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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Colossians 2:1 For I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me face to face,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/colossians/2-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/13/51_Col_02_01.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Colossians 2:1 - Absent in Body, Present in Spirit" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me face to face," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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<a href="/nkjv/colossians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, <a href="/nasb_/colossians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I have in your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, <a href="/nasb/colossians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, <a href="/nasb77/colossians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf, and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, <a href="/lsb/colossians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For I want you to understand how great a struggle I have on your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not seen my face in the flesh, <a href="/amp/colossians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those [believers] at Laodicea, and for all who [like yourselves] have never seen me face to face. <a href="/csb/colossians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For I want you to know how greatly I am struggling for you, for those in Laodicea, and for all who have not seen me in person. <a href="/hcsb/colossians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you, for those in Laodicea, and for all who have not seen me in person. <a href="/asv/colossians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> For I would have you know how greatly I strive for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; <a href="/cev/colossians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I want you to know what a struggle I am going through for you, for God's people at Laodicea, and for all of those followers who have never met me. <a href="/erv/colossians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> For I would have you know how greatly I strive for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; <a href="/gwt/colossians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> I want you to know how hard I work for you, for the people of Laodicea, and for people I have never met. <a href="/gnt/colossians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> Let me tell you how hard I have worked for you and for the people in Laodicea and for all others who do not know me personally. <a href="/isv/colossians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> For I want you to know how much I struggle for you, for those in Laodicea, and for all who have never seen me face to face. <a href="/net/colossians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for those who have not met me face to face. <a href="/nheb/colossians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> 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; <a href="/wbt/colossians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; <a href="/wey/colossians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For I would have you know in how severe a struggle I am engaged on behalf of you and the brethren in Laodicea and of all who have not known me personally,<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/colossians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me face to face, <a href="/web/colossians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> 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; <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/colossians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> For I wish you to know how great a conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, <a href="/blb/colossians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I am having for you, and those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, <a href="/ylt/colossians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> For I wish you to know how great a conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, <a href="/slt/colossians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For I wish you to know how great contest I have for you, and them in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/colossians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For I would have you know, what manner of care I have for you and for them that are at Laodicea, and whosoever have not seen my face in the flesh: <a href="/cpdv/colossians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For I want you to know the kind of solicitude that I have for you, and for those who are at Laodicea, as well as for those who have not seen my face in the flesh. <a href="/nabre/colossians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> For I want you to know how great a struggle I am having for you and for those in Laodicea and all who have not seen me face to face, <a href="/nrsvce/colossians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For I want you to know how much I am struggling for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for all who have not seen me face to face.