Was Paul ever in Colosse?
Question:
Is there any information or evidence that Paul was ever in Colossae?
Answer:
Paul did work in the region where Colosse was located, which was called Asia at that time in an area called Phrygia (Acts 16:6; 18:23). Paul also taught in Ephesus and the Bible tells us, "that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks" (Acts 19:10). However, a statement in Colossians 2:1 causes doubt that Paul was actually in Colosse. "For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh." The implication is that either the church in Colosse grew greatly since Paul was last there or that the church came about only indirectly through Paul's effort. He was acquainted with the work through Epaphras (Colossians 1:7-8; 4:12). It should also be noted that there are no personal greetings to members of the church at Colosse. Yet, another letter written at the same time to a church near Colosse does contain numerous personal references (see The Letter to Laodicea for a further discussion of the letter to Philemon).
Paul does mention in the letter to Philemon of his plans to visit there (Philemon 22). Colosse is just a short distance from Laodicea so it is possible that Paul also visited the brethren in Colosse, but we have no record of a visit.
