I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments.

Colossians 2:1-4

Paul had not met the Colossians or the believers in Laodicea, but he still took the time to write to them. Is there anyone in your life that has great influence even though you’ve never met them for the good? I can think of several pastors and some musicians who have influenced me over the years. I’ll still play their music, read their books and listen to their sermons because they continue to build up my faith.

And so Paul has the same kind of influence on the people in Colossae.

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.
Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

Colossians 2:5-7

Paul knew of the church and notes the firmness of their faith and then encourages them to “walk in him, rooted and built up in him.’ This is what discipleship looks like, isn’t it? We are rooted in our faith in Christ. Our faith is built up through the power of the Gospel and added to what were are taught is a attitude of thanksgiving.

And so we should also be rooted and established in our faith so that we walk in Him.