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/colossians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> I WOULD that you knew how I struggled for your sakes and for the sake of those who are at La-od-i-ce’a, and for the rest who have not seen me personally; <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/colossians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But I want you to know what struggles I have for you and for those in Laidiqia and for those others who have not seen my face in the flesh,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/colossians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For I wish you to know how great a conflict I have for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; <a href="/godbey/colossians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For I wish you to know how great a conflict I have in behalf of you, and those in Laodicea, and so many as have not seen my face in the flesh; <a href="/haweis/colossians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> FOR I wish you to know how great a struggle I sustain for you, and those at Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; <a href="/mace/colossians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> For I wish you knew how great my concern is for you, and for those of Laodicea, and for such as have never seen me in person: <a href="/wey/colossians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For I would have you know in how severe a struggle I am engaged on behalf of you and the brethren in Laodicea and of all who have not known me personally, <a href="/worrell/colossians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For I wish you to know how great a conflict I am having for you, and those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in flesh; <a href="/worsley/colossians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For I would have you know what a great conflict I have for you, and for those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen me in person: <a href="/parallel/colossians/2-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7q-K-qsfihQ?start=279" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/colossians/2.htm">Absent in Body, Present in Spirit</a> 1<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/2309.htm" title="2309: Thelō (V-PIA-1S) -- To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. ">I want</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymas (PPro-A2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/1492.htm" title="1492: eidenai (V-RNA) -- To know, remember, appreciate. ">to know</a> <a href="/greek/2245.htm" title="2245: hēlikon (Adj-AMS) -- Of which size, of what size, how small, how much. From helix; as big as, i.e. how much.">how much</a> <a href="/greek/73.htm" title="73: agōna (N-AMS) -- From ago; properly, a place of assembly, i.e. a contest; figuratively, an effort or anxiety."></a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echō (V-PIA-1S) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">I am struggling</a> <a href="/greek/5228.htm" title="5228: hyper (Prep) -- Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. ">for</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymōn (PPro-G2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">for those</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">at</a> <a href="/greek/2993.htm" title="2993: Laodikeia (N-DFS) -- From a compound of laos and dike; Laodicia, a place in Asia Minor.">Laodicea,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3745.htm" title="3745: hosoi (RelPro-NMP) -- How much, how great, how many, as great as, as much. By reduplication from hos; as As.">for all who</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouch (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/3708.htm" title="3708: heorakan (V-RIA-3P) -- Properly, to stare at, i.e. to discern clearly; by extension, to attend to; by Hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear.">have not met</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4383.htm" title="4383: prosōpon (N-ANS) -- From pros and ops; the front, i.e. The countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person.">face to face,</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/4561.htm" title="4561: sarki (N-DFS) -- Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. "></a> 2that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love, and filled with the full riches of complete understanding, so that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ,…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/philippians/1-27.htm">Philippians 1:27-30</a> Nevertheless, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending together as one for the faith of the gospel, / without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a clear sign of their destruction but of your salvation, and it is from God. / For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, ... <a href="/2_corinthians/11-28.htm">2 Corinthians 11:28-29</a> Apart from these external trials, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. / Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not burn with grief? <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Ephesians 6:18-20</a> Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints. / Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel, / for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17-20</a> Brothers, although we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in heart), our desire to see you face to face was even more intense. / For we wanted to come to you—indeed I, Paul, tried again and again—but Satan obstructed us. / After all, who is our hope, our joy, our crown of boasting, if it is not you yourselves in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming? ... <a href="/romans/1-9.htm">Romans 1:9-11</a> God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you / in my prayers at all times, asking that now at last by God’s will I may succeed in coming to you. / For I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, <a href="/2_corinthians/2-4.htm">2 Corinthians 2:4</a> For through many tears I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart, not to grieve you but to let you know how much I love you. <a href="/1_corinthians/5-3.htm">1 Corinthians 5:3-4</a> Although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I have already pronounced judgment on the one who did this, just