give of the hidden manna, and I…
- John 17:21-23 (v2) that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that…
- 2 Corinthians 1:4-6 (v2) who comforts us in all our affliction, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, through the comfort with which we…
- Colossians 1:19 (v3) For all the fullness was pleased to dwell in him,
- Colossians 3:3 (v3) For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
- 1 Timothy 3:16 (v2) Without controversy, the mystery of godliness is great: God was revealed in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen by angels, preached…
- Hebrews 10:22 (v2) let’s draw near with a true heart in fullness of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and having our body washed…
- Psalms 133:1 (v2) See how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to live together in unity!
- Isaiah 11:2 (v3) Yahweh’s Spirit will rest on him: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of…
- Isaiah 32:17 (v2) The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever.
- Isaiah 40:1 (v2) “Comfort, comfort my people,” says your God.
- Jeremiah 9:24 (v2) But let him who glories glory in this, that he has understanding, and knows me, that I am Yahweh who exercises loving kindness, justice,…
- Matthew 11:25 (v2) At that time, Jesus answered, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you hid these things from the wise and understanding,…
- Matthew 11:27 (v2) All things have been delivered to me by my Father. No one knows the Son, except the Father; neither does anyone know the Father, except the…
- Luke 10:21-22 (v2) In that same hour Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit, and said, “I thank you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these…
- John 1:1-3 (v2) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were…
- John 5:17 (v2) But Jesus answered them, “My Father is still working, so I am working, too.”
- John 5:23 (v2) that all may honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He who doesn’t honor the Son doesn’t honor the Father who sent him.
- John 10:38 (v2) But if I do them, though you don’t believe me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in me, and I in the…
- John 14:9-11 (v2) Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you such a long time, and do you not know me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father. How do…
- John 16:15 (v2) All things that the Father has are mine; therefore I said that he takes of mine and will declare it to you.
- John 17:3 (v2) This is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and him whom you sent, Jesus Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 2:12 (v2) But we received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is from God, that we might know the things that were freely given to us…
- Galatians 3:28 (v2) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
- Ephesians 1:17-19 (v2) that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him,…
- Hebrews 6:11 (v2) We desire that each one of you may show the same diligence to the fullness of hope even to the end,
- Acts 4:32 (v2) The multitude of those who believed were of one heart and soul. Not one of them claimed that anything of the things which he possessed was…
- 1 Thessalonians 1:5 (v2) and that our Good News came to you not in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance. You know what kind…
- 1 Thessalonians 3:2 (v2) and sent Timothy, our brother and God’s servant in the Good News of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith,
- 1 Thessalonians 5:14 (v2) We exhort you, brothers: Admonish the disorderly; encourage the faint-hearted; support the weak; be patient toward all.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (v2) Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your…
- 2 Peter 1:10 (v2) Therefore, brothers, be more diligent to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never stumble.
- 2 Peter 3:18 (v2) But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.
- 1 John 3:19 (v2) And by this we know that we are of the truth, and persuade our hearts before him,
- 1 John 4:12-13 (v2) No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God remains in us, and his love has been perfected in us. By this we know that we…
- 1 John 5:7 (v2) For there are three who testify:
61 distinct cross-references across this passage (63 total citations).
Cross-references from openbible.info (CC BY 4.0)
Explain this passage (17 sources)
Historical commentary, presented as a primary source — not an endorsement.
Private notes
Saved on this device only — never synced or sent anywhere.
John Calvin 1540 · Public Domain On vv2–3 2. That their hearts may receive consolation. He now…
2. That their hearts may receive consolation. He now intimates what he desires for them, and shews that his affection is truly apostolic; for he declares that nothing else is desired by him than that they may be united together in faith and love. He shews, accordingly, that it was by no unreasonable affection (as happens in the case of some) that he had been led to take upon himself so great a concern for the Colossians and others, but because the duty of his office required it.
The term consolation is taken here to denote that true quietness in which they may repose. This he declares they will at length come to enjoy in the event of their being united in love and faith. From this it appears where the chief good is, and in what things it consists — when mutually agreed in one faith, we are also joined together in mutual love. This, I say, is the solid joy of a pious mind — this is the blessed life. As, however, love is here commended from its effect, because it fills the mind of the pious with true joy; so, on the other hand, the cause of it is pointed out by him, when he says, in all fullness of understanding. The bond also of holy unity is the truth of God, when we embrace it with one consent; for peace and agreement with men flow forth from that fountain.
