Colossians 2:7 Commentary

Verse: “Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”

Introduction

This verse provides a profound insight into the nature of a believer's relationship with Christ. The Apostle Paul writes to the Colossians, emphasizing their need for a deep-rooted faith that bears fruit in their lives. The imagery used—rooted, built up, established—conveys the importance of spiritual growth grounded in Christ. Various public domain commentaries shed light on these themes and offer valuable interpretations for pastors, students, and theologians.

Rooted in Christ

Matthew Henry's Commentary: Henry highlights that being "rooted" signifies a strong and stable foundation in Christ. Just as a tree draws sustenance from its roots, so should believers derive their strength from their relationship with Jesus. This rooting implies a permanent connection, suggesting that the Christian life should not be transient but deeply embedded in Christ.

• Roots provide nourishment and stability.
• Believers must engage regularly with the Word to maintain this connection.
• A healthy root system produces a robust tree, representing a vibrant faith.

Albert Barnes' Commentary: Barnes elaborates on the concept of being rooted, asserting that it denotes a steadfastness in doctrine. He states that believers should be firm in their faith, not swayed by false teachings. This root system should be developed through sound Biblical teaching and personal study of the Scriptures.

Built Up in Christ

Adam Clarke's Commentary: Clarke interprets "built up" as a progression in spiritual growth. He notes that while faith initiates the believer's journey, it is through the ongoing process of building—learning, serving, and growing in grace—that one truly develops in their faith. He emphasizes that this building process is a lifelong endeavor.

• Every believer must actively engage in spiritual disciplines—prayer, worship, and fellowship.
• Spiritual growth is a communal effort, often achieved within the context of the church.
• Christ is the foundation upon which all spiritual edifices must be erected.

Established in the Faith

Matthew Henry on “established in the faith”: This phrase signifies a firm commitment to the truths of the Gospel. Henry emphasizes that believers need to remain steadfast and immovable in their faith, which is built upon the teachings of Christ as passed down through the apostles. Being established implies a sense of endurance against adversities and doubts.

Albert Barnes’ Insights: Barnes notes that being established means to be confirmed or strengthened in one’s beliefs. He connects this idea with the importance of consistent teaching and ministry, reassuring that through this establishment, believers become well-versed in the truth, empowering them to withstand challenges.

Abounding with Thanksgiving

Finally, this verse ends with a call to be "abounding therein with thanksgiving." This can be understood as the spiritual fruit that results from a life rooted and built up in Christ. Gratitude emerges naturally from those who recognize their dependence on Him.

Matthew Henry's Reflection: Henry affirms that those grounded in Christ will naturally express their gratitude. Thanksgiving is not merely an occasional expression but should characterize the believer’s life, reflecting their joy and contentment found in Christ alone.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary: Clarke also emphasizes the significance of thankfulness within a believer’s life. He connects joy and gratitude as responses to understanding one's identity in Christ. Clarke argues that a grateful heart preserves a believer's focus on God's grace and goodness.

Concluding Thoughts

This verse challenges believers to assess their spiritual foundation. Are they deeply rooted in Christ? Are they actively being built up in their faith? Moreover, do they express their gratitude in a life that overflows with thankfulness? For pastors and theologians, this passage serves as a poignant reminder and an exhortation to guide their congregations towards a deeper, more abundant life in Christ.

In conclusion, Colossians 2:7 encapsulates a holistic view of the Christian experience—rootedness in Christ’s teachings, ongoing growth in faith, and a life that overflows with thankfulness. Let this verse encourage all believers to embody these principles, fostering a robust spiritual life that glorifies God.