as if I were present. / When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, along with the power of the Lord Jesus, <a href="/galatians/4-19.htm">Galatians 4:19-20</a> My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, / how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you. <a href="/1_peter/5-1.htm">1 Peter 5:1-2</a> As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: / Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; <a href="/2_timothy/1-3.htm">2 Timothy 1:3-4</a> I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience as did my forefathers, as I constantly remember you night and day in my prayers. / Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. <a href="/acts/20-31.htm">Acts 20:31</a> Therefore be alert and remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-25.htm">1 Corinthians 12:25-26</a> so that there should be no division in the body, but that its members should have mutual concern for one another. / If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-3.htm">2 Corinthians 7:3</a> I do not say this to condemn you. I have said before that you so occupy our hearts that we live and die together with you. <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-10.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:10</a> Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith. <a href="/hebrews/13-17.htm">Hebrews 13:17</a> Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div> For I would that you knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;what.<a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Colossians 1:24,29</a> Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church: … <a href="/colossians/4-12.htm">Colossians 4:12</a> Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.<a href="/genesis/30-8.htm">Genesis 30:8</a> And Rachel said, With great wrestlings have I wrestled with my sister, and I have prevailed: and she called his name Naphtali.conflict.<a href="/colossians/4-13.htm">Colossians 4:13,15,16</a> For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis… <a href="/revelation/1-11.htm">Revelation 1:11</a> Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.<a href="/revelation/3-14.htm">Revelation 3:14-22</a> And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; … not.<a href="/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5</a> For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.<a href="/acts/20-25.htm">Acts 20:25,38</a> And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more… <a href="/1_peter/1-8.htm">1 Peter 1:8</a> Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Behalf</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">Combat</a> <a href="/philippians/1-30.htm">Conflict</a> <a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/colossians/1-21.htm">Engaged</a> <a href="/galatians/2-11.htm">Face</a> <a href="/philippians/2-25.htm">Fight</a> <a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/colossians/1-27.htm">Great</a> <a href="/philippians/4-10.htm">Greatly</a> <a href="/revelation/3-14.htm">Laodicea</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-7.htm">Met</a> <a href="/galatians/1-22.htm">Personally</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Severe</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">Strive</a> <a href="/philippians/4-3.htm">Struggle</a> <a href="/philippians/4-17.htm">Want</a> <a href="/philippians/1-12.htm">Wish</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/colossians/4-12.htm">Behalf</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-7.htm">Combat</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">Conflict</a> <a href="/colossians/3-5.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/exodus/22-16.htm">Engaged</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">Face</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">Fight</a> <a href="/colossians/2-5.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">Great</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-6.htm">Greatly</a> <a href="/colossians/4-13.htm">Laodicea</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">Met</a> <a href="/james/2-6.htm">Personally</a> <a href="/colossians/2-23.htm">Severe</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-10.htm">Strive</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">Struggle</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-13.htm">Want</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-13.htm">Wish</a><div class="vheading2">Colossians 2</div>1. <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Paul still exhorts them to be constant in Christ;</a> 8. <a href="/colossians/2-8.htm">to beware of philosophy, and vain traditions;</a> 18. <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">worshipping of angels;</a> 20. <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">and legal ceremonies, which are ended in Christ.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/colossians/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/colossians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/colossians/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For I want you to know Paul begins this section by expressing a deep desire for the Colossians to understand his efforts and concerns. This phrase indicates the importance of transparency and communication in the early church. It reflects Paul's pastoral heart and his commitment to the spiritual well-being of the believers.how much I am struggling for you The term "struggling" is often associated with the Greek word "agon," which implies a sense of intense effort or conflict, akin to an athlete's struggle in a competition. Paul is emphasizing his dedication and the spiritual warfare he engages in through prayer and teaching for the sake of the Colossians. This struggle is not physical but spiritual, highlighting the importance of intercessory prayer and pastoral care.and for those at Laodicea Laodicea was a