How should Christians respond when a variety of unbiblical philosophies and extra-biblical religious practices begin to work their way into the life of the church? This is what the apostle Paul was facing when he wrote his letter to the Colossians. In significant ways, it is also what the evangelical church is facing today.

Colossians is an important book for our times. It is also one of the most ‘Christ-centred’ books in the Bible with a central theme of the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ. The Christ-centred, Christ-exalting life that Paul in Colossians calls us to live is the only way we can fully please God and enjoy his pleasure and presence.

Dr. William Barcley is senior pastor of Sovereign Grace Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Charlotte, North Carolina, and adjunct professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary. He earned a BA in Biblical Studies from Gordon College, a MA in Theological Studies from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and a PhD in New Testament from Boston University.