Read full note →
Riches of the assurance of understanding. As many, contenting themselves with a slight taste, have nothing but a confused and evanescent knowledge, he makes mention expressly of the riches of understanding. By this phrase he means full and clear perception; and at the same time admonishes them, that according to the measure of understanding they must make progress also in love.
In the term assurance, he distinguishes between faith and mere opinion; for that man truly knows the Lord who does not vacillate or waver in doubt, but stands fast in a firm and constant persuasion. This constancy and stability Paul frequently calls (πληροφορίαν) full assurance, (which term he makes use of here also,) and always connects it with faith, as undoubtedly it can no more be separated from it than heat or light can be from the sun. The doctrine, therefore, of the schoolmen is devilish, inasmuch as it takes away assurance, and substitutes in its place moral conjecture, as they term it.
Is an acknowledgment of the mystery. This clause must be read as added by way of apposition, for he explains what that knowledge is, of which he has made mention — that it is nothing else than the knowledge of the gospel. For the false apostles themselves endeavor to set off their impostures under the title of wisdom, but Paul retains the sons of God within the limits of the gospel exclusively, that they may desire to know nothing else. (1 Corinthians 2:2.) Why he uses the term mystery to denote the gospel, has been already explained. Let us, however, learn from this, that the gospel can be understood by faith alone — not by reason, nor by the perspicacity of the human understanding, because otherwise it is a thing that is hid from us.
The mystery of God I understand in a passive signification, as meaning — that in which God is revealed, for he immediately adds — and of the Father, and of Christ — by which expression he means that God cannot be known otherwise than in Christ, as, on the other hand, the Father must necessarily be known where Christ is known. For John affirms both:
He that hath the Son, hath the Father also: he that hath not the Son, hath also not the Father. (1 John 2:23.)
Hence all that think that they know anything of God apart from Christ, contrive to themselves an idol in the place of God; as also, on the other hand, that man is ignorant of Christ, who is not led by him to the Father, and who does not in him embrace God wholly. In the mean time, it is a memorable passage for proving Christ’s divinity, and the unity of his essence with the Father. For having spoken previously as to the knowledge of God, he immediately applies it to the Son, as well as to the Father, whence it follows, that the Son is God equally with the Father.
John Calvin's Commentaries (1540-1563) — public domain. Text from the Calvin Translation Society English edition (1840s-50s) via the Christian Classics Ethereal Library (ccel.org). Calvin's coverage is partial (roughly two-thirds of the Bible); uncommented books and verses are honest gaps, never fabricated. The 19th-century editor's footnotes and remarks are omitted so the notes are faithfully Calvin's own voice.
Geneva Bible translators 1599 · Public Domain On vv2–3 He concludeth shortly the sum of the former doctrine,…
He concludeth shortly the sum of the former doctrine, to wit, that the whole sum of true wisdom and most secret knowledge of God, consisteth in Christ only, and that this is the use of it touching men, that they being knit together in love, rest themselves happily in the knowledge of so great a goodness, until they come fully to enjoy it.
Whom he never saw.
Read full note →
Of that understanding, which bringeth forth certain and undoubted persuasion in our minds.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp 1656 · Public Domain On vv2–3 2 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit…
2 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;
Ver. 2. That their hearts may be comforted] Ministers are "sons of consolation," while by them God maketh the heart to hear of joy and gladness, Psa 51:8, and createth the fruit of their lips peace, peace, &c., Isa 57:19.
Read full note →
Being knit together] No such comfort upon the earth, as in the communion of saints; it differeth from the happiness of heaven but in degrees only.
Of the full assurance of understanding] Such as was that of St Luke, Col 1:3. {See Trapp on "Col 1:3"}
John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Matthew Poole 1685 · Public Domain On vv2–3 That their hearts might be comforted: whereas false teachers…
That their hearts might be comforted: whereas false teachers did endeavour to adulterate the Christian institution, the striving of the apostle’s holy soul here was, as in the former chapter, Col 1:28, to this end, that they might be complete and established Christians to the last.
Being knit together in love; and as a proper means conductible to this good purpose, he would have them be joined or compacted together, be all of a piece, in the affection and exercise of love.
Read full note →
And unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding; and to attain to a well-grounded, powerful, evangelical faith, which he sets forth livelily by an elegant increase of words, both in regard of the acts and the object of it, which is called a mystery to be believed, 1Ti 3:9, upon its being revealed. The sense of that which he heartily desires is that they might have:
1. All abundance of understanding with full satisfaction in these main principles of the gospel they are called to assent to. Signifying faith is no blind, but a certain intelligent persuasion; to distinguish it from uncertain opinion, Joh 6:69; Rom 4:21; 1Th 1:5; Heb 6:11; 10:22.