neighboring city to Colossae, part of a tri-city area that included Hierapolis. It was a wealthy city known for its banking, medical school, and textile industry. The mention of Laodicea indicates that Paul's ministry and concerns extended beyond just one congregation, showing the interconnectedness of early Christian communities. This also foreshadows the later message to Laodicea in <a href="/revelation/3-14.htm">Revelation 3:14-22</a>, where the church is admonished for being lukewarm.and for all who have not met me face to face Paul's ministry was extensive, and many believers in the early church had not met him personally. This phrase underscores the universal nature of Paul's apostolic mission and the reach of his letters. It also highlights the early church's reliance on written communication to maintain doctrinal unity and encouragement across distances. This aspect of Paul's ministry is a testament to the power of the written word in spreading the Gospel and nurturing faith.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who wrote the letter to the Colossians. He expresses his deep concern and struggle for the believers in Colossae and Laodicea. 2. <a href="/topical/c/colossians.htm">Colossians</a> The recipients of the letter, a group of Christians in the city of Colossae, located in modern-day Turkey. 3. <a href="/topical/l/laodicea.htm">Laodicea</a> A neighboring city to Colossae, also mentioned in the letter. The believers there are included in Paul's concern and struggle. 4. <a href="/topical/s/struggle.htm">Struggle</a> Refers to Paul's spiritual and emotional efforts, possibly including prayer and concern for the spiritual well-being of the believers. 5. <a href="/topical/f/face_to_face.htm">Face to Face</a> Indicates that Paul had not personally met many of the believers in these cities, yet he still deeply cares for them.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_heart_of_a_shepherd.htm">The Heart of a Shepherd</a> Paul exemplifies the heart of a true shepherd, deeply concerned for the spiritual welfare of those he has not even met. We are called to care for others in the body of Christ, even those we do not know personally. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_prayer.htm">The Power of Prayer</a> Paul's struggle likely includes fervent prayer. We should be encouraged to pray earnestly for fellow believers, trusting that our prayers have a powerful impact. <a href="/topical/u/unity_in_the_body_of_christ.htm">Unity in the Body of Christ</a> Despite geographical distances, Paul emphasizes the unity and connection among believers. We should strive to maintain unity and support within the global church. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_warfare.htm">Spiritual Warfare</a> Recognize that our struggles are often spiritual in nature. Equip ourselves with the armor of God and engage in spiritual disciplines to stand firm. <a href="/topical/e/encouragement_and_support.htm">Encouragement and Support</a> Just as Paul sought to encourage the Colossians and Laodiceans, we should actively seek to encourage and support fellow believers in their faith journey.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_colossians_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Colossians 2</a> <a href="/q/main_themes_in_colossians.htm">What are the main themes in Colossians?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_being_hidden_with_christ.htm">What was the Church at Colossae's significance?</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_god_vs._satan.htm">What does the Bible say about God versus Satan?</a> <a href="/q/what_was_colossae_church's_role.htm">What was the Church at Colossae's significance?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/colossians/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(1-7) In these verses St. Paul declares his deep anxiety for the Colossians and Laodiceans and others who had not seen his face, that they might seek, not the false, but the true knowledge, finding "the mystery of God" in Christ alone. The reason of that anxiety is found in the "beguiling and enticing words" of an incipient Gnosticism. But "though absent in the body" he rejoices in the steadfastness of their faith, and only exhorts them to continue in it, deepening and enlarging it, but never changing its essence.(1) What great conflict.--The word is here repeated from the "striving" of the previous verse, which is, in the original, the cognate verb. It is the same word which is used in <a href="/philippians/1-30.htm" title="Having the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.">Philippians 1:30</a> ("conflict"), in <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm" title="But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as you know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God with much contention.">1Thessalonians 2:2</a> ("contention"), in <a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm" title="Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto you are also called, and have professed a good profession before many witnesses.">1Timothy 6:12</a>, <a href="/2_timothy/4-7.htm" title="I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:">2Timothy 4:7</a> ("the good fight of faith"). Evidently it describes the intense earnestness of the whole struggle against evil which he was undergoing for them; but perhaps, looking at <a href="/colossians/4-12.htm" title=" Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.">Colossians 4:12</a>, we may refer it especially to "striving in prayer" for them. It is probably dwelt upon here to show why, although unknown to them personally, he yet writes so urgently to them. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/colossians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 1-7. - SECTION IV. THE APOSTLE'S CONCERN FOR THE COLOSSI. AN CHURCH. So far the contents of the letter have been of a general and preparatory character. New the writer begins to indicate the special purpose he has in view by declaring, in connection with his concern for the welfare of the Gentile Churches at large (<a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Colossians 1:24-29</a>), the deep anxiety which he at present feels respecting the Colossian and neighbouring Churches. Verse 1. - For I would have you know how great a strife I have on behalf of you and those in Laodicea (<a href="/colossians/4-12.htm">Colossians 4:12, 13</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/11-28.htm">2 Corinthians 11:28, 29</a>; <a href="/romans/1-9.htm">Romans 1:9-13</a>; <a href="/philippians/1-8.htm">Philippians 1:8, 25-30</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17, 18</a>; <a href="/galatians/4-20.htm">Galatians 4:20</a>). The apostle has dwelt at such length and so earnestly upon his own position and responsibilities (<a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Colossians 1:24-29</a>), that the Colossians may feel how real and strong is his interest in their welfare, though personally strangers to him (see next clause). His solicitude for them is in keeping with the toil and strife of his whole ministry. "I would have you know;" a familiar Pauline phrase (<a href="/1_corinthians/11-3.htm">1 Corinthians 11:3</a>; <a href="/philippians/1-12.htm">Philippians 1:12</a>; <a href="/romans/1-13.htm">Romans 1:13</a>, etc.). Ηλίκον ("how great') has, perhaps, a slightly exclamatory force, as in <a href="/james/3-5.htm">James 3:5</a> (only other instance of the word in the New Testament), and in classical Greek. For "strife," see note on "striving" (<a href="/colossians/1-29.htm">Colossians 1:29</a>): the energy and abruptness of language characterizing this second chapter bear witness in the inward wrestling which the Colossian difficulty occasioned in the apostle's mind. (On the close connection of Colossae with Laodicea, comp. <a href="/colossians/4-13.htm">Colossians 4:13-17</a>, notes; also Introduction, § 1.) The danger which had come to a head in Colassae was doubtless threatening its neighbours. The words, and as many as have not seen my face in (the) flesh (ver. 5; <a href="/colossians/1-8.htm">Colossians 1:8</a>; <a href="/romans/1-11.htm">Romans 1:11</a>; <a href="/galatians/1-22.htm">Galatians 1:22</a>; <a href="/acts/20-25.htm">Acts 20:25</a>), raise the question whether St. Paul had ever visited Colossae. The language of <a href="/colossians/1-7.htm">Colossians 1:7</a> (see note) raises a strong presumption against his being the founder of this Church, and the narrative of the Acts scarcely admits of any visit to this region in former missionary journeys. Theodoret amongst the Greeks, followed by our own Lardner and a few recent critics, contended that the apostle distinguishes here between Colossians and Laodiceans (or at least the former), and those who had not seen His face. But the disjunction is grammatically harsh and improbable (see Ellicott). (On the general question, see Introduction, § 2.) The apostle is the more anxious for this endangered Church, as the gifts that his presence might have conveyed (<a href="/romans/1-11.htm">Romans 1:11</a>) were wanting to them. He says, "in flesh," for "in spirit" he is closely united with them (ver. 5; <a href="/colossians/1-8.htm">Colossians 1:8</a>: comp. <a href="/1_corinthians/5-3.htm">1 Corinthians 5:3, 4</a>). The object of his strife on their behalf is - <a href="/commentaries/colossians/2-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>I want Θέλω (Thelō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2309.htm">Strong's 2309: </a> To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. you ὑμᾶς (hymas) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. to know εἰδέναι (eidenai) Verb - Perfect Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1492.htm">Strong's 1492: </a> To know, remember, appreciate. how much ἡλίκον (hēlikon) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2245.htm">Strong's 2245: </a> Of which size, of what size, how small, how much. From helix; as big as, i.e. how much. I am struggling ἔχω (echō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. for ὑπὲρ (hyper) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5228.htm">Strong's 5228: </a> Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. you ὑμῶν (hymōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. [for] those τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. at ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. Laodicea, Λαοδικείᾳ (Laodikeia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2993.htm">Strong's 2993: </a> From a compound of laos and dike; Laodicia, a place in Asia Minor. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. for all who ὅσοι (hosoi) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3745.htm">Strong's 3745: </a> How much, how great, how many, as great as, as much. By reduplication from hos; as As. have not met ἑόρακαν (heorakan) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3708.htm">Strong's 3708: </a> Properly, to stare at, i.e. to discern clearly; by extension, to attend to; by Hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear. me μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. face to face, πρόσωπόν (prosōpon) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4383.htm">Strong's 4383: </a> From pros and ops; the front, i.e. The countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">NT Letters: Colossians 2:1 For I desire to have you know (Coloss. Col Co) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/colossians/1-29.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Colossians 1:29"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Colossians 1:29" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/colossians/2-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Colossians 2:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Colossians 2:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>