Colossians 1:1,2

Salutation - 1:1-2

1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

Paul is the primary apostle to the Gentiles. He was a chosen, special apostle. An apostle is "one sent" as an ambassador or one sent on a mission or one sent with a message. This was Paul. He was sent to the Gentiles with the message of the gospel.

Paul is an apostle by the will of God. Paul is adding weight to his authority as an apostle and the authority of this letter by showing that his apostleship was not a self-appointed office. Therefore, if one rejects this letter and the doctrine it contains, they are rejecting God and His message.

Timothy is not an apostle, but a brother in Christ and a companion with Paul.

1 - Paul, an apostle, appointed by God, and Timothy our brother.

2To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Today, we often use the word "saint" for those who are extra special, very holy, and in some cases one who died many years ago. Paul, and other New Testament writers call living, average, Christians, "Saints." A saint is not a Super-Christian. Saints are dedicated children of God.

SEB - "To the holy people" TEV - "To God's people"

Faithful brethren are identified as a specific group within the saints. All Christians are saints. Not all Christians are faithful. Paul addresses the saints (large group of all Christians) and then he addresses the faithful brethren (smaller group who are dedicated, active, and faithful).

NOTE: We often use the term "faithful" to describe attendance; agreement with us in doctrine. Paul realizes that not all saints are faithful to the cause of Christ. Many are on the fringe. They show up, sing, give, pray, and go home, but are not dedicated to Christ."Grace and Peace" was a standard greeting as we might say, Hi, How are you? In the New Testament it was applied to Christians and found in almost all of Paul's letters.

2 - To the holy and faithful brothers at Colosse: May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ grant you grace and peace.