To the acknowledgment:
2. An inward consent, and vital owning, a cordial embracing of the fundamental truths of the gospel, Eph 4:13,14; Heb 6:1, in opposition to those vain speculations and traditions which deluded many. He calls this the mystery of God, or a Divine mystery, (no human invention), as before, Col 1:26,27; and so vindicates the dignity of faith and the excellency of the gospel, asserting it to be a mystery of God, not only as the object, but revealer of it; for the Father reveals Christ, Col 1:27; Mat 16:17; Eph 3:3, as Christ doth the Father, Mat 11:27; Joh 1:18.
Whereas it is said, and of the Father, and of Christ; this first and here needs not be rendered as a copulative, but as exegetical, or as expletive, and may be read, even, or to wit, or both, its (a learned man observes) the Greeks and Latins usually do when the copulative is to be repeated, the name of God referring commonly to the Father and the Son; as elsewhere, God, even the Father, Col 1:3; 1Co 15:24; 2Co 11:31; Eph 1:3; Phi 4:20. So the former and here may be read; q.d. The mystery not of God, abstractedly considered; but, I would have you be united and all one, in the acknowledgment of the whole mystery of God, i.e. both of the Father and of Christ.
Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
William Burkitt 1703 · Public Domain On vv2–3 Our apostle having discovered, in the former verse, that…
Our apostle having discovered, in the former verse, that inward anxiety of mind which he laboured under, on the behalf of these Colossians, doth, in these words, propose an expedient how the threatening danger might be averted, namely, by mutual love one to another, and by a clear and effacious faith of the gospel; by these he reckons they would be so closely compacted together, as that no subtlety or violence could endanger them: If, by faith, they did cleave close to God and Christ, and by love keep close to one another, he firmly believed they would give no enemies an opportunity, either to be the successful authors, or the delighted spectators of their ruin.
Learn hence, That the maintaining of sincere love amongst Christians, and the improving of their faith to greater measure of certainty and efficacy, in reference to the substantials of Christianity, are the best means to unite, establish, and preserve them against the fatal danger of a ruinous apostasy: That their hearts may be comforted, being knit together in love, &c.
William Burkitt's Expository Notes on the New Testament (1700–1703) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
John Gill 1763 · Public Domain On vv2–3 That their hearts might be comforted,.... Here follow the…
That their hearts might be comforted,.... Here follow the reasons why the apostle had so great a conflict, on account of the above persons, and why he was so desirous they should know it; one is, the consolation of their hearts. The hearts of God's people often need comfort, by reason of indwelling sin, the temptations of Satan, the hidings of God's face, and afflictive providences; and by reason of false teachers, who greatly trouble them, unsettle their minds, weaken their faith, and fill them with doubts and perplexities, and which was the case with these churches: now the business of Gospel ministers is to comfort such; this is the commission they are sent with; the doctrines of the Gospel are calculated for this very purpose, such as full redemption, free justification, complete pardon of sin, peace and reconciliation; and the bent of their ministry is to comfort distressed minds, upon what account soever; and it must be a comfort to these churches, when they found that they were regarded by so great an apostle; and it might tend to confirm them in the doctrine they had received at first, and deliver them from the scruples the false apostles had injected into their minds, and so administer comfort to them, when they perceived that the apostle approved of the Gospel they had heard and embraced, and rejected the notions of the false teachers:
being knit together in love: as the members of an human body are, by joints and bands; as love is the bond of union between God and his people, Christ and his members, so between saints and saints; it is the cement that joins and keeps them together, and which edifies and builds them up, and whereby they increase with the increase of God; it makes them to be of one heart and one soul; it renders their communion with one another comfortable and delightful, and strengthens them against the common enemy, who is for dividing, and so destroying; and is what is the joy of Gospel ministers, and what they labour at and strive for, and which is another reason of the apostle's conflict:
Read full note →
and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding; that is, spiritual knowledge and understanding, or the understanding of spiritual things; for the understanding of things natural and civil is not designed; nor a mere notional knowledge of spiritual things, which persons may have, and yet not charity, or love, with which this is here joined; and such an one also, which is sure and certain: for as there is such a thing as the assurance of faith, and the assurance of hope, so likewise of understanding of the Gospel, and the truths of it; concerning which there ought to be no doubt, being to be received upon the credit of a divine testimony: moreover, such a knowledge and understanding of divine things is intended, as is large and abundant, signified by "all riches"; for though it is not complete and perfect in this life, yet it takes a vast compass, and reaches to all the deep things of God; to whatever relates to the person and grace of Christ; to all the things of the Spirit of God; to all the blessings and promises of the covenant of grace; to the riches both of grace and glory, to the things of time and eternity, and which is more clearly explained by the following clause:
