Five Colossians Commentaries
Guides who have been there before
Think of commentaries like tour guides. They are reliable docent’s who are familiar with the terrain and can show you where to look in order to get the most out of the experience. Consider these commentaries that we feel are the five best to consider as you study the book of Colossians.
Commentaries for the Seasoned
Douglas Moo: The Letters to the Colossians and to Philemon
“Moo has done it again…clear, judicious, all the relevant scholarship…yet not unnecessarily long. This book should be the first choice of most pastors and teachers for help with exegeting these delightful Pauline letters.”
-Dr. Craig Blomberg, Denver Seminary
David Pao: Colosssians and Philemon
“I feel quite comfortable commending this commentary …my favorite part of the volume, the element I felt made it stand out among available Colossians commentaries, is the section on theology and application.”
-Dr. Nijay Gupta, Northeastern Seminary
Easily Accessible Commentaries
R. Kent Hughes: Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon
“This expositional commentary is helpful for pastors. Hughes’ ability to be concise is a lesson and a tool. Additionally…with so many illustrations you almost have to have this just for this purpose!”
-Erik Raymond, Gospel Coalition
Dick Lucas: The Message of Colossians and Philemon
“Lucas’ commentary is probably the best introductory level commentary on these two books. Like all of the commentaries in this series, it emphasizes the big picture and the overall flow of the text.”
-Dr. Keith Mattison, Ligonier
Mark Meynell: Colossians and Philemon for You
“An excellent introduction to Colossians that can serve as a commentary, a daily devotion, or small group discussion guide. It’s so good that we gave it to our Small Group leaders as their source for group preparation.”
-Pastor David
NT Wright: Colossians and Philemon
"In this series, Christians who are just learning about their faith will experience new discoveries… and seasoned Bible readers will find themselves challenge. It deserves to be in the homes of all Christians."
-Scot McKnight, Northern Seminary
Worth Mentioning
Peter O’Brien: Colossians and Philemon
Full disclosure, this book is no longer in print because of plagiarism allegations against Professor O’Brien. Nevertheless, this is still known as the go-to, classic for Colossians. If you can find it, get it.
Related Resources
Article: An Overview of Colossians
The book of Colossians teaches that Christ is Lord over the church and all of creation, including the invisible realm. He has redeemed his people, enabling them to participate in his death, resurrection, and fullness. Consider this overview of Colossians as you begin to study the book.
Read
Playlist: Songs for Colossians
We have curated a playlist called “Songs for Colossians” that reflect the themes of the series. These are also the songs that we will be singing during the worship service for the next few months. We encourage you to listen to these songs for your own edification and better corporate worship.
Listen
Article: Studying Colossians
As we immerse ourselves in the book of Colossians this Fall, we should remember that Colossians is a book about Jesus. It contains some of the clearest revelation of Christology in the entire New Testament. Consider these tips and resources to help you study this incredibly rich book.