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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 2:5 For although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I delight to see your orderly condition and firm faith in Christ.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/colossians/2-5.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/51_Col_02_05.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Colossians 2:5 - Absent in Body, Present in Spirit" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I delight to see your orderly condition and firm faith in Christ." /><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'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-LR4HSKRP2H"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-LR4HSKRP2H'); </script><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/colossians/2-5.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/colossians/2-5.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/colossians/">Colossians</a> > <a href="/colossians/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 5</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad5.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/colossians/2-4.htm" title="Colossians 2:4">◄</a> Colossians 2:5 <a href="/colossians/2-6.htm" title="Colossians 2:6">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/colossians/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/colossians/2.htm">New International Version</a> For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. <a href="/nlt/colossians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> For though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I rejoice that you are living as you should and that your faith in Christ is strong. <a href="/esv/colossians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/bsb/colossians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I delight to see your orderly condition and firm faith in Christ. <a href="/blb/colossians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Truly indeed, if I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing and seeing your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/kjv/colossians/2.htm">King James Bible</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="/nkjv/colossians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/nasb_/colossians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For even though I am absent in body, I am nevertheless with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your orderly manner and the stability of your faith in Christ. <a href="/nasb/colossians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ. <a href="/nasb77/colossians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ. <a href="/lsb/colossians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the stability of your faith in Christ. <a href="/amp/colossians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For even though I am absent [from you] in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, delighted to see your good discipline [as you stand shoulder to shoulder and form a solid front] and to see the stability of your faith in Christ [your steadfast reliance on Him and your unwavering confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness]. <a href="/csb/colossians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ. <a href="/hcsb/colossians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ. <a href="/asv/colossians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> For though I am 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="/cev/colossians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Even though I am not with you, I keep thinking about you. I am glad to know that you are living as you should and your faith in Christ is strong. <a href="/erv/colossians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> For though I am 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="/gwt/colossians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Although I'm absent from you physically, I'm with you in spirit. I'm happy to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. <a href="/gnt/colossians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> For even though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, and I am glad as I see the resolute firmness with which you stand together in your faith in Christ. <a href="/isv/colossians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> For although I am physically absent, I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how stable you are and how firm your faith in the Messiah is. <a href="/net/colossians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your morale and the firmness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/nheb/colossians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For though I am absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/wbt/colossians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/wey/colossians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For although, as you say, I am absent from you in body, yet in spirit I am present with you and am delighted to witness your good discipline and the solid front presented by your faith in Christ.<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/colossians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I delight to see your orderly condition and firm faith in Christ. <a href="/web/colossians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> 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. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/colossians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for if even in the flesh I am absent—yet in the spirit I am with you, rejoicing and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in regard to Christ; <a href="/blb/colossians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Truly indeed, if I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing and seeing your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/ylt/colossians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for if even in the flesh I am absent -- yet in the spirit I am with you, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in regard to Christ; <a href="/slt/colossians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For if also I am away in the flesh but in the Spirit am I with you, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the firmness of your faith in Christ.