to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; that is, to a greater and more perfect knowledge, approbation, and confession of the Gospel, which he had in the preceding chapter called the mystery; see Col 1:26, and here "the mystery of God", which he is both the author and subject of: it is by him as the efficient cause, ordained by him, and hid in him before the world was; and it is of him, as the subject matter of it; not as the God of nature and providence, which the works of both declare; but as the God of all grace, as God in Christ, which is the peculiar discovery of the Gospel: and "of" him as "the Father" of Christ, which is not discoverable by the light of nature, nor known by natural reason, but is a point of divine revelation; and "of" him as the Father of his people by adoption; and of all his grace, in election to grace and glory; in predestination to sonship, and in the council and covenant of grace; in the scheme of salvation and redemption; in the mission of his Son, and the gift of him as a Saviour and Redeemer. The copulative "and" before "the Father", is left out in the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions, which read "the mystery of God the Father"; and with it, it may be rendered, as it sometimes is, God, "even the Father": though the word "God" may be considered essentially, and as after distinguished into two of the persons of the Godhead; "the Father" the first person, so called, in relation to his Son, which is no small part of the mystery of the Gospel; and "Christ" the second person, who is equally God with the Father; and the Spirit, who, though not mentioned, is not excluded from this adorable mystery: and which is the mystery "of Christ", he being both the efficient cause and the subject matter of it; it treats of his deity and personality; of his offices, as Mediator, prophet, priest, and King; of his incarnation and redemption; of his grace, righteousness, sacrifice, and satisfaction; of justification by him, pardon through him, and acceptance in him.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Wesley 1765 · Public Domain On v2 Unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding,…
Unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, unto the acknowledgment of the mystery of God - That is, unto the fullest and clearest understanding and knowledge of the gospel.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke 1810 · Public Domain On vv2–3 Verse 2. That their hearts might be comforted] That…
Verse 2. That their hearts might be comforted] That they might have continual happiness in God, having constant affiance in him.
Being knit together in love] The word συμβιβασθεντων, or συμβιβασθεντες, which is the true reading, but both of equal import here, signifies being united, as the beams or the timbers of a building, by mortices and pins. The visible Church of Christ cannot be in union with God unless it have unity in itself, and without love this unity is impossible.
Read full note →
Unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding] That is, that they might have the most indubitable certainty of the truth of Christianity, of their own salvation, and of the general design of God to admit the Gentiles into his Church. This is the grand mystery of God, which was now laid open by the preaching of the Gospel.
And of the Father, and of Christ] These words are variously written in different MSS., versions, and fathers: The mystery of God-of God in Christ-of God who is in Christ-of God concerning Christ-of God who is Christ-of the God Christ-of God and Christ-of God the Father of Christ-of God the Father, and our Lord Christ-of God and the Father of Christ-of God the Father, in Christ-of the God Christ Jesus, Father and Lord, &c., &c., &c.
This great variety of versions leaves the strongest presumption that the words in question are glosses which have crept into the text, and are of no authority. Griesbach has left them out of the text.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Albert Barnes 1834 · Public Domain On vv2–3 That their hearts might be comforted - Like all…
That their hearts might be comforted - Like all other Christians in the times of the apostles, they were doubtless exposed to trials and persecutions.
Being knit together in love - The same word which is used here (συμβιβάζω sumbibazō) occurs in Eph 4:16, and is rendered compacted; see the notes at that place. In Act 9:22, it is rendered proving; Act 16:10, assuredly gathering; 1Co 2:16, instruct; and here, and in Col 2:19, knit together. It means, properly, to make to come together, and hence, refers to a firm union, as where the heart of Christians are one. Here it means that the way of comforting each other was by solid Christian friendship, and that the means of cementing that was love. It was not by a mere outward profession, or by mere speculative faith; it was by a union of affection.
Read full note →
And unto all riches - On the meaning of the word “riches,” as used by the apostle Paul, see the notes at Rom 2:4. There is a great energy of expression here. The meaning is, that the thing referred to - “the full understanding” of the “mystery” of religion - was an invaluable possession, like abundant wealth. This passage also shows the object for which they should be united. It should be in order that they might obtain this inestimable wealth. If they were divided in affections, and split up into factions, they could not hope to secure it.
Of the full assurance of understanding - This word (πληροφορία plērophoria) means firm persuasion, settled conviction. It occurs only here and in 1Th 1:5; Heb 6:11; Heb 10:22, and is rendered by assurance, or full assurance, in every instance. See the verb, however, in Luk 1:1; Rom 4:21; Rom 14:5; 2Ti 4:5, 2Ti 4:17. It was the desire of the apostle that they might have entire conviction of the truth of the Christian doctrines.
To the acknowledgment - So as fully and openly to acknowledge or confess this mystery.
The mystery - On the meaning of this word, see the Rom 11:25, note; Eph 1:9, note. The meaning is, the doctrine respecting God, which had before been concealed or hidden, but which was now revealed in the gospel. It does not mean that there was any thing unintelligible or incomprehensible respecting this doctrine when it; was made known. That might be as clear as any other truth.
Of God - Of God as he actually subsists. This does not mean that the mere fact of the existence of God was a “mystery,” or a truth which had been concealed, for that was not true. But the sense plainly is, that there were truths now made known in the gospel to mankind, about the mode of the divine existence, which had not before been disclosed; and this “mystery” he wished them to retain, or fully acknowledge. The “mystery,” or the hitherto unrevealed truth, related to the fact that God subsisted in more persons than one, as “Father,” and as “Christ.”
And of the Father - Or, rather, “even of the Father;” for so the word καὶ kai (and) is often used. The apostle does not mean that he wished them to acknowledge the hitherto unrevealed truth respecting “God’ and another being called “the Father;” but respecting “God” as the “Father,” or of God as” Father’ and as “Christ.”
And of Christ - As a person of the Godhead. What the apostle wished them to acknowledge was, the full revelation now made known respecting the essential nature of God, as the “Father,” and as “Christ.” In relation to this, they were in special danger of being corrupted by the prevalent philosophy, as it is in relation to this that error of Christian doctrine usually commences. It should be said, however, that there is great variety of reading in the mss. on this whole clause, and that many critics (see Rosenmuller) regard it as spurious. I do not see evidence that it is not genuine; and the strain of exhortation of the apostle seems to me to demand it.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown 1871 · Public Domain On vv2–3 Translate, "That their hearts may be comforted." The "their,"…
Translate, "That their hearts may be comforted." The "their," compared with "you" (Col 2:4), proves that in Col 2:1 the words, "have not seen my face in the flesh," is a general designation of those for whom Paul declares he has "conflict," including the particular species, "you (Colossians) and them at Laodicea." For it is plain, the prayer "that their hearts may be comforted," must include in it the Colossians for whom he expressly says, "I have conflict." Thus it is an abbreviated mode of expression for, "That your and their hearts may be comforted." ALFORD translates, "confirmed," or allows "comforted" in its original radical sense strengthened. But the Greek supports English Version: the sense, too, is clear: comforted with the consolation of those whom Paul had not seen, and for whom, in consequence, he strove in prayerful conflict the more fervently; inasmuch as we are more anxious in behalf of absent, than present, friends [DAVENANT]. Their hearts would be comforted by "knowing what conflict he had for" them, and how much he is interested for their welfare; and also by being released from doubts on learning from the apostle, that the doctrine which they had heard from Epaphras was true and certain. In writing to churches which he had instructed face to face, he enters into particular details concerning them, as a father directing his children. But to those among whom he had not been in person, he treats of the more general truths of salvation.
being--Translate as Greek in oldest manuscripts, "They being knit together."
Read full note →
in love--the bond and element of perfect knitting together; the antidote to the dividing schismatical effect of false doctrine. Love to God and to one another in Christ.
unto--the object and end of their being "knit together."
all riches--Greek, "all the riches of the full assurance (Th1 1:5; Heb 6:11; Heb 10:22) of the (Christian) understanding." The accumulation of phrases, not only "understanding," but "the full assurance of understanding"; not only this, but "the riches of," &c., not only this, but "all the riches of," &c., implies how he desires to impress them with the momentous importance of the subject in hand.
to--Translate "unto."
acknowledgment--The Greek implies, "full and accurate knowledge." It is a distinct Greek word from "knowledge," Col 2:3. ALFORD translates, "thorough . . . knowledge." Acknowledgment hardly is strong enough; they did in a measure acknowledge the truth; what they wanted was the full and accurate knowledge of it (compare Notes, see on Col 1:9-10; Phi 1:9).
of God, and of the Father and of Christ--The oldest manuscripts omit "and of the Father, and of"; then translate, "Of God (namely), Christ." Two very old manuscripts and Vulgate read, "Of God the Father of Christ."
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
Daniel D. Whedon 1874 · Public Domain On vv2–3 2. Acknowledgment—Rather, full knowledge. The apostle’s struggle was that,…
2. Acknowledgment—Rather, full knowledge. The apostle’s struggle was that, being closely united together in Christian love, which is a great safeguard against false doctrine, they might by intellectual conviction and the inward working of the Holy Spirit, have a clear and complete persuasion of the truth, or, in other words, a full knowledge of this great mystery of God, so that in their souls finding conscious rest therein, they would be strong against all attempts to shake their faith. The readings of the MSS. of the concluding words greatly vary. Του θεου Χριστου seems to be the best supported, and we would read, the mystery of God, even Christ; that is, Christ is the mystery.
Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges 1878 · Public Domain On vv2–3 2. comforted] Ut consolentur, Latin Versions. But the Greek…
2. comforted] Ut consolentur, Latin Versions. But the Greek verb means more than to console; it is rather to hearten, to encourage. Confortatio, the (late) Latin original of our “comfort,” is “to make fortis, strong;” and “comfort” long retained this meaning in English. Wyclif here has “counfortid;” and in his version of Isa_41:7 he actually writes “he coumfortide hym with nailes, that it shulde not be moued” (Bible Word-Book, p. 117).
being] Better, they being; the Greek participle agrees not with “hearts” but with the owners of the hearts.
Read full note →
knit together] Cp. below Col_2:19, and Eph_4:16 (a suggestive parallel). The Greek verb always in the LXX. means “to instruct”; and the Latin Versions here have instructi (hence Wyclif, “taughte”); which however may mean “drawn up,” “marshalled,” and so may be nearly the same as A. V. The parallels just quoted are decisive for A.V.
in love] “which is the bond of perfectness,” Col_3:14. Cp. Eph_4:2-3; Php_2:1-4.
and unto all riches] The saints, drawn together in love, would by the loving communication of experience and by other spiritual aid, all advance to a fuller knowledge of the Lord and His grace.—On “riches” see note on Col_1:27.
the full assurance] “Fulness” R.V. margin; Latin Versions, plenitudo, adimpletio. The Greek word recurs 1Th_1:5; Heb_6:11; Heb_10:22; and nowhere else in Biblical or classical Greek. In all these passages the word “fulness” would give an adequate meaning. But the cognate verb, which is more frequent, appears by usage to convey the idea of, so to speak, an active fulness, a fulness having to do with consciousness. This is an argument for retaining (with Ellicott, Alford, Lightfoot, R.V. text) the A.V. rendering.—He prays that they may more and more enter into the “wealth” of a deep and conscious insight into “the mystery of God.”
understanding] See on Col_1:9 above.
to the acknowledgement] This clause is the echo and explanation of the last; “unto all the riches &c., unto the acknowledgement &c.”
“Acknowledgement”:—epignôsis; see on Col_1:9 above.
the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ] “The ancient authorities vary much in the text of this passage” (margin, R.V.).—The chief variants are as follows: (a) “the mystery of God”; adopted by Tischendorf in his 7th (last but one) edition of the N.T., and by Alford: (b) “the mystery of God, even Christ,” or, as the same Greek may be rendered, “the mystery of the (or, our) God Christ”; adopted, with the first alternative translation, by Tischendorf in his 8th (last) edition, Tregelles, Wordsworth, Lightfoot, Westcott and Hort, and R.V.: (c) “the mystery of God, which is Christ”: (d) “the mystery of God the Father of Christ”: (e) the reading represented by A.V., which is that of most later mss. Lightfoot in a long and careful note (pp. 318, 319) reasons for the high probability of reading (b), and for regarding all others as formed from it either by explanatory addition or by cutting a knot of supposed difficulty by omission. Dr Scrivener (Introd. to N.T. Criticism, pp. 634–6) also discusses the case, with Lightfoot’s reasoning among other things before him, and inclines to the same reading, though apparently preferring the other rendering given above. His only difficulty lies in the small documentary support given to a reading in itself otherwise so likely. And he says, “The more we think over this reading, the more it grows upon us, as the source from which all the rest are derived. At present, perhaps, [‘of God the Father of Christ’] may be looked upon as the most strongly attested, … but a very small weight might suffice to turn the critical scale.”