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/colossians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For though I be absent in body, yet in spirit I am with you; rejoicing, and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith which is in Christ. <a href="/cpdv/colossians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For though I may be absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit. And I rejoice as I gaze upon your order and its foundation, which is in Christ, your faith. <a href="/nabre/colossians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> For even if I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing as I observe your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/nrsvce/colossians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, and I rejoice to see your morale and the firmness of your faith in Christ.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/colossians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For though I am far away from you in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, and I rejoice to see your orderliness and the sincerity of your faith in Christ. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/colossians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For though I am separated from you in the flesh, yet I am with you in The Spirit, and I rejoice to see your organization and the stability of your faith which is in The Messiah.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/colossians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For, though I am absent in flesh, yet I am present with you in spirit, rejoicing to behold your order, and the firmness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/godbey/colossians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For if I am absent in the flesh, but I am present with you in spirit, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the establishment of your faith toward Christ. <a href="/haweis/colossians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For though I am absent from you in person, yet I am present with you in spirit, rejoicing and beholding your regular order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/mace/colossians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for tho' I am absent in person, yet I am present with you in my mind, and am glad to perceive the regularily of your affairs, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/wey/colossians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For although, as you say, I am absent from you in body, yet in spirit I am present with you and am delighted to witness your good discipline and the solid front presented by your faith in Christ. <a href="/worrell/colossians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> for even if I am absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the Spirit, rejoicing, and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/worsley/colossians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For though I be absent in body, yet am I with you in spirit, rejoicing and beholding your regularity, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. <a href="/parallel/colossians/2-5.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=313" 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> …4I say this so that no one will deceive you by smooth rhetoric. 5<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">although</a> <a href="/greek/1487.htm" title="1487: ei (Conj) -- If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/548.htm" title="548: apeimi (V-PIA-1S) -- To be absent. From apo and eimi; to be away.">I am absent from you</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">in</a> <a href="/greek/4561.htm" title="4561: sarki (N-DFS) -- Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. ">body,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise."></a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: eimi (V-PIA-1S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">I am present</a> <a href="/greek/4862.htm" title="4862: syn (Prep) -- With. A primary preposition denoting union; with or together.">with</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymin (PPro-D2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DNS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4151.htm" title="4151: pneumati (N-DNS) -- Wind, breath, spirit. ">in spirit,</a> <a href="/greek/5463.htm" title="5463: chairōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- A primary verb; to be cheer ful, i.e. Calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation, be well.">and I delight</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/991.htm" title="991: blepōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at.">to see</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymōn (PPro-G2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">your</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5010.htm" title="5010: taxin (N-AFS) -- From tasso; regular arrangement, i.e. fixed succession, official dignity.">orderly condition</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymōn (PPro-G2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou."></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/4733.htm" title="4733: stereōma (N-ANS) -- Firmness, steadfastness, constancy. From stereoo; something established, i.e. confirmation.">firm</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4102.htm" title="4102: pisteōs (N-GFS) -- Faith, belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness. ">faith</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">in</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christon (N-AMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">Christ.</a> 6Therefore, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him,…<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</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, <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="/2_corinthians/10-1.htm">2 Corinthians 10:1-3</a> Now by the mildness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am humble when face to face with you, but bold when away. / I beg you that when I come I may not need to be as bold as I expect toward those who presume that we live according to the flesh. / For though we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17</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. <a href="/1_corinthians/14-40.htm">1 Corinthians 14:40</a> But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner. <a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">1 Corinthians 16:13</a> Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong. <a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">Ephesians 4:1-3</a> As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received: / with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, / and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-16.htm">2 Corinthians 7:16</a> I rejoice that I can have complete confidence in you. <a href="/1_peter/5-9.htm">1 Peter 5:9</a> Resist him, standing firm in your faith and in the knowledge that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. <a href="/1_timothy/3-15.htm">1 Timothy 3:15</a> in case I am delayed, so that you will know how each one must conduct himself in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. <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. <a href="/1_corinthians/14-33.htm">1 Corinthians 14:33</a> For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace—as in all the churches of the saints. <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-6.htm">2 Thessalonians 3:6</a> Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from any brother who leads an undisciplined life that is not in keeping with the tradition you received from us. <a href="/1_corinthians/11-34.htm">1 Corinthians 11:34</a> If anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you come together it will not result in judgment. And when I come, I will give instructions about the remaining matters. <a href="/1_corinthians/14-26.htm">1 Corinthians 14:26</a> What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a psalm or a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. All of these must be done to build up the church.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div> For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.be.<a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Colossians 2:1</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="/1_corinthians/5-3.htm">1 Corinthians 5:3,4</a> For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, … <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17</a> But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.and beholding.<a href="/2_chronicles/29-35.htm">2 Chronicles 29:35</a> And also the burnt offerings were in abundance, with the fat of the peace offerings, and the drink offerings for every burnt offering. So the service of the house of the LORD was set in order.<a href="/1_corinthians/11-34.htm">1 Corinthians 11:34</a> And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.<a href="/1_corinthians/14-40.htm">1 Corinthians 14:40</a> Let all things be done decently and in order.and the.<a href="/ruth/1-18.htm">Ruth 1:18</a> When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.<a href="/psalms/78-8.htm">Psalm 78:8,37</a> And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God… <a href="/acts/2-42.htm">Acts 2:42</a> And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/colossians/1-21.htm">Although</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-18.htm">Beholding</a> <a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Body</a> <a href="/colossians/2-2.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Delight</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-13.htm">Delighted</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-4.htm">Discipline</a> <a href="/colossians/1-23.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/daniel/2-41.htm">Firmness</a> <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-7.htm">Front</a> <a href="/colossians/1-23.htm">Good</a> <a href="/colossians/1-23.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Joy</a> <a href="/philippians/4-14.htm">Nevertheless</a> <a href="/colossians/2-4.htm">Order</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-40.htm">Orderly</a> <a href="/colossians/1-28.htm">Present</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-20.htm">Presented</a> <a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">Rejoicing</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-2.htm">Solid</a> <a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/colossians/1-11.htm">Steadfastness</a> <a href="/romans/5-4.htm">Stedfastness</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-5.htm">Unchanging</a> <a href="/philippians/2-11.htm">Witness</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/genesis/31-49.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm">Although</a> <a href="/james/1-23.htm">Beholding</a> <a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Body</a> <a href="/colossians/2-6.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-6.htm">Delight</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-8.htm">Delighted</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-20.htm">Discipline</a> <a href="/colossians/2-7.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/daniel/2-41.htm">Firmness</a> <a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/revelation/3-8.htm">Front</a> <a href="/colossians/4-5.htm">Good</a> <a href="/colossians/2-23.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-6.htm">Joy</a> <a href="/colossians/2-13.htm">Nevertheless</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-9.htm">Order</a> <a href="/judges/6-26.htm">Orderly</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-3.htm">Present</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-2.htm">Presented</a> <a href="/colossians/2-16.