Adopting the reading thus accepted by Lightfoot and favoured by Scrivener, how shall we render it? Shall we say, “the mystery of the God Christ”? The phrase would convey eternal truth; but as a phrase it has no precise parallel in St Paul. To him Christ is indeed absolutely Divine, Coequal in Nature with the Father; but this truth is always seen, so to speak, through His Sonship, so that He is designated rather “the Son of God” than simply “God.” (See however Act_20:28; Tit_2:13.) Shall we say “the mystery of the God of Christ”? Here a near parallel appears Eph_1:17. But the preceding context here (esp. Col_1:27) distinctly inclines to our connecting “the mystery” with “Christ,” so that He shall be the Father’s “Secret” of “all spiritual blessing” (Eph_1:3) for His people; their all-blessed Resource, hidden yet open, for “pardon, and holiness, and heaven.” Cp. 1Co_1:30, where “wisdom” is in a certain sense equivalent to “mystery” here.
So we render, the mystery of God, even Christ.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers 1878 · Public Domain On vv2–3 (2) Comforted—i.e., encouraged, or strengthened, both to stand fast…
(2) Comforted—i.e., encouraged, or strengthened, both to stand fast and to advance in the faith.
Knit together.—The word here used has two senses; first, “to bring, or knit, together” (as in Col_2:19, and Eph_4:16); next,” to carry with us” in argument—i.e., to “instruct,” or “convince” (as in Act_9:22; Act_16:10; 1Co_2:16). Either would give good sense here; but the usage in this and the Ephesian Epistle, and the addition of the words “in love,” are decisive for the former sense.
Read full note →
And unto . . . the full assurance of understanding (or, rather, intelligence, as in Col_1:9).—The idea of the passage is precisely that of Php_1:9, “I pray that your love may abound (or, overflow) more and more in knowledge, and in all judgment (or, perception).” St. Paul bids them seek the fulness of intelligence which they were taught to crave for, not through the rashness of speculation, but through the insight of love. So in Eph_3:17-19 he prays that “being rooted and grounded in love, they may know . . . that which passeth knowledge;” for Christian knowledge is the knowledge of a personal Saviour, and in all personal knowledge he knows best who loves best.
The acknowledgement . . .—This clause—which explains what the “fulness of intelligence” is—is altogether obscured in our version. It should be rendered, to the full knowledge of the mystery of God, which is Christ. Above we read (Col_1:27), “this mystery, which is Christ in you.” There Christ, as indwelling in man, is the mystery which alone solves the problem of humanity—what it is, and whither it tends. Here Christ is the “mystery of God”—i.e. (according to the Scriptural meaning of the word “mystery”), He in whom the inscrutable nature of God, rich in the “hidden treasure of wisdom and knowledge,” is revealed to us. The name again leads up to the doctrine of “the Word of God.”
A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Pulpit Commentary 1880 · Public Domain On vv2–3 That their hearts may be encouraged (Col_4:8; Eph_6:22; 1Th_3:2…
That their hearts may be encouraged (Col_4:8; Eph_6:22; 1Th_3:2 1Th_4:18; 2Co_13:11) For the mischief at work at Colossae was at once unsettling (vers. 6, 7; (Col_1:23) and discouraging (Col_1:23 Col_2:18 Col_3:15) in its effects, Parakalw, a favourite word of St. Paul"s, means "to address," "exhort," then more specially "to encourage," "comfort,", (2Co_1:4) "to beseech" (Eph_4:1; or 2Co_6:1) "to instruct". (Tit_1:9) The heart, in Biblical language, is not the seat of feeling only, but stands for the whole inner man, as the "vital centre" of his personality (see Back"s "Biblical Psychology:" (comp. Mar_7:19, 21 1Pe_3:4; Rom_7:22; Eph_3:16, Eph_3:17) While they are (literally, they having been) drawn together in love, and into all (the) riches of the full assurance of the understanding, unto (or, into) (full) knowledge of the mystery of God, (even) Christ (ver. 19; Col_1:9 Col_3:10, Col_3:14; Eph_1:17, 18 3:17-19 4:2, 3, 15, 16; Php_1:9; 1Co_1:10; 2Co_13:11) In the best Greek copies "drawn together" is nominative masculine, agreeing with "they," the logical subject implied in "their hearts (feminine). Sumbibazw has the same sense in ver. 19 and Eph_4:16; in 1Co_2:16 it is quoted from the LXX in another sense; and it has a variety of meanings in the Acts. "Drawn together" expresses the double sense which accrues to the verb in combination with the two prepositions "in" and "into:" "united in love," Christians are prepared to be "led into all the wealth of Divine knowledge." This combination of "love and knowledge" appears in all St. Paul"s letters of this period (comp. Eph_4:12-16; Php_1:9; and contrast. 1Co_8:1-3 1Co_13:1, 1Co_13:2, 1Co_13:8-13) "The riches of the full assurance," etc., and "the knowledge of the mystery" are the counterpart of "the riches of the glory of the mystery," of Col_1:27; the fulness of conviction and completeness of knowledge attainable by the Christian correspond to the full and satisfying character of the revelation he receives in Christ. (comp. Eph_1:17-19) (On "understanding," see note, (Col_1:9) "Full assurance," or "conviction" (plhroforia), is a word belonging to St. Luke and St. Paul (with the Epistle to the Hebrews) in the New Testament (not found in classical Greek), and denotes radically "a bringing to fall measure or maturity." Combined with "understanding," it denotes the ripe, intelligent persuasion of one who enters into the whole wealth of the "truth as it is in Jesus" (comp. Col_4:12, R.V; also Rom_4:21 and 14:5, for corresponding verb). In this inward "assurance," as in a fortress, the Colossians were to entrench themselves against the attacks of error. (Col_1:9 Col_3:15, and notes) Eijv ejpignwsin is either in explanatory apposition to the previous clause, or rather donors the further purpose for which this wealth of conviction is to be sought: "knowledge of the Divine mystery, knowledge of Christ this is the supreme end, ever leading on and upward, for the pursuit of which all strengthening of heart and understanding are given (Col_3:10; Eph_3:16-19; Php_3:10) The Revisers have corrected the erroneous "acknowledgment" by their paraphrastic rendering, "that they may know." (On ejpignwsiv (comp. gnwsiv, ver. 3), see note, (Col_1:6) The object of this knowledge is the great manifested mystery of God, namely Christ. (Col_1:27) We confidently accept here the Revised reading, that of nearly all recent textual critics, which omits the words found in the Received Text between "God" and "Christ." There are extant eleven distinct variations of this reading, and that of the Textus Receptus is, to all appearance, the latest and worst; "the passage is altogether an instructive lesson on textual criticism" (Lightfoot, pp. 252, 253; also Westcott and Hort, "Introduction: Notes on Selected Readings," pp. 125, 126). The words thus read have been interpreted mystery of the God Christ" (the Latin Hilary, and a few moderns); of the God of Christ" (Meyer, quoting Eph_1:17; Joh_20:17; both (Mat_27:46) interpretations grammatically correct, but unsuitable here, even if in harmony with Pauline usage elsewhere. Alford omits "of Christ" altogether, distrusting the textual evidence. Meyer objects to the rendering we have followed (that of Ellicott, Lightfoot, Revisers), that the apostle, if this be his meaning, has expressed himself ambiguously; but comp.; Col_1:27 (see note) also 1Ti_3:16, "The mystery, who was manifested in flesh."
The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
B. W. Johnson 1891 · Public Domain On vv2–3 2. That their hearts. He was deeply anxious that…
2. That their hearts. He was deeply anxious that they might be comforted, … knit together in love, and enjoy the full assurance of understanding, a clear insight that would lead them to know the mystery of God. This knowledge would make them proof against the arts of false teachers. For “mystery,” see notes on 1:26, 27.
B. W. Johnson's The People's New Testament with Notes (1889–1891) — public domain. Electronic text from the Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL) ThML edition.
C. I. Scofield 1917 · Public Domain On v2 mystery of God
mystery of God
The "mystery of God" is Christ, as incarnating the fulness of the Godhead, and all the divine wisdom and knowledge for the redemption and reconciliation of man.
Read full note →
mystery (See Scofield "Mat 13:11").
and of The best authorities omit "and of the Father, and of Christ."
The Scofield Reference Bible (1917 edition), notes by C. I. Scofield — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Tyndale Open Study Notes 2022 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On vv2–3 2:2 God’s mysterious plan: See 1:26; Christ himself personifies…
2:2 God’s mysterious plan: See 1:26; Christ himself personifies this plan.
Tyndale Open Study Notes — © Tyndale Open Resources, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Text via the HelloAO Bible API.