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-19.htm">Rejoicing</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-19.htm">Solid</a> <a href="/colossians/3-21.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-4.htm">Steadfastness</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-13.htm">Stedfastness</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-24.htm">Unchanging</a> <a href="/colossians/4-13.htm">Witness</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 although I am absent from you in body Paul writes this letter from prison, likely in Rome, around AD 60-62. His physical absence underscores the challenges of early Christian communication and the reliance on letters to maintain spiritual guidance and community. This phrase highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and connection despite physical separation, a theme also seen in <a href="/1_corinthians/5-3.htm">1 Corinthians 5:3</a>.I am present with you in spirit Paul emphasizes the spiritual unity that transcends physical distance. This reflects the early Christian understanding of the Church as a spiritual body, united in Christ. It echoes Jesus' promise in <a href="/matthew/18-20.htm">Matthew 18:20</a>, where He assures His presence among believers gathered in His name.and I delight to see your orderly condition Paul commends the Colossians for their discipline and order, which were crucial for maintaining doctrinal purity and effective ministry. This reflects the Greco-Roman value of order and structure, which Paul adapts to encourage the church's spiritual health. The term "orderly" suggests a military metaphor, indicating readiness and unity, similar to <a href="/ephesians/6-10.htm">Ephesians 6:10-18</a>.and firm faith in Christ The Colossians' steadfast faith is a central theme, as Paul combats false teachings threatening the church. This phrase underscores the necessity of a strong foundation in Christ, as seen in <a href="/matthew/7-24.htm">Matthew 7:24-27</a>. The firmness of their faith is a testament to their understanding and acceptance of the gospel, aligning with Paul's teachings in <a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">1 Corinthians 16:13</a>.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who authored the letter to the Colossians. He is writing to encourage and instruct the believers in Colossae. 2. <a href="/topical/c/colossae.htm">Colossae</a> An ancient city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) where the recipients of this letter resided. It was a center of early Christian teaching. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_colossian_church.htm">The Colossian Church</a> The group of believers in Colossae who are being addressed by Paul. They are commended for their faith and orderliness. 4. <a href="/topical/c/christ.htm">Christ</a> Central to the faith of the Colossians, Christ is the foundation of their firmness and order. 5. <a href="/topical/p/paul's_spiritual_presence.htm">Paul's Spiritual Presence</a> Although Paul is not physically present, he emphasizes his spiritual connection and concern for the church.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/s/spiritual_presence_and_unity.htm">Spiritual Presence and Unity</a> Even when physically apart, believers can maintain a strong spiritual connection through prayer and shared faith. <a href="/topical/o/order_and_discipline_in_faith.htm">Order and Discipline in Faith</a> The orderly condition of the Colossian church serves as a model for maintaining discipline and structure in our spiritual lives. <a href="/topical/f/firmness_in_faith.htm">Firmness in Faith</a> A firm faith in Christ is essential for withstanding challenges and false teachings. Believers should continually seek to strengthen their faith. <a href="/topical/j/joy_in_observing_faithfulness.htm">Joy in Observing Faithfulness</a> Like Paul, we should find joy and encouragement in witnessing the faithfulness and growth of fellow believers. <a href="/topical/r/role_of_leadership_in_encouragement.htm">Role of Leadership in Encouragement</a> Leaders in the church, like Paul, play a crucial role in encouraging and guiding believers, even from a distance.<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/how_do_spirits_transfer_entities.htm">How are spirits transferred between entities?</a> <a href="/q/are_you_truly_sincere_and_truthful.htm">What defines the witching hour?</a> <a href="/q/do_goosebumps_mean_anything.htm">What does 'Set Your Mind on Things Above' mean?</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_self-awareness.htm">What are the unsearchable riches of Christ?</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>(5) Absent in the flesh.--Comp. <a href="/1_corinthians/5-3.htm" title="For I truly, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that has so done this deed,">1Corinthians 5:3</a>, "I as absent in body and present in spirit."Your order, and the stedfastness.--The word "order" is used in <a href="/1_corinthians/14-40.htm" title="Let all things be done decently and in order.">1Corinthians 14:40</a>; the word "stedfastness," or solidity, is not found elsewhere in the New Testament, though the verb from which it is derived is found in <a href="/acts/3-7.htm" title="And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.">Acts 3:7</a>; <a href="/acts/3-16.htm" title="And his name through faith in his name has made this man strong, whom you see and know: yes, the faith which is by him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.">Acts 3:16</a>; <a href="/acts/16-5.htm" title="And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.">Acts 16:5</a>, and the original adjective, from which the verb is derived, in <a href="/1_peter/5-9.htm" title="Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brothers that are in the world.">1Peter 5:9</a>, "stedfast in the faith." From the days of the ancient Greek interpreters downwards, it has been noted that both words have military associations--the one being used for discipline generally, and the other for the firm compact solidity of the phalanx; and (as in <a href="/context/ephesians/6-11.htm" title="Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.">Ephesians 6:11-17</a>) that the use of them may have been suggested by St. Paul's captivity under military guard. If both words be referred to their "faith," the Apostle obviously characterises it as having right "order" (or, harmony) in its various parts, and a strong "solidity" against all trials. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/colossians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 5. - For if indeed I am absent in the flesh, yet in the spirit I am with you (<a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/5-3.htm">1 Corinthians 5:3, 4</a>). The connection of this verse with the last is not obvious. Ellicott, following Chrysostom, makes St. Paul's spiritual presence the reason for his being able to give the Colossians this warning; Meyer, his bodily absence the reason for their needing it. It is better, with Lightfoot, to see here a general explanatory reference to the previous context, a renewed declaration (ver. 1) of watchful interest in these distant brethren and a hearty acknowledgment of their Christian loyalty. The tone of authoritative warning just assumed (ver. 4) is thus justified, and yet softened (compare the apologetic tone of <a href="/romans/15-14.htm">Romans 15:14, 15</a>). The phrase, "if I am absent," does not imply a previous presence (see note, ver. 1). Rejoicing and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ (<a href="/philippians/1-4.htm">Philippians 1:4-8, 27</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/1-5.htm">1 Corinthians 1:5-8</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-13.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:13</a>; <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-4.htm">2 Thessalonians 1:4</a>). St. Paul dos not say, "rejoicing in beholding." The consciousness of union with brethren far away, whom he has never seen (ver. 1), is itself a joy; and this joy is heightened by what he sees through the eyes of Epaphras (<a href="/colossians/1-4.htm">Colossians 1:4, 6-8</a>: comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-7.htm">2 Corinthians 7:7</a>) of the condition of this Church. Τάξις and στερέωμα are military terms, denoting the "ordered array" and "solid front" of an army prepared for battle (Lightfoot, Hofmann): comp. <a href="/ephesians/6-11.htm">Ephesians 6:11</a>, etc.; <a href="/philippians/1-27.htm">Philippians 1:27</a>. Others find the figure of a building underlying the second word - Vulgate, firmamentum ("solid basis") - and this is its more usual meaning, and agrees with ver. 7 and <a href="/colossians/1-23.htm">Colossians 1:23</a> (comp. <a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm">2 Timothy 2:19</a>; <a href="/1_peter/5-9.htm">1 Peter 5:9</a>; <a href="/acts/16-5.htm">Acts 16:5</a>; also <a href="/psalms/18-2.htm">Psalm 18:2</a>, LXX, for the noun, not found, elsewhere in the New Testament). The precise expression, "faith in Christ" (literally, into - εἰς, not ἐν, as in <a href="/colossians/1-4.htm">Colossians 1:4</a>, see note) occurs only here in the New Testament; in <a href="/acts/24-24.htm">Acts 24:24</a> read "in Christ Jesus." In such passages as <a href="/romans/3-22.htm">Romans 3:22, 26</a> (where πίστις is followed by the genitive), Christ appears as object of faith; in such as <a href="/colossians/1-4.htm">Colossians 1:4</a> and Colossians 2:5 he is its ground or substratum, that in which it rests and dwells, into which it roots itself. <a href="/commentaries/colossians/2-5.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. although καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. I am absent from you ἄπειμι (apeimi) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_548.htm">Strong's 548: </a> To be absent. From apo and eimi; to be away. in τῇ (tē) Article - Dative Feminine Singular <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. body, σαρκὶ (sarki) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4561.htm">Strong's 4561: </a> Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. I am present εἰμι (eimi) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. with σὺν (syn) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4862.htm">Strong's 4862: </a> With. A primary preposition denoting union; with or together. you ὑμῖν (hymin) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. in spirit, πνεύματι (pneumati) Noun - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4151.htm">Strong's 4151: </a> Wind, breath, spirit. [and] I delight χαίρων (chairōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5463.htm">Strong's 5463: </a> A primary verb; to be 'cheer'ful, i.e. Calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation, be well. to see βλέπων (blepōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_991.htm">Strong's 991: </a> (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at. your 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. orderly condition τάξιν (taxin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5010.htm">Strong's 5010: </a> From tasso; regular arrangement, i.e. fixed succession, official dignity. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. firm στερέωμα (stereōma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4733.htm">Strong's 4733: </a> Firmness, steadfastness, constancy. From stereoo; something established, i.e. confirmation. faith πίστεως (pisteōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4102.htm">Strong's 4102: </a> Faith, belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness. in εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. Christ. Χριστὸν (Christon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/colossians/2-5.htm">Colossians 2:5 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/colossians/2-5.htm">NT Letters: Colossians 2:5 For though I am absent in the (Coloss. Col Co) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/colossians/2-4.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Colossians 2:4"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Colossians 2:4" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/colossians/2-6.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Colossians 2:6"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Colossians 2